Cruise operator Celestyal is expanding its Arabian Gulf program for the 2026–27 season with two new sailings timed around Formula 1 race weekends in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The first itinerary is scheduled for November 27, 2026, when the 1,260-passenger Celestyal Journey docks in Doha for an eight-night sailing centered on the Qatar Grand Prix. The vessel will remain alongside for three nights, giving passengers access to practice sessions, qualifying, and race day, before departing for Dubai with an overnight stay, followed by calls in Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Khalifa Bin Salman in Bahrain. Fares begin at USD 839.
A week later, on December 4, 2026, the 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery will arrive in Abu Dhabi for a seven-night Formula 1 itinerary. Like its Doha counterpart, the ship will stay in port for three nights to coincide with the full race weekend. Afterward, it will continue on a four-night “Iconic Arabia” cruise with stops in Doha, Ras Al Khaimah, and Khasab, Oman. Prices start from USD 899.
Both sailings are sold on an all-inclusive basis, covering meals, soft drinks, Wi-Fi, port charges, and gratuities. Grand Prix tickets will be offered separately, with travel agents able to pre-register through the company’s agency sales team.
Following the Formula 1 departure, Celestyal Journey will operate a revised seven-night “Desert Days” itinerary through March 2027, sailing roundtrip from Doha with visits to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Bahrain. Celestyal Discovery will also remain in the region until March 2027, running three-, four-, and seven-night “Iconic Arabia” cruises from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha, Khasab, Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Lee Haslett said the return to the region with both ships underscores sustained demand for Gulf itineraries and builds on the strong performance of the line’s previous Formula 1-themed cruises.
