Celestyal cancels two more Med cruises as ship repositioning from Gulf delayed

Celestyal has cancelled two more Mediterranean cruises due to its ships being stuck in the Gulf.

The line confirmed that the pair of Greek islands itineraries originally due to depart on March 27 and 30 would not operate.

The itineraries were scheduled to be run by the ship Celestyal Discovery, which remains in Dubai due to the Middle East conflict following a winter season of sailings in the region. 

Two earlier Med cruises by the ship due to depart on March 20 and 23 have already been axed.

The company’s second ship, Celestyal Journey, is in Doha, Qatar.

A Celestyal spokesperson said: “As the conflict in the Middle East continues, and in close co-ordination with the relevant authorities, we have had to delay the repositioning of Celestyal Discovery ahead of the start of her Mediterranean programme. 

“All guests have safely disembarked from Celestyal Discovery in Dubai, UAE and Celestyal Journey in Doha, Qatar.

“Both vessels are fully operational, and their departure from the region will take place in line with guidance from the relevant authorities. 

“As a result, the 27 March (3-night Iconic Greek Islands) and 30 March (4-night Iconic Greek Islands) sailings operated by Celestyal Discovery have been cancelled while we finalise arrangements for the ship’s repositioning to the Mediterranean ahead of the summer season.” 

Passengers booked on the two sailings will be offered either a full refund or a future cruise credit.

“We kindly ask guests to contact their original travel provider to discuss the available options and next steps,” the spokesperson added.

“We continue to monitor developments closely and remain focused on resuming our planned programme as soon as possible. We thank our guests and valued partners for their patience and understanding.”

No mention was made of the impact on future Celestyal Journey cruises.