Celestyal Unveils Exciting New ‘Iconic Arabia’ Shore Excursion Programme

Celestyal Cruises has just revealed the details of its eagerly anticipated shore excursion programme for the all-new ‘Iconic Arabia’ itineraries, set to launch in 2025. Following the announcement that both of the line’s ships will be stationed in the Arabian Gulf for the winter season from 2025, Celestyal is set to make waves with these exciting new routes. Celestyal Journey will begin homeporting in Doha this November, while Celestyal Discovery will follow suit in 2026, homeporting from Abu Dhabi.

The cruises, which offer three- and four-night options, will sail round-trip from Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi. Available from December 2025 to February 2026, and again from December 2026 to February 2027, these itineraries promise to bring the Arabian Gulf’s rich history, modern marvels, and cultural vibrancy to life.

Shore Excursion Highlights

For the three-night sailings, guests can visit ports such as Doha, Qatar, and Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE, with a choice of 25 shore excursions. The four-night sailings offer stops in Fujairah and Muscat, Oman, with an impressive 34 tours available to book now.

The shore excursions offer a mix of half- and full-day options, with seven of them featuring Celestyal’s renowned ‘Authentic Encounters’ – intimate and immersive experiences that allow small groups (limited to 12 people or fewer) to engage deeply with the local culture and landscape.

Three-Night ‘Iconic Arabia’ Highlights

• Get Closer to Nature: Explore the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island and marvel at the region’s unique fauna. This half-day tour starts from £76pp.

• Off-Road Quest to an Inland Sea: Venture into the desert for a unique look at the inland sea of Doha. Prices for this half-day tour start at £66pp.

• Art, Culture, and Afternoon Tea: Discover the architectural gems and cultural exhibits at Katara Cultural Village before indulging in a luxurious afternoon tea. This experience is priced at £84pp.

• Explore the Icons of Abu Dhabi: Delve into the architectural grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan Palace. This half-day tour is available from £66pp.

• The Ultimate F1 Grand Prix Experience: A dream come true for motorsport enthusiasts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Yas Marina Circuit, from £69pp.

Four-Night ‘Iconic Arabia’ Highlights

• Fujairah & Khorfakkan Traditions: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the UAE with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Fujairah Museum Fort and Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi’s house. Full-day tour from £138pp.

• Snorkelling with Turtles: Dive into an ‘Authentic Encounter’ with Fujairah’s stunning marine life, starting from £103pp.

• Discover, Connect & Cook: In Muscat, enjoy a culinary adventure at Muttrah Fish Market, connect with local women at the Sidab Women Sewing Group, and take part in a cooking class at the National Hospitality Institute. Half-day experience from £125pp.

• Flying Fox Zipline: Thrill-seekers can experience the world’s longest zipline over water in Khasab, soaring over stunning landscapes. This adrenaline-pumping activity is priced from £86pp.

An Unforgettable Experience Awaits

Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared his excitement: “We are renowned for our immersive, authentic travel experiences, and we couldn’t be more excited to replicate this ethos in our new winter home of the Arabian Gulf. From the rich history of Sir Bani Yas Island to the modern marvels of Abu Dhabi, our excursions are designed to offer our guests unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s exploring ancient sites, engaging with local traditions or seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures, our shore excursions provide something for everyone, ensuring that our guests create lasting memories.”

With prices starting at just £249pp for the three-night itinerary and £309pp for the four-night option, which includes onboard dining, select drinks with meals, and a £65pp shore excursion discount, this is a voyage not to be missed.

For further details and to book your spot on the ‘Iconic Arabia’ itinerary, visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170.

Celestyal’s new Arabian itineraries promise to bring you closer to the wonders of the Gulf – with a range of experiences that cater to history buffs, culture lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Start planning your adventure today!