Celestyal: All you need to know !
Posted: 2/5/2025
Author: Amelie de Moreau
Dreaming of exploring the Greek Islands or the exotic Arabian Gulf? Wondering what’s included, which drink packages are available, how to book, or just how big the ships are? Look no further! This guide has everything you need to know about Celestyal Cruises – from their all-inclusive experience to their carefully curated itineraries. Get ready to set sail on an unforgettable adventure!
Here the questions we will explore:
Who Owns Celestyal Cruises?
What type of Cruise Line is Celestyal, is it good?
The ships: Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery
What is included? Is it all inclusive?
What is not included- the drink packages
The activities onboard
What sets them apart?
The itineraries
1. Who owns Celestyal Cruises?
Founded in 1986 as Louis Cruise Lines, Celestyal Cruises started with small Mediterranean sailings before becoming a key player in the region. Until 2021, it was part of the Cypriot Louis PLC group, which also operates 26 hotels in Greece and Cyprus. In 2021, Searchlight Capital Partners acquired a 60% stake in Celestyal Cruises for €30 million, with Louis PLC retaining 40%. This investment was aimed at modernising the fleet by acquiring and refurbishing two second-hand ships – the Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey – while reinforcing the brand’s identity.
Celestyal Cruises has chosen to purchase and refurbish existing ships rather than build new ones, allowing for greater flexibility and faster adaptation to its needs. Despite operating a modest fleet of just two ships, the company benefits from strong financial backing and the hospitality expertise of Louis PLC.
2. What type of Cruise Line is Celestyal? Is it good?
Celestyal offers a welcoming, home-like atmosphere combined with just the right touch of luxury to transform your journey into a dream escape. Life on board is relaxed and unpretentious, with no rigid dress codes. While the experience is casual, refined touches and exceptional service ensure a high level of comfort.
The ships are intimate and friendly, accommodating up to 1,260 passengers, providing a more personal and immersive experience. The dedicated and highly trained crew go above and beyond to make every moment on board special.
What truly sets Celestyal apart are its carefully curated itineraries. Longer or strategically staggered port stays allow guests to experience destinations under optimal conditions, away from the usual crowds. The company also offers affordable excursions, some of which venture off the beaten path for truly authentic discoveries.
Finally, Celestyal is known for its excellent value for money. With its all-inclusive offering, you can relax and enjoy your holiday without worrying about extra costs—meals, drinks, and selected excursions are already included.
3. Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery
Until 2023, Celestyal operated two long-standing ships, the Celestyal Olympia and Celestyal Crystal. In 2024, these were replaced by two fully refurbished vessels: the Celestyal Journey and the Celestyal Discovery, ushering in a new chapter for the cruise line.
Celestyal Journey
Two swimming pools: One outdoor pool at the aft and another with a retractable roof and two jacuzzis at the centre.
A luxurious spa with a jacuzzi, sauna, and hammam (complimentary access).
A grand theatre, a casino, and a sports court on the top deck.
A modern gym with state-of-the-art equipment.
Boutiques, duty-free shopping, and a photography service.
8 bars and 7 restaurants, including 3 that are included in the base fare.
With a capacity of 1,260 passengers, the Celestyal Journey operates 7-night itineraries across the Greek Islands and Adriatic Sea in summer, and 3 to 7-night voyages in the Persian Gulf during winter.
Celestyal Discovery
Originally built in 2003 for AIDA Cruises, the Celestyal Discovery was acquired by Celestyal in November 2023 and underwent a major refurbishment before entering service in March 2024.
Key features include:
4 restaurants and 7 bars
An outdoor swimming pool
3 outdoor jacuzzis
A spa with a sauna
A grand theatre
A fully equipped gym
A casino
A dedicated children’s area
Boutiques, duty-free shopping, and a photography service
With a capacity of 1,360 passengers, the Celestyal Discovery offers 3 and 4-night itineraries in the Greek Islands during summer and the Persian Gulf in winter.
4. Celestyal’s All-Inclusive Package: The Celestyal One
Previously, Celestyal offered two different packages: Celestyal Experience and Celestyal Experience Plus. However, the company has now simplified its offering with a single all-inclusive package, covering everything you need for an exceptional holiday:
✅ Meals at the Thalassa, Taverna, and Smoked Olive restaurants (à la carte for suite guests). The Taverna buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while Thalassa offers a three-course menu with multiple choices, including a vegetarian option.
✅ Daytime snacks at the Greek Deli and Pizza Oven.
✅ Soft drinks, tea, and coffee (free-flowing water, soda, tea, and coffee available at Thalassa from 06:30 to 22:00).
✅ Basic Starlink Wi-Fi (suitable for messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messenger, but not for video streaming or calls).
✅ All onboard activities.
✅ Service charges and gratuities.
5. What’s Not Included? Celestyal Pay
For extras such as alcoholic drinks, cocktails, excursions, or premium Wi-Fi, Celestyal offers a Bar Tab system called Celestyal Pay (similar to Virgin Voyages). This prepaid wallet allows you to allocate a set amount before boarding, with added bonuses. This system enhances convenience and offers better value for money.
6. Onboard Activities
Celestyal ensures you’ll never be bored, offering a wide variety of activities throughout the day. From trivia quizzes and towel-folding workshops to blind tests and piano bar evenings, there’s always something happening. Evening theatre performances are delivered by a fantastic Canadian entertainment troupe.
7. Are Celestyal any good- What sets them Apart?
Celestyal delivers excellent value for money, high-quality service, and a personalised experience. The crew is exceptionally friendly and attentive, ensuring you feel at home from the moment you step on board.
The small size of the ships allows for quick embarkation and disembarkation, while the intimate atmosphere enables the staff to learn your preferences. By day two, you might find your favourite cocktail or coffee waiting for you before you even ask!
8. Celestyal Itineraries
One of Celestyal’s greatest strengths is its carefully curated itineraries.
In summer, the ships explore the Mediterranean, with a strong focus on the Greek Islands and the Adriatic coast. With longer and strategically scheduled port stays, guests can explore at their own pace, away from the crowds.
In winter, Celestyal Cruises shifts to the Persian Gulf, offering 3 to 15-night voyages to Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, and more.
Ready to Set Sail?
I cruises several times with Celestyal and never been disappointed, I would be more than happy to share my experience with you. Contact me: 020 4576 2793, by email: amelie.demoreau@ifyoucruise.com or by Whatsapp.
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