Celestyal ships depart Arabian Gulf via Strait of Hormuz

Celestyal Cruises has confirmed that its fleet of two vessels, Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey, have at last successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, marking a key operational milestone for the cruise line amid ongoing regional tensions.

Celestyal Discovery was the first to depart the Arabian Gulf on Friday 17 April, under the command of Captain Nikolaos Vasileiou, following a coordinated voyage plan developed in collaboration with regional authorities and maritime security teams. The sailing effectively established a safe passage through the Strait.

On Saturday 18 April, Celestyal Journey followed, led by Captain Angelos Vasilakos, transiting the same corridor as part of a wider movement of cruise vessels exiting the region. 

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The ships had remained in the Gulf following the outbreak of the Iran war in February 2026, with Celestyal Discovery docked in Dubai, UAE, and Celestyal Journey in Doha, Qatar. The situation previously resulted in the cancellation of all April 2026 Celestyal sailings. 

Following their departure from the Arabian Gulf, both vessels are now repositioning to the Mediterranean ahead of the upcoming summer cruising season, which will proceed as planned.

The company reaffirmed that all future sailings currently on sale will operate as scheduled, providing continuity for guests and travel partners.

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