Celestyal to review business following the suspension of operations

Celestyal Cruises has begun a consultation process affecting “a limited number of roles” and is reviewing its Celestyal Travel business after being forced to temporarily suspend operations due to the Iran war.

 

The company’s two ships, Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery, are currently positioned in the Arabian Gulf and have been unable to reposition to the Mediterranean for the summer season due to the conflict.

 

A spokesperson said: “Celestyal has announced that it has initiated a consultation process affecting a limited number of roles across its UK and global offices, including a review of the Celestyal Travel business, following the temporary suspension of operations. 

“These proposed changes represent a limited adjustment relative to the overall size of the business and are part of a measured response to external circumstances.”

 

The spokesperson added: “Despite these changes, Celestyal remains in a good financial position, with continued support from its shareholders. The business continues to focus on disciplined cost management while maintaining its long-term strategic direction.”

 

Celestyal confirmed on Thursday 9 April that it was aiming to resume operations in the Mediterranean from May. Celestyal Discovery is currently berthed in Dubai, while Celestyal Journey is in Doha.

 

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A spokesperson said: “Recent developments, including progress toward a ceasefire in the Middle East, provide increased confidence that operations will resume as planned from May.

“Celestyal is committed to supporting affected employees through the consultation process and will continue to work closely with its partners and stakeholders during this period.”

 

The line’s next planned departures are a three-night Iconic Greek Islands sailing on board Celestyal Discovery from 1 May, and a seven-night Heavenly Greece, Italy and Croatia sailing on board Celestyal Journey from 2 May.

 

The spokesperson added: “We continue to closely monitor the situation in the Middle East. Following recent developments, we are working in coordination with the relevant authorities to prepare for the safe repositioning of our vessels to Athens, Greece. Our ships remain fully operational and we will depart the region as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.

 

"The safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew remains our highest priority. At this stage, we are planning to resume our Mediterranean programme as scheduled, with Celestyal Discovery’s first departure on May 1 and Celestyal Journey’s on May 2. We will continue to keep our guests and travel partners updated.”

 

For more information, visit celestyal.com