Celestyal unveils 2 Arabian Gulf F1 cruises for 2026

Celestyal is expanding its Formula 1-themed Arabian Gulf programme for 2026, introducing two new itineraries that combine extended stays in Doha and Abu Dhabi with access to the region’s biggest race weekends. Travel agents can pre-register via the cruise line’s agency sales team.

 

Building on its sold-out F1 cruise last December, which featured an onboard appearance by former F1 champion David Coulthard, the line will now offer guests two dedicated sailings aboard Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery. 

 

Starting from AED3,300, both week-long itineraries include three-night port stays, giving cruisers the chance to experience the full race-weekend schedule while exploring the Gulf’s key destinations, including Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, Ras Al Khaimah, Khasab in Oman and Bahrain.

 

Celestyal Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett said the line’s F1 sailings had “quickly become some of the most successful and talked-about itineraries we’ve ever operated,” adding that the new cruises will offer guests “even more time in port, seamless access to race-weekend action, and the opportunity to explore the Gulf in depth".

 

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Beginning 27 November 2026, the 1,260-passenger Celestyal Journey will operate an eight-night Doha F1 itinerary, remaining in port for three nights to coincide with the race weekend. Guests can attend all practice, qualifying and race-day events before the ship sails to Dubai (overnight), Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island and Bahrain. Fares start from £659 (AED3,300) per person.

 

A week later, on 4 December 2026, the 1,360-passenger Celestyal Discovery will launch a seven-night Abu Dhabi F1 sailing. The itinerary includes a three-night stay in the UAE capital for the season-closing race at Yas Marina Circuit, followed by a four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ voyage calling at Doha, Ras Al Khaimah and Khasab. Fares start from £689 (AED3,450) per person.

 

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become one of the sport’s most anticipated events, renowned for its spectacular fireworks and post-race concerts, with last year’s event, featuring Katy Perry and Metallica, attracting a record 339,000 fans across all race weekend events at Yas Marina Circuit.

 

Fares for both F1-themed itineraries include meals, soft drinks, Wi-Fi, port fees and gratuities.