Celestyal Cruises Fleet

Celestyal Cruises operates a boutique fleet of mid-sized cruise ships that sail primarily in the Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf regions. The cruise line, which began operations in 2014 as a successor to Louis Cruises, has undergone significant fleet changes in recent years, modernizing its offerings while maintaining its focus on authentic experiences and destination-rich itineraries.

Current Fleet

Celestyal currently operates two cruise ships that offer intimate cruising experiences focused on destination immersion rather than the mega-ship amenities found on larger vessels. These ships provide the perfect balance of comfort, service, and access to unique ports that larger ships cannot reach.

Celestyal Journey

Celestyal Journey represents a significant upgrade for the Celestyal fleet, offering more spacious accommodations and enhanced amenities compared to the line’s previous vessels. Originally built as MS Ryndam for Holland America Line, the vessel has a rich history spanning nearly three decades of service across multiple cruise brands.

Ship History and Acquisition

Celestyal Journey began her life as MS Ryndam, the third ship in Holland America Line’s Statendam class. Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, she was launched in 1994 and served with Holland America until 2015, when she was transferred to P&O Cruises Australia and renamed Pacific Aria. In 2021, she was sold to Seajets, a Greek ferry operator, and briefly renamed Aegean Goddess, though she never entered service under this name due to the pandemic.

In March 2023, Celestyal Cruises announced the acquisition of the vessel, marking a significant milestone in the company’s fleet renewal strategy. After an extensive refurbishment to align with Celestyal’s brand identity and guest experience standards, the ship entered service in September 2023, becoming the new flagship of the fleet.

The acquisition of Celestyal Journey represented a strategic move for Celestyal Cruises, allowing the company to offer a more premium product while maintaining its focus on authentic Greek hospitality and destination-rich itineraries. The ship’s size strikes the perfect balance – large enough to provide diverse amenities yet small enough to access intimate ports throughout the Mediterranean.

Onboard Features and Amenities

Celestyal Journey offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that Celestyal is known for:

Dining Options:

• Thalassa Restaurant – The main dining venue serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine and international favorites. The restaurant features large windows offering panoramic sea views and can accommodate up to 600 guests in a single seating.
• Marco Polo Restaurant – A specialty dining venue offering an elevated culinary experience with a menu that changes throughout the cruise, featuring dishes inspired by the destinations visited.
• Mediterraneo Restaurant – A casual dining option serving Mediterranean favorites in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Leda Buffet – The ship’s buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of dishes throughout the day, including themed nights celebrating Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
• The Grill – An outdoor specialty restaurant serving grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables with stunning sea views.
• Chef’s Table – An exclusive dining experience featuring a multi-course tasting menu paired with selected wines, hosted by the executive chef.
• Greek Deli – A casual venue serving authentic Greek street food, mezze, and pastries.
• Ice Cream & Healthy Juice Corner – Offering refreshing treats and nutritious options throughout the day.

Bars & Lounges:

• ΘEATRO Show Lounge – The main entertainment venue hosting production shows, live music, and guest performances.
• Horizons Lounge and Disco – A panoramic venue offering stunning views by day and transforming into a nightclub after dark.
• Three symposiums – Intimate venues for musical performances, lectures, and tastings.
• The Grill Lounge – A relaxed bar adjacent to The Grill restaurant.
• Ocean Bar – A classic cruise ship bar offering cocktails and live music.
• Helios Bar – A poolside bar serving refreshing drinks and light snacks.
• Martini Piano Bar – An elegant venue featuring craft cocktails and live piano music.

Wellness & Recreation:

• Expanded Sozo Spa – A comprehensive wellness facility offering a range of treatments inspired by Greek and Mediterranean healing traditions. The spa features treatment rooms, a thermal suite with heated loungers, a steam room, and a sauna.
• Fitness center – A well-equipped gym with cardio and strength training equipment, plus scheduled fitness classes.
• Outdoor pool with retractable roof – Allowing for swimming regardless of weather conditions.
• Sports deck – Featuring a jogging track, shuffleboard, and other outdoor activities.
• Casino – Offering a selection of table games and slot machines.
• Duty-free shops – Selling souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and sundries.
• Photography studio – Capturing memorable moments throughout the cruise.

Accommodation: Celestyal Journey offers a variety of cabin categories to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Interior cabins – Comfortable accommodations for 2-4 guests, featuring modern amenities and efficient use of space.
• Exterior/Oceanview cabins – Similar to interior cabins but with a window or porthole offering natural light and sea views.
• Junior Suites with balcony – Spacious accommodations featuring a sitting area and private veranda.
• Grand Suites with balcony – Luxurious accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas, plus an expanded balcony.
• Penthouse Suites – The largest and most luxurious accommodations on the ship, featuring separate bedroom and living areas, a dining space, and an expansive private veranda.

All accommodations feature Celestyal’s signature comfort amenities, including premium bedding, flat-screen televisions, mini-refrigerators, and private bathrooms with shower. Suite guests enjoy additional perks such as priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary specialty dining, premium beverage packages, and dedicated concierge service.

Itineraries and Destinations

Celestyal Journey primarily operates in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a focus on Greek Islands and Turkish coastal destinations. The ship’s itineraries are designed to maximize time in port, often featuring late departures or overnight stays to allow guests to experience the destinations more fully.

Signature itineraries include:

• Idyllic Aegean – A 7-night voyage exploring iconic Greek Islands including Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete, plus a visit to Kuşadası, Turkey.
• Eclectic Aegean – A 7-night journey combining Greek Islands with fascinating Turkish ports including Istanbul and Çanakkale.
• Three Continents – An innovative itinerary visiting Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt.
• Steps of Paul – A specialized voyage following the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul through Greece and Turkey.

During the winter season, Celestyal Journey operates in the Arabian Gulf, offering unique itineraries that showcase the rich cultural heritage and modern marvels of the region, with calls at ports in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain.

Celestyal Discovery

Celestyal Discovery is the newest addition to the Celestyal fleet, joining in November 2023 after being acquired from AIDA Cruises. This ship represents Celestyal’s commitment to fleet modernization and expansion into new markets while maintaining its focus on authentic experiences and destination immersion.

Ship History and Acquisition

Celestyal Discovery was originally built as AIDAaura for AIDA Cruises, a German cruise line owned by Carnival Corporation. Constructed at the Aker MTW shipyard in Wismar, Germany, she was launched in 2003 as the third vessel in AIDA’s first generation of purpose-built cruise ships.

After 20 years of successful operation with AIDA Cruises, the ship was acquired by Celestyal in November 2023 as part of the company’s strategic fleet renewal program. Following an extensive refurbishment to align with Celestyal’s brand standards and guest experience philosophy, the ship entered service in March 2024 under her new name, Celestyal Discovery.

The acquisition of Celestyal Discovery, coming just months after the addition of Celestyal Journey, marked a significant milestone in Celestyal’s growth strategy. With two modern vessels replacing the older ships in its fleet, Celestyal positioned itself to deliver enhanced experiences while maintaining its distinctive focus on authentic Greek hospitality and destination-rich itineraries.

Onboard Features and Amenities

Celestyal Discovery offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that Celestyal is known for:

Dining Venues:

• Olympus Restaurant – The main dining venue serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine and international favorites.
• Amalthia Restaurant – A specialty dining venue offering an elevated culinary experience with a menu that changes throughout the cruise.
• Aegean Buffet – The ship’s casual dining option offering a wide variety of dishes throughout the day, including themed nights celebrating Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Poseidon Grill – An outdoor venue serving grilled specialties and light fare by the pool.
• Artemis Café – A casual spot for coffee, pastries, and light snacks.
• Dionysus Wine Bar – Featuring an extensive selection of Greek and international wines paired with Mediterranean tapas.

Entertainment & Recreation:

• Muses Theater – The main entertainment venue hosting production shows, live music, and guest performances.
• Apollo Lounge – A versatile venue for live music, dancing, and special events.
• Hermes Casino – Offering a selection of table games and slot machines.
• Athena Library – A quiet space for reading and relaxation.
• Helios Pool – The main outdoor pool area with comfortable loungers and two whirlpools.
• Eros Bar – A poolside venue serving refreshing drinks and light snacks.
• Odyssey Nightclub – The ship’s late-night entertainment venue featuring a dance floor and DJ.

Wellness & Fitness:

• Sozo Spa – A comprehensive wellness facility offering a range of treatments inspired by Greek and Mediterranean healing traditions.
• Fitness Center – A well-equipped gym with cardio and strength training equipment, plus scheduled fitness classes.
• Sports Deck – Featuring a jogging track and outdoor recreation areas.
• Beauty Salon – Offering hair styling, manicures, pedicures, and other beauty services.

Shopping & Services:

• Agora Shops – Duty-free boutiques selling souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and sundries.
• Photo Gallery – Displaying professional photographs taken throughout the cruise.
• Reception & Guest Services – The central hub for passenger assistance and information.
• Shore Excursions Desk – For booking guided tours and experiences in port.
• Internet Café – Providing computer access and Wi-Fi services.

Accommodation: Celestyal Discovery offers a variety of cabin categories to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Interior Cabins – Comfortable accommodations featuring modern amenities and efficient use of space.
• Oceanview Cabins – Similar to interior cabins but with a window or porthole offering natural light and sea views.
• Balcony Cabins – Featuring a private veranda for enjoying the sea air and scenic views.
• Junior Suites – Spacious accommodations with expanded living areas and premium amenities.
• Grand Suites – The most luxurious accommodations on the ship, featuring separate living and sleeping areas and an expansive private veranda.

All accommodations feature Celestyal’s signature comfort amenities, including premium bedding, flat-screen televisions, mini-refrigerators, and private bathrooms with shower. Suite guests enjoy additional perks such as priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary specialty dining, premium beverage packages, and dedicated concierge service.

Itineraries and Destinations

Celestyal Discovery primarily operates in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a focus on Greek Islands and Turkish coastal destinations. The ship’s itineraries are designed to maximize time in port, often featuring late departures or overnight stays to allow guests to experience the destinations more fully.

Key itineraries include:

• Iconic Aegean – A 3- or 4-night introduction to the Greek Islands, perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
• Idyllic Aegean – A 7-night exploration of iconic Greek Islands including Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete, plus a visit to Kuşadası, Turkey.
• Eclectic Aegean – A 7-night journey combining Greek Islands with fascinating Turkish ports including Istanbul and Çanakkale.
• Adriatic Explorer – A specialized itinerary exploring the stunning coastlines of Greece, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy.

During the winter season, Celestyal Discovery operates select voyages to the Holy Land and Egypt, offering unique cultural and historical experiences in these ancient destinations.

Fleet Advantages

Celestyal’s boutique fleet offers several advantages over larger cruise ships, creating a distinctive experience that appeals to travelers seeking authentic connections with the destinations they visit.

Intimate Experience

With passenger capacities around 1,260, Celestyal’s ships provide a more personalized experience compared to mega-ships carrying 4,000+ guests. This intimate atmosphere allows for:

• Personalized Service: With a high crew-to-passenger ratio, staff members can get to know guests by name and anticipate their preferences.
• Community Feel: Smaller passenger numbers foster a sense of community, making it easier to meet fellow travelers and form connections.
• Reduced Crowding: Less congestion in public areas means shorter lines, easier access to amenities, and a more relaxed onboard experience.
• Attentive Crew: The service team can provide more individualized attention, enhancing the overall guest experience.

The intimate size of Celestyal’s ships creates an environment where guests can truly unwind and connect with both the destinations and their fellow travelers. This stands in stark contrast to the sometimes overwhelming experience of sailing on a mega-ship, where crowds and lines can detract from the cruise experience.

Port Access

Perhaps the most significant advantage of Celestyal’s mid-sized ships is their ability to access smaller, more remote ports that larger vessels cannot reach. This capability enables:

• Unique Itineraries: Celestyal can visit lesser-known islands and coastal towns that aren’t on the itineraries of larger cruise lines.
• Closer Proximity: The ships can often dock closer to town centers, reducing transfer times and maximizing time in port.
• Exclusive Experiences: Guests can explore destinations before or after the crowds from larger ships arrive or depart.
• Hidden Gems: Access to secluded bays, historic harbors, and charming ports that remain untouched by mass tourism.

This advantage is particularly valuable in the Greek Islands, where many of the most charming and authentic destinations have harbors too small for mega-ships. While larger vessels must anchor offshore and tender passengers to land (a time-consuming process), Celestyal’s ships can often dock directly in the heart of the destination.

Authentic Experiences

The fleet is designed to enhance Celestyal’s destination-focused approach, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local cultures through:

• Extended Port Stays: Itineraries often feature late departures or overnight stays, allowing guests to experience destinations after day-trippers have departed.
• Destination-Centric Programming: Onboard activities, cuisine, and entertainment reflect the culture and traditions of the regions visited.
• Local Experts: Destination lectures and guided tours are led by knowledgeable locals who provide authentic insights.
• Cultural Immersion: The smaller scale of operations allows for more meaningful interactions with local communities.

Celestyal’s ships serve as comfortable bases from which to explore, rather than floating resorts that compete with the destinations for guests’ attention. This philosophy is reflected in everything from the Greek-inspired décor to the Mediterranean cuisine served onboard.

All-Inclusive Value

Both ships offer Celestyal’s signature all-inclusive experience, providing excellent value with:

• Comprehensive Inclusions: Fares include meals, drinks, select excursions, gratuities, and entertainment.
• Transparent Pricing: The all-inclusive model eliminates surprise charges and allows guests to budget more effectively.
• Quality Over Quantity: Rather than overwhelming guests with endless options, Celestyal focuses on delivering quality experiences both onboard and ashore.
• Authentic Cuisine: The dining program emphasizes fresh, locally-inspired dishes rather than the mass-produced fare often found on larger ships.

This approach aligns with Celestyal’s overall philosophy of providing authentic, hassle-free experiences that allow guests to focus on enjoying their vacation rather than managing costs and logistics.

Recent Fleet Changes

Celestyal has significantly modernized its fleet in recent years, positioning the company for future growth while enhancing the guest experience. These changes reflect Celestyal’s commitment to providing comfortable, contemporary vessels that support its destination-focused cruise concept.

Fleet Renewal Timeline

The transformation of Celestyal’s fleet has occurred through a series of strategic acquisitions and divestments:

• March 2023: Acquired Celestyal Journey (former Ryndam/Pacific Aria) from Seajets
• September 2023: Celestyal Journey entered service following refurbishment
• November 2023: Acquired Celestyal Discovery (former AIDAaura) from AIDA Cruises
• December 2023: Sold Celestyal Olympia to Eaglepower Shipping (renamed Bella Fortuna)
• March 2024: Celestyal Discovery entered service following refurbishment
• 2021: Celestyal Crystal left the fleet (sold to Seajets, later resold)

This renewal strategy has resulted in a younger, more modern fleet with enhanced amenities and accommodations, positioning Celestyal to deliver a more premium experience while maintaining its focus on destination immersion and authentic Greek hospitality.

Strategic Direction

The fleet modernization reflects Celestyal’s broader strategic vision, which includes:

• Capacity Expansion: The new ships offer slightly larger passenger capacity, supporting controlled growth.
• Premium Positioning: The enhanced amenities and accommodations allow Celestyal to target a more upscale market segment.
• Operational Efficiency: Newer vessels typically offer better fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.
• Extended Sailing Season: The more versatile ships enable Celestyal to operate year-round, including winter deployments in the Arabian Gulf.
• Market Diversification: The expanded capacity and enhanced product allow Celestyal to attract guests from a wider range of source markets.

These strategic moves position Celestyal to compete more effectively in the premium cruise market while maintaining its distinctive focus on authentic experiences and destination immersion.

Itineraries and Destinations

The current fleet primarily serves a diverse range of destinations, with a focus on providing in-depth, authentic experiences rather than simply checking off tourist landmarks.

Greek Islands

The heart of Celestyal’s operations remains the Greek Islands, where the company leverages its Greek heritage and local expertise to provide unparalleled experiences:

• Iconic Destinations: Regular calls at world-famous islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete.
• Hidden Gems: Visits to lesser-known islands like Milos, Patmos, Symi, and Amorgos that larger ships often bypass.
• Extended Stays: Overnight calls in select destinations allow guests to experience the islands after day-trippers have departed.
• Seasonal Experiences: Itineraries adjusted throughout the year to showcase each destination at its best, from spring wildflowers to autumn harvests.

Celestyal’s intimate knowledge of the Greek Islands allows it to craft itineraries that reveal both the iconic highlights and the authentic character of these enchanting destinations.

Eastern Mediterranean

Beyond the Greek Islands, Celestyal’s ships explore the broader Eastern Mediterranean region:

• Turkey: Regular calls at coastal gems like Kuşadası (for ancient Ephesus), Istanbul, Çanakkale (for Troy and Gallipoli), and Bodrum.
• Cyprus: Visits to Limassol, offering access to archaeological sites, mountain villages, and beautiful beaches.
• Egypt: Calls at Alexandria or Port Said, gateways to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza.
• Israel: Visits to Haifa or Ashdod, providing access to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and other significant sites.

These diverse destinations complement the Greek Islands, creating rich, multi-cultural itineraries that showcase the historical connections and cultural exchanges that have shaped the Mediterranean world.

Adriatic

Seasonal voyages explore the stunning coastlines of the Adriatic Sea:

• Montenegro: Calls at the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, with its fjord-like landscapes and medieval towns.
• Croatia: Visits to historic Dubrovnik, Split, and other coastal gems.
• Italy: Calls at Venice, Bari, and other Italian ports that connect with the Eastern Mediterranean.

These Adriatic itineraries build on Celestyal’s strength in destination-focused cruising, offering guests the opportunity to explore another fascinating region with the same authentic approach.

Arabian Gulf

In a significant expansion of its operating footprint, Celestyal now offers winter itineraries in the Arabian Gulf:

• United Arab Emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi, showcasing the region’s remarkable blend of ultramodern architecture and traditional culture.
• Qatar: Visits to Doha, with its stunning skyline, cultural attractions, and desert experiences.
• Oman: Calls at Muscat and other ports, offering access to historic forts, dramatic mountains, and traditional souks.
• Bahrain: Exploration of this island nation’s rich heritage and contemporary attractions.

These Arabian Gulf itineraries represent an important diversification for Celestyal, allowing year-round operations and appealing to guests seeking winter sun destinations with rich cultural experiences.

Fleet Management

Celestyal’s ships are managed by Optimum Ship Management, which provides comprehensive fleet management services from headquarters in Piraeus, Greece and Limassol, Cyprus. This arrangement ensures consistent operational standards and leverages decades of maritime expertise.

Operational Excellence

The fleet management approach emphasizes:

• Safety First: Rigorous adherence to international maritime regulations and industry best practices.
• Environmental Responsibility: Implementation of systems and procedures to minimize environmental impact.
• Crew Development: Comprehensive training programs and career advancement opportunities for crew members.
• Preventive Maintenance: Proactive maintenance schedules to ensure reliability and guest comfort.
• Continuous Improvement: Regular review and enhancement of operational procedures based on feedback and industry developments.

This professional management approach ensures that Celestyal’s ships operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant regulations, allowing the onboard teams to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Sustainability Initiatives

Celestyal has implemented various sustainability measures across its fleet:

• Reduced Plastic Usage: Elimination of single-use plastics where possible and implementation of water filtration systems to reduce bottled water consumption.
• Energy Efficiency: Installation of LED lighting, optimization of HVAC systems, and implementation of energy management protocols.
• Waste Management: Advanced waste sorting and recycling programs to minimize landfill impact.
• Local Sourcing: Procurement of food and supplies from local producers when possible, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local economies.
• Community Engagement: Partnerships with destinations to ensure tourism benefits local communities and preserves cultural heritage.

These initiatives reflect Celestyal’s commitment to responsible tourism and the long-term sustainability of the destinations it visits.

The Celestyal Experience

What sets Celestyal’s fleet apart is the focus on delivering authentic experiences rather than simply providing a floating resort. The ships serve as a comfortable home base while exploring destinations, with every aspect of the onboard experience designed to enhance the journey.

Regional Cuisine

Celestyal’s culinary program celebrates the rich gastronomic traditions of Greece and the Mediterranean:

• Local Specialties: Menus feature authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes prepared with traditional techniques and recipes.
• Fresh Ingredients: Emphasis on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients that reflect the culinary heritage of the regions visited.
• Culinary Demonstrations: Interactive cooking classes and demonstrations highlight regional techniques and recipes.
• Wine Program: Carefully curated selection of Greek and Mediterranean wines, with tastings and pairings to enhance the dining experience.
• Themed Evenings: Special dining events celebrating the culinary traditions of specific destinations or regions.

This culinary approach extends beyond the dining venues to include food-focused shore excursions, market visits with the ship’s chefs, and other immersive gastronomic experiences that connect guests with the destinations through their food cultures.

Cultural Entertainment

The onboard entertainment program showcases the rich cultural traditions of Greece and the Mediterranean:

• Live Music: Performances featuring traditional instruments and musical styles from throughout the region.
• Folk Dancing: Authentic dance performances and interactive lessons in Greek and regional dance styles.
• Theatrical Presentations: Shows that bring to life the myths, legends, and historical events of the destinations.
• Cultural Demonstrations: Interactive presentations of traditional crafts, customs, and artistic expressions.
• Themed Festivals: Celebration of significant cultural events and traditions, such as Greek Easter or harvest festivals.

Rather than generic cruise ship entertainment, Celestyal offers performances and activities that deepen guests’ understanding and appreciation of the destinations they’re exploring.

Educational Programs

Celestyal’s ships serve as floating classrooms, offering various opportunities to learn about the history, culture, and natural environment of the destinations:

• Destination Lectures: Presentations by knowledgeable experts on the history, archaeology, art, and culture of upcoming ports.
• Language Lessons: Introductory classes in Greek and other regional languages to enhance the shore experience.
• Historical Perspectives: Discussions about the historical significance of the regions visited and their influence on world history.
• Culinary Insights: Presentations on regional food traditions, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
• Natural History: Information about the unique ecosystems, geology, and wildlife of the destinations.

These educational offerings provide context and depth to the shore experiences, transforming sightseeing into meaningful cultural immersion.

Shore Excursions

Celestyal’s carefully curated shore excursions go beyond standard tourist experiences to offer authentic connections with each destination:

• Small Group Experiences: Limited group sizes ensure personal attention and access to places that larger groups cannot visit.
• Local Experts: Guides who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing their homeland with visitors.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to meet local artisans, farmers, winemakers, and other community members.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Exploration of lesser-known sites and neighborhoods that reveal the authentic character of each destination.
• Immersive Activities: Hands-on experiences such as cooking classes, craft workshops, and agricultural visits.

Many of these excursions are included in Celestyal’s all-inclusive pricing, encouraging guests to explore more deeply and broadly than they might if paying for each tour separately.

With its newly refreshed fleet, Celestyal continues to offer an intimate cruising experience that emphasizes destination immersion, authentic experiences, and Greek hospitality while sailing through some of the world’s most historic and beautiful regions. The company’s investment in modern vessels enhances the guest experience while maintaining the distinctive character and approach that have made Celestyal a favorite among travelers seeking meaningful connections with the places they visit.