Celestyal has expanded its shore excursion program for its upcoming 2025 Images of Arabia cruises, with its second ship to visit the region, Celestyal Discovery.
The new excursions include experiences in Ras Al Khaimah – as the company makes its maiden port call – and additional options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Celestyal Discovery, with a capacity of 1,360 guests, will officially launch its new “Images of Arabia” cruises of three, four and seven nights from December 12, 2025, returning from its winter homeport in Abu Dhabi.
In addition to Doha, Qatar, maiden calls include Ras Al Khaimah (UAE), Khasab, Oman, Dubai (UAE) and Sir Bani Yas Island.
The program includes a range of half-day, full-day and two-day shore excursion options. It also includes “Authentic Encounters,” which provide experiences with locals and local attractions, and are aimed at and include small groups of passengers.
Highlights include:
- “Journey to the Soul of Ras Al Khaimah – Full Day 4?4 Tour”: A guided tour of the diverse landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, starting with a scenic drive through the desert dunes and continuing with a visit to the royal stables where racing camels are housed, a local date farm and a mountain village.
- Ras Al Khaimah and Suwaidi Pearl Farm (Authentic Encounters)”: Starting with a tour of Suwaidi Pearls’ House of Pearls, including a boat ride on a traditional pearl fishing boat, and a visit to Dhayah Fort and the old town of Ras Al Khaimah.
- “A Glimpse of Dubai”: Starts with a scenic drive to Zabeel Palace, the residence of Dubai’s royal family, and a visit to the Museum of the Future. Then, transfer to Bluewaters Island for a ride on Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, and Kite Beach.
- “Delicious Dates and Delicious Cakes”: Explore Abu Dhabi’s cuisine and culture, and tour the city’s must-see attractions, such as the date market.
- “Yas Waterworld, Yas Island”: A full day at Abu Dhabi’s famous water park, located on Yas Island.
This April, Celestyal signed a three-year agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. The multi-year partnership, agreed at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, promotes Ras Al Khaimah as a key destination for Celestyal passengers, further strengthening the airline’s relationship with the Arabian Gulf region.
Lee Haslett, Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Our new ‘Images of Arabia’ shore excursions offer what we call an authentic ‘behind the scenes’ travel ticket to the Arabian Gulf, giving passengers access to the rich culture, history and natural beauty that characterise the region. From the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the serene shores of Sir Bani Yas Island and the treasures of Ras Al Khaimah, each experience, led by our highly skilled team, connects passengers with the authentic spirit of the destination.”
Celestyal, the award-winning year-round cruise line, continues to set the standard for travel experiences in the Greek Islands, the Adriatic and the Arabian Gulf. With two newly acquired and fully renovated ships, the 1360-passenger Celestyal Discovery and the 1260-passenger Celestyal Journey, Celestyal prioritizes highly personalized services and welcomes over 140,000 passengers annually from more than 130 different nationalities.
