Game safari on Sir Bani Yas Island
Celestyal Cruises has released a series of exclusive shore excursions for its upcoming ‘Iconic Arabia’ itineraries in the 2025/26 and 2026/27 cruise seasons in the Arabian Gulf.
The 3- and 4-night cruises, sailing round-trip from Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, and Doha in Qatar, are available from December 2025 through to February 2026, and December 2026 through to February 2027.
The 3-night option visits the ports of Doha in Qatar and Sir Bani Yas Island off Abu Dhabi, with 25 shore excursions available to book now, while the 4-night option calls in the UAE’s Fujairah, and Muscat and Khasab, in Oman with 34 tours available.
The itineraries will be operated by Celestyal Cruises’ vessel Celestyal Discovery, formerly the AIDAaura, which frequently sailed homeporting seasons in the Arabian Gulf prior to be sold.
The 42,000 gross ton ship carries 1,266 passengers at double occupancy and offers five dining venues, ten cafes and bars, an Amphitheatro show lounge, casino, Star Lounge, Discovery Lounge, and nightclub, as well as a spa, gym, and pool deck with six whirlpools.
A range of full- and half-day options, and seven premium ‘Authentic Encounters’ are also on offer.
Three-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ highlights:
‘Get closer to nature’ – guests can discover the natural beauty of the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island. Half-day tour from £76pp.
‘Off road quest to an inland sea’ – cross the desert and see the inland sea of Doha. Half-day tour from £66pp.
‘Art, Culture and Afternoon Tea’ – explore the architecture and exhibitions of Katara Cultural Village, followed by afternoon tea. Half-day tour from £84pp.
‘Explore the Icons of Abu Dhabi’ – a cultural dive into the city’s architecture, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Half-day from £66pp.
‘The Ultimate F1 Grand Prix Experience’ – a behind-the-scenes look at the Yas Marina Circuit. Half-day from £69pp.
Four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ highlights:
‘Fujairah & Khorfakkan Traditions’ – local culture and traditions on this ‘Authentic Encounter’ tour including Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi’s house. Full-day tour from £138pp.
‘Snorkelling with Turtles’ – an ‘Authentic Encounter’ with Fujairah’s marine life. Half-day from £103pp.
‘Discover, Connect & Cook’ – in Muscat, guests can enjoy a culinary journey visiting Muttrah Fish market and a visit to local women’s association called as Sidab Women Sewing group. Half-day from £125pp.
‘Flying Fox Zipline’ – in Khasab, an ‘Authentic Encounter’ soaring over landscapes on the world’s longest zipline over water. Half-day from £86pp.
The ‘Iconic Arabia’ itinerary is available to book from £249 per person sharing for three nights, £309 per person sharing for four nights and includes onboard dining, select drinks with meals and a £65 per person shore excursion discount.
Celestyal Cruises will also be sailing an Arabian Gulf homeporting season during the upcoming 2024/25 cruise season, with Celestyal Journey sailing 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries roundtrip from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha.
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