Celestyal has expanded the shore excursion program for its upcoming new-for-2025 “Iconic Arabia” itineraries on its second ship to visit the region, Celestyal Discovery.
New tours include experiences in Ras Al Khaimah—as the cruise line makes it maiden visit to the port—and additional options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery will officially launch the line’s new three-, four- and seven-night “Iconic Arabia” cruises from December 12, 2025, sailing roundtrip from its winter homeport in Abu Dhabi.
Ports of call include maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, in addition to Doha, Qatar; Khasab, Oman; Dubai, UAE; and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices for three nights start at $339 per person; four nights from $429 per person; and from $689 per person for the seven-night itinerary. Fares include all meals, soft drinks, Wi-Fi, port fees and gratuities.
The shore excursion program has a range of half-day, full-day and two-day options. It also offers “Authentic Encounters”, which provide unique experiences with local people and attractions, and smaller group sizes.
Highlights include:
“Journey to the Soul of Ras Al Khaimah”: This guided tour takes one through the diverse landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, starting with a scenic drive through desert dunes, followed by a visit to the royal camel racing stables, an Emirati date farm, and a mountain village. Full-day tour from $260 per person.
“Ras Al Khaimah and Suwaidi Pearls Farm, Authentic Encounter”: This tour begins at the House of Pearls by Suwaidi Pearls, includes a journey on a traditional pearl fishing boat, and continues to Dhayah Fort and Ras Al Khaimah’s Old Town. Full-day tour from $123 per person.
“Dubai from its Eye”: This half-day tour starts with a scenic drive to Zabeel Palace, the residence of Dubai’s royal family, and continues to the Museum of the Future, Bluewaters Island for a ride on Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, and Kite Beach. Half-day tour from $79 per person.
“Delicious Dates and Tasty Cakes”: This half-day tour explores Abu Dhabi’s food and culture that includes must-see highlights of the city, such as the dates market. Half-day tour from $139 per person.
“Yas Waterworld, Yas Island”: A full day at Abu Dhabi’s iconic water park, located on Yas Island. Full-day tour from $153pp.
In 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 among Celestyal’s guests, further establishing the cruise line’s affiliations with the Arabian Gulf region.
“Our new ‘Iconic Arabia’ shore excursions offer what we call a true backstage travel pass to the Arabian Gulf - giving guests insider access to the rich tapestry of culture, history and natural beauty that defines the region,” Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said in a statement. “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 incredibly knowledgeable team, connects travelers with the authentic spirit of the destination.”
For more information, visit celestyal.com, the trade portal celestyalcompass.com, or call (877) 337 4665.
Related Stories
MSC Seascape Becomes First MSC Ship to Sail from Galveston
Disney Cruise Line Launches Port Community Giveback Initiative