Cruise cancellation on Celestyal Discovery – Dubai, UAE – 9 March 2026

Celestyal Cruises confirmed it cancelled two scheduled Iconic Arabia sailings later in March 2026 as it prepared to reposition vessels operating in the Arabian Gulf back to the Mediterranean.

The cruise line stated that the following Celestyal Discovery departures will no longer take place:

• 20 March 2026 (3-night itinerary)
• 23 March 2026 (4-night itinerary)

Celestyal advised that passengers booked on the cancelled departures are being offered either full refunds or future cruise credits, and guests were advised to contact their travel agents or booking providers to review alternatives.

The company also reported that all passengers who had been sailing aboard Celestyal Discovery have disembarked safely in Dubai. Celestyal further stated that both vessels were fully operational and prepared for departure, with their exit from the Gulf region to proceed in accordance with guidance issued by relevant maritime and governmental authorities.

• Fatalities: None reported
• Injuries: None reported
• Passengers Affected: Passengers booked on the 20 March 2026 and 23 March 2026 Celestyal Discovery departures; passengers previously sailing aboard Celestyal Discovery disembarked in Dubai

• Not specified
• Not specified
• Not specified

Not specified

• Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA): Not specified
• Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB): Not specified

Celestyal Cruises stated the cancellations were implemented as part of operational arrangements required for Celestyal Discovery’s repositioning ahead of the Mediterranean summer season. The company said it is monitoring developments in the Middle East closely and maintaining regular contact with relevant authorities in the region while assessing operational conditions. Chief Executive Officer Chris Theophilides stated the company prioritised the safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew, and that vessel movements would take place only when conditions were considered appropriate, with crew safety the principal consideration.

Celestyal Discovery’s 20 March and 23 March 2026 Iconic Arabia sailings have been cancelled, with refunds or future cruise credits offered to affected guests. Celestyal reported passengers from the vessel disembarked safely in Dubai and stated it is progressing vessel repositioning in line with guidance from relevant maritime and governmental authorities while working to restore its scheduled cruise program once operational arrangements are finalised.