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Incident Summary
Celestyal Cruises cancelled two scheduled Iconic Arabia sailings of Celestyal Discovery in the Arabian Gulf as part of operational arrangements for the vessel’s repositioning to the Mediterranean. The cruise line confirmed the 20 March 2026 (3-night) and 23 March 2026 (4-night) departures will no longer take place. Celestyal stated that all passengers who had been sailing aboard Celestyal Discovery disembarked safely in Dubai. Affected guests were offered full refunds or future cruise credits.
Vessel Information
- Vessel Name: Celestyal Discovery
- Vessel Type: Cruise ship
- Operator/Cruise Line: Celestyal Cruises
- Flag State: Not specified
- Passengers on Board: Not specified
- Crew on Board: Not specified
Details of the Incident
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.
Injuries and Casualties
- 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
Emergency Response
- Not specified
- Not specified
- Not specified
Maritime Investigation
Not specified
- Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA): Not specified
- Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB): Not specified
Operator Response
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.
Conclusion
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.