Celestyal Cruises presents new vessel, Celestyal Journey in Limassol (pics)

Celestyal has announced the newest addition to its fleet, Celestyal Journey, which was celebrated with a grand onboard event at the port of Limassol.

The 25 October event was attended by distinguished officials, esteemed trade partners and travel agents, valued partners, and media representatives. Attendants had the opportunity to discover the vessel's remarkable features, highlighting the company’s dedication to creating and delivering unforgettable travel experiences, a Celestyal press release noted.

It continued that Celestyal Journey represented a milestone for Celestyal, embodying the company's commitment to providing guests with exceptional experiences that combine cultural immersion with comfort, as well as strengthening the tourism product of each country that is included in the vessel’s itineraries.

The event was attended by a select group of country officials, either physically or with a prerecorded message, trade partners and travel agents –the latter a crucial factor to Celestyal’s success–, as well as media representatives. All the esteemed attendants enjoyed an exclusive tour of Celestyal Journey and had the chance to explore the beautifully designed Dream Suites, the spacious sundrenched decks, the elegant restaurants, and the cutting-edge wellness facilities (spa). They were also among the first ones to savour the unique gastronomy offered at the vessel’s restaurant services, the press release noted.

During the presentations, it was made evident that the cruise industry's growth in Greece and in Cyprus is an especially important development, offering significant opportunities and benefits to the national and local economies. Celestyal is playing a vital role in this, supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and aiding the economic well-being of the communities connected to its operations in Greece and in Cyprus.

Kostas Koumis, Deputy Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Cyprus, highlighted Celestyal’s significant role in the development of the Cypriot cruise industry, via his prerecorded message saying, "The incorporation of the new vessel, Celestyal Journey, into the company's fleet is a significant investment in the blue economy of the Mediterranean and our country. The economic footprint of the company, especially in the local economy of Cyprus, has been and continues to be particularly noticeable, with Celestyal's itineraries enriching the Mediterranean tourism product, even during periods of low mobility, thereby contributing to the extension of the tourist season. Cruise tourism is a vital pillar of Cyprus' economy, creating new prospects and opportunities, offering unique experiences."

On the same page, the General Director of the Ministry of Shipping, Stelios Himonas, expressed his appreciation for the highly significant work being done by Celestyal in the cruise sector, enhancing the tourism product of Cyprus and Greece. Himonas stated that, "The cruise sector is among the top priorities of the Ministry, and we support any initiative that contributes to its strengthening and, at the same time, to the development of our tourism regions of Cyprus. The collaboration with the cruise industry and the promotion of tourism through cruises significantly contributes to the local economy and has a positive impact on employment and promotion of Cyprus as a tourist destination."

The Mayor of Limassol, Nikos Nicolaides, congratulated Celestyal for its continuous efforts in upgrading their services and noted that, “The Celestyal Journey is an ecologically modernised vessel, highly appreciated by Limassol Municipality. As it is now well-known, we have set as a goal to become climate-neutral city by 2030. Limassol is evolving into a hub for cruises, and I would like to thank Celestyal for including our city in its itineraries. I want to emphasise that along with all respective ministries, we support this effort, and we will do our best for the passengers arriving in our city to enjoy a unique experience.”

Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal Cruises and the event’s host, expressed his enthusiasm for the Celestyal Journey, its contribution to the growth of the Greek cruise industry and the future of the company. “On September 2nd, we marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Celestyal Cruises with the launch of Celestyal Journey. This momentous occasion heralds an exciting era for us, reflecting our unwavering commitment to our passengers, to Greece, and to Cyprus. The introduction of Celestyal Journey signifies the dawn of a fresh chapter in our pursuit of investing and delivering an elevated, premium cruise experience to our guests. She takes to the seas as a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to bolstering the growth of the cruise industry and tourism throughout Greece, Cyprus, and the Mediterranean region. I couldn't fail to mention the company's efforts towards sustainable development by reducing pollution and using advanced technologies for waste management through various vessel upgrade projects,” he said.

Discover more about the new star of the Celestyal Fleet…

Celestyal Journey, as a medium-sized vessel, holds a privileged position, as it allows guests to discover the richness that Greece and the Mediterranean have to offer by visiting numerous exceptional destinations.

The vessel features 630 Dream Suites and Cosmos Cabins that are a relaxing haven for guests who embark on their Aegean Sea adventures. Guests can also enjoy many more rooms with a view, boasting an impressive 280% increase in the number of Dream Suites with private balconies. Marking a first for Celestyal, the vessel introduces the exclusive Stargazer Penthouse Suite, which provides the ultimate premium cruise experience. This suite features a spectacular living and dining area, a separate bedroom, a well-equipped kitchen, and a magnificent bathroom. As always, the beloved Concierge service of the cruise company remains available to provide an extra touch of journey magic for all Penthouse and Grand Dream Suite guests, whether it's for special occasions or special requests.

In terms of dining, Celestyal Journey has elevated the standards by boasting a remarkable selection of 7 new restaurants. These dining options encompass a diverse range of experiences, including an exclusive private chef's table, captivating live cooking demonstrations, tantalising Asian cuisine, delightful explorations of Greek cuisine, and delectable fresh Mediterranean bites. Notably, two of these restaurants are included in the ship's packages, thus ensuring that all guests can savour these culinary delights. Additionally, two restaurants are exclusively dedicated to the Penthouse and Grand Dream Suite guests, although opportunities are available for other guests to partake in their culinary pleasures. For those seeking extraordinary dining experiences, Grill Seekers, the specialty restaurant, is also available for booking.

To further elevate the night-time experience, the company has doubled the number of bars and lounges on board, now featuring a total of 8. For a touch of sparkle and sophistication during the evening hours, the ship offers the exclusive Champagne Fizz Club. Moreover, guests can indulge their palates at the elegant wine cellar and tasting bar, located on decks 7 and 8 and offering a delightful selection of fine wines.

Putting emphasis on the cruise line’s Mediterranean-style relaxation vibe, the vessel offers an entire deck dedicated to the wellness of both body and spirit, with stunning panoramic ocean views.

Recognising the diverse needs of its guests, the company has expanded its facilities to include two fully equipped conference spaces and a versatile multipurpose Amphitheatre, showcasing a wide range of possible uses, from captivating entertainment shows to compelling business events.

Celestyal Journey offers an enriched and comprehensive onboard experience for all guests.

Following the inaugural' 'Idyllic Aegean' sailings in September, Celestyal Journey continued in October with the unique "Steps of Saint Paul the Apostle" itinerary, calling on Athens, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Istanbul, Dikili, Kusadasi, and Patmos, followed by the award-winning seven-night "Three Continents" itinerary, visiting Greece, Egypt, Cyprus, and Turkey.

Detailed information regarding Celestyal Journey’s itineraries can be found on celestyal.com