The leading Greek cruise operator Celestyal Cruises has announced a new addition to the fleet, the Celestyal Journey, set to debut on September 2, 2023. The ship, which is currently undergoing a €20 million refurbishment and technical maintenance overhaul, will take over the schedules of the cruise ship Celestyal Crystal, starting with the seven-night ‘Idyllic Aegean’ itinerary. Passengers with reservations on Celestyal Crystal from September 2 onwards will be rebooked on sailings with Celestyal Journey.

The mid-sized vessel, which can accommodate up to 1,260 passengers, offers 630 cabins, including 149 balcony staterooms, 120 of which are Junior Suites, 28 are Grand Suites, and one is the Penthouse Concept Suite. Seven restaurants are serving Mediterranean, European, and Asian cuisine, a cooking demonstration area, and an exclusive Chef’s Table venue. Eight bars and lounges, two pools, two Jacuzzis, and an outdoor Beach Club are also featured, exclusively available to Grand Suite and Junior Suite passengers. Other amenities include a spa, fitness and wellness area, conference rooms, and a multi-purpose theater with a cinema.

According to Chris Theophilides, Celestyal Cruises’ chief executive, the arrival of the Celestyal Journey fulfills the company's mission to renew and rejuvenate its fleet. He added that the new ship offers more premium accommodation with balconies, a greater selection of dining and bar venues, and public areas that create a greater sense of space. The ship's intimate, mid-sized design allows the company to take guests to destinations that larger ships cannot, showcasing the company's in-depth regional destination knowledge and warm Greek hospitality.

The Celestyal Journey will commence its itinerary with the ‘Idyllic Aegean’ sailings, followed by the ‘Steps of Paul’ itinerary in October, and the ‘Three Continents’ itinerary, which includes visits to Greece, Egypt, Israel, Cyprus, and Turkey.