Celestial Journey docks for the first time at Doha Port – Qatar Tourism and Mwani Qatar welcomed the ship that will depart from Doha Port for a 7-day cruise across the Arabian Gulf

Qatar Tourism and Mwani Qatar participated in the reception of the Celestial Journey as the ship docked on Qatari shores as part of its first tour of the Arabian Gulf region. The arrival of Celestial Journey is one of the highlights of Qatar’s 2024/2025 cruise season, which is set to see 95 cruises, including 33 return flights, 11 flights from Doha and 5 vessels visiting Doha Port for the first time. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism, Mr. Abdulrahman Saad Al Baker, Director of Doha Port, along with representatives of local and international media. The ceremony included a review of the ship’s current and future flight schedule, in addition to a review of joint cooperation between strategic partners in Qatar to start the ship’s trips so that Doha Port will be the main station for its trips during the next three seasons.
Speaking at the launch of the first cruise ship, Omar Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism, said: “The arrival of the Celestal Journey to Doha Port marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Celesteal, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading tourism destination in the Arabian Gulf region. This collaboration also highlights Qatar’s growing appeal as a destination offering unique cultural and travel experiences, and we are proud to collaborate with Mwani Qatar to deliver seamless operations and an enriching guest experience that reflects the hospitality and diverse tourism offerings Qatar has to offer.”
Mr. Abdulrahman Saad Al Baker, Director of Doha Port, expressed his delight at the launch of the inaugural voyage of the Celestial Journey, where Doha Port will be the main port of the ship for the next three seasons. “This achievement reinforces Doha Port’s position, under the management of Mwani Qatar, as a key gateway for cruise tourism in the region and underscores Qatar’s ongoing efforts to boost Qatar’s tourism sector. The selection of Doha Port as the main port for the Celestial Journey reflects the growing confidence in Qatar’s world-class maritime infrastructure and is in line with the country’s vision to promote sustainable tourism and the sector’s contribution to the national economy.”
Lee Hasslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestial, said: “We are very excited to start our first season in the GCC. I would like to thank our partners Qatar Tourism, Mwani Qatar and Qatar Airways for their continued support and warm welcome. We’re confident that our FI-themed private cruises will ensure a dazzling start to the season, while Desert Days brings the best of the region. Whether guests are familiar with the destinations we visit or are learning about them for the first time, they will have a wealth of authentic experiences available to all.”
Celestial Journey has a capacity of 1,260 passengers with a crew of 630, and consists of 14 floors and includes 7 diverse restaurants, a full floor dedicated to fitness and wellness, including 3 swimming pools, 2 Jacuzzis, a state-of-the-art gym, as well as a theatre and a kids’ club.
Celestial Journey will continue its journey across the Arabian Gulf, offering passengers a seven-night journey starting from QAR 4,480 for two adults. The ship features luxurious accommodations, including junior suites equipped with world-class amenities, which provide a premium travel experience that seamlessly combines comfort with a love of adventure and exploration.
The 2024/2025 cruise season is expected to record strong growth and performance, with the addition of vessels such as the Costa Esmeralda and MSC Euribea, which are set to bring thousands of visitors to Qatar.