Celestyal successfully crosses the Strait of Hormuz, providing safe passage for the cruise industry | News
Celestyal has confirmed the successful and safe passage of both its ships, Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey, through the Strait of Hormuz. This marks a significant operational milestone and demonstrates leadership in the cruise industry during a period of heightened regional sensitivity.
On Friday, April 17, Celestyal Discovery, commanded by Captain Nikolaos Vasileiou, became the first cruise ship to leave the Arabian Gulf. It implemented a carefully coordinated itinerary, developed in close cooperation with regional authorities and maritime security teams. This groundbreaking move created a safe and proven route through the Strait, which allowed other cruise lines to follow.
Building on this, Celestyal Journey, led by Captain Angelos Vasilakos, successfully navigated the same passage on Saturday, April 18, leading a wider convoy of cruise ships leaving the region via the existing corridor.
The travel plans were developed through extensive coordination with key authorities and security stakeholders, ensuring that all movements were executed with the highest level of safety, precision and situational awareness.
Safety remained the absolute priority throughout the operation, with excellent leadership, expertise and calm command demonstrated by both Captain Vasileiou and Captain Vasilakos, in addition to teams on board and ashore. Their efforts in navigating complex and sensitive conditions played an important role in ensuring the safety of all crew members and the successful passage of both ships.
Celestyal also recognizes its close collaboration with regional authorities and partners, whose support enabled a coordinated and responsible approach for the wider cruise industry.
Following their successful transit, both Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey are now repositioning to the Mediterranean, where they will commence the upcoming summer season as planned.
Celestyal can confirm that all future sailings currently on sale will proceed as planned, providing guests and travel partners with confidence and continuity as the company transitions to its operations in the Mediterranean.
