We began our journey with Qatar Airways, flying direct from Australia to Doha. Economy Class was well catered for, including decaf coffee, which is not always available, along with internet connectivity and a wide selection of inflight entertainment. I chose to forget about the internet for the most part and enjoy a few movies instead.
On arrival in Qatar, after collecting our luggage and completing arrival procedures, our Discover Qatar transfer was ready and waiting to take us to our hotel. Prior to the cruise we stayed at the Waldorf Astoria West Bay, a stunning five-star hotel close to the beach area of Qatar. With a Michelin-star restaurant, a very European feel and the best bathroom views I have ever experienced, it was a wonderful start to the journey.
Celestyal’s Arabian Gulf cruises allow guests to embark in Dubai as well as Doha. The cruise terminal in Doha is well appointed and even includes a mini aquarium, so a short wait was entertaining. As suite guests, we were ushered to the front of the queue, which made for a seamless boarding experience.
Celestyal embraces the regions it sails in, and while a large part of the year is spent in the Greek Islands, the same approach carries through beautifully in the Arabian Gulf. From dates on the pillow at turndown to Arabian-themed shows and evenings, the experience felt genuinely immersive.
The crew came from a wide variety of nations, including some not always as prevalent on other cruise lines. The dancers, for example, hailed from Cuba, which added another layer of interest to life on board.
Celestyal Journey has some of the best lounge and bar spaces at sea. They are vibrant, quirky and supported by an in-depth wine and cocktail list. I would also describe her as a late-night ship, with shows and entertainment starting a little later than on some other cruise lines. After a busy day in port, that extra time before the evening begins is actually quite welcome.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner were well catered for, although unlike larger ships, the buffet was not open all hours. Pizza at the Greek Deli was also available during the day. Grill Seekers was a true standout, with very traditional fine dining service and a memorable Crêpes Suzette dessert experience.
The ports of call were surprisingly varied and offered insight into a history I was not previously familiar with.
Starting with an overnight in Dubai gave us two full days to explore this incredible city. From shopping to sightseeing, there is so much to offer. The desert safari was a true highlight, with four-wheel driving in the dunes followed by sunset, dancing and feasting.
Sir Bani Yas Island is an island of contrasts, whether you wish to enjoy the beach club atmosphere or join the unique wildlife safari. This private island, owned by the Abu Dhabi royal family, is a must-see. Its wildlife conservation strategy has helped increase the population of some endangered species, adding real depth to the visit.
Abu Dhabi also has so much to offer, from the majestic mosque, which has a very strict dress code, to modern attractions such as Ferrari World, celebrating the Formula 1 races held in the region. For those without a shore excursion planned, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha all had hop-on hop-off buses available at the port, making it easy for guests who were not quite sure what they wanted to do.
Bahrain was another destination with a rich and layered history, shaped by many different occupiers over the centuries. For those interested in learning more, the Grand Tour covered a good range of highlights, including a visit to the souq and mosque.
Disembarking in Doha was as simple as embarkation, and once again our transfer was ready and waiting. This time we stayed centrally at Alwadi Hotel Doha, part of the MGallery collection, located at the entrance to Souq Waqif. It was a stunning hotel with a Mexican restaurant and pool area on Level 3, as well as a rooftop bar where you could take in the Doha skyline. The service was exceptional, and the breakfast offered such a fresh variety of cuisines that we really did not need lunch.
This Arabian Gulf cruise with Celestyal Cruises was a true joy. The itinerary offered more history, variety and cultural insight than I expected, while Celestyal Journey delivered a comfortable, character-filled ship experience with warm service and a genuine sense of place.
