Cruise Line Won’t Risk Arabian Gulf Return as Strait of Hormuz Situation Remains Unstable

Celestyal Cruises has canceled all Arabian Gulf deployments for the 2026/2027 winter season due to escalating US/Iran tensions and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The decision affects 85 sailings across Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey, which were scheduled from November 2026 through March 2027 from ports including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Jeddah. Both ships remained trapped in the region for months before escaping in April 2026, requiring passenger repatriation and multiple cruise cancellations.

The cruise line is pivoting strategically by adding ten Mediterranean sailings instead. Celestyal Discovery will operate six additional Greek Islands itineraries visiting Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Celestyal Journey will deploy four Mediterranean cruises combining Greece with Italy and Croatia. Affected passengers receive full refunds or future cruise credits. Additional western Mediterranean itineraries for winter 2026/2027 will be announced shortly.

Originally reported by Cruise Hive, Calvin Musquez (May 29, 2026).