Fleet Movements: Five Ships Complete Safe Passage

According to industry reports, the following vessels have now exited the Arabian Gulf:

• MSC Euribia
• Mein Schiff 4
• Mein Schiff 5
• Celestyal Discovery
• Celestyal Journey

All ships operated with skeleton crews and completed their passages over a two‑day window, supported by maritime authorities and standard navigational procedures.

A sixth vessel, Aroya, remains in the Gulf, with operators monitoring conditions and planning its next movements.

Celestyal Leads the Way

Celestyal Discovery was the first cruise ship to make the transit, paving the way for other vessels to follow. Its sister ship, Celestyal Journey, subsequently completed its own passage, with both ships now repositioning for their next scheduled programs.

TUI Cruises: Dual‑Ship Progress

TUI Cruises confirmed that Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 have both cleared the region. The company expressed appreciation for the efforts of onboard teams and supporting authorities, noting that routing options for onward deployment are being evaluated based on global operational considerations.

MSC Euribia Continues Toward Europe

MSC Cruises reported that MSC Euribia has safely exited the Gulf and is now sailing toward Northern Europe, where it is scheduled to resume its summer program. The ship had been berthed in Dubai prior to its departure and is now progressing on its planned repositioning itinerary.

Aroya: Next Steps Under Review

Cruise Saudi’s Aroya remains the only vessel still in the Arabian Gulf. The company has not yet announced its next scheduled movement, with operational planning continuing in line with standard procedures.

Positive Outlook for Cruise Operations

The successful transit of five vessels marks a welcome boost for cruise operators active in the region. With ships now advancing toward their seasonal deployments, cruise lines are regaining scheduling flexibility and preparing to resume regular programming across key markets.

As repositioning progresses, the industry is looking ahead to a strong summer season supported by renewed fleet mobility and coordinated operational planning.

The post Five Cruise Ships Successfully Exit Arabian Gulf, Marking Strong Progress for Regional Operations appeared first on The Cruise News.

The announcement also includes several combinable sailings and a Grand Journey, while the company said the schedule has been designed to provide deeper exploration of the regions being visited.

Mario Parodi, vice president of itinerary planning and port and fuel operations for Crystal, said: “Our 2028 voyages are designed to offer guests deeper exploration across some of the most beautiful regions around the world. Crystal Grace will debut with sailings from the Mediterranean, Canada and New England to the Caribbean, Crystal Symphony will travel from the Panama Canal to Alaska and Japan, while Crystal Serenity will explore Europe, the Arctic and the Eastern Mediterranean. Each ship will spend the season discovering the various regions through carefully curated itineraries that we hope our guests will love.”

Crystal Grace to debut in June 2028

Crystal Grace will enter service on 11 June 2028 in Civitavecchia, Italy, with an inaugural voyage calling at Sorrento, Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Split, Zadar and Trieste before continuing to Venice. Crystal said this will launch a Mediterranean season focused on Southern Europe’s coastlines and cultural capitals.

During the summer, the ship will operate itineraries in Italy, Croatia, Greece, France and Spain, with calls including Valencia and Monte Carlo. Crystal said the ship will be christened during an overnight stay in Monte Carlo on the voyage departing Barcelona on 8 July. Select sailings will be available as combinations, including two 34-night itineraries that do not repeat ports.

Autumn routes for Grace

In September, Crystal Grace will sail west from Lisbon via the Azores to Halifax and New York. That will start a series of autumn sailings in New England and Eastern Canada, with calls including Quebec City and Charlottetown.

The ship’s November programme includes Bermuda and Caribbean departures from Fort Lauderdale, with calls at Antigua, St Lucia, Aruba and Barbados. The itinerary mix extends the vessel’s first season beyond Europe and into the Atlantic and Caribbean basin, giving the new ship a broader geographic footprint in its debut year.

Symphony in the Americas and Asia

Crystal Symphony will begin summer operations in the Americas after completing the 2028 world cruise, Treasures of the Tides. The ship is scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale on 10 June, with a Panama Canal transit and calls at Cartagena, Puerto Caldera, San Juan del Sur and Puerto Vallarta before continuing along the California coast to San Diego and San Francisco.

The vessel will then spend the peak summer period in Alaska and British Columbia, with multiple departures from Vancouver and Seward. Ports and scenic cruising on the programme include Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Wrangell and Hubbard Glacier. Crystal said two combination voyages are included in the season.

In late September, Crystal Symphony will cross the International Date Line to Japan and begin a series of voyages in Japan and South Korea, with ports including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki, Busan and Kanazawa.

Serenity in Europe and the Arctic

Crystal Serenity will begin its summer season in Europe on 5 May, sailing from the Iberian Peninsula into the Mediterranean. Calls listed by the line include Cádiz, Valencia, Monte Carlo, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Valletta and Piraeus.

The ship will then head north to the British Isles and Norway, with a Grand Journey above the Arctic Circle to Honningsvåg, before continuing to Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Crystal also said the itinerary includes consecutive calls in Reykjavik, Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm, with two combination cruises available.

Later in the season, Crystal Serenity will operate voyages in Northern Europe before returning south through Western Europe and the Mediterranean, with calls in La Goulette, Cagliari, Ajaccio, Marseille, Palamós and Barcelona. The programme concludes with a transatlantic crossing and further sailings in warmer climates.

Industry context

The announcement adds to Crystal’s 2028 deployment plans across its fleet and underscores the importance of itinerary planning as cruise lines prepare long-lead sales campaigns. By releasing voyages for three ships at once, Crystal is positioning its schedule around a mix of maiden-season deployment, regional cruising and extended combination voyages.

Source: Official Crystal Cruises Press Center release, 14 April 2026, Miami.

The post Crystal Previews 2028 Voyages Across Fleet appeared first on The Cruise News.

The company describes Sandy Cay as an intimate counterpart to Ocean Cay, created to offer a quieter atmosphere and a deeper sense of connection with the surrounding seascape and the character of The Bahamas.

Sandy Cay takes its name from its bright aragonite sands, which MSC Group notes are among the purest found globally. The island has been envisioned as a serene setting that provides a more personal yet elevated experience, reflecting the same guiding ethos as Ocean Cay—bringing guests closer to the natural beauty of the ocean.

While sharing the same clear Bahamian waters as Ocean Cay, Sandy Cay is intended to introduce a distinct layer of discovery and tranquillity. Guests of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys will have their first opportunity to visit the island when it opens in 2028.

Enhancements Planned for Ocean Cay

MSC Cruises has also announced a series of upgrades for Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. These improvements will introduce new dining options, refreshed beach concepts for both families and adults, expanded areas for relaxation, and additional opportunities for guests to participate in marine‑focused experiences.

According to MSC Group, these enhancements support the company’s ongoing approach to developing private island destinations that evolve with guest expectations while honouring the natural setting of The Bahamas.

Strengthening Onboard‑to‑Shore Experiences

The addition of Sandy Cay is positioned as part of MSC Cruises’ and Explora Journeys’ broader effort to enrich their private destination offerings. Together, Ocean Cay and Sandy Cay represent the next phase in the Cruise Division’s vision to deliver holiday experiences that blend relaxation, exploration and an appreciation for the natural world.

Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 13 April, 2026

The post MSC Group Reveals Plans for Sandy Cay, a New Private Island Retreat appeared first on The Cruise News.

HX said the season ran from October 2025 to March 2026 and included 34 sailings. The company also said its guests left 272 TripAdvisor reviews, with 252 five-star ratings and a 93% five-star score, while global suite bookings rose 5% compared with 2025 and increased by up to 80% in selected regions.

Guest demand and onboard results

The cruise line said it expanded its pre- and post-expedition guest journey during the season, introducing new experiences designed to improve comfort, connectivity and destination immersion. It also said it increased activity capacity, allowing more guests to kayak and camp than any other operator, with kayaking capacity up 188% and camping places doubled, while operating within IAATO guidelines.

HX framed those results as evidence that expedition cruising can scale without, in its view, weakening the protection of the destination. The company said every voyage complied with IAATO requirements, including limited shore landings, wildlife-distancing protocols, strict biosecurity measures, small-group operations and capped daily visitor numbers.

Science and education

HX also highlighted what it described as a science-first season. The company said it donated 1,801 Guest Scientist cruise nights to global research, recorded 27,869 Green Stay nights in which guests opted out of cabin servicing, and generated 1,111 Happywhale submissions and 2,250 eBird checklists.

Guests aboard HX ships also helped raise €124,882 for the HX Foundation, which the company said will support conservation, plastic pollution initiatives and community projects in the destinations it visits, including Antarctica. HX added that 2,307 guests completed the University of Tasmania’s Antarctica Introduction to Antarctica learning module, contributing more than 4,614 hours of study, and said the award-winning programme is now available in English and German, with Mandarin due to launch soon.

Verena Meraldi, HX Chief Scientist, said: ““As we close the 2025–2026 Antarctic season, I’m proud of how our Science & Education programme this season again enabled scientists to access remote environments while engaging guests directly in the process. A highlight for me was our work with Dr Manuel Novillo, documenting rare spawning behaviour of Antarctic blackfin icefish near Danco Island using our underwater drones. Capturing these moments in situ provides valuable insight into critical habitats that are still largely unknown. It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when expedition travel actively supports science in a rapidly changing Antarctic environment.”

Guest journey upgrades

HX said it introduced a series of changes aimed at making travel to and from Antarctica more seamless. Before the expedition, guests were offered later departures from Buenos Aires, to-go breakfasts for smoother transfers and upgraded charter flights with JetSMART’s new A321 aircraft.

The cruise line said the onboard and in-flight experience was also improved with locally made alfajores, commemorative canned water and upgraded service touches. After the voyage, later return flights gave guests more time in Ushuaia, along with a self-guided map pointing to local businesses offering complimentary items and a takeaway lunch featuring regional products.

For suite guests, HX said the experience was further enhanced with rooftop welcome drinks in Buenos Aires, private access to Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, including check-in, dining and wellness facilities, and VIP lounge access at Ushuaia Airport.

Industry significance

The season matters because Antarctica remains one of the most tightly managed cruise destinations, where demand, visitor limits and environmental controls must be balanced closely. HX’s report points to a business model in which higher guest volumes are presented alongside science participation, guest education and regulated access, all of which remain central themes in expedition cruising.

The company said its growth in Antarctica is driven by the view that access must be paired with responsibility.

CEO Gebhard Rainer said: “This has been an extraordinary season – not only in terms of guest numbers and satisfaction, but in the depth of scientific engagement and responsible travel practices. As the largest operator, we recognise the responsibility that comes with our scale. Our focus is, and always will be, ensuring that Antarctica remains protected for future generations. HX’s record-breaking season underscores a clear message: high‑quality expedition travel and rigorous environmental stewardship can, and must, go hand in hand.”

Source: Official HX Expeditions Press Release, 09 April 2026

The post HX reports record Antarctica season as guest satisfaction rises appeared first on The Cruise News.

Before heading north, MSC Poesia will arrive in Miami on April 22 and depart the following day on a special Panama Canal voyage to Seattle, offering guests a rare opportunity to sail with the ship as she repositions to her summer homeport. She will reach Seattle on May 11 to begin a series of seven‑night itineraries calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Endicott Arm, Juneau and Victoria, Canada.

New Enhancements Tailored for Alaska Cruising

MSC Poesia’s dry‑dock programme introduced several major upgrades designed to elevate the guest experience, particularly for scenic, nature‑focused itineraries such as Alaska.

Confirmed enhancements include:

• Introduction of the MSC Yacht Club, the line’s signature luxury ship‑within‑a‑ship concept
• New specialty dining venues, including Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar
• A fully redesigned MSC Aurea Spa, featuring new cold‑weather‑appropriate treatments
• An upgraded MSC Gym powered by Technogym®

These additions align MSC Cruises’ Musica‑class vessel with the brand’s latest onboard standards and broaden the range of premium experiences available to guests sailing in Alaska.

Alaska Itineraries: Scenic Cruising and Iconic Ports

Beginning in May 2026, MSC Poesia will operate offer seven-night sailings from Seattle, visiting a curated selection of Alaska’s most iconic destinations.

The official itinerary includes:

• Ketchikan
• Icy Strait Point
• Juneau
• Victoria, British Columbia
• Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier (scenic cruising)

These itineraries are designed to showcase Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage, while offering guests MSC Cruises’ distinctive international style.

MSC Cruises Strengthens Its North American Footprint

The Alaska debut forms part of MSC Cruises’ broader strategy to expand its year‑round presence in North America. The company has invested in new terminals, expanded its Caribbean and East Coast offerings, and continues to diversify its deployment to meet growing demand from U.S. and international travellers.

Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America, said: “In one month, we will begin a new chapter that reflects our continued investment in North America and our commitment to offering guests enriching experiences in some of the world’s most iconic destinations. The enhancements on board MSC Poesia come at a great time for these new sailings and will give guests additional comfort, choice and flexibility, allowing for more ways to relax, recharge and make the most of their time at sea.”

Looking Ahead

With MSC Poesia’s arrival in Seattle just weeks away, MSC Cruises is poised to make a strong entry into the competitive Alaska market. The combination of scenic itineraries, upgraded onboard experiences, and the introduction of the MSC Yacht Club positions the line to attract both loyal MSC guests and new travellers seeking a globally inspired approach to Alaska cruising.

Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 10 April, 2026

The post MSC Cruises Starts Final Countdown to Inaugural Alaska Deployment appeared first on The Cruise News.

The initiative is centred on a three-year grant that brings together the world’s largest cruise company with a global conservation organisation to protect coastal ecosystems that play a critical role in environmental stability and local livelihoods.

Partnership targets restoration of coastal ecosystems

The collaboration will focus on safeguarding and restoring mangrove forests and broader coastal wetlands, which are recognised for their role in protecting shorelines from storms, absorbing carbon emissions and supporting marine biodiversity.

According to the announcement, these ecosystems have been affected by severe weather and other environmental pressures. The programme will support natural regeneration while strengthening research and monitoring efforts.

Community engagement is also a core element of the initiative. The partnership aims to ensure that local populations who depend on these environments benefit from long-term conservation outcomes, with projects designed to align environmental protection with social and economic resilience.

Support for nature-positive businesses and livelihoods

In addition to ecosystem restoration, the programme will provide targeted support to small and micro-enterprises that rely on natural resources, with a focus on enabling nature-positive businesses across the Caribbean.

These include ecotourism operators, fishers and artisans whose livelihoods are closely tied to coastal ecosystems. Through collaboration with local partners, Conservation International will deliver technical assistance, training and mentoring, alongside access to small grants to support sustainable practices.

The approach reflects a broader effort to connect conservation initiatives with community development, ensuring that environmental programmes contribute to both ecological and economic sustainability.

Funding supported by guest participation

Funding for the initiative will be provided by Carnival Corporation, alongside guest participation programmes across its cruise brands, with additional supporting programmes expected to be introduced over time.

These include Holland America Line’s “On Deck for a Cause” events, where guests take part in organised walks to raise funds, as well as the “Keep the Change” programme, which allows guests to donate a portion of casino winnings.

These initiatives form part of a wider strategy to involve guests in sustainability efforts while supporting conservation projects in destinations visited by the company’s ships.

Sustainability strategy aligned with 2030 goals

The partnership builds on Carnival Corporation’s broader sustainability framework and supports its 2030 sustainability objectives.

Across its operations, the company continues to focus on reducing fuel consumption and emissions, while advancing circular economy practices through reducing, reusing and recycling materials. It also emphasises collaboration with communities in the destinations it serves, supporting cultural preservation and environmental protection.

Josh Weinstein said the partnership provides an opportunity to work alongside communities in biodiverse coastal regions, supporting local innovation while helping to protect natural environments.

From the conservation partner’s perspective, the initiative is positioned as a way to strengthen ecosystem resilience while delivering long-term benefits for both people and nature.

Industry significance and destination impact

The Caribbean remains one of the most important regions for global cruise operations, hosting some of the industry’s most visited ports and destinations. The focus on mangroves and coastal wetlands reflects the growing emphasis within the cruise sector on destination stewardship and environmental responsibility.

These ecosystems are widely recognised as essential to coastal protection and biodiversity, making them a key priority for conservation efforts in regions heavily reliant on tourism and maritime activity.

For the cruise industry, initiatives such as this highlight the increasing integration of sustainability into operational and destination strategies, particularly in areas where environmental health is directly linked to long-term tourism viability.

Source: Official announcement by Carnival Corporation & plc on 24 March, 2026

The post Carnival Corporation and Conservation International Launch Caribbean Mangrove Restoration Partnership appeared first on The Cruise News.

The live show will be staged in Legend’s Royal Theater, where performers from across the Got Talent universe — including magicians, musicians, acrobats, aerialists and other speciality acts — will deliver a dynamic, family‑friendly entertainment experience inspired by the hit series.

Christine Coachman, Vice President of Entertainment at Royal Caribbean, said the collaboration reflects the line’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of onboard entertainment.
“At Royal Caribbean, we are constantly redefining live entertainment at every turn—bringing jaw‑dropping performances to life across stage, air, water, and ice—and America’s Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas is the perfect expression of that vision,” Coachman said. “As one of the most acclaimed entertainment franchises on television, America’s Got Talent perfectly reflects our commitment to bold, world‑class experiences that will truly wow our audiences on Legend.”

Erica Gadecki, Executive Vice President of Partnership Solutions at Fremantle, added:
“We’re thrilled to bring Got Talent to an all‑new at sea experience as we set sail for the first time with Royal Caribbean. We can’t wait to showcase incredible acts from around the world on a brand‑new stage onboard, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.”

Alongside the new production, Legend of the Seas will feature a broad entertainment line‑up designed for guests of all ages. Highlights include deck‑defying high divers, aerialists, robots and dancers performing in the AquaTheater, as well as show‑stopping ice performances at Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena at sea. The ship will also host the golden ticket debut of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Evenings on board will offer more than 20 bars, lounges and live music venues, including jazz at Lou’s, lively sing‑offs at Dueling Pianos, and themed dining experiences such as Hollywoodland Supper Club and Royal Railway – Legend Station, which transports guests through imaginative, story‑driven settings. Royal Caribbean notes that additional entertainment details will be announced in the coming months.

Legend of the Seas will begin its inaugural season in Europe, offering 7‑night Western Mediterranean holidays from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Ports of call include Provence (Marseille) in France, Naples in Italy, and Palma de Mallorca in Spain.

In November 2026, the ship will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to operate 6‑night Western Caribbean and 8‑night Southern Caribbean itineraries. All Caribbean sailings will include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award‑winning private island in The Bahamas, along with stops in Oranjestad, Aruba, and Willemstad, Curaçao.

As the newest addition to the Icon Class, Legend of the Seas continues Royal Caribbean’s tradition of introducing innovative entertainment and immersive experiences across its fleet. The debut of America’s Got Talent LIVE marks a significant expansion of the line’s entertainment partnerships, bringing a globally recognised franchise to sea for the first time.

Source: Official Royal Caribbean International Press Release, 11 March 2026, Miami.

The post Royal Caribbean to Debut America’s Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas in 2026 appeared first on The Cruise News.

According to the company, The Joy of Traveling Well encapsulates the essence of Oceania Cruises’ philosophy: offering thoughtfully curated journeys that balance cultural immersion, personalised service and refined comfort. The campaign highlights the line’s commitment to creating meaningful travel moments, emphasising depth, intention and ease as core elements of the Oceania experience.

The new brand expression is supported by refreshed visual identity elements, updated storytelling and a marketing approach that underscores the emotional and experiential aspects of travel. Oceania Cruises notes that the campaign is designed to inspire guests to embrace travel as a source of enrichment, connection and personal fulfilment.

Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, said the campaign reflects the evolving expectations of luxury travellers.
“The Joy of Traveling Well is designed to enhance the Oceania Cruises experience by offering guests opportunities to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with themselves while exploring the world,” Montague said in the official announcement.

The campaign reinforces Oceania Cruises’ long‑standing focus on destination‑rich itineraries, small‑ship luxury and personalised service. It also aligns with the brand’s reputation for culinary excellence and immersive travel experiences, which remain central to its identity.

Oceania Cruises’ fleet — including Vista, Marina, Riviera, Sirena, Regatta, Nautica and Insignia — will feature the new brand expression across guest‑facing touchpoints, marketing channels and onboard communications. The company says the initiative is designed to unify the guest experience while strengthening Oceania’s position within the luxury cruise sector.

The announcement highlights that The Joy of Traveling Well is part of a broader strategy to evolve the brand’s presence globally, ensuring it continues to appeal to travellers seeking journeys that combine cultural discovery with comfort and authenticity. Oceania Cruises notes that the campaign reflects a shift in luxury travel toward experiences that prioritise meaning, connection and personal enrichment.

As the line continues to expand its global itineraries across Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia, the Americas and beyond, the new campaign aims to deepen guest engagement and reinforce Oceania Cruises’ commitment to delivering thoughtfully crafted voyages supported by attentive service and a refined onboard atmosphere.

With The Joy of Traveling Well, Oceania Cruises positions itself at the forefront of modern luxury travel, offering guests a brand experience that celebrates the art of travelling with intention, curiosity and a sense of wellbeing.

Source: Official Oceania Cruises Press Release, 11 March 2026, Miami.

The post Oceania Cruises Unveils ‘The Joy of Traveling Well’, A New Global Brand Campaign appeared first on The Cruise News.

Celebrity Flora, introduced in 2020 as the first ship fully built for Galapagos expeditions, offers an intimate small‑ship experience with spacious suites, expert Naturalist guides and environmentally conscious design features including advanced waste‑management systems and solar panels. Each voyage includes all meals, beverages, shore excursions, snorkelling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks and paddleboards, ensuring a seamless and immersive expedition.

The 2028 programme explores the archipelago’s diverse landscapes and wildlife through guided Zodiac excursions, snorkelling adventures and landings led by bilingual Naturalists certified by the Galapagos National Park Directorate. Guests can expect close‑up encounters with the region’s iconic species and access to some of the world’s most pristine ecosystems.

In its announcement, Celebrity Cruises stated:
“These expeditions offer unparalleled access to one of Earth’s most extraordinary places, with Celebrity Flora’s intimate size and all‑inclusive nature creating the perfect platform for meaningful wildlife encounters.”

On board, guests enjoy all‑suite accommodations with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, private verandas in select categories and thoughtfully designed public spaces that support enrichment and relaxation. Dining showcases locally inspired cuisine, with menus incorporating fresh seafood and regional ingredients where possible.

Celebrity Cruises, part of Royal Caribbean Group, continues to lead in sustainable small‑ship exploration in the Galapagos, with Celebrity Flora representing a benchmark in environmentally responsible expedition cruising.

Source: Official Royal Caribbean Group Press Center release, 10 March 2026, Miami.

The post Celebrity Cruises 2028 Galapagos Expeditions Open on Celebrity Flora appeared first on The Cruise News.

All cruise lines report that guests and crew remain safe, that full onboard services continue to operate, and that repatriation planning is actively under way in coordination with airlines and port authorities.

MSC Cruises: MSC Euribia Berthed at Port Rashid, Dubai

MSC Cruises cancelled its 1 March 2026 sailing of MSC Euribia, a Meraviglia-class vessel with capacity for more than 6,000 guests, from Doha, with the ship now berthed at Cruise Terminal 3 at Port Rashid in Dubai. In a statement to affected guests, MSC confirmed: “In alignment with the national authorities, it has been decided to remain in the port of Dubai until further notice.” The line added that its focus remains firmly on the safety and security of guests and crew, and that it is in constant contact with local, national and regional authorities.

All onboard services including dining, entertainment and recreational facilities continue to operate. Guests whose sailings have been cancelled are being offered full refunds or future cruise credits.  

TUI Cruises: Mein Schiff 4 in Abu Dhabi, Mein Schiff 5 in Doha

TUI Cruises has cancelled multiple departures across both ships currently deployed in the region. Mein Schiff 4 is docked in Abu Dhabi, UAE, while Mein Schiff 5 is berthed at Doha Port, Qatar, both maintaining full onboard services for guests.

The cruise line has stated that it is monitoring developments very closely and is in close contact with the relevant authorities and security experts, including reference to official travel advisories issued by the German Federal Foreign Office.

With air connections across parts of the region disrupted, TUI has noted that return flight arrangements are subject to evolving airline capacity and airspace access. The line is working on a phased operation to fly guests home and is offering affected passengers refunds and rebooking options.  

Celestyal Cruises: Celestyal Journey in Doha, Celestyal Discovery in Dubai

Celestyal Cruises is operating a dual-ship deployment in the Arabian Gulf for its 2025/26 winter season. Celestyal Journey is confirmed to be alongside in Doha, Qatar, while Celestyal Discovery is docked at Dubai.

Celestyal is working closely with port authorities in Qatar, the UAE and Oman to review upcoming sailings, with options including adjusted turnaround arrangements, extended port stays and potential redeployments. All guests affected by cancelled sailings are being offered a full refund or a future cruise credit. Enhanced onboard enrichment and entertainment programmes have been put in place to support guests during any extended time in port.

AROYA Cruises: Aroya Manara Berthed in Dubai

Saudi Arabia’s AROYA Cruises has confirmed that its flagship vessel Aroya Manara is berthed in Dubai. The ship’s Arabian Gulf season had been offering two- to seven-night itineraries from multiple homeports including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dammam, with calls to destinations including Khasab, Muscat, Sir Bani Yas Island and Bahrain.

The cruise line has been undertaking a precautionary review of its sailings and has issued a statement reassuring guests: “The safety of our guests is our absolute priority. We will keep you informed of any further updates or changes.” AROYA is closely tracking official guidance and working with port and government partners across the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia as it assesses the path forward for its upcoming programme

A Coordinated Response Across the Sector

Across all four operators, a number of common measures are in place. Dedicated security teams are monitoring official advisories and liaising continuously with regional port authorities, maritime security experts and government bodies. Flexible booking policies are in effect for all cancelled departures. Full onboard services are being maintained across all six vessels, with additional activities and enrichment programming introduced to support guest comfort during extended port stays. Where airspace access allows, coordinated flight arrangements are being pursued to support the repatriation of guests, in collaboration with airline partners.

The situation underscores both the logistical complexity of the Gulf’s cruise season and the sector’s established protocols for managing guest welfare during rapidly evolving circumstances.

Looking Ahead

For the Arabian Gulf cruise market, the current pause comes at a moment of considerable momentum. The 2024/25 winter season delivered record passenger arrivals across Gulf ports, and the region’s growing importance as a short-haul winter sun cruise destination for European and GCC travellers has been reflected in significant fleet investments from multiple operators this season.

Cruise companies and port authorities are continuing to review all available operational options, with the shared aim of ensuring the safe and orderly resumption of itineraries and the long-term development of the Arabian Gulf as a premier cruise hub. Guests with upcoming sailings are strongly advised to monitor official communications from their cruise line, including apps, email updates and official websites, for the latest information on individual departures.

Updated: 4 March 2026. This article will be updated as new information becomes available from official cruise line sources.

The post Gulf Cruise Sailings Paused: MSC, TUI, Celestyal and AROYA Monitor Regional Situation appeared first on The Cruise News.