Cruise company Celestyal has further reinforced its collaboration with Qatar Tourism, Visit Qatar and Mwani Qatar.

The agreement was announced during the Arabian Travel Market exhibition, which took place from April 28 April to May 1.

Under the new arrangement, Celestyal will double the number of passengers it brings to Doha over the next three years, with calls twice a week during the winter season.

This builds upon the existing three-year homeporting agreement.

Last year, Celestyal launched its “Desert Days” cruise aboard the Celestyal Journey, a vessel with a 1,260-passenger capacity, departing from Doha, Qatar.

During the inaugural season, 14,500 travellers disembarked in Doha.

Ten per cent of those passengers came from countries within the Gulf Cooperation Council and neighbouring regions, experiencing what Celestyal has to offer.

Due to high demand, the first season was extended, and the company now plans to return with two ships this December, maintaining two weekly port calls in Qatar.

Cruises will depart from Abu Dhabi and return there, including calls at Doha, Khasab, Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, and, for the first time, Ras al Khaimah.

“It is a privilege to expand and strengthen our collaboration with Qatar Tourism, Visit Qatar and Mwani Qatar,” said Celestyal’s Chief Commercial Officer Lee Haslett.

“As one of Celestyal’s most important homeport destinations, Doha has been embraced by our guests, so we are thrilled to be doubling our calls to the region over the next three years, with two weekly calls throughout the winter season,” he added.

“After a very successful first season in the Arabian Gulf with the Celestyal Journey, we are delighted to double our footprint in the region for the next three years, with Celestyal Discovery also sailing there from December this year, ” he continued.

He also said that “we know there is real demand for the Arabian Gulf, and we are proud to be at the forefront of showcasing this region.”

“As a cruise company that delivers deeply immersive experiences, we proudly promote the destinations we visit,” he stated. “In a city growing as rapidly as Doha, returning and new Celestyal guests are sure to find something fresh and exciting to enjoy,”