Celestyal Cruises spruces up the fleet with former AIDA ship

Celestyal Discovery will replace the oldest member of the Celestyal fleet from March 2024.

European cruise line Celestyal Cruises will add its second new ship in as many years, with the company announcing it will take possession of a former AIDA Cruises vessel from March 2024.

To be known as Celestyal Discovery, the 1,266-passenger vessel was originally built in 2003, features 633 staterooms and has been operating as the AIDAaura since its launch.

Celestyal Discovery will soon relocate to its new homeport of Piraeus in Athens, where both her and her new sister Celestyal Journey will undergo multi-million-Euro winter refurbishment programs ahead of the new Mediterranean season.

Refurbishment works will see many of the line’s popular features installed onboard, including its Grillseekers specialty restaurant, Sozo wellness retreat, Fig & Honey gelato bar and the expansive Rays pool deck, while other facilities will be refreshed ahead of its introduction to the fleet.

Once operational, Celestyal Cruises will continue operating as a two-ship fleet, with its new acquisition replacing Celestyal Olympia, which is currently being decommissioned and laid up after more than 40 years of service for various cruise lines.

Celestyal Cruises CEO Chris Theophilides said he was thrilled to have expedited the renewal of the fleet and was sure the new vessel will cement its place as a popular member of the fleet.

“Celestyal Discovery joins the Celestyal Journey to undergo an extensive refurbishment programme over the winter period, signifying further our intent to keep delighting our customers,” Theophilides said.

“As a confident challenger brand, our team is excited to continue to make waves across the industry next season, with a refreshed fleet, brand, network, and a renewed sense of direction.”

Reservations will open on 11 December for Celestyal Discovery’s maiden season