Now Celestyal Cruises can take advantage of the Celestyal Journey. Its inaugural season began on Saturday following a $21 million refit. The vessel sailed on a seven-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise in place of the Celestyal Crystal.

Aegean itinerary, including Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Milos, Santorini and Mykonos, as well as overnight stays on Santorini and Mykonos, is included on Celestyal’s maiden voyage. A variety of itineraries, including the “Steps of Paul” and “Three Continents,” will be offered during the Celestyal Journey’s maiden season.

As opposed to the first cruise, which includes stops in Greece and Turkey, like Kavala, Dikili, and Istanbul, the second travels to the Holy Land, with stops at Kusadasi, Rhodes, Limassol, and Port Said in Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, and Israel. Celestyal Journey joins Celestyal Olympia in the company’s fleet. The ship is part of Holland America’s S-Class and was originally named Ryndam.

The Pacific Aria was transferred to P&O Cruises Australia in 2015 following two decades of service. In 2020, the vessel was sold to Seajets, which remained in Greece until being resold in February to Celestyal. In addition to eight restaurants, the ship’s recent refit introduced several new features. Besides the eight bars and lounges, the Celestyal Journey offers two lido decks, two decks of theater, a casino, a tennis court, a video arcade, and a shopping area.

There are also saunas, a thermal suite, massage rooms, and a relaxation room in the full spa and wellness center.