Conflict cuts short Middle East seasonal cruises

Cruise passengers on Middle East itineraries have been caught up in the travel chaos caused by war in the region.

The disruption has affected cruise lines including MSC and Celestyal Cruises, cutting short their respective Middle East seasons.

Celestyal Cruises on Thursday morning cancelled its remaining four Arabian Gulf departures on Celestyal Journey due to the geopolitical situation in the region.

These were March 7 and 14 from Doha, Qatar; and March 9 and 16 from Dubai, UAE.

A spokesperson says: “This now concludes the Arabian Gulf season for both Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery.

“All guests who were due to travel on the cancelled sailings will be offered the option of a full refund or a future cruise credit.

“With the cancellation of the remaining scheduled sailings, our Arabian Gulf season will now conclude. Subject to operational conditions, Celestyal Journey and sister ship Celestyal Discovery will reposition to Athens to begin their scheduled program in the Mediterranean.

“We sincerely thank our guests and partners for their patience and understanding during this evolving situation.

“We continue to follow developments in the Middle East and remain in regular contact with the relevant authorities. Throughout this period, our focus has been and continues to be the safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew.”

Celestyal advised passengers to contact their airlines directly regarding flight arrangements and to register with their respective embassies for any official updates or repatriation support.

Last week Celestyal Journey was docked alongside in Doha and Celestyal Discovery in Dubai unable to disembark guests under instruction from local authorities.

Meanwhile, 2023-launched mega-ship MSC Euribia was held up in Dubai after its scheduled cruise from Doha on March 1 was cancelled.

“Due to the current situation in the Middle East region, for the safety and security of our guests and crew, MSC Euribia will remain in the port of Dubai,” a spokesperson said.

No other MSC Cruises ships are impacted.

The spokesperson went on to say: “MSC Euribia’s remaining three cruises scheduled for this winter season have now been cancelled and all impacted guests have been contacted and full refunds have been offered.”

MSC said on Thursday it was working with airlines to secure return flights for passengers.

“In parallel we are in constant contact with local authorities, embassies and foreign offices to also support the safe return of our guests,” the spokesperson says.

“Guests have full access to all onboard services and facilities, and we continue to provide a high standard of care, comfort and support.”

Thousands of flights were cancelled in the wake of hostilities after the US and Israel targeted Iran, which responded with strikes on neighbouring countries.

Australian Government travel warnings remain for the region.