Cruise Saudi welcomed on Friday the Celestyal Discovery, operated by the Greek cruise line Celestyal Cruises, at Jeddah Islamic Port, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The visit marked the vessel’s inaugural trip to the Kingdom, spotlighting Saudi Arabia’s expanding footprint in Red Sea cruise tourism.
The ceremony brought together the ship’s captain, Cruise Saudi Chief Executive Officer Lars Clasen, Celestyal Cruises Chief Executive Officer Chris Theophilides, alongside officials from government entities and the maritime sector.
During the occasion, officials hold a ceremonial exchange of commemorative plaques in line with international cruise industry traditions, followed by an exclusive tour for the visiting delegation aboard the ship.
The event stands as a testament to the strong collaboration among key stakeholders to boost Saudi Arabia’s marine tourism ecosystem, while showcasing the Kingdom’s growing readiness and capacity to accommodate international cruise ships.
Interestingly, this landmark visit came hot on the heels of the Celestyal Journey’s inaugural call on November 29. The inaugural call featured two vessels carrying more than 400 tourists from Europe and the United States, signaling a living proof of the robust return of international cruise activity to the Kingdom and the rising demand for Red Sea itineraries.
By overseeing berths and terminals and facilitating ship operations, Cruise Saudi remains dedicated to elevating the Kingdom’s cruise sector.
So far, the company has welcomed over 600,000 passengers from more than 120 countries.
The consecutive visits of international cruise ships reflect growing confidence in Saudi Arabia’s cruise sector and its crucial role in realizing Saudi Vision 2030.
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