Celestyal Launches F1-Themed Arabian Gulf Voyage With David Coulthard

Celestyal Cruises is steering into exciting territory with a brand-new Formula 1-inspired voyage that blends motorsport thrills with Arabian Gulf exploration. This exclusive “Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix” itinerary will be a one-off sailing in December 2025 aboard the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey, featuring former British F1 driver David Coulthard and renowned sports presenter Laura Winter.

For travellers who love both luxury cruising and the roar of high-performance engines, this is a rare opportunity to combine bucket-list travel with one of the world’s most glamorous sporting events — the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

A Star-Studded Guest Line-Up

The highlight of this special Celestyal voyage is the onboard presence of David Coulthard, a celebrated name in the Formula 1 paddock. With 13 Grand Prix wins and a career spanning over 15 years, Coulthard brings unmatched insights into the high-speed world of motorsport.

David Coulthard’s Perspective at Sea

Guests will have the chance to hear directly from Coulthard in exclusive sessions, where he will share stories from his racing days, offer behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the F1 circuit, and discuss how the sport has evolved over the decades. His approachable style and passion for the sport make these conversations just as engaging for newcomers to F1 as for long-time fans.

Laura Winter’s Expert Commentary

Joining Coulthard is Laura Winter, a respected sports presenter and Formula 1 expert known for her dynamic coverage of the sport. Her in-depth knowledge will complement Coulthard’s personal experiences, offering guests a complete picture of what makes F1 such a captivating global phenomenon.

Exclusive Onboard Events

The pair will host a range of activities during the cruise, including Q&A panels, photo sessions, and informal meet-and-greet moments. These experiences will be limited to guests on this itinerary, making them an unforgettable addition to the voyage.

Two Itinerary Options for Every Traveller

Celestyal’s Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix sailing offers two distinct ways to enjoy the experience, catering to different travel styles and timeframes.

Seven-Night Sail and Stay

Departing on 04 December 2025, the seven-night package includes two nights in an Abu Dhabi hotel, giving guests more time to soak up the city’s luxury, culture, and entertainment before or after the cruise. This option is perfect for those who want to balance their race day excitement with in-depth exploration of the UAE capital.

Five-Night Cruise-Only

For travellers with limited time, the five-night itinerary offers the same high-energy Formula 1 experience and Arabian Gulf cruising, but without the hotel stay. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the event while keeping their trip concise.

A Perfect Launch for the Arabian Gulf Season

This special voyage marks the start of Celestyal Journey’s second season in the Arabian Gulf, reinforcing Celestyal Cruises’ commitment to bringing unique, culturally rich, and event-focused itineraries to the region.

Why This Voyage Stands Out

Attending the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is already a bucket-list dream for many motorsport fans. Experiencing it as part of a luxury cruise adds another layer of exclusivity, with the convenience of pre-arranged tickets, curated shore excursions, and special events on board.

Blending Sport and Destination

The Arabian Gulf offers an incredible backdrop for this sailing, with ports that blend ultra-modern cityscapes with ancient traditions. The mix of high-octane race day excitement and serene cruising makes for a well-rounded holiday.

Intimate Ship Size

With a capacity of just 1,260 guests, Celestyal Journey offers a more intimate cruising atmosphere than many larger vessels. This means more opportunities for personal interaction with the guest speakers and a greater sense of connection among fellow travellers.

Life Onboard Celestyal Journey

Guests can choose from a range of staterooms and suites, each designed to provide comfort and style during the voyage. Many offer ocean views, and higher-category suites include private balconies perfect for unwinding after an action-packed day.

Dining Options Inspired by Global Flavours

Dining aboard Celestyal Journey reflects both the destinations visited and Celestyal’s Greek heritage. Expect freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes alongside international favourites, with speciality venues for those looking to indulge in gourmet creations.

Enriching Entertainment and Activities

Outside of the F1-themed events, the ship offers an array of entertainment options, from live music and theatre performances to enrichment lectures and wellness activities. The blend of daytime relaxation and evening excitement ensures there’s always something to enjoy.

Making the Most of the Arabian Gulf

Beyond the race itself, this itinerary offers the chance to discover the Arabian Gulf’s most captivating ports.

Abu Dhabi

Home to the Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi is a city of contrasts, where cutting-edge architecture meets traditional souks. Guests staying for two nights will have more time to explore landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Regional Gems

Depending on the final port schedule, guests may visit other Gulf destinations such as Dubai with its iconic skyline, Doha with its cultural treasures, and Muscat with its blend of coastal beauty and Omani tradition. Each stop offers a unique window into the region’s heritage and modern flair.

If the idea of combining the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with a luxury voyage through the Arabian Gulf excites you, this is your moment to book. The exclusivity of the event, the intimate scale of the ship, and the chance to meet F1 legends make it an unparalleled experience.

Discover how this itinerary compares to other unique voyages by using our Cruise Finder. You can search by departure date, destination, and onboard features to match your dream holiday with the perfect sailing. If you’re still exploring your options, take a moment to browse for other culturally rich and event-based itineraries that suit your travel style.

Secure Your Place on This Exclusive Sailing

Celestyal Cruises’ Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix voyage offers a rare fusion of sport, luxury, and destination immersion. Whether you’re an avid Formula 1 fan or simply seeking a distinctive travel experience, this sailing delivers excitement both on shore and at sea.

To make this unforgettable journey yours, get in touch with our team today and let us help you reserve your spot before it sells out.