In a significant shift aimed at enhancing customer experience, Celestyal Cruises, a prominent Greek cruise line known for its immersive Greek itineraries, has announced a pivotal restructuring of its fare offerings. This new approach, effective from December 11, is set to redefine how guests engage with the cruise experience, especially with the introduction of the Celestyal One package that supersedes the previous Experience and Experience Plus packages.
The Celestyal One package is designed with inclusivity in mind, offering guests a more streamlined and straightforward fare structure. It encompasses essential amenities such as basic Wi-Fi, sufficient for browsing and social media interactions, along with daily beverages like filtered coffee, tea, water, and juices. Guests will also have access to unlimited soft drinks in the main restaurant, ensuring that hydration and refreshment are effortlessly catered for during the journey. Importantly, port fees, taxes, and gratuities for crew members are included in this package, thereby eliminating surprise costs for travelers upon disembarking.
In contrast to its predecessor packages, the new offering notably excludes discounted prices for excursions booked ahead of time, focusing more on providing fundamental services rather than extensive add-ons. The current Experience Plus package, for instance, not only includes alcoholic beverages with meals but also pricing incentives for pre-scheduled excursions, aspects that are notably absent in the new structure. This simplified package aims to create a more straightforward and comprehensive travel experience, especially beneficial for guests who prefer clarity in their travel expenses.
Beyond the fare restructuring, Celestyal Cruises is taking significant steps to enhance its dining offerings. A considerable number of onboard eateries are shifting to a complimentary model, allowing guests greater access to diverse culinary experiences without additional costs. Alongside the main dining room, Thalassa, and the Taverna buffet, the cruise line has introduced complimentary access to the Greek Deli and Pizza Oven during afternoon hours, broadening the range of dining experiences available to guests.
However, Celestyal is discontinuing its various beverage packages in favor of the innovative CelestyalPay digital wallet. This new system is expected to streamline how guests manage specialty dining and alcoholic beverage expenses. Travel advisors promoting this digital solution will benefit from a generous 10% commission on sales, while guests who preload their wallets will enjoy added bonus credits, incentivizing early investment in onboard spending.
Another exciting development within Celestyal Cruises is the enhancement of ship amenities. The ongoing refit of the Celestyal Discovery will result in the addition of 47 new cabins, including two Grand Horizon Suites that promise expansive balconies with breathtaking views. This addition culminates in a 7.4% increase in passenger capacity, accommodating 1,300 guests in total.
Moreover, the expansion includes the introduction of 30 Junior Dream Suites and 15 interior Cosmos Cabins, catering to a variety of guest preferences and budgets. With the refit slated for completion by April, new bookings will open on December 10, allowing potential travelers to experience these refurbished and expanded accommodations.
Celestyal is also focusing on elevating the experiences of its premium and suite guests. Changes will include exclusive amenities such as dedicated sail-away parties for those in balcony and suite accommodations, as well as daily cocktail hours—grand gestures that purport to make guests feel valued and special. Suite guests can anticipate exclusive access to the Ray’s Sundeck and Cabanas, adding an extra layer of luxury to their cruise experience.
Grand Suite guests aboard the Celestyal Journey will also gain complimentary access to the Thermal Spa Suite, which features a private hot tub, steam room, sauna, and relaxation areas, ensuring that wellness is prioritized throughout the journey. Stargazer Penthouse guests will enjoy a “bottomless” in-room minibar, adding to the allure of luxury cruising.
Celestyal Cruises is clearly making significant strides to revitalize its brand and enhance the overall guest experience. By simplifying its fare structure, improving dining accessibility, and investing in infrastructure and customer amenities, the cruise line is positioning itself as a competitive player in the market. As it moves forward, Celestyal’s commitment to providing an enriching and seamless cruising experience reinforces its unique appeal, particularly for travelers seeking authentic Greek cultural experiences.
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