Cruise & Cruise Line

Celestyal Cruises Acquires New Ship

Image: A rendering of the upcoming Celestyal Journey. (photo via Celestyal Cruises) ((photo via Celestyal Cruises))
Image: A rendering of the upcoming Celestyal Journey. (photo via Celestyal Cruises) ((photo via Celestyal Cruises))
Lacey Pfalz
by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:00 AM ET, Fri February 24, 2023

Celestyal Cruises, the cruise line specializing in itineraries to the Greek Islands and the Eastern Mediterranean, acquired a new vessel as part of its fleet renewal program, to undergo a $21-million refurbishment before entering service.

The new ship, called Celestyal Journey, will offer space for 1,260 guests and was originally built for Holland America Line. During its service with the line, the ship was called the Ryndam, but was then sold to P&O Australia.

The Celestyal Journey is undergoing its renovation and updates to its onboard technology at the ship repair area of the port at Piraeus, Greece. The cruise line currently has two other ships, the Celestyal Olympia and the Celestyal Crystal.

"While the global events of the past few years have placed our growth plans on pause, the positive industry outlook along with strong bookings for the coming season, provides Celestyal with the opportunity to recommence the process of renewing our fleet with new vessels," said Chris Theophilides, CEO. "In addition to her expansive open decks, numerous bar and dining options as well as spacious public areas and staterooms, the Celestyal Journey provides our guests with a significant increase in premium and balcony staterooms, which continue to be in high demand on all of our voyages. We look forward to welcoming her to the Celestyal fleet!''
The ship's itineraries and other details will be announced at a later date.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Lacey Pfalz

Lacey Pfalz

Senior Editor, News & Features

Lacey Pfalz is Associate Editor at TravelPulse. She's a passionate advocate of responsible travel and believes the best travel experiences happen outside of a planned itinerary. Lacey currently lives in rural Wisconsin. She can be reached at [email protected].

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Webinar
Your New Era with TrafalgarThursday, September 17, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Trafalgar’s new era is taking shape. Join us on September 17 to learn about "Your New Era" with...
Upcoming Webinar
I Am Israel: Rediscovering the World's Most Timeless DestinationFriday, September 18, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
From new sites in the Old City of Jerusalem to culinary experiences to spiritual connections, join us...
Upcoming Webinar
MSC Cruises: A Year in Motion — Learn More, $ell MoreMonday, September 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
MSC Cruises just wrapped its first-ever Alaska season, and it's only the beginning. Join Erin Douglas...
Upcoming Webinar
Your New Era with TrafalgarThursday, September 17, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Trafalgar’s new era is taking shape. Join us on September 17 to learn about "Your New Era" with...
Upcoming Webinar
I Am Israel: Rediscovering the World's Most Timeless DestinationFriday, September 18, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
From new sites in the Old City of Jerusalem to culinary experiences to spiritual connections, join us...
Upcoming Webinar
MSC Cruises: A Year in Motion — Learn More, $ell MoreMonday, September 21, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
MSC Cruises just wrapped its first-ever Alaska season, and it's only the beginning. Join Erin Douglas...