Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for all guests, offering essential connectivity for browsing the web, sending emails, and using select messaging apps. For those requiring more bandwidth, simple upgrade options are available.
Tips
All crew gratuities are included in your fare, ensuring a hassle-free experience without additional tipping requirements.
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Port Fees & Taxes
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Drinks
Unlimited filter coffee, tea, water, and juice stations are available during main restaurant opening times. Additionally, unlimited soft drinks are provided in all main restaurants with meals. For alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks, guests can utilise the CelestyalPay digital wallet, which allows for preloading funds to be used onboard, offering flexibility and control over spending.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Excursions
If you would like to do any excursions/tours while docked these will be an additional charge. Excursions/tours can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package. Alternatively these can be bought while on the ship but may be more expensive than pre-booking.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
Ship Facilities
Celestyal Journey - By Celestyal Cruises
Family friendlyGood for couplesInformal
Year: 1993
·
Refurbished: 2023
·
12 Decks
·
Max capacity: 1,260 people
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Celestyal Journey
4.4
Based on 20 reviews
Cabin
5
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
5
Activities
3
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
I came aboard Celestyal Journey with no prior experience of the cruise line and no particular expectations beyond curiosity. As a solo traveller who values good food, a cool and quiet cabin, and a certain level of traditional service, this felt like a useful experiment. Overall, I’ve found the experience to be a mixed but generally positive one — with some clear strengths, a few frustrations, and a sense that this is a cruise line that knows what it is, even if it won’t suit everyone.
The Ship & Cabin
The ship itself is comfortable rather than showy. Cabins are well laid out, well maintained, and — crucially for me — reliably cool. Air conditioning has been excellent, and the ability to retreat into a genuinely cold, quiet cabin has been one of the highlights. Housekeeping has been consistently cheerful, efficient, and unobtrusive, which matters a great deal when travelling solo. The stewards are clearly well trained and take pride in their work.
Public spaces are generally pleasant, though some areas can feel crowded at peak times, particularly around the pool and bars. There is, however, always somewhere quieter to retreat if you are willing to explore a little.
Food & Dining
Food has been one of the stronger aspects of the cruise, though not without quirks. The main dining room offers formal service in the traditional sense — attentive waiters, table service, and a calm atmosphere — which I appreciated. Menus are broadly Mediterranean in influence, with a noticeable emphasis on fish. Although I love fish, it gets a little too much when two thirds of the main choices have fins. I often found myself carefully navigating the options, though there were usually workable alternatives.
When the menu hit the mark, it did so very well: soups, roasts, and desserts were often excellent. Portion sizes were sensible, presentation was thoughtful, and service in the dining room was generally polished. The buffet, while less exciting, was reliable and flexible, especially on port days when schedules changed. Bread, cheese, soups, and salads were consistently good — which, frankly, matters more than endless novelty.
Pricing for drinks is not cheap, but occasional promotions (not always clearly advertised) offered reasonable value. Wine by the bottle made far more sense than buying by the glass.
Service & Atmosphere
Service across the ship has been friendly, sometimes warmly so. Crew members are generally approachable and keen to help, though there are moments when communication falters — particularly in bars, where language barriers and staffing pressures occasionally led to confusion. One notable bar incident highlighted how quickly small problems can escalate when staff are unsupported, though credit where it’s due: issues were ultimately resolved in the guests’ favour.
The atmosphere on board is lively, international, and more family-oriented than some cruise lines. There is a strong presence of multigenerational groups, and the ship caters well to them. As a solo traveller, I appreciated the effort made to connect solo guests without forcing interaction — though at times the enthusiasm of staff to “help” could feel a little persistent.
Entertainment & Programming
Evening entertainment appears diverse and very popular, judging by attendance and audience reaction, though I did not attend the theatre shows myself. Descriptions ranged from themed productions to tribute-style performances, and they clearly drew a crowd most nights.
My own experience of entertainment was primarily in the cafés and bars, where the quality was consistently high. In particular, the duo Havana Ritmo in the Blue Bar were excellent — lively, skilled, and well suited to the space, playing Latin-style music (salsa-inspired, I think) that created atmosphere without overwhelming conversation. These smaller venues felt like the ship’s real social heart.
Daily programming can feel repetitive, especially for guests staying aboard while others embark or disembark at intermediate ports. That said, if you enjoy choosing your own pace and are happy to retreat with a book, this is easily managed.
Ports & Excursions
The itinerary itself is interesting, but excursions tend toward the generic: 4x4 desert tours, short cultural stops, and tightly timed museum visits. For travellers new to the region, these will be appealing. For those who have visited before or prefer deeper exploration, independent time on board may be more rewarding. Celestyal does not push excursions aggressively, which I appreciated.
Solo Travel Verdict
As a solo traveller, I felt safe, comfortable, and generally well looked after. While the ship is not designed specifically for solo cruising, it is accommodating enough if you are independent and content in your own company. There is space for solitude as well as opportunities for sociability — though you may need to assert your preferences gently but firmly.
Overall Impression
Celestyal Journey is a cruise line that prioritises warmth, informality, and a strong Mediterranean identity. It excels in creating a friendly, communal atmosphere and offers solid food, comfortable cabins, and hardworking staff. It is less strong on polish, consistency in bar service, and excursion variety.
Would I sail with Celestyal again?
Yes — particularly for itineraries that suit my interests, and with the understanding that this is a cruise best enjoyed at one’s own pace, with realistic expectations.
user
10+ cruises
30 Dec 2025
Food was excellent , drinks are expensive the new celestyal pay makes drinks more than a drinks package would be plus 20 percent service charge on every drink after
you paid gratuities is expensive . The excursion were cancelled with no notice and the shore exception desk knew nothing about each port we went to , staff and entertainment team were excellent nothing was to much trouble
couple
10+ cruises
22 Dec 2025
We had a lovely time on Celestyal Journey to the Greek Islands. The ship was a good size (not enormous, thankfully) and plenty of lounge space for all passengers. Excursions were well managed and timed for extra time ashore afterwards. Food was of a good standard especially in the main restaurant, but buffet was rather chaotic because of seating space. Overall it was well organised.
family
10+ cruises
18 Nov 2025
The room was extremely good, very spacious and had a bath which my wife loves.
We didn’t do any excursions as we,d been to the places several times before.
Food was very good especially the buffet in the evenings, no complaints.
Only downside for us was the lack of dancing opportunities , there was a lot of karaoke and slow music, other cruises have free style dance during the day and liver music more often in the evenings.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
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DAY 1
02 May 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 12 PM
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Kefalonia
DAY 2
03 May 2026
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 4 PM
The island of Kefalonia has flourished after falling victim to a devastating earthquake in 1953, where almost every structure was demolished. Now, Argostoli is a thriving port city with shopping, restaurants, an active harbour and warm, friendly locals. You’ll find no shortage of traditional seafood, a quaint church, and a Blue Flag-awarded sandy beach. If you’re looking for a laid-back cruise holiday with plenty of sun, Argostoli is the place for you.
Things to do in Kefalonia:
The Archaeological Museum of Kefalonia
The Archaeological Museum of Kefalonia has seen its fair share of wear and tear but remains standing even today. Packed full of historical artefacts, it's home to a rich collection of historical finds from several excavation sites around the island, dating from prehistoric to Roman periods.
Historical and Folklore Museum
Housed on the ground floor of Korgialenios Library, the History and Folklore Museum of Argostoli is dedicated to the studies of historical Kefalonia. Visitors will find artefacts such as household items, embroidery and photographs, as well as works of art.
St Spiridonas
The Church of Saint Spiridonas is dedicated to the protector of Kefalonia and is one of the most central churches in the city. Take a look inside to see the renowned golden wood temple, housed here after surviving the 1953 earthquake.
Makri Yialos Beach
Just a short distance from the centre, Makri Gialos beach is a vast sandy expanse with ample facilities to spend a whole day here. Visitors will find a bar, restaurant and the chance to try your hand at water sports to make the most of the crystal clear, clean water to swim in.
Dubrovnik - Overnight onboard
DAY 3-4
04 May 2026
Time at Port: from 12 PM to 2 AM
It’s easy to see why Dubrovnik is one of the best highlights on a Mediterranean cruise. In 1979, the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautifully preserved ancient architecture that you’ll love to spend hours exploring. Fans of the hit series Game of Thrones will particularly love to recreate their favourite scenes filmed here, while history and art enthusiasts will adore the fortresses and museums.
Things to do in Dubrovnik - Overnight onboard:
Bellevue Beach
This small and intimate beach provides a quiet getaway from the crowds. Relax in the sun watching the locals play water polo, before taking a dip in the crystal clear waters and exploring the nearby cliffs and caves.
Sunj Beach
If you are looking for something relaxing but also to spend some time exploring, head along the sandy beaches and rocky paths where you’ll find Sunj beach. Here the waters range from beautiful crystal blue to alluring green where you can swim and relax under the sun with a wide range of bars to pick from.
Lokrum Island
A short ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town, Lokrum Island is a fantastic place for a day trip. With a beautiful botanical garden planted in the 19th century, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery and spots for swimming in the sea, you’ll love exploring this tiny island.
Lovrijenac Fortress
At 37 meters above the sea, Fortress Lovrijenac offers impressive views across the landscape. Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, the fortress played an important role in protecting the Old City, which visitors will learn about as they explore the grounds.
Muralles de Dubrovnik
Covering 1,940 metres with 6 fortresses, the Walls of Dubrovnik are a must visit for Game of Thrones fans and lovers of architecture. Visitors can join walking tours of the walls which take approximately two hours and offer unrivalled views over the city from the forts.
St John Fortress
One of the most important forts in the Walls of Dubrovnik, it now houses the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, containing artefacts, paintings and documents telling the history of city. The aquarium, meanwhile, is where you’ll find marine life that thrives in the waters off Croatia.
Kotor
DAY 4
05 May 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Nestled among the mountains, Kotor provides the setting for a picturesque cruise holiday. A walk around Old Town Budva will take you past timeless architecture, while San Giovanni Castle has the best photo opportunities. Kotor is not just for relaxing and scenic strolls though, with Aquapark Budva providing a fun-filled day for all the family. Don’t forget to stop by the many charming eateries in between for an authentic taste of Kotor cuisine too.
Things to do in Kotor:
Jaz Beach
If you are looking for a secluded beach tucked away in serenity by beautiful rock coves, head to Jaz Beach where you’ll be able to sunbathe and relax.
St Tryphon’s Cathedral
After being restored numerous times following earthquakes, St Tryphon’s Cathedral continues to represent the expertise of Roman architecture. With many stunning artefacts and decorations, this cathedral is well worth exploring.
Lovćen National Park
A short drive from Kotor, Lovćen National Park is home to imposing mountains including the spectacular Mount Lovćen standing 1,749 metres high. With no shortage of outdoor adventures to discover, visitors will love quad biking and zip lining in particular.
Old Town
With countless boutiques, authentic eateries, and bars as well as a quaint museum teeming with ancient artefacts, Old Town Budva is a delightful place to explore. Enjoy dessert from a charming bakery, admire the view from the citadel and bask in the peace and quiet.
San Giovanni Castle
After climbing 1,350 stairs to a height of 1,200 metres you’ll find this impressive fortress built between the 9th and 19th centuries. With Byzantine and Venetian roots, this structure is beautifully preserved and teeming with fascinating history to discover.
Aquapark Buvda
Nestled in lush surroundings with views over the town nearby, Aquapark Budva is perfect for spending a hot afternoon cooling off. The park features multiple pools and waterslides to suit a range of ages, as well as a restaurant, bars, shops and lockers.
Bari
DAY 5
06 May 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Found on the southeast edge of Italy, Bari has long been a large and bustling port town which boasts some fascinating history. There are plenty of religious buildings to see which house the relics of various saints – including those of St Nicholas (Santa Claus), and Saint Columba of Ireland. It’s also worth exploring the Old Town and Piazza Mercantile, to get a flavour of traditional Bari life complete with fresh Italian cooking, children playing football, and of course plenty of wine. In the piazza is also the ‘colonna infame’, which dates back to the first century AD. It’s here where criminals were held in years gone by to be ridiculed and punished.
Things to do in Bari:
St. Nichola's Basilica
Dating back to the 12th century, Basilica di San Nicola, was originally built to house the remains and relics of St Nicholas (popularly known as Santa Claus), which were stolen around that time from Myra in Turkey. The arrival of the important relics is re-enacted every year in May, when locals arrive to the port by boat with an icon-style painting of the saint. This basilica is an important pilgrimage among Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christians.
Bari Cathedral
Although less famous, many say that Bari Cathedral is actually a more important building than Basilica di San Nicola in Bari. It was built in the 12th-13th centuries, on the site of another cathedral that was destroyed by King William I of Sicily in the mid-12th century. It is dedicated to San Sabino, whose relics were brought to the area in the 9th century and are now stored in the cathedral. Some relics of Saint Columba of Ireland are also kept here.
Castello Svevo
It’s believed that the original castle structure was built around 1130-1135, by the Norman King Roger II of Sicily, only to be destroyed by William I of Sicily in 1156. Then King Frederick II of Sicily rebuilt it in the 13th century. Today visitors can explore some of the castle, where art exhibitions and events are often held. There is also a permanent collection of plaster cast replicas of 11th to 17th century artefacts.
Bari Old Town
Known locally as Bari Vecchia, the old part of the city is full of quaint streets and charming architecture. It provides the quintessential Italian atmosphere of narrow roads, children playing football, laundry hanging overhead, and the smells of delicious food being prepared. The streets of Old Bari can lead you to or away from the main square (Piazza Mercantile), where attractions such as the Basilica di San Nicola are located.
Piazza Mercantile
The main square of the old town, Piazza Mercantile is a vibrant social hub of eateries and bars and has been since medieval times. In around the 14th century traders came here to sell their wares – although today’s marketplace is not located here – and it quickly became the place to eat, drink, and be merry. There is some important architecture surrounding the square too, such as the 13th Colonna Infame, and the 16th century Palazzo del Sedile (old town hall and clock tower).
Column of Justice
Otherwise known as the Colonna Infame – or infamous column – this menacing lion statue and column are situated in one corner of Piazza Mercantile. The lion wears an inscribed collar reading ‘Custos Iusticiae’ – or ‘Keeper of Justice’, and represents law and order, and protection of the city. The lion dates back to around the first century AD, but the column was not installed until the 16th century. It is believed that debtors and other small-time criminals were once tied to the column to be publicly shamed and ridiculed.
Corfu
DAY 6
07 May 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
One of Greece’s most verdant islands and perfect for a family holiday with charming architecture, an impressive fort and a 16th century church, Agios Spyridhon. Mount Pantokrantor rears up in the north of the island and all around the edges are sandy beaches and small villages. Whether you’re here to top up a tan on the stunning Loggas Beach or eager to discover the gorgeous monuments, Corfu has something for everyone.
Things to do in Corfu:
Agni Bay
This hidden gem will provide the perfect getaway from bustling crowds. If you’re looking to relax in a quaint fishing village, enjoy traditional Corfiot cuisine on the waterfront and take a dip in the vibrant waters, Agni Bay is the place for you.
Loggas Beach
Surrounded by imposing cliffs, Loggas Beach – otherwise known as Sunset Beach – is one of the most beautiful spots in Corfu. You won’t find wild water sports here, instead you’ll witness breath-taking sunsets and take a dip in the warm, gentle water.
Saint George Church
Built in 1840 for British troops serving in Corfu, the Church of St George now hosts only two services each year, as well as occasional exhibitions. With views out over Garitsa Bay, this church resembles an ancient Greek temple and provides great photo opportunities.
Vlacherna Monastery
Found on a tiny islet close by to the airport of Corfu, Vlacherna Monastery dates back to around the 17th and 18th centuries. The beautifully preserved building is a great photo opportunity particularly at sunset, and the perfect place to take a romantic stroll.
Katakolon
DAY 7
08 May 2026
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 2 PM
The sleepy seaside village of Katakolon is perhaps one of the biggest tourist highlights of Greece, thanks to its close proximity to Ancient Olympia. With sparkling turquoise waters, numerous traditional tavernas and the warmth of a friendly, local community, Katakolon is the perfect place to explore on foot in the sunshine, where you’ll find museums, bars, restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as horse-drawn carriage rides and even a Beer Bike!
Things to do in Katakolon:
Olympia Museum
Home to over 463 ancient works, this museum is rich with fascinating history and culture of Ancient Greece. Featuring exhibits covering the second millennium BC until the 5th century AD, you’ll find pieces that were used throughout the ancient Olympic Games.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
Featuring excavations from the Bronze age to the Byzantine era, this huge site provides an impressive insight into the history of Ancient Greece. You'll find sites such as the Ancient Stadium where the Olympic Games were held, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus.
The Temple of Zeus
The beautiful ruins of The Temple of Zeus is a major historical site. Despite it being destroyed it still is a fantastic portal to the past giving you a major insight into the gods of old.
Archimedes’ Museum
This fantastic free museum is dedicated to the physicist, engineer, inventor and astronomer, Archimedes of Syracuse. Home to just some of his inventions and reconstructions, it’s well worth a visit, especially for those curious about his expert creations.
Archaeological Museum
Just a short walk from the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum hosts artefacts that were discovered in Olympia. With over 3,500 years of history to discover, this small but fascinating museum will take you back in time to Ancient Greece.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 8
09 May 2026
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.