Celestyal has cancelled two of its Aegean cruises as its ships and some passengers remain stuck in the Arabian Gulf.

The cruise line was forced to finish its Gulf season early this month amid the Iran conflict. Two of its vessels, Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey, are still in the region and are currently unable to sail back towards the Mediterranean due to uncertainty about the safety of the Strait of Hormuz.

Guests due to sail on both the three and four-night “Iconic Aegean” itineraries, departing on the 20 and 23 March, have now had their sailings cancelled.

Celestyal said all passengers have now disembarked Celestyal Discovery in Dubai and it is working towards disembarking the final remaining guests on Celestyal Journey, currently in Doha, Qatar over the next 24 hours.

The cruise line said in a statement: “Both vessels remain fully operational and ready to sail. Their departure from the region will take place in line with guidance from the relevant authorities.

“Given the current situation, we have taken the decision to cancel the 20 March and 23 March Iconic Aegean sailings operated by Celestyal Discovery, while we finalise operational arrangements for the ship’s repositioning to the Mediterranean ahead of the summer season.”

All guests will be offered the option of a full refund or a future cruise credit.

The statement said: “Guests are kindly asked to contact their original travel provider to discuss the available options and next steps.

“We continue to follow developments closely and remain focused on resuming our planned programme as soon as possible. We sincerely thank our guests and valued partners for their patience and understanding.”

Its next sailings are due to depart from Athens in early April.

MSC Euribia also remains in the Gulf but is next due to sail around the Norwegian fjords in May.

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