Greece´s Celestyal Cruises, a company built on the philosophy of the Greek heritage, has acquired the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey, a ship originally built as the Ryndam for the company Holland America Line, and more recently operating for P&O Australia.
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, and more recently operating for P&O Australia. The launch date of the ship remains undisclosed.
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 €20 million refurbishment and technical maintenance overhaul before entering service.
The company has not disclosed the price of the acquisition deal, but what is clear is that it will be investing some €20 million in refurbishing and overhauling the cruise ship.
The acquisition marks a strategic move by Celestyal Cruises to position itself better and to take advantage of the renewed interest in cruising that is evident worldwide. Furthermore, the strong bookings for the coming season, gives the company the opportunity to expand its fleet portfolio with new vessels.
Celestyal´s CEO, Chris Theophilides, says: “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.”
As the top management of the company highlights “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.’’
