Celestyal Journey This is not just a new ship in the fleet, but a symbol of "rebirth" following a major overhaul and upgrade costing over €20 million (approximately 780 million baht) in 2023. 1 This massive investment aims to transform the ship's image from a classic structure into a modern contemporary floating resort, while still maintaining the spirit of Greek hospitality. The ship's key features can be summarized as follows:

Key Highlights

• Optimal Size for Exploration: With a displacement of approximately 55,877 tons and a passenger capacity of 1,260, Celestyal Journey is classified as a “mid-sized ship,” a significant strategic advantage. This size vessel offers high maneuverability, allowing it to dock at small islands or ports with physical limitations that mega-ships cannot access. This aligns with the shipping line’s “destination-intensive” philosophy, which emphasizes maximizing passenger time on shore. 3
• Superior Space Ratio: Limiting the passenger capacity to 1,260, while allowing the ship's structural size to accommodate ample central areas, results in a spacious and less crowded feel. In particular, the numerous open decks, relative to the number of guests, create a more relaxed and private atmosphere than larger cruise ships. 1
• Accommodation Upgrade: This ship was designed to address the previous weaknesses of the Celestyal fleet by increasing the proportion of balconies and suites to approximately 28% of the total number of rooms, including the introduction of the “Stargazer Penthouse Suite” for the first time, in response to the growing demand for luxury travelers. 2
• Innovative Facilities: A standout feature is the retractable Magrodome roof above the midship's swimming pool, allowing the pool area to be accessible in all weather conditions, from sunny summers to windy Aegean winters. Additionally, The Sozo Experience, occupying almost the entire deck, reflects the growing trend of wellness tourism.

Ship specifications

• Former Ship Names: MS Ryndam, Pacific Aria, Aegean Goddess
• Year Built: 1994 (Major Renovation 2023)
• Builder: Fincantieri (Monfalcone, Italy)
• Gross tonnage: 55,877 GT
• Length: 219.4 meters (719 feet 10 inches)
• Width (Beam): 30.8 meters (101 feet 1 inch)
• Draught: 7.71 meters
• Speed: Average 20 knots (maximum 22 knots)
• Number of decks: 13 floors (9 passenger decks)
• Passenger capacity: 1,260 people (Double Occupancy)
• Crew ratio: Approximately 500-600 people.

Standard amenities in all rooms.

For the comfort of passengers, all cabins on the ship, regardless of type, will be equipped with the following basic amenities:

• Adjustable air-conditioning system
• Private bathroom with shower
• Flat-screen TV with satellite channels
• Internal telephone (Telephone)
• Hair dryer
• Electronic safe deposit box (Safety Deposit Box)
• European standard 220V power plug and USB Type A port for charging devices.

• Category Code: IA (Deck 4), IB (Deck 5, 9), IC (Deck 5, 6, 9, 10) 11
• Average size: about 17 square meters (sqm) 15 This is considered more spacious than the standard size for cruise ships, which usually starts at 13-14 square meters.
• Capacity: Accommodates a maximum of 2-4 people.
• Bed arrangement:
  • Two lower beds (can be pushed together to create a queen-size bed)
  • For 3-4 guests: An upper bed (pullman) and sofa bed or bunk beds will be used, depending on the room code. 11

• bathroom: Comes with a shower.

• Category Code:
  • XA (Deck 4, 5): Exterior Cosmos Cabin – The starting cabin, usually located on the ground floor. Some windows may be round (porthole) in certain positions.
  • XB (Deck 4, 6) & XC (Deck 4, 5): Exterior Cosmos Cabin – Standard room with windows.
  • XBO (Deck 6): Obstructed View – A room with a window, but the view may be partially or completely obstructed by lifeboats. These rooms are generally more affordable than rooms with a regular view.
  • XD (Deck 5, 9): Exterior Cosmos Cabin – A higher-grade room in the Oceanview group with a better location.

• Average size: about 19 square meters (sqm) 
• Capacity: Accommodates a maximum of 2-4 people.
• Special amenities: It's worth noting that some Oceanview rooms in this category... XC and XD It may come with... bathtub Instead of just a shower, which is a luxury inherited from the original Holland America Line structure and rarely found on modern ships. 11

• Category Code: SJA (Deck 9), SJB (Deck 9), SJC (Deck 10) 11
• size: Interior area approximately 21 square meters + Private balcony 6 square meters (Total usable area 27 sq m.) 12
• Capacity: Maximum 3 guests (2 lower beds + 1 single sofa bed)
• facilities:
  • A compact living area.
  • Sliding glass doors lead to a private balcony with chairs.
  • Bathroom: Most come with... Jacuzzi (Jet Tub) Or a bathtub, which is a key selling point that sets it apart from competitors' regular balcony rooms (some rooms with code SJA may have a shower; please check each room individually).
  • Mini bar refrigerator

Grand Dream Suite (SG)

A full suite offering spacious living areas and clear separation of spaces.

• Category Code: SG (Deck 10) 16
• size: Interior space 35 square meters + Large balcony 18 square meters (Total 53 sq.m.) 3
• Capacity: Maximum 4 people
• facilities:
  • The living room area is separated into distinct sections.
  • Luxurious bathroom with bathtub/shower.
  • A large, long balcony runs the entire length of the room, complete with private sun loungers.
  • Large bed and double sofa bed. 3

Stargazer Penthouse Suite (SP)

The highest and most luxurious cabin on the ship, of which there is only one, is located in the best location (Forward-Starboard Deck 10), like a private paradise at sea.

• Category Code: SP (Deck 10) 3
• size: Interior space 88 square meters + Giant balcony 18 square meters (Total 106 sq.m.) 3
• Capacity: Maximum 4 people
• Ultra-luxury amenities:
  • Private Dining Area
  • Food preparation area (Catering/Pantry Area) For private catering within the room.
  • Master bathroom included. Jacuzzi Bathtub And a separate shower head.
  • A spacious balcony perfect for private parties. 3

Exclusive privileges for guests staying in Suites (Suite Privileges)

Guests at this level Grand Dream Suite (SG) and Stargazer Penthouse Suite (SP) You will receive exclusive privileges curated for maximum comfort:

1. Concierge Service: Personal assistant service is provided, along with a separate VIP check-in counter for faster boarding and disembarking, and an unpacking service is available. 20
2. Exclusive Lounge Access: Access rights Poseidon Lounge and The Compass Lounge On the 10th floor, a private and tranquil area with beverage service. 10
3. Private Sundeck “Rays”: Access to the exclusive private sunbathing area "Rays" on the 14th floor, secluded from the hustle and bustle. 10
4. Priority Services: The right to reserve specialty dining restaurants and priority embarkation/disembarkation on the ship. 20
5. In-Room Amenities: Daily champagne and fresh fruit welcome, afternoon canapés, bedtime chocolates, in-room espresso machine, high-quality bathrobes and slippers. (21)
6. (Note: The Junior Dream Suite includes some of the same benefits as the larger suite, but excludes full access to Rays Sundeck and Concierge services.)

4.1 Complimentary Dining (included in the ticket price)

• Thalassa Restaurant (Deck 7): The Main Dining Room, named after the goddess of the sea, offers à la carte service in a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu focusing on authentic Greek cuisine and international dishes. Guests can enjoy a sit-down dinner at any time without additional charge. 24
• The Taverna (Deck 11): This buffet restaurant reflects a casual dining culture and features a variety of food zones, including a "Pizza Oven" that bakes fresh pizzas all day long, perfect for a quick meal or for those dressed casually. 26
• Greek Deli (Deck 11): A snack corner serving Greek-style snacks such as yogurt parfaits or sandwiches at various times to tide you over during the day. 26

4.2 Specialty Dining (Additional charges apply)

To enhance the experience, Celestyal offers exclusive restaurants that require reservations, each with its own unique theme and character:

CelestyalPay system and beverages:

The cruise ticket price includes basic beverages (water, coffee, tea, juice from the vending machine) and wine/beer/soft drinks during meals only. For ordering drinks outside of meals or premium drinks, passengers can use the CelestyalPay (Virtual Wallet) system, which can be pre-loaded and provides bonus credits, making it easy and convenient to control expenses.

5.1 Swimming pools and outdoor decks

• Halara Cove (Deck 11): The midship's swimming pool, the heart of the deck activities, is a key engineering highlight. Magrodome (sliding canopy) This feature, inherited from the Holland America Line, allows the space to be used in all weather conditions. Whether it's windy or rainy, the roof will close to create a warm greenhouse atmosphere. 8
• Galazio Pool & Terrace (Deck 10): The aft pool offers panoramic ocean views and a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere than the main pool, perfect for reading a book or enjoying a drink while watching the sunset. 6

5.2 Health and Beauty: The Sozo Experience (Wellness)

Area above Deck 11 Almost all of them are dedicated to health under the name. Sozo Health Spa It was inspired by the ancient Greek tradition of balance between body and mind. 10:

• Gym: A large fitness center with complete cardio and weight training equipment, offering ocean views while you work out.
• Thermal Suites: The heat and cold therapy zone includes a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi.
• Relaxation Room: Post-spa relaxation room with heated stone beds.
• Beauty Center: A full range of beauty services, from hair styling and manicures to facial treatments.

5.3 Entertainment & Venues

• The Amphitheatro (Deck 8): The grand main theater, designed with two mezzanine levels, is used for spectacular evening shows, ranging from acrobatics and live music to cultural performances. 2
• Horizons Lounge & Disco (Deck 12): The Observation Lounge, located at the highest point at the front of the ship, offers 360-degree ocean views through its large glass windows. At night, it transforms into a disco for those who love to dance. 6
• Casino (Deck 8): For those who crave excitement, both slot machines and various table games are available. 11
• Sports Deck (Deck 12): The outdoor wellness area includes tennis and basketball courts, amenities rarely found on mid-sized vessels. 10
• Kids Room & Video Arcade (Deck 12): A dedicated zone for children and teenagers, providing them with private space for activities and games. 10

Symposium (Deck 7): This versatile space is ideal for seminars, meetings, or cooking demonstrations, and is perfectly suited for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events.

Celestyal Journey Successfully blending the "classic architecture of a legendary ship" with "modern comfort and design," the massive renovation not only transformed the vessel but also reinvented the Aegean and Mediterranean cruising experience. With an increased number of suites featuring balconies, a flexible pool area with a Magrodome roof system, and a diverse range of dining options, this ship is perfectly suited for the premium traveler segment. For those seeking a less crowded cruising experience while maintaining high-level service and deeply insightful itineraries, Celestyal Journey is the most impressive answer.