Celestyal marks F1 weekend in Abu Dhabi with David Coulthard guest speaker event

Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025 0

Celestyal has celebrated the start of its second Arabian Gulf season by welcoming back Formula 1 driver, entrepreneur, author and broadcaster David Coulthard.

The event, held on December 7, formed part of Celestyal’s special ‘Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’ itinerary. Returning to the brand after boarding Celestyal Journey for a themed Qatar Grand Prix sailing in November 2024, Coulthard was joined by sports broadcaster and commentator Laura Winter. Together, they hosted a fireside chat covering his racing career, insights into the current F1 season and commentary on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix before answering guests’ questions and posing for photographs.

The sailing also featured premium Grand Prix access, scheduled track transfers and a private beachside party at Sir Bani Yas Island.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix voyage launched the ship’s winter deployment. Celestyal Journey will continue to operate the seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itinerary for the rest of the season, sailing roundtrip from Doha and calling at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, as well as two full days and an overnight stay in Dubai. Price start from £569 per person.

Celestyal Discovery will join Celestyal Journey on December 12, 2025, launching the line’s new three-, four- and seven-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from her winter homeport in Abu Dhabi and calling at Doha, Qatar; Khasab, Oman; Dubai, UAE; Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE; with maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Prices start from £279 per person for a three-night sailing.

Fares are inclusive of all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities. The offers are available to book from December 10, 2025, through to February 5, 2026, inclusive, while availability lasts. The current promotion also sees select sailings with additional bonuses of up to €500 CelestyalPay credit*, which can be used onboard for speciality restaurant dining and bar beverages and cocktails, as well as shore excursion credits of up to €200.**

Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of the most electrifying sporting weekends in the world, and welcoming David Coulthard and Laura Winter back onboard added something truly special for our guests. Their perspective, humour and passion for the sport created an unmissable experience and a real backstage pass to Formula 1 for our guests.

“This sailing marks a fantastic start to our Arabian Gulf season. With Celestyal Journey now sailing ‘Desert Days’ and Celestyal Discovery joining the region for her inaugural ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, we’re delivering even more ways for travellers to explore this remarkable part of the world – all with the warm hospitality and out-of-this-world value Celestyal is known for.”

David Coulthard competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2008, winning 13 Grand Prix across 15 seasons, racing for Williams, McLaren and Red Bull. His subsequent TV commentating career has seen him work for the BBC and Channel 4.