The former Ryndam is being prepared to enter service with Celestyal Cruises after being acquired by the company in February.
Set to debut in September, the future Celestyal Journey is currently undergoing a complete refit at the Palumbo Shipyard in Malta.
According to Celestyal Cruises, the refurbishment represents a $20 million investment and includes a full hull treatment, in addition to safety equipment and technical overhauls.
The 1994-built ship is also receiving upgrades to its public areas and staterooms, as well as general upkeep work.
Before debuting, Celestyal Journey will also receive the company’s new livery, which includes a blue hull adorned with different colours and patterns.
Once the refit is complete, the 1,258-passenger ship will offer a total of eight new bars, including the Martini Bar, which will serve a menu of exclusive signature cocktails.
Also available is a Wine Cellar, and the Horizons Lounge and Disco – located on one of the ship’s highest decks, the space will be equipped with glass-to-ceiling windows and a large dance floor.
Celestyal Journey will also emerge with seven new restaurants and specialty dining venues, such as a self-service casual restaurant, a cooking demonstration venue and the exclusive Chef’s Table.
The 55,819gt vessel will also offer premium accommodations, the company said, with a total of 630 staterooms, 149 of which have balconies, and there will be 120 Junior Suites and 28 Grand Suites.
Celestyal Journey will embark on her first cruise on 2 September 2023. Through December, the ship will offer a series of seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean to Greece, Egypt, Israel, Cyprus and Turkey.
