It’s not that hard to settle on a good Celestyal vacation for one simple reason: they only have two ships. Yes, in an age where a company like Royal Caribbean has almost thirty ships, Celestyal has just two - the Celestyal Discovery and the Celestyal Journey. Both are mid-sized and cozy, and at first glance, there aren’t too many obvious differences between them.
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The Celestyal Journey launched in 2023, while the Celestyal Discovery joined the fleet in 2024. The Journey is slightly larger and focuses on longer itineraries, while the Discovery offers a more intimate vibe. Other than that? Well, let’s check it out.
Celestyal Journey vs. Celestyal Discovery: Differences and Similarities
As you’re about to see, there aren’t that many major differences between the two ships. My advice? Focus on the itineraries and prices first — with a little help from Famvia, of course. Still, there are a few key differences and similarities worth knowing. Here they are:
- Celestyal Journey is slightly larger than Celestyal Discovery. It can accommodate up to 1,360 guests, while Celestyal Discovery holds around 1,260. The Journey also offers more dining options and has two swimming pools instead of one.
- Celestyal Journey specializes in longer itineraries, ranging from one to two weeks. Celestyal Discovery is geared more toward shorter 3- and 4-night cruises around the Mediterranean and the Arabian Gulf.
- Both Cruise Ships have a Kid's Club.
- The Journey includes a Kids Room and an arcade for kids to play. You don't find those on the Discovery.
- Celestyal Journey also has more suite options, and they’re generally larger than the ones found on Celestyal Discovery.
- Both ships feature a casino, spa, and fitness center.
- You won’t find a waterpark or waterslide on either of the two ships.
See? I wouldn’t say there’s one major feature that sets them apart. If you’re planning to travel with children, however, the Celestyal Journey is probably the better option, since it has a kids club for them.
Both ships, though, are really more about the destinations and a cozy, intimate atmosphere than anything else. Don’t expect wild entertainment or giant waterparks, that’s just not what Celestyal is about.
Celestyal Journey Room Options
There are five cabin types onboard Celestyal Journey:
- Interior Cosmos Cabin (Inside stateroom)
- Exterior Cosmos Cabin (Ocean View stateroom)
- Junior Dream Suite
- Grand Dream Suite
- The Stargazer Suite
As you can see, they don’t have a standard Balcony or Verandah stateroom. On this ship, the Junior Dream Suite serves as the standard balcony cabin, and it comes with a few perks we’ll look at shortly.
Interior Cosmos Cabins
These are your standard Inside staterooms. Stepping into one of these 17 m² cabins, you're in for a simple but comfy stay. All cabins include air conditioning, a shower, hairdryer, safe, and TV.
budget-conscious travelers or families, they can sleep up to four guests using bunk beds and sofa beds.
Exterior Cosmos Cabins
That’s your standard Ocean View cabin that is slightly bigger than the Interior Cosmos Cabins, measuring around 19 m². These come with a sea-view window and some include obstructed views depending on your selected location. These cabins are cozy, can accommodate families, and most have a bathtub. Ideal for those who want some natural light and don’t feel the need for a balcony.
Junior Dream Suites
- Perks: priority seating at the Smoked Olive Restaurant; priority check-in.
At 21 m² plus 6 m² balcony, these suites deliver that sweet balcony life without breaking the bank . They include two lower beds plus a sofa bed (sleeping three), a jet tub or shower, minibar, and a few perks.
Grand Dream Suites
- Perks: every perk listed in the previous tiers; concierge service to assist you with all your needs; access to a private sun deck; access to the Thermal Spa Suite; complimentary daily cocktail hour/event.
Now this could be considered the main suite onboard Celestyal Journey. Stretching to 35 m² and a massive 18 m² balcony, these suites are spacious havens equipped with whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets, and some of the best perks you can find.
The Stargazer Suite
- Perks: every perk listed in the previous tiers; bottomless mini-bar replenished daily; complimentary laundry; complimentary in-room dining.
This is Journey’s star attraction, measuring 88m²: a penthouse-style suite with a private terrace, dining area, jacuzzi, concierge, VIP lounge access, and glorious sea views. Suitable for four guests, it's Celestyal's first-ever penthouse.
Celestyal Discovery Room Options
Celestyal Discovery offers five room types. While they share some similarities with those on the Celestyal Journey, there are still a few key differences. For example, both ships have an Interior Cosmos Cabin, but the one on Discovery is slightly smaller. Here are the room categories available on board:
- Interior Cosmos Cabin (Inside stateroom)
- Exterior Cosmos Cabin (Ocean View stateroom)
- Balcony Cosmos Cabin
- Grand Dream Suites
- Grand Horizon Suite
Interior Cosmos Cabins
At just 15 m², this is the cozy end of cruising. Each cabin includes air-con, shower, TV, and bunk or double bed configurations for 2–4 guests, perfect for budget travelers who don’t mind skipping windows.
Exterior Cosmos Cabins
The Ocean View cabins onboard Celestyal Discovery. These 14–17 m² cabins come with sea-view windows (some obstructed) and sleep up to four using bunks . Cozy but bright, ideal for those who want fresh air but aren’t up for balconies.
Balcony Cosmos Cabin
- Perks: bathrobes and slippers; sailaway party with cocktail; bottled water inside your cabin each day.
The standard balcony cabin that you find on most cruise ships. At around 18 m² with 3 m² balcony space, these cabins sleep two and are ideal for anyone who wants a cozy verandah.
Grand Dream Suites
- Perks: every perk listed in the previous tiers; concierge service to assist you with all your needs; access to a private sun deck; access to the Thermal Spa Suite; complimentary daily cocktail hour/event.
These cabins are 32–35 m² with bigger balconies, luxurious whirlpool tubs, living areas, and concierge access. Sleeps up to three and come with some cool perks.
Grand Horizon Suites
- Perks: Same as the Grand Dream Suites.
This is a brand-new addition for 2025. These are two 42 m² suites perched on Deck 11 above the bridge, each with a separate living room and an expansive 16 m² bow-facing balcony. It’s all about luxury and unbeatable views, perfect for premium travelers.
