Celestyal Cruises and MSC Cruises have canceled all remaining Arabian Gulf sailings this winter amidst the Iran-U.S. war. Both lines have ships currently stalled in Dubai and Doha.
MSC is exploring flight charters for guests still aboard the MSC Euribia in Dubai that would depart from either Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Muscat, Oman. The cruise line requested priority airline departures, though the airlines are prioritizing guests by original flight date.
As warfare continues in the Middle East, governments are also working to repatriate citizens.
Celestyal said Wednesday that it would provide disembarkation plans to guests in the next 24 to 48 hours. The Celestyal Discovery is currently in port in Dubai, and the Celestyal Journey is in Doha.
"Our onboard teams will support guests with onward travel arrangements and provide assistance with transfers or accommodation where required," a Celestyal spokesperson said. "Guests have been advised to contact their airlines directly regarding flight arrangements and to register with their respective embassies for any official updates or repatriation support."
MSC had three more Gulf departures scheduled for this winter while Celestyal had four more, the last of which was scheduled for March 16 on the Celestyal Journey.
Both cruise lines are offering refunds to guests booked on the canceled sailings. Celestyal guests also have the option of a future cruise credit.
Celestyal intends to reposition the Journey and Discovery to Athens for their Mediterranean seasons, scheduled to begin later this month, "subject to operational conditions."