Celestyal launches Abu Dhabi F1 itinerary with David Coulthard

Celestyal has unveiled a new one-off itinerary that features the opportunity to attend the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December.

In addition to tickets to watch the action, Formula 1 driver, entrepreneur, author and broadcaster David Coulthard will be onboard as a guest speaker to discuss the race weekend. He will be joined by sports broadcaster and commentator, Laura Winter.

Sailing on the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey, the “Desert Days & Abu Dhabi Grand Prix” itinerary – which signals the launch of the ship’s second season in the Arabian Gulf – offers two departure options:

• Seven-night “Sail & Stay”, departing December 4, 2025. Includes two nights in a four-star hotel in Abu Dhabi and tickets to the first and second practice sessions, qualifying and race day, followed by a five-night cruise. Sailing from Abu Dhabi and calling at Dubai (overnight) and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices start from €1,838.

• Five-night sail option, departing December 6, 2025. Includes tickets to the third practice session, qualifying and race day. Sailing from Abu Dhabi and calling at Dubai (overnight) and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices start from €1,251.

All fares include scheduled track transfers, a cocktail reception on embarkation day, a private beachside party at Sir Bani Yas Island, all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities.

“We’re thrilled to have David and Laura returning to Celestyal to help us deliver another unmissable experience in the Arabian Gulf,” said Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal.

“This new itinerary is a once-in-a-lifetime voyage, combining the high-octane thrills and prestige of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with an immersive cruise experience. It’s the ideal curtain raiser to our Arabian Gulf season, and perfect for guests who crave adventure and cultural immersion – all provided at out-of-this-world value.”

David Coulthard competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2008, winning 13 Grands 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.