Nestled along the Arabian Gulf, Doha is a city where modern luxury intertwines with deep cultural roots.
Hosted by Celestyal, Qatar Airways, Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar, my recent visit showcased the city’s immense potential as a cruise destination as well as the ultimate Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) hub.
From my luxury stays at The Ned Doha and the Rixos Gulf Hotel to two unforgettable nights aboard Celestyal Journey, the experience was a perfect blend of adventure, indulgence and hospitality.
Arriving at The Ned Doha, I was struck by its art deco elegance set within a restored 1970s government building. The hotel’s event space, The Corniche Hall, is a marvel, accommodating up to 600 guests for receptions.
Bathed in natural light and adorned with chandeliers, it also features an outdoor balcony ideal for private gatherings.
My first morning began with a visit to the National Museum of Qatar, designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Inspired by the desert rose, the museum’s striking architecture and immersive exhibits brought Qatar’s history to life, from Bedouin traditions to the oil boom.
Cultural Gems And World-Class Sports
Doha’s cultural treasures are endless. A visit to Souq Waqif revealed a labyrinth of alleys brimming with life, offering everything from fragrant spices and handwoven textiles to intricate jewellery and falcons.
During a stroll through the spice market, the air was filled with the aromas of cardamom, saffron and rosewater. Lunch at Parisa, a Persian restaurant within the souq, was a feast for the senses with glittering mosaic walls and saffron-infused dishes.
Later, we experienced the energy of an El Clásico football match at Lusail Stadium, a FIFA World Cup 2022 venue. The atmosphere was electric, showcasing Qatar’s growing passion for football.
Embarking On Celestyal Journey
We arrived at the Doha Cruise Terminal after a drive along the 3.2-kilometre parkland causeway, passing families enjoying picnics.
Opened in November 2022, the terminal is an architectural marvel with 1,154 traditional Arabian arches. Welcoming those coming off the ship is a wall aquarium that leads down an escalator tunnel which creates an instant sense of calm.
Boarding Celestyal Journey during golden hour was a magical moment. The ship dazzled as the sun set behind the Mina district. Once onboard, I had a great view of the Doha skyline from my balcony.
It seems a prerequisite to have something unique about each building built in Doha, which makes the cityscape as interesting in the daytime as when it lights up at night.
Celestyal’s inaugural cruise from Doha was not just a milestone for the cruise line but also for Qatar’s maritime tourism. Celestyal Journey isn’t just the first ship to regularly visit, it will also homeport out of Doha from November to March over the next three years.
The highlight of the launch event was a plaque ceremony, an age-old maritime tradition symbolising goodwill and collaboration. Held in the ship’s theatre, the event brought together Qatari dignitaries and international guests.
Speeches emphasised Qatar’s growing prominence as a global cruise hub, followed by a fireside chat between Formula 1 identities David Coulthard and Laura Winter, setting the stage for the F1 festivities to come.
A Boutique Cruise Experience
Celestyal Journey has capacity for 1,260 guests and features eight generously sized lounges, inviting public spaces and award-winning cocktails with 13 new destination inspired cocktails on offer which the group delighted in working our way through.
My Junior Suite on Deck 9 was a large balcony cabin which had recently been refurbished, removing the tubs and replaced with a large shower by most ship standards.
The ship’s boutique size makes it an excellent choice for MICE events. With three conference rooms seating 27, 113 and 211 guests respectively, the ship is well positioned to host meetings for up to 200 participants.
Meeting planners will appreciate the all-inclusive nature of cruises, covering venue, accommodations, audiovisual equipment, meals and entertainment in a single fare.
Adventures In Qatar
Doha offers an extensive array of exhilarating activities. From dune bashing in the desert to exploring the vibrant Souq Waqif, the options for team building are unparalleled.
With top-of-the-line coaches left over from the World Cup, groups travel in absolute comfort.
One highlight of my trip was a thrilling jeep safari across the sand dunes. Our group travelled by caravan in Land Cruisers, each expert driver navigating the shifting sands with precision, delivering an adrenaline rush.
At the inland sea, we paused to admire the dramatic meeting of desert and water, with a view of Saudi Arabia across the horizon as we all tried our best to jump in sand.
Our adventure continued with a taste of Formula 1 action at the Lusail International Circuit. From pit lane walks to hospitality suites and thrilling grandstand seats, the evening was a perfect combination of luxury and excitement.
A Journey To Remember
As I boarded my flight home, I reflected on the diversity of experiences Qatar had offered. Everywhere I went in Doha I had a sense of calm and security, with the destination delivering an unexpected juxtaposition of modern luxury alongside a deep sense of tradition and culture.
Doha is not just a destination; it’s a journey of discovery that leaves you longing to return for more adventures and with Celestyal offering two ships – Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery – in the Gulf from next season, there are twice as many reasons to visit.
# Celestyal Journey will offer a Formula 1 cruise on December 6, 2025. Sailing roundtrip from Doha, the seven-night cruise includes the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as well as calls to Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island and Bahrain. Priced from $899 per person twin share for the cruise, with F1 grandstand packages starting from $1,132 for South Grandstand access. celestyal.com
