More than 150 Russian tourists have remained stranded for several days aboard a cruise ship near the Qatari port of Doha after regional hostilities disrupted travel routes across the Middle East.
The vessel, Celestyal Journey, operated by Greece-based Celestyal Cruises, departed Dubai in the United Arab Emirates on February 23 and was scheduled to return on March 2. However, authorities halted nearby maritime routes on February 28 after the United States and Israel launched a military operation against Iran, forcing the ship to remain in Doha.
Passengers report fear and uncertainty
Passengers told media outlets that confusion and anxiety spread onboard as sirens sounded and regional tensions escalated. On the same day the ship stopped near Doha, travelers reported hearing air raid sirens and witnessing Iranian missiles intercepted by Qatari air defense systems.
Polina, a passenger from Moscow traveling with her husband and three-year-old daughter, described the tense situation aboard the ship. She said many children began crying while parents and staff attempted to calm them.
According to passengers, about 155 Russian nationals are officially registered on the cruise, although the actual number may be closer to 170. Citizens from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and several European countries are also among those onboard.
Families with children have faced particular stress during the prolonged stay. Polina said her daughter developed a high fever amid the tension, which added to the family’s concerns.
Embassy assistance and travel disruption
Initially, passengers said they received limited guidance from the Russian Embassy in Qatar. However, after complaints circulated on social media, the embassy offered free hotel accommodation in Doha along with daily meals.
Meanwhile, the cruise operator allowed passengers to leave the ship briefly to purchase medicine in Doha after more than a week onboard. The company also extended the stay free of charge until March 7 while monitoring regional developments.
Celestyal Cruises confirmed that it canceled the remaining Arabian Gulf cruise season due to the ongoing conflict. The company stated that it will soon announce disembarkation plans and assist passengers with travel arrangements, including accommodation and transfers.
The escalating conflict has severely disrupted regional air travel, leaving tens of thousands of travelers stranded across the Gulf.
