Celestyal reports ‘unprecedented’ demand for leap year promotion

Celestyal has hailed the success of its leap year promotion, reporting a 630% sales increase on the previous week.

The campaign, which took place on February 29, offered cruises for £29 per person, per night, and applied to select Celestyal Journey sailings across four itineraries departing this year.

Celestyal said it saw “unprecedented” demand for the offer, with an 883% increase in web sales compared to the previous week, representing more than a week’s worth of bookings in one day.

More: Celestyal boss hails performance of ‘phenomenal’ UK market

The line said it almost sold out within a few hours and was forced to put additional capacity on sale to meet the demand.

Chief commercial officer Lee Haslett said: “With the launch of our new season last weekend, a completely refreshed fleet, plus 12 new destinations on sale, we are delighted by the demand and the overwhelming support from the trade.

“There are still some irresistible wave deals available until March 17 alongside our £100 incentive for all bookings until then.”

Gary Slade, head of tailor-made at Iglu Cruise, praised the agency’s performance on February 29, saying it had its “best week to date” for the line thanks to the promotion.

“We are looking forward to continued growth and our best-ever year together,” he said.

“With the newly-acquired and refurbished Celestyal Journey sailing her maiden winter season homeporting in Doha and hew new Adriatic summer sailings, the options are so varied. Additionally, their core Greek island programme is proving popular.”