Red Sea Cruises

Experience the Wonders of the Red Sea with CruiseAway

The **Red Sea** is a hidden gem teeming with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and fascinating historical landmarks that makes it an ideal cruising destination. With its beautiful coastline stretching across Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Yemen, a cruise here offers splendid opportunities to explore both cultural treasures and stunning natural wonders. A fun fact about the Red Sea: it is one of the saltiest seas in the world, known for its exceptional underwater visibility, making it a diver’s paradise! Whether you’re snorkelling alongside colourful fish or gazing at ancient ruins onshore, a cruise through the Red Sea promises unforgettable experiences.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Red Sea

As you embark on your cruise journey in the **Red Sea**, you’ll encounter several incredible harbours. Here are five of the most popular ports to explore:

• Safaga, Egypt: Safaga is a charming port known as a gateway to the iconic city of Luxor. Here, you can visit the **Valley of the Kings** and **Karnak Temple**. For those who prefer water activities, enjoy world-class diving and snorkelling at nearby **Sharm El Sheikh**. Insider tip: Book an early excursion to Luxor to make the most of your day, ensuring ample time at the ancient temples and tombs!
• Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Jeddah is a vibrant city blending rich history and modernity. When your cruise docks here, stroll along the iconic **Corniche** waterfront or visit the stunning **King Fahd Fountain**, the tallest fountain in the world. For a taste of local culture, explore the **Old Town (Al-Balad)**, known for its traditional architecture. Pro tip: Make sure to try some traditional **Arabic coffee** while in the city!
• Suez Canal, Egypt: Offering a glimpse into one of the most important waterways in the world, cruising through the **Suez Canal** is a unique experience. The canal connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, making it a crucial path for maritime trade. While you won’t disembark, enjoy the view of the desert shores and passing ships. Insider tip: Bring your binoculars to spot any wildlife that may be in the area!
• Muscat, Oman: A port steeped in history, Muscat boasts impressive forts and vibrant markets. Visit the stunning **Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque** and explore the **Muttrah Souq** for local handicrafts and spices. Don’t forget to walk along the picturesque corniche for beautiful views of the sea and mountains. Pro tip: Spend some time interacting with local traders for a genuine Omani experience!
• Port Sudan, Sudan: Known for its exceptional dive sites, Port Sudan is a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant coral reefs of **Sha’ab Rumi** or the impressive shipwrecks that dot the area. When on the mainland, visit the majestic **Suakin Island** with its historical ruins. Insider tip: Plan ahead for diving excursions to ensure you experience the breathtaking underwater wonders!

Best Times to Cruise the Red Sea

The **Red Sea** enjoys a hot desert climate, making it a sought-after destination for warm-weather seekers. The best times to cruise are from **November to March**, where temperatures average between **20°C and 28°C**, providing mild conditions perfect for exploration. The summer months from **June to August** can see highs of **30°C to 40°C**, which might be too hot for some. Therefore, cruising during the winter months not only gives you cooler temperatures but also allows you to enjoy sightseeing without overwhelming heat.

Cost Considerations for Cruising in the Red Sea

When it comes to budgeting for a cruise in the **Red Sea**, a standard one-week cruise typically costs between **$1,500 and $2,500**, while a two-week cruise may range from **$3,000 to $5,000**. For luxury cruises, expect to pay around **$4,000 and above** for a one-week sailing. October to April often presents the best prices, while summer months can be pricier due to high demand. Additionally, while dining out in port cities, you can expect to pay around **$15 to $35** per meal based on the type of establishment, with local street food being an affordable and delicious option!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Red Sea Adventures

• Holland America Line: This cruise line operates **11 ships**, but only **one** sails to the Red Sea – the **Volendam**. Departures mainly occur from **Fort Lauderdale** or **Singapore**. Holland America Line is esteemed for its exceptional onboard experiences, with cultural enrichment focusing on the regions you sail through, enhancing your understanding of local heritages.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, only **one** of them, the **MSC Magnifica**, navigates to the Red Sea. Departures often occur from **Barcelona** or **Genoa**. MSC Cruises is a great choice for family-friendly travel, with diverse entertainment options and dining styles that cater to all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Cunard: The prestigious **Cunard Line** has **four ships** in its fleet, with **one** sailing to the Red Sea – the **Queen Mary 2**. Most sailings depart from **Southampton**. Cunard is synonymous with luxury, offering elegant dining, grand ballrooms, and traditional British afternoon tea, creating a truly memorable onboard experience.
• CroisiEurope: With **38 ships**, CroisiEurope has **one** that operates in the Red Sea, the **Leonard de Vinci**. It generally departs from **Safaga** or **Cairo**. Known for its intimate river cruising experiences, CroisiEurope gives guests a unique perspective on smaller port towns, blending comfort with exploration.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking River Cruises: With a substantial fleet of **63 ships**, **four** operate in the Red Sea, including **Viking Aton** and **MS Antares**. Departing predominantly from **Safaga**, Viking River Cruises focuses on cultural enrichment and immersing guests in local customs, making for a unique travel experience through the Red Sea’s stunning landscapes and rich history.
• Explora Journeys: With **two ships**, **one** sails to the Red Sea: **EXPLORA I**. Departures typically occur from **Safaga** or **Dubai**. A new entrant into the luxury market, Explora Journeys combines refined onboard experiences with itineraries that allow cruisers to explore unique destinations at a leisurely pace.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line operates **six ships**, with **two** sailing to the Red Sea, namely **Seven Seas Voyager** and **Seven Seas Splendor**. This cruise line is well regarded for its all-inclusive luxury, allowing guests to enjoy gourmet dining and premium excursions with a focus on enriching cultural experiences. Departures occur most frequently from **Miami** or **Athens**.
• Oceania Cruises: With **eight ships**, **two** of them operate in the Red Sea, specifically the **Vista** and **Nautica**. Frequent departures are from **Dubai** or **Istanbul**. Oceania is renowned for its culinary focus, offering exceptional dining experiences onboard, which enhances the luxury cruising experience in stunning locales.
• Silversea: With a fleet of **13 ships**, **two** visit the Red Sea, including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Muse**. Departures most often occur from **Athens** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**. Silversea caters to discerning cruisers with ultra-luxurious accommodations, upscale dining venues, and highly personalized service to ensure each guest feels special throughout their journey.

Explore Alternative Regions

If a cruise to the **Red Sea** has piqued your interest, but you’re still weighing your options for fabulous destinations, here are five alternative regions to consider:

• North Africa: Rich in cultural heritage and history, this region boasts diverse landscapes and ancient sites, perfect for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Explore stunning coastal towns, culinary delights, and ancient ruins that are waiting to be uncovered in countries like Greece and Turkey.
• Caribbean: Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean offers a completely different vibe compared to the historical richness of the Red Sea.
• Hawaii: Known for its volcanic landscapes and idyllic beaches, Hawaii immerses visitors in lush greenery and warm island hospitality.
• Southern Europe: The Mediterranean‘s charm is found in Southern Europe, which combines beautiful coastlines with rich history and delectable cuisine.

In conclusion, cruising the **Red Sea** offers an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to embark on this unique journey! Book your unforgettable Red Sea cruise with **CruiseAway** today!