Saudi Arabia Cruises

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey to Saudi Arabia with CruiseAway

Sailing to **Saudi Arabia** offers a unique opportunity to explore a land rich in culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes. This fascinating region is renowned for its impressive landmarks, including the ancient Nabatean city of **Petra**, the stunning landscapes of **AlUla**, and the bustling city of **Jeddah**, a gateway to Islamic pilgrimage sites. Did you know that Saudi Arabia is home to the **largest sand desert** in the world? The **Rub’ al Khali**, or Empty Quarter, covers an area of over 1,000,000 square kilometres! A cruise allows you to effortlessly travel from one highlight to another, all while enjoying the luxurious amenities onboard. Let’s dive into what you can explore on your next cruise adventure!

Must-Visit Harbours in Saudi Arabia

When you cruise to **Saudi Arabia**, you’ll have the chance to discover several remarkable harbours. Here are five destinations you won’t want to miss:

• Jeddah: Known as the **Bride of the Red Sea**, Jeddah boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scenes. Visit the **Historical Jeddah**, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander through ancient coral houses and the bustling souks. Don’t miss the iconic **King Fahd Fountain**, the tallest fountain in the world! Insider tip: Take a stroll along the **Corniche**—the views of the Red Sea at sunset are breathtaking!
• Safaga: Nestled along the Red Sea coast, Safaga is often a starting point for excursions to **Luxor** and the **Valley of the Kings**. Experience the stunning coral reefs that make this area a snorkeller’s paradise. If you’re keen on adventure, consider a desert safari to explore the surrounding landscapes. Pro tip: Book a guided tour to Luxor in advance to guarantee a spot and maximise your time!
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Though not in Saudi Arabia, Dubai is a popular departure point for cruises to the region. With luxurious shopping, stunning architecture like the **Burj Khalifa**, and exciting theme parks, Dubai is a vibrant city to explore. Be sure to experience the **Dubai Marina** and indulge in a desert safari during your stay! Insider tip: While in Dubai, don’t miss the evening fountain show at **Burj Khalifa**—it’s truly a spectacle!
• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Another essential stop on your cruise itinerary, Abu Dhabi showcases Arabian culture and opulence. Visit the majestic **Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque** and the remarkable **Louvre Abu Dhabi**. Experience the thrill of the **Ferrari World** theme park if you’re up for an adrenaline rush. Pro tip: Take time to explore the beautiful **Corniche**, where you can enjoy scenic waterfront views!
• Muscat, Oman: While you’re in the region, a stop in Muscat offers a blend of culture and vibrant street life. Visit the stunning **Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque** and explore local markets for traditional spices and crafts. Insider tip: Enjoy a local Omani meal at the **Al Bustan Palace** for a taste of authentic flavours amidst stunning surroundings.

Best Times to Cruise Saudi Arabia

When planning your visit to **Saudi Arabia**, consider the climate. The ideal time to cruise is from **October to April**, when temperatures range from **20°C to 30°C**, making for comfortable exploration. As summer approaches, from **May to September**, temperatures can soar to **40°C and above**, making outdoor activities challenging. For those seeking mild weather and fewer crowds, aim for the shoulder months of **October and April**.

Pricing for Cruising in Saudi Arabia

Budgeting for your cruise is important! A one-week cruise that includes Saudi Arabia typically ranges from **$1,500 to $3,000**, while a two-week cruise can cost between **$3,000 and $5,500**. Luxury cruises generally start at around **$4,000** for a one-week adventure. Expect the most affordable options during the cooler months, while summer prices tend to rise due to fewer available cruises and increased demand. Dining out in **Saudi Arabia** can cost roughly **$15 to $50** depending on where you choose to eat, with street food being a more budget-friendly option.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Saudi Arabia Adventures

• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line has a fleet of **20 ships**, with **one** sailing to **Saudi Arabia**—the **Norwegian Sky**. The primary port of departure is **Doha**. Norwegian Cruise Line provides a laid-back cruising experience with diverse dining options and activities onboard, making it a wonderful choice for cruisers interested in a relaxed atmosphere.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of **two ships**, only one—**EXPLORA I**—visits **Saudi Arabia**. Departures mainly occur from **Safaga** or **Dubai**. Explora Journeys stands out for its focus on sustainable luxury, ensuring an eco-friendly cruising experience while providing stylish accommodations and exemplary service.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of **six ships**, two voyage to **Saudi Arabia**—the **Seven Seas Voyager** and **Seven Seas Splendor**. Departures often take place from **Miami** or **Dubai**. Regent Seven Seas is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury offerings, ensuring that every detail is taken care of, from gourmet dining experiences to personalised shore excursions.
• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line consists of **eight ships**, with **two** offering itineraries to **Saudi Arabia**—the **Vista** and **Nautica**. Departures usually occur from **Dubai** or **Istanbul**. Oceania is noted for its culinary experiences onboard and includes a wide range of enrichment programs to enhance your journey.
• Ponant: With a fleet size of **11 ships**, **one** of them sails to **Saudi Arabia**—the **Le Bougainville**. Departures often occur from **Dubai** or **Muscat**. Ponant is known for its intimate small ship experiences, which provide unspoiled access to remote destinations while delivering luxury service.
• Azamara Cruises: This cruise line includes **four ships**, with **one** exploring **Saudi Arabia**—the **Azamara Onward**. Departures take place from **Dubai** or **Miami**. Azamara is recognised for its focus on immersive travel with late-night departures at various ports, providing you with more time to explore the local culture.

Explore Alternative Regions

Though Saudi Arabia has unique attractions, consider these alternative regions that promise exciting adventures:

• Middle East: An intriguing blend of ancient and modern cultures, the Middle East offers spectacular landscapes and thriving cities, making it a perfect alternative for the culturally curious.
• Africa: Rich in history and diverse wildlife, Africa provides unforgettable experiences, from safaris to magnificent architecture and stunning coastlines.
• Asia: Dive into the vibrant cultures and tantalising cuisines of the many incredible countries across Asia, which provide vast opportunities for exploration.
• Oman: Often overlooked, Oman boasts rugged mountains, beautiful coastlines, and charming towns rich in culture, making it a captivating alternative to Saudi Arabia.
• Eastern Mediterranean: With cruises often visiting Greece, Turkey, and the islands, this area offers a rich tapestry of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Saudi Arabia is an emerging destination that offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Incorporating the luxurious and exotic elements of cruising, there’s no better way to explore this vibrant culture! Start planning your unforgettable journey with **CruiseAway** today!