AROYA Cruises, the first Arabian cruise line, has begun its first winter season in the Mediterranean with its ship, AROYA, departing Galataport Istanbul on 18 October. Featuring six-, seven- and eight-night voyages between Istanbul and Alexandria, the season combines cultural discovery across Türkiye and Egypt with a Remarkably Arabian experience at sea.
The itineraries connect Türkiye’s coastal destinations with Egypt’s rich cultural heritage, taking in Bodrum’s vibrant waterfront, Marmaris’s natural harbour and Kuşadası, a gateway to Ephesus, one of the ancient world’s most celebrated cities. In Alexandria, the ship’s first overnight calls give guests more time to discover the historic port city’s waterfront and distinctive architecture, or venture further afield on excursions to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza. Guests can also begin or end selected voyages in Alexandria.
Ala Tashkandi, Commercial Executive Director at AROYA Cruises, said: “Our first winter season in the Mediterranean is an important step in building a year-round presence in the region. Türkiye and Egypt offer a wealth of cultural experiences that make them compelling destinations for a winter cruise. Selected departures from Alexandria make our voyages more accessible to guests from Egypt, while giving international travellers the opportunity to combine their cruise with a longer stay in the country.”
The winter sailings cater to couples, groups of friends and families travelling across generations, as well as those considering their first cruise. For families planning around the winter school holidays, the voyages combine time exploring ashore with activities across 10 dedicated venues for children and teenagers onboard.
Aboard AROYA, guests can also enjoy Saudi and international dining, entertainment and wellness experiences. Khuzama, the premium experience, offers suites and villas with dedicated butler service and access to exclusive spaces and privileges.
The winter season builds on AROYA Cruises’ 2026 Mediterranean summer sailings and forms part of the cruise line’s wider programme continuing through September 2027, including its first two 14-night voyages in June and July 2027.
For more information and to book, visit aroya.com/en.
