Aroya Cruises is set to resume its Red Sea programme in May, restoring operations from Jeddah and reinforcing the port’s role within Saudi Arabia’s developing cruise sector. The company confirmed that its vessel, Aroya, is en route to its home port in advance of the season’s commencement on May 14th, when a series of short-duration voyages will begin.
The planned sailings, ranging from 3 to 5 nights, will connect Jeddah with regional destinations including Yanbu, Sharm El Sheikh, and Aqaba. The deployment has been structured around shorter itineraries intended to provide flexible travel options, reflecting a shift toward compact voyages that allow multiple port calls within a limited timeframe.
Within the programme, a 5-night sailing is scheduled to coincide with Eid al-Adha, incorporating calls at Sharm El Sheikh and Aqaba. The broader approach indicates an emphasis on accessibility and convenience, enabling passengers to undertake cruise travel without extended time commitments.
In parallel with its Red Sea operations, the company is preparing for a second Mediterranean season, due to run from June through mid-September 2026. These voyages will depart from Galata Port and follow 7-night itineraries including ports in Turkey, the Greek islands, and Alexandria, offering a longer regional programme.
Company leadership indicated that current travel demand reflects an increasing preference for itineraries combining flexibility with exposure to regional culture. The operator’s approach has therefore been aligned with delivering voyages shaped by Arab cultural elements while accommodating a broad passenger demographic. It was also noted that the return to Red Sea service would precede the Mediterranean deployment, marking the beginning of the company’s 2026 operating cycle.