Aroya Cruises Makes Historic Mediterranean Debut with First-Ever Call at Mykonos
The Greek island of Mykonos welcomed a luxurious new visitor this summer as Aroya Cruises made its inaugural call to the Cycladic gem, marking the cruise line’s debut in the Mediterranean. The Saudi-backed cruise brand, which launched in 2024, has previously operated exclusively within the Arabian Gulf. This historic voyage represents a major milestone in its international expansion strategy.
The 3,400-passenger flagship vessel, Aroya, arrived at Mykonos on June 30, 2025, as part of its maiden seven-night Mediterranean cruise. Departing from Istanbul’s Galataport Cruise Terminal on June 28, the ship anchored in Mykonos for an extended 14-hour stay—from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the following day—allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the island’s vibrant culture, charming architecture, and world-famous nightlife.
Expanding Horizons: From the Red Sea to the Aegean
Aroya Cruises’ arrival in Mykonos signals a pivotal shift in the brand’s cruising ambitions. Previously confined to itineraries in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, Aroya is now targeting culturally rich European destinations with a promise of Arabian luxury at sea. The Mediterranean cruise season, which will run through late summer 2025, includes stops in some of the most picturesque and historically significant ports in the region.
Besides Mykonos, Aroya’s maiden Mediterranean voyage includes visits to Piraeus—Athens’ port gateway—Souda Bay in Crete, and Bodrum on Turkey’s Aegean coast. The itinerary reflects a carefully curated blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and cosmopolitan luxury. The cruise concludes with a return to Istanbul, the ship’s summer homeport.
Luxury Meets Heritage: The Aroya Experience
Aroya Cruises was launched by Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund (PIF)-owned initiative, aimed at promoting Saudi Arabia as a global tourism destination. The brand’s flagship vessel was originally known as World Dream, built in 2017 and acquired in 2023. After an extensive refurbishment—rebuilding 95% of its public areas—the ship re-entered service as Aroya in late 2024.
Spanning 18 decks and offering 1,678 cabins, Aroya caters to high-end travelers with a wide range of amenities. These include a wellness spa, fine-dining venues, a casino, a 1,018-seat theater, multiple pools, and immersive cultural programs. The ship seamlessly blends modern design with Arabian hospitality, setting a new standard in regional cruise tourism.
The ship is also outfitted with state-of-the-art sustainability features including energy-efficient systems, waste reduction technology, and sustainable sourcing practices—highlighting the company’s environmental commitments.
Mykonos: A Symbolic First Stop
The selection of Mykonos as Aroya Cruises’ first Mediterranean port was no coincidence. Known for its picturesque white-washed alleys, luxurious beach clubs, and deep-rooted Hellenic history, Mykonos has become a symbol of upscale island tourism in Europe. The extended port call allowed passengers to enjoy curated shore excursions, including guided walks through the Old Town, visits to local markets, and sunset dining experiences along the island’s famous waterfront.
“Aroya’s debut in Mykonos reflects our vision to offer Arabian luxury in world-class destinations,” said Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi. “It also underscores the increasing appeal of Mediterranean cruising among discerning travelers from the Gulf and beyond.”
Beyond Mykonos: More to Come in 2025
Following its maiden voyage, Aroya Cruises plans to continue offering week-long itineraries through the Mediterranean throughout summer 2025. New routes are expected to include additional destinations such as Alexandria (Egypt), Rhodes, Marmaris, and Kaş (Turkey), each chosen for their rich heritage, archaeological treasures, and coastal allure.
Cruise Saudi has confirmed that after the Mediterranean season concludes, Aroya will return to Jeddah to resume its Red Sea itineraries. These cruises are designed to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism objectives, which include attracting 100 million visitors annually by the end of the decade.
Enhancing Cultural Experiences Onboard
In keeping with its mission to offer more than just leisure travel, Aroya Cruises emphasizes cultural immersion as a core part of its guest experience. Onboard activities include Arabic calligraphy workshops, Mediterranean cooking classes, and performances by regional musicians. Passengers can enjoy themed evenings that celebrate the diverse heritage of the destinations visited, making the cruise experience both luxurious and enriching.
Each port of call is accompanied by tailored excursions, such as wine tastings in Rhodes, archaeological tours in Athens, and yacht-style beach days in Crete. Guests seeking a deeper understanding of local traditions can also participate in expert-led lectures about Mediterranean civilizations and Arabian maritime history.
Looking Ahead: Aroya’s Place in Global Cruise Tourism
The successful entry of Aroya Cruises into the Mediterranean is more than just a milestone for the brand—it’s a signal of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to become a major player in global tourism. As the first Arabian cruise line to chart a course through European waters, Aroya is redefining expectations in the international cruise market.
With strong demand for high-end cruising experiences and growing interest in lesser-explored destinations, Aroya Cruises is well-positioned to expand both its fleet and reach in the years ahead.
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