Aroya Cruises, the first Arabian cruise line, is poised to make waves in the Eastern Mediterranean as it launches its inaugural season on June 28, 2025. Departing from the vibrant port of Galataport Istanbul, the luxury liner will chart a six- to seven-night course through some of the region’s most historic and visually stunning destinations in Turkey, Greece, and Egypt.
The cruise ship, aptly named Aroya, has completed its repositioning journey from Jeddah to Istanbul and is undergoing final maintenance checks to prepare for its much-anticipated Mediterranean season. Originally operated by Dream Cruises, the vessel was acquired by Aroya Cruises in late 2023 and has since undergone an extensive refurbishment. Now fitted with state-of-the-art amenities and enhanced features, the 3,400-passenger-capacity ship offers a world-class experience combining Arabian elegance with modern seafaring sophistication.
A Journey Through the Heart of the Mediterranean
The upcoming cruise itineraries will take guests on a culturally rich voyage through destinations steeped in history and allure. Highlights include the ancient wonders of Athens, the sun-drenched shores of Mykonos, the medieval city of Rhodes, and the legendary port city of Alexandria. Other ports of call include Turkish coastal gems such as Kas, Bodrum, Marmaris, and Souda Bay in Crete. Each stop has been carefully selected to deliver a blend of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
Running through September 2025, the Mediterranean cruise season represents a strategic expansion for Aroya Cruises. Following its successful debut in the Red Sea in December 2024, where it hosted more than 70,000 passengers across itineraries to Egypt, Jordan, and the exclusive Saudi island of Jabal AlSabaya, the brand is now leveraging that momentum to penetrate the European cruise market.
Blending Arabian Hospitality with Mediterranean Culture
Aroya Cruises has built a strong brand around delivering authentic Arabian hospitality at sea. With its expansion into the Mediterranean, the cruise line is bringing its signature service and design influences to new audiences. Guests can expect luxuriously appointed staterooms, curated dining experiences, wellness-focused amenities, and entertainment programs infused with both regional charm and international appeal.
This move also reflects a broader vision: to offer global travelers a new way to experience the Mediterranean—one that balances comfort, cultural discovery, and refined service. From sipping Turkish tea on the sundeck overlooking the Bosphorus to enjoying immersive shore excursions at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the voyage promises something for every type of traveler.
Driving Growth in Cruise Tourism
According to the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Galataport Istanbul is fast becoming a central hub for international cruise lines. Aroya Cruises’ Mediterranean deployment enhances the port’s profile and supports broader tourism goals for Turkey, Greece, and Egypt. Regional tourism boards have praised the initiative for its potential to boost local economies and attract high-value travelers to lesser-visited coastal cities like Kas and Souda Bay.
In Egypt, Alexandria’s inclusion on Aroya’s itinerary adds momentum to the city’s revitalization as a tourism center. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has ramped up efforts to modernize port infrastructure and promote the city’s unique fusion of ancient and modern attractions.
Strategic Tourism Integration
In keeping with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy, Aroya Cruises also reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to diversifying its economy through premium tourism offerings. As the first cruise line owned and operated by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, Aroya represents a significant investment in luxury and experiential travel.
The cruise line’s expansion into Europe also aligns with growing demand for culturally rich and slow-travel tourism experiences. Mediterranean cruises are particularly popular among travelers seeking multi-destination vacations without the stress of constant transit. Aroya’s Mediterranean itineraries allow passengers to unpack once and explore many cultures over the course of a single journey—ideal for families, couples, and retirees alike.
Looking Ahead
While the summer 2025 season will conclude in September, Aroya Cruises is already evaluating extended deployments for the winter and spring months, as well as potential new routes in the western Mediterranean. As the cruise industry rebounds globally and travelers seek more tailored, luxury-led experiences, Aroya Cruises is well-positioned to lead this next wave of regional tourism.
With the maiden Mediterranean voyage about to set sail, Aroya Cruises is not just offering a vacation—it’s delivering a new era of culturally rich, premium cruising with Arabian flair. Whether basking in the sun on the Aegean or exploring the legendary shores of Egypt, guests can expect a journey that blends timeless destinations with unparalleled hospitality.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
