In the wake of a steady influx of cruise calls to Egyptian ports, particularly Alexandria, Egypt has seen a robust resurgence in cruising since 2022. The port of Alexandria has been included in the cruise schedules for next year by numerous major cruise lines, further solidifying its status as a key destination.
The illustrious cruise ship, Celebrity Apex, affiliated with Caribbean Cruises, arrived in Alexandria at dawn on October 2, 2023. The ship carried a diverse group of 2,650 tourists and was manned by a crew of 1,400.
Officials from the Caribbean Cruises & Rhapsody group were welcomed at Alexandria Port to discuss further cooperation and necessary coordination to ensure an optimal experience for cruisers. A delegation of officials was later received on board the ship for a tour of its facilities. This was followed by a working lunch where future collaboration was discussed. The ship departed after cruisers completed their tour of Alexandria and El Alamein on the evening of October 3, 2023.
On the same day, Alexandria also welcomed the distinguished cruise ship MS Nautica from the Oceania Cruises line, carrying 636 tourists and a crew of 400.
Both ships received a warm welcome from the Authority’s tourism specialists Who communicated with passengers to answer all their inquiries and provide all available facilities to tourists upon their arrival. This ensured that passengers could begin their journey peacefully and safely, creating memorable experiences as they visited Egypt’s most important ancient attractions.
Exploring Alexandria, Egypt: The Pearl of the Mediterranean
As Egypt’s largest seaport and second-largest city, Alexandria is a treasure trove of fascinating sights and experiences. Established in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, the city is fondly referred to as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”. Today, it offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, from the famous Catacombs of Kom el-Shouqafa to the underwater ruins of Montazah and Maamoura, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
The local cuisine is a must-try for any visitor cruising to Alexandria. The city offers a diverse range of dishes, from traditional Egyptian fare to various types of Middle Eastern food. Here are some highlights for those visiting the port city of Alexandria, Egypt:
- Relax in a Quaint Café: Spend a leisurely day in one of the city’s charming cafes or seize the opportunity to capture stunning photographs at every turn.
- Visit the Alexandria National Museum: Explore exhibits that trace Alexandria’s history from ancient times through to the modern era.
- Discover Ancient Roman Architecture: Visit the Roman Theater built in the 2nd century AD or the site of the Temple of Serapeum, once a magnificent structure destroyed in 391 AD.
- Embark on an Excursion to Cairo: A short trip to nearby Cairo allows you to marvel at iconic landmarks like the Great Sphinx and the Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World still in existence today.
These experiences are sure to make your cruise to Alexandria, Egypt, an unforgettable journey.
