Discover the Ancient Treasures of the Mediterranean & Red Sea

Welcome to Egypt and Ain Sokhna, where you’ll step aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht ready to set sail on an unforgettable cruise of the Red Sea. Ain Sokhna presents a charming coastal town in a naturally beautiful setting, popular for its soft, yellow sand beaches, clear blue waters and stunning Red Sea views.  Please book your flight to arrive into Cairo prior to 02:00 PM. Docked: 21:00 

On the tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula lies the glamorous resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh. Here, the desert meets the sea, creating an environment rich in biodiversity and a melting pot of cultures. Dive into the fascinating aquatic world beneath the Red Sea’s crystal-clear surface, stroll through the historic Old Market and bustling bazaars, or explore ancient mosques and the desert landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula. DiscoverMORE Snorkelling Trip at Ras Mohamed National Park (extra expense, must be pre-booked)  Discover the natural beauty of Ras Mohamed National Park, one of the Sinai Peninsula’s most spectacular protected marine reserves. Located at the southern tip of Sharm El Sheikh, this pristine sanctuary is celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and extraordinary marine life. After a scenic drive and brief photo stop, explore the park’s unique mangrove forest before enjoying a guided snorkelling experience accompanied by professional instructors. Snorkelling equipment is provided, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this underwater paradise. Guests may also choose to visit the famous Shark Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views across the Gulf of Aqaba. Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes Docked: 14:00 – 20:00 

A picturesque city located in the southern tip of Jordan overlooking the Red Sea, Aqaba is a history buffs’ delight for its rich history that dates back thousands of years. DiscoverMORE Guided Tour of Petra with Lunch Included (extra expense) Discover the legendary “Lost City” of Petra, one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hidden deep within the Jordanian desert and carved into vibrant rose-red sandstone cliffs, Petra has captivated travellers for centuries and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Aqaba through dramatic desert landscapes to the ancient Nabataean city. Upon arrival, begin a guided walk through the famous Siq, a narrow winding gorge flanked by towering rock walls that leads dramatically to Petra’s most iconic monument, the breathtaking Treasury. Continue exploring the remarkable site, passing the Roman-style Theatre, the impressive Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street, and Qasr al-Bint, while your guide brings the fascinating history of this once-thriving trading centre to life. After the guided visit, enjoy free time to make your way back through Petra at your own pace, taking in the spectacular scenery and perhaps browsing for souvenirs. A buffet lunch is then served at the Mövenpick Resort before returning to Aqaba. Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 10 hours DiscoverMORE A Tour Through History and Contemporary Charm (extra expense) Discover the perfect blend of Aqaba’s rich history and modern coastal elegance on this engaging city tour along Jordan’s Red Sea coast. Accompanied by your professional English-speaking driver, begin your journey in Aqaba’s Old City with visits to the historic Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Castle and the Aqaba Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the region’s cultural and Islamic heritage. Continue to the impressive Flag Plaza, home to one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, offering panoramic views across the Red Sea and neighboring countries. The tour then takes you to the contemporary waterfront community of Ayla, where tranquil lagoons, stylish promenades, and scenic marina views create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing stroll and leisure time by the sea.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 6 hours  Docked: 07:00 - Overnight 

With archaeological sites such as the Aqaba Fort and the Ayla ruins showcasing its ancient past. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum desert. DiscoverMORE Wadi Rum Desert Adventure with Lunch Included (extra expense) Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rum, one of Jordan’s most spectacular desert landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by wind and time over millions of years. Journey through vast valleys of towering sandstone mountains and dramatic rock formations glowing in shades of red, gold, and orange. Upon arrival at the Visitor Centre, board a 4x4 jeep for an unforgettable exploration of this legendary desert, once home to ancient nomads and famously featured in films such as Lawrence of Arabia. Along the way, stop for incredible photo opportunities and experience the remarkable silence of the desert. Enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality with tea and oriental sweets before savoring an authentic lunch at a desert camp surrounded by unforgettable scenery. Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 6 hours  Docked: Overnight - 21:00 

Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Hurghada offers a wide range of water sports and recreational activities. Its rich history and distinctive culture make this Egyptian beach resort town a remarkable destination along the Red Sea.  Included Excursion Soma Bay Beach Break  Escape to the beautiful shores of Soma Bay, a stunning peninsula along Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera renowned for its crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine. This relaxing beach break offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy a carefree day by the sea. After a scenic drive from Hurghada, arrive at the exclusive resort where sun beds, umbrellas, and towels will be provided for your comfort. Spend the day exactly as you wish — relax on the private sandy beach, take a refreshing swim in the warm Red Sea, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying spectacular coastal views. For those seeking a little more adventure, optional water sports are available directly through the resort’s water sports centre for an additional charge. Shuttle transfers back to the ship operate approximately every two hours, allowing flexibility throughout the day.  Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes  Docked: 12:00 – 20:00 

You’ll find it Safaga  relatively small and quiet, with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. In addition to its natural beauty, Safaga is also renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties for various ailments. EmeraldPLUS Luxor Experience with Lunch Included  Journey deep into the heart of ancient Egypt on an unforgettable full-day excursion from Safaga to Luxor, once the magnificent capital of the Pharaohs. Travelling through dramatic desert landscapes and rugged mountain scenery, your guide will introduce you to the rich history and legends of Upper Egypt along the way. Upon arrival in Luxor, cross to the West Bank to explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, where generations of pharaohs were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs hidden beneath the desert hills. Visit three remarkable royal tombs and admire the vivid colours and intricate hieroglyphics that have survived for thousands of years. Continue with a photo stop at the towering Colossi of Memnon, the last remains of the grand mortuary temple of Amenophis III. After enjoying lunch at a leading hotel in Luxor, continue to the immense Karnak Temple Complex, one of the greatest religious sites ever built. Walk among colossal columns in the vast Hypostyle Hall, discover sacred avenues lined with sphinxes, and admire the scale and splendour of this extraordinary ancient sanctuary. En route, enjoy views of Luxor Temple from the coach before beginning the return journey to Safaga. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 13 hours Docked: 06:00 – 21:00 

As you cruise to your next exciting destination, you’ll have another opportunity to relish   more relaxing downtime at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your stylish yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the azure water appears to blur with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views, or simply relax in the Observation Lounge.

Today we cross the Suez Canal before reaching Egypt’s Ain Sokhna. The Suez Canal, built by Ferdinand de Lesseps and completed in 1869, carves through 162km of desert, linking the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.

As you cruise to your next exciting destination, you’ll have another opportunity to relish more relaxing downtime at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your stylish yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the azure water appears to blur with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views, or simply relax in the Observation Lounge.

The ancient seaport of Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite and the entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the citys iconic landmarks is the Paphos Archaeological Park, home to a remarkable collection of Greco-Roman ruins. Here, you can explore the ancient Odeon amphitheatre, the Tombs of the Kings, and the stunning mosaic floors of four Roman villas. Included Excursion Paphos Monuments Tour  Step into ancient history on this enlightening tour of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural treasure of Cyprus. Begin at the impressive Tombs of the Kings, a Hellenistic-era necropolis carved from solid rock. Continue to the courtyard of Chrysopolitissa Church, home to St. Paul’s Pillar—where legend says the Apostle was punished before converting the Roman governor. Conclude your journey at the Paphos Archaeological Park, where beautifully preserved mosaics in the Houses of Dionysos, Aion, and Theseus reveal tales from Greek mythology. This tour offers a captivating blend of legend, art, and antiquity.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes Anchored: 08:00 – 20:00

After breakfast, head out to explore this coastal city in Cyprus, known for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. In the afternoon, we’ll welcome you back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey. Docked: 08:00 - 21:00

The ancient seaport of Paphos is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite and the entire city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the city’s key landmarks is the Paphos Archaeological Park, home to a remarkable collection of Greco-Roman ruins. Here, you can explore the ancient Odeon amphitheatre and Tombs of the Kings, as well as admire the stunning mosaic floors of four Roman villas. 

The cityscape of Antalya is a mesmerizing blend of azure skies, dense verdant forests, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. This captivating Turkish city is also home to a storied history, boasting several ancient ruins and historical sites scattered throughout the area. The Old Town, known as Kaleici, is a charming district worth exploring for its Ottoman-era buildings, narrow winding streets, and bustling traditional markets. 

On the lovely Greek island of Rhodes, the Medieval City, or Old Town, is a must-see attraction, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircled within four-kilometre length of walls, the city’s medieval buildings, the Street of the Knights, and the Palace of the Grand Master give you a sense that you’re back in the Middle Ages. Known as the ‘Island of Knights’, charming Rhodes is also famed for its delicious local dishes — be sure to try the melekouni (a traditional sweet) and pitaroudia (chickpea fritters). 

Agios Nikolaos is a cosmopolitan coastal town located on the picturesque Greek island of Crete, popular for its beautiful natural scenery, including a lake interwoven with legends, lovely sandy beaches, and stunning mountain views. This Cretan town, however, is also known for its magnificent archaeological ruins, such as the ancient city of Lato, which dates to the 4th century BC. 

Known for its spectacular views, whitewashed hillside architecture and legendary sunsets, Santorini is a hugely popular destination. This gorgeous Greek Island is also famous for its iconic, blue-domed churches, transparent azure waters, and charming villages dramatically perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Santorini’s picturesque main town, Fira, precariously rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, presenting jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Oia, another of Santorini’s traditional villages, is particularly renowned for its quaint narrow streets and panoramic caldera views.     

This world-famous Greek island is popular for its lively party lifestyle, gleaming whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs and bustling waterfront area brimming with restaurants, cafés, and fashionable boutiques. You can also explore the historic Windmills of Mykonos and Little Venice with its stunning seafront homes and from Mykonos itself, visit the sacred island of Delos, whose archaeological ruins are today, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Athens, the dynamic capital of Greece, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 11:00 AM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.