Wonders of the Red Sea

Welcome to Jordan and Aqaba, where you’ll step aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on an enthralling cruise of the Red Sea.   Please book your flight to arrive into Aqaba prior to 07:00 PM.

Aqaba is a picturesque city located in the southern tip of Jordan. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and storied history as a key trading post for centuries. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum desert.  DiscoverMORE Guided Tour of Petra with Lunch Included (extra expense, must be pre-booked) 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 Wadi Rum Desert Adventure with Lunch Included (extra expense, must be pre-booked) 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 - 22:00

Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular resort town located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, attracting visitors from around the world for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. This is an idyllic destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. In addition to its beaches and underwater attractions, Sharm El-Sheikh also offers several cultural and historical sites, including the historic Old Market and the desert landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula. DiscoverMORE Snorkelling Trip at Ras Mohamed National Park (extra expense) 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: 10:00 – 20:00 

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. Today choose between our Included Excursion or our DiscoverMORE option. 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  DiscoverMORE The Bedouin Experience (extra expense) Leave the modern resort city of Hurghada behind and venture deep into Egypt’s dramatic Eastern Desert aboard a 4x4 vehicle. Travelling across sandy plains framed by rugged mountains, enjoy spectacular desert scenery and panoramic photo opportunities along the way. Arriving at a traditional Bedouin settlement, experience the warm hospitality of the desert people as you relax inside a shaded Bedouin tent. Enjoy herbal tea and oriental pastries while learning about local customs and daily life, including traditional bread-making techniques still practised today. Your visit continues with a folkloric Bedouin presentation featuring music, storytelling, and cultural traditions before returning by 4x4 to Hurghada with lasting memories of this authentic desert encounter. Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 3 hours Docked: 08:00 – 18:00 

Safaga is a charming coastal town located on the Red Sea in Egypt. You’ll find it 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 – 22:00 

Al Wajh is a charming Red Sea coastal town known for its turquoise waters, untouched beaches, and historic seafaring heritage. Docked: 14:00 - Overnight 

Continue exploring Al Wajh, it serves as a gateway to the spectacular landscapes and ancient archaeological wonders of AlUla. Enjoy a blend of pristine nature, rich history, and authentic Saudi hospitality. DiscoverMORE Al Wajh Heritage & Coastal Charm (extra expense, please book on board)  Discover the timeless charm of Al Wajh, a peaceful coastal town where history, tradition, and Red Sea beauty come together. A short transfer from the marina brings you to the historic heart of the town, beginning with views of Al Wajh Fort and its surrounding traditional houses, reflecting the area’s rich maritime heritage. Continue through the atmospheric Old Market, where narrow lanes and local shops preserve the spirit of old Arabia, before visiting the elegant Ashraf Mosque, an important cultural and religious landmark. The excursion concludes with a scenic drive along the picturesque Corniche, offering sweeping views of the Red Sea and a relaxing photo stop to capture the beauty of Al Wajh’s coastline before returning to the marina.  Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours  Docked: Overnight - 22:00 

Port of NEOM offers a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s bold vision for the future, set along the pristine shores of the Red Sea. Experience dramatic desert landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and access to cutting-edge developments shaping this next-generation destination. Docked: 10:00 –20:00 

Relish the nautical adventure of a lifetime with some relaxing time at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your luxury yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the water touches the horizon; ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views or relax in the Observation Lounge.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in picturesque Ain Sokhna, a popular coastal town that boasts soft yellow sand beaches and stunning sea views. Here, 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 Cairo after 04:00 PM. Docked: 08:00 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.