Aroya Cruises’ maiden luxury ship to set sail in late 2024
The ship’s destinations include the Arabian Gulf
Aroya Cruises, the new Arabian cruise line operated by Cruise Saudi, has unveiled its maiden luxury cruise ship. The 335-metre-long seven-year-old vessel is undergoing extensive renovation in Germany to suit the Arabian Gulf taste. The refitting work is expected to be completed by August 24, 2024.
When the ship does sail with passengers in late 2024, beginning with Jeddah, its cruises will be limited to locations within the Arabian Gulf region, primarily Jeddah, Damman, Yanbu and Dubai.
Operated by Cruise Saudi, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund-owned company dedicated to developing the Arabian Gulf country’s cruise industry, the ship features 18 decks and 1,682 cabins, including 160 suites and villas and 32 special needs cabins.
The floating 151,000-tonnage resort, manufactured in late 2017 and designed to carry over 3,000 passengers and 1,600 crew members, features decks with various facilities, including a deck with water games and another dedicated to international restaurants and kitchens.
The ship features opulent, spacious cabins and suites, exquisite dining, and world-class spa facilities. Adult and children’s swimming pools are also a key highlight of the ship, along with two onboard theatres, one dedicated to family-friendly production shows and another for dinner shows. Onboard are shopping malls housing high-end international brands catering to different age groups.
Tourism focus
In a bid to wean itself off its traditional hydrocarbon earnings and diversify its revenues from sources such as tourism and culture, Saudi Arabia, in recent years, has begun welcoming international tourists, marking a significant shift in its tourism landscape. This historic move positions Saudi Arabia as an enticing destination in the Arabian Gulf region, rich in cultural heritage, history, and natural attractions.
Six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the large Arabian country, including AlAhsa Oasis, Hegra Archaeological site in AlUla, and Historic Jeddah, have now opened their doors to cruise enthusiasts.
Headquartered in Jeddah, Cruise Saudi targets 1.3 million cruise passengers to experience Saudi Arabia via sea by 2035.
Featured image: The Aroya Cruises maiden ship will only sail to locations within the Arabian Gulf region.
Last Updated on 10 months by Arnold Pinto
