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Ancient Wonders - Aqaba to Athens via the Suez Canal

Ancient Wonders - Aqaba to Athens via the Suez Canal

About This Cruise

Discover unimaginable coastal beauty, ancient treasures that extend to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and rich culture at every turn on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht.

Embark on this unforgettable 13-day voyage through some of the most captivating parts of the Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Beginning in the Red Sea and the historic gateway of Aqaba, discover the coral-rich, transparent waters of Sharm El-Sheikh, and the Great Pyramids of Giza, within reach of Ain Sokhna. Journey through the Suez Canal, a modern-day engineering marvel, before exploring Haifa’s lush terraces and sacred landmarks in Israel. Continue to the cultural crossroads of Limassol in beautiful Cyprus, the dramatic coastline of Antalya, and the storied shores of Rhodes and Bodrum, home to a medieval Old Town and one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World. 'Soak up the iconic beauty of Mykonos, before concluding your luxury cruise in the ancient Greek capital, an intoxicating blend of ancient landmarks and modern dynamism.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Emerald Raiya is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    Refined, unhurried cruising with enrichment on board

Type

Ocean, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Raiya

Departure Date

3 May 2028

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

12 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at (01) 554 1010

Itinerary

Jordan

'Aqaba

Welcome to Jordan and the picturesque city of Aqaba. Located on the southern tip of Jordan overlooking the Red Sea.Please book your flight to arrive into Aqaba prior to 07:00 PM.

Jordan

'Aqaba

Aqaba is popular for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs and rich history dating back thousands of years, evident in several archaeological sites. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum, a UNESCO-protected desert wilderness.

Egypt

Sharm El Sheikh

Located on the southern shores of the Sinai Peninsula where the desert meets the sea, this Egyptian resort city attracts visitors from around the world for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs – an idyllic destination particularly for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.Sharm El-Sheikh is also home to several cultural and historical sites, including the Old Market that is steeped in tradition and the stunning desert landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt

Sokhna

Positioned on the western shores of the Red Sea's Gulf of Suez, Ain Sokhna presents a charming seaside town. As it is only located two hours from the historic Egyptian capital, Cairo, Ain Sokhna is a base for visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the stupendous, ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.’

Today, you’ll navigate through the historic Suez Canal before reaching Israel and your next port of call, Ashdod. Constructed by Ferdinand de Lesseps and completed in 1869, this incredible man-made waterway carves through 162 kilometres (100-miles) of desert, linking the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea and facilitating global trade and maritime transport.

Israel

Haifa

Your next stop is Haifa, a bustling port city and cultural hub that offers stunning seaside views and a vibrant urban life. A notable landmark is Mount Carmel, a coastal mountain range that creates an impressive city backdrop. Perched atop Mount Carmel, you'll find the Shrine of the Bab, a majestic golden-domed structure surrounded by the Baha'i Gardens, known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa.

Israel

Haifa

Delight in a second day in Haifa, giving you the chance to further uncover the charms of Israel’s third-largest city; whether strolling through lush gardens, savouring delicious local flavours, or setting out to explore the wonders of northern Israel.

Cyprus

Limassol

Welcome to the beautiful island of Cyprus and Limassol, a city known for its rich culture and welcoming with a fascinating blend of Greek, Turkish, and British influences. Just south of Limassol, the Akrotiri Salt Lake and Wetlands are a haven for birdwatchers, especially in winter when flocks of flamingos congregate here.

Turkey

Antalya

Today, discover the resort city of Antalya. With its mesmerising landscapes of dense forests, mountains and sun-soaked beaches lapped by the azure Mediterranean Sea, Antalya makes a perfect paradise for nature lovers. History buffs will also be fascinated by this Turkish city’s rich history, which reveals itself in its well-preserved Old Town, Kaleiçi. Here, Roman-era harbour walls, Hellenistic gates, and Ottoman-era houses pay homage to the city's storied past.

Greece

Rhodes

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 (two-mile) length of walls, the city’s medieval buildings, the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master give you a sense of being transported back to the Middle Ages. Known as the ‘Island of Knights,’ delightful Rhodes is also famed for its delicious local dishes — be sure to try melekouni (a traditional sweet) and pitaroudia (chickpea fritters).

Turkey

Bodrum

Stretching from Turkey’s southwest coast into the Aegean Sea, the stunning twin bays of Bodrum are home to one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World,’ the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, built between 350 and 353 B.C. for the ruler, Mausolus. While Bodrum boasts a rich history, the city itself is a modern playground for Turkish and foreign visitors alike, presenting two contrasting sides in the east and west.

Greece

Mykonos

A stunning Greek island embedded in the azure Aegean Sea, Mykonos is world-famous for its captivating blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Take a stroll through the winding narrow streets of atmospheric Mykonos Town, where you can admire the trademark whitewashed dwellings adorned with distinctive blue doors and visit the historic windmills, another iconic sight on this popular island.

Greece

Piraeus

Your grand adventure and luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the dynamic Greek capital, Athens, the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. Farewell your crew and fellow travellers, taking with you a lifetime of memories. You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or continuation of your journey.Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.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.

Overview

Discover unimaginable coastal beauty, ancient treasures that extend to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and rich culture at every turn on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht.

Embark on this unforgettable 13-day voyage through some of the most captivating parts of the Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Beginning in the Red Sea and the historic gateway of Aqaba, discover the coral-rich, transparent waters of Sharm El-Sheikh, and the Great Pyramids of Giza, within reach of Ain Sokhna. Journey through the Suez Canal, a modern-day engineering marvel, before exploring Haifa’s lush terraces and sacred landmarks in Israel. Continue to the cultural crossroads of Limassol in beautiful Cyprus, the dramatic coastline of Antalya, and the storied shores of Rhodes and Bodrum, home to a medieval Old Town and one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World. 'Soak up the iconic beauty of Mykonos, before concluding your luxury cruise in the ancient Greek capital, an intoxicating blend of ancient landmarks and modern dynamism.

Suite

Owner's Suite

These suites are the largest on board, located on the Pool Deck. Boasting a walk-in wardrobe and separate lounge and bedroom areas, you'll benefit from pure privacy. Your large private terrace enables you to relax alfresco, admiring stunning views.

Suite

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located on the Pool Deck, these spacious suites feature separate bedroom and lounge areas, and a private balcony for your enjoyment. Make the most of your state-of-the-art tea and coffee-making facilities and enjoy a fruit platter on arrival.

Suite

Yacht Suite

Positioned at the aft of the Observation Deck, you'll be treated to sensational coastal views from your private terrace. Enjoy this spacious suite with a welcome bottle of champagne and a wealth of space for your belongings including a walk-in wardrobe.

Suite

Balcony Suite

Located across the Observation and Panorama Decks, our Balcony Suites are your stylish home away from home. Enjoy stunning views from your private-access balcony and everything you need for a great night's sleep.

Outside

Oceanview Stateroom

Situated on the Emerald Deck, our Oceanview Staterooms boast ample space and offer stunning views through your ocean-view window. Indulge in the luxurious amenities you'll find here, such as ESPA toiletries in your en-suite bathroom.

Outside

Terrace Suite

Our spacious Terrace Suites take pride of place at the aft of the Panorama Deck. You'll enjoy a private oversized terrace, where you'll be able to soak up the sun. Take advantage of the pillow menu and have up to two items laundered each day.

regional

La Cucina

Our premier on board dining spot

Enjoy fine à la carte dining, as well as sumptuous breakfasts and lunches in the serene setting of our spacious La Cucina Dining, taking inspiration from the path you're navigating. This stylish restaurant boasts ample space and you can expect fresh, locally sourced dinners, thoughtfully crafted by our expert chefs. If you prefer to dine alfresco, head out to the adjoining Terrace to enjoy your meals under the sun.

casual

Aqua Pool Cafe

Light bites under the sun

At the Aqua Pool Café, a selection of flatbreads pack a punch with a range of fillings, and revitalising gelato satisfies your sweet tooth. Or, if you need a caffeine boost, grab a delicious coffee to go.

Bar, Lounge

Sky Bar

A drink with a view

Fancy taking in stunning vistas with your favourite cocktail? Head the Sky Bar on the Sky Deck and choose from our extensive drinks menu. And, if you need to cool off from the sun, why not take a dip in the nearby Spa Pool?

Sun Deck, Observation Point

Observation Sun Deck

A place to relax

Enjoy the serene poolside atmosphere, with exceptional panoramic views.

Bar, Lounge

Amici Bar & Lounge

Unwind in style

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink from the comfort of the Amici Bar & Lounge, the main lounge area on board our luxury yachts. Our expert mixologists will help you select the perfect drink from our extensive menus, with a range of spirits, wine, beer, cocktails, mocktails, or soft drinks there's something for everyone.

Lounge

Marina Lounge

For guests sailing on board Emerald Raiya, relax in the stunning Marina Lounge after your aquatic adventures.

Wellness

Gym

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Marina Platform

Marina Deck

Fun in the sea

Make the most of the Marina Platform, anchoring on selected days for incredible swim stops in the dazzling open waters.

Pool

Board Pools

Getting your laps in

Spacious on board pools provide plenty of room for swimming or a revitalising dip

Spa

Wellness Centre

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.