Egypt, Cairo Cruise from Sokhna Port to Larnaca — 11 Days

Sokhna, Egypt

Set on the western shore of the Gulf of Suez, Sokhna Port is Egypt’s Red Sea gateway to Cairo. The capital lies about 120 kilometres away. A day trip can take you to the pyramids of Giza and Cairo’s historic quarters, but expect a substantial drive. Nearer the port, Ain Sokhna pairs desert mountains with Red Sea beaches. The port also sits close to the southern entrance of the Suez Canal, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

At Sinai’s southern tip, Sharm el-Sheikh sets the Red Sea against a spare landscape of mountains and desert. Its clear waters and coral gardens draw divers and snorkelers, with Ras Mohammed National Park among the region’s marine reserves. Naama Bay has cafés and shops; the Old Market offers spices, produce, and a glimpse of everyday local trade. Beyond the resorts, a drive into the Sinai interior reveals rugged peaks and broad desert horizons.

Aqaba, Jordan

Jordan’s only seaport, Aqaba opens onto the Red Sea and its coral reefs. It also sits within reach of Petra’s carved façades and Wadi Rum’s sandstone valleys. Snorkel or dive among vivid marine life, then return to explore the Ottoman-era fort and waterfront souks. A compact centre makes it easy to combine a waterfront stroll with the Aqaba Archaeological Museum, beside the fort.

Hurghada, Egypt

Hurghada’s Red Sea is the main event, with clear water, coral reefs and excellent diving. Desert excursions trade the coastline for Bedouin camps and the broad terrain of Egypt’s Eastern Desert. Back in town, explore El Dahar’s markets or stroll the Hurghada Marina, where cafés and restaurants overlook the harbor. Bring swimwear: much of the city’s appeal begins beneath the surface.

Safaga, Egypt

Safaga is a working Red Sea port, with little to detain you at the quayside. Its value is access to Luxor, roughly 220 kilometres inland. At Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut’s temple, ancient Thebes becomes tangible. Prefer the coast? Safaga’s clear waters invite diving and snorkelling, while steady winds attract water-sports enthusiasts. Choose your day before leaving the ship; long road journeys make improvisation costly.

At Sea (At Sea)

Suez Canal, Egypt

Few waterways alter a voyage as decisively as the Suez Canal. Cutting through Egypt’s desert, this 120-mile route links the Mediterranean with the Red Sea, avoiding the long passage around Africa. Opened in 1869, the canal has no locks, and ships cross it in convoy. From deck, watch banks of sand, passing freighters, and the changing light over Great Bitter Lake. Ismailia offers a glimpse of the canal’s history, while Port Said and Suez mark its northern and southern gateways.

At Sea (At Sea)

Paphos, Cyprus

At Paphos, ancient history meets the Mediterranean in a compact city where the past is close at hand. The UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park preserves Roman villas and mosaics whose details remain striking after two millennia. Near the harbor, the Tombs of the Kings form a remarkable necropolis carved into bedrock. Beyond the city, Petra tou Romiou links the coast to the legend of Aphrodite’s birth.

Larnaca, Cyprus

Larnaca rewards a shore day that begins on foot. From the palm-lined Finikoudes promenade, the old town is close. The ninth-century Church of Saint Lazarus is its landmark. Visit ancient Kition’s excavated remains, then head to Larnaca Salt Lake, where flamingos gather in winter. Cafés and a relaxed waterfront make this eastern Cypriot city an easy introduction to the island.