Egypt, an exotic destination cloaked in mystery and brimming with secrets of its fascinating history. But what exactly makes this beautiful country such a gem for luxury cruising? From captivating shore excursions and cultural enrichment experiences to unique ports of call, here’s 5 reasons why Egypt is a must-visit for any luxury cruiser. 

Egypt is a phenomenal destination for any cruiser who loves to spend time off the ship and immerse themselves in the destinations on their itineraries. The luxury cruise lines offer a vast array of rich, historical shore excursions which envelop you in Egypt’s fascinating ancient world. 

From the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx to the Egyptian museum, Egypt is filled with opportunities for exploration. For the adventurous, you can embark on a desert safari or enjoy a private archaeological tour, or if you’d prefer to relax, there are plenty of spa retreats and beaches to offer some well-deserved downtime. 

Azamara’s recent launch of their 2027 and 2028 voyages include exciting new itineraries to Egypt’s legendary Valley of the Kings, a significant archaeological site situated on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor that serves as the burial ground for many pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including the iconic Tutankhamun, discovered only a mere 100 years ago. 

Enjoy a host of gourmet shore experiences and indulge in a myriad of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Egyptian speciality dishes like koshari, molokhia and grilled Nile perch, paired with traditional music and arts. Regent Seven Seas offer an exhilarating jeep safari to a Bedouin settlement, where you can enjoy sweet tea and freshly made flatbread, as well as shopping for hand-painted copies of tomb paintings, locally made jewellery and replicas of ancient artifacts. 

The Suez Canal – a 120-mile man-made waterway - has long been renowned as an iconic passage, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, and becoming the gateway to iconic destinations, from Athens and Cairo to Dubai and Aqaba (Jordan). It provides a smooth and easy route between Europe, the Middle East and Africa. 

This spectacular journey is a must-visit for any cruiser - not only as one of the world’s most iconic maritime landmarks, but for its truly exceptional panoramic desert landscapes. Marvel at the stark contrast between the golden desert sands and the blue-green waters of the canal and admire the small Egyptian towns nestled between an abundance of palm groves. 

4. Visit iconic locations 

There are a range of incredible ports you can visit while on your luxury cruise through Egypt. Not only can you explore Cairo through Alexandria and the Valley of Kings in Luxor, but you can also witness the Suez Canal through Port Said and the Red Sea at Sharm el-Sheikh. 

The Red Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a perfect region to visit on your Egyptian voyage. The destination is rich in adventure, offering exclusive spots for diving, snorkelling and water sports, perfect for those seeking some relaxation amongst historical shore excursions. 

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll experience blue skies and sunny days for the duration of your time in Egypt, no matter when you decide to travel. Although this exotic paradise is the perfect place to escape the colder months and treat yourself to some winter sun.