All-inclusive Red Sea Cruise through the magical Middle East

See Jeddah, Petra, Sharm El-Sheikh and more with an awe-inspiring Red Sea cruise - includes full board, premium drinks package, flights and transfers

Glide through the deep blue waters of the Red Sea aboard the magnificent MSC Orchestra, where over seven nights you’ll experience the very best of what this stunning corner of the world has to offer. From splash-filled fun in the sun to coral reefs, ancient cultural sites and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, there’s something to please every discerning traveller on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Starting in the port town of Safaga, you’ll be touching down in no fewer than three countries, experiencing the highlights of the Middle East from Egypt to Saudi Arabia, Jordan and back. Take in majestic architecture at Jeddah, ancient ruins at Petra, and coral reefs in Sharm El-Sheikh - and with two full days at sea to experience the ship’s impressive array of activities, luxurious amenities and gourmet offerings, you’re in for an adventure that ticks all the boxes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Safaga

After landing at Hurghada International Airport, you’ll be whisked away via shared shuttle straight to Safaga, where the majestic MSC Orchestra awaits you. Unwind ahead of the week’s adventures in the privacy of your cabin, or perhaps step out and take a quick tour of this beautiful port town if time permits.

Day 2: At Sea

Having set sail for the first leg of your journey, you’ll find plenty to do when you aren’t sunbathing by the pool. A floating world of its own completely at your disposal, you’ll find an onboard water park to make a splash in, as well as a thrilling zip line and Himalayan bridge to take your all-round sea views to the next level. Whether you opt for a lazy day in or stay up into the small hours, be sure to get some sleep in - the marvels of Jeddah await you in the morning.

Day 3: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Welcome to Jeddah, a cultural melting-pot that has for centuries been one of Saudi Arabia’s key port cities and the first stop for pilgrims on the way to Mecca. Recently dubbed the ‘art capital of Saudi Arabia,’ you’ll find a vibrant mixture of old and new here, from historic landmarks like the floating Al Rahma Mosque and bustling Al Balad district (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, no less), to contemporary architectural feats like King Fahd’s Fountain, the tallest in the world. Strolling down the New Jeddah Corniche seafront promenade for spellbinding sea and city views, before dipping into the Al Balad old town to immerse yourself in traditional city life from times gone by. At the close of your sightseeing adventures, return to the glamorous MSC Orchestra, and prepare for another day out on the open waters.

Day 4: At Sea

Take deep breaths of the salty sea air as you glide peacefully through the sparkling waters - today is your chance to unwind after yesterday’s action-packed pit-stop, and ahead of tomorrow’s bucket-list outings.

Day 5: Aqaba (Petra) Jordan

Jordan’s southernmost port city of Aqaba is the launchpad for today’s otherworldly adventures, set against a dramatic backdrop of crimson-hued cliffs and with the desert land of the Wadi Rum just beyond. With some 6000-years of history under its belt, the city wears its heritage with pride, from the well-preserved Aqaba Fort to imposing mosques and ancient archaeological sites. It’s also an international diving hotspot, with crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs attracting scuba divers and snorkellers from around the world.

Join one of the cruise’s excursions to wander into a hidden valley tucked away between Jordan’s Shara mountains, where the legendary city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, lies shrouded in mystery. With a past estimated to date back millennia, it’s often called the ‘Lost City’ due to its being undiscovered by western civilisation until just a few centuries ago, and is also known as the ‘Rose City’ after the bright colour of its dazzling rock-carved architecture. You’ll want to bring a camera for this one.

After a day packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, return to your cabin for a good night’s sleep before reaching tomorrow’s glamorous destination.

Day 6: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Framed by turquoise waters and the enchanting landscape of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El-Sheikh is undoubtedly one of Egypt’s best-loved beach destinations. Dotted with luxury hotels and lavish all-inclusive resorts, the town’s vast sandy stretch has direct access to untouched coral reefs, so if you missed out on a dive in Aqaba (or simply want more), be sure to make time for a swim.

You’ll find no shortage of cosmopolitan pursuits on land, from the palm-fringed Naama Bay promenade studded with high-end shops, restaurants and bars, to the buzzing Old Town with its traditional market. And as the bright city lights are thrown into relief by the darkening sky, return to the MSC Orchestra to set sail for the final stop on your journey.

Day 7: Sokhna Port, Egypt

A lesser-known town lying on the western shores of the Gulf of Suez, Sokhna is one of Egypt’s hidden gems. Wander onto the deck to look out as you drift through clear patches of water as the ship pulls into this magical Port town, the gateway to the mesmerising attractions that await inland.

Due to the nature of the town, passengers must purchase an excursion in order to disembark - and we highly recommend you do to make the most of the area. Drive off towards the capital city of Cairo for a full immersion into Egyptian culture past and present, or go off the beaten track with an awe-inspiring excursion to the Red Sea Hills, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of some of the first Christian monastics as you visit the monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul, dating back to the fourth century. Take in the otherworldly stillness and ethereal landscape that surrounds you, before hitting the road back to the ship for your final night onboard.

Day 8: Safaga

After docking in Safaga, your mind filled with wonderful new memories of your travels, say goodbye to your stylish digs, and hop onto the shuttle back to Hurghada International Airport for your flight home.