Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) portfolio company, today (December 7) hosted a grand ceremony to welcome Aroya Cruises’ inaugural ship, Aroya, into Jeddah. After a comprehensive transformation, Aroya is now ready to call Jeddah its homeport.

 

The occasion was celebrated with a traditional plaque and key ceremony, attended by Aroya’s captain, Jan Gelinder, and Cruise Saudi’s CEO Lars Clasen, and the President of Aroya Cruises, Dr Jorg Rudolph, and the Chief Destination Experiences Offices, Barbara Buczek.

 

Following months of dry-docking and design innovation in Bremerhaven and Rotterdam, Aroya now offers an exceptional cruising experience featuring a fully reimagined interior, with 95% of the ship’s spaces completely redesigned to reflect Arabian heritage and preferences.

 

The ship is equipped with an array of world-class facilities, such as a souq-inspired shopping district - the largest retail area ever built on a cruise ship - luxury spa facilities, a wellness centre, 29 restaurants, lounges and cafes, 20 entertainment venues, and one of the largest children’s play areas at sea.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Clasen said: "The arrival of Aroya marks the beginning of a new chapter for Cruise Saudi, and tourism in Saudi overall, in line with Saudi’s Vision 2030. Cruise Saudi was only launched in 2021 and witnessing the arrival of our first owned ship just three years later is a huge milestone."

 

"We are so grateful to the whole Cruise Saudi team for their hard work and dedication and are excited to be offering something truly unique to local, regional and international guests with the first ever Arabian cruise line," he stated.

 

Aroya’s maiden voyage will depart Jeddah on December 16, taking passengers on a three-night journey across the Red Sea.

 

Jeddah Islamic Port offers all services to handle international and local guests, as well as logistics services to cruise vessels. 

 

The port has long had great historical significance, with Jeddah being the principal gateway to the  cities of Makkah and Madinah.

 

Cruise terminal facilities have been upgraded to accommodate the largest cruise ships, and new bollards and fenders have been installed to serve cruise ships.-TradeArabia News Service