Suez Canal

Experience the Wonders of the Suez Canal with Cruise1st

The Suez Canal, a marvel of engineering and history, serves as a vital waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. This canal not only facilitates international shipping but also offers isolated beauty and an array of historical sites for cruisers to discover. Did you know that the Suez Canal is one of the busiest waterways in the world, handling around 12% of global trade? A cruise through this iconic canal isn't just about getting from one point to another—it's a journey filled with opportunities to explore diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient history along the way. So grab your passport and get ready for adventure!

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Suez Canal

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 3 vessels that cruise through the Suez Canal, including MSC Euribia and MSC Magnifica. These ships are particularly celebrated for their modern amenities and engaging entertainment options, making them a favourite among family and solo travelers alike. Most MSC sailings depart from international ports like Dubai or Civitavecchia (Rome), allowing cruisers to start their journeys in captivating cities before enjoying the experience of the Suez Canal.
• Princess Cruises: This line boasts a fleet of 17, with 2 ships exploring the Suez Canal—Coral Princess and Crown Princess. Each ship offers a wealth of onboard activities and exquisite dining, making them particularly appealing for those seeking adventure balanced with luxury. For travellers from Australia, choose departures from Sydney or Brisbane, whereas most other trips kick off from international ports like Singapore or Auckland.
• Holland America Line: Comprising 11 ships, Holland America has 1 ship, the Volendam, traversing the Suez Canal. Known for its commitment to cultural immersion and culinary excellence, this line provides unique shore excursions that elevate the cruising experience. Most sailings depart from Sydney, while international options include ports like Singapore or Fort Lauderdale.
• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line operates a fleet of 4, including the Queen Anne, which recently began offering itineraries through the Suez Canal. Cunard ships are renowned for their classic elegance, high-end dining and engaging onboard activities, promising an extraordinary cruising experience. Expect to set off from luxurious departures in Dubai.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Suez Canal

• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 2 ships—Azamara Onward and Azamara Pursuit—exploring the Suez Canal. These ships are known for their immersive travel experiences and late-night stays in port, allowing for more extensive exploration. Most sailings typically depart from Dubai or Yokohama (Tokyo), making them a fantastic choice for any boutique cruise enthusiast.
• Seabourn: This luxury line has a fleet of 6, with 1 ship—Seabourn Encore—offering itineraries through the Suez Canal. Seabourn ships boast exceptional service and gourmet dining, ensuring that every moment spent onboard is unforgettable. Departures most often embark from Athens, setting the tone for an elegant journey from the outset.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea operates 1 ship—Silver Dawn—through the Suez Canal. Known for their all-inclusive luxury experience, Silversea caters to discerning travelers who desire the finest indulgences. Sailings typically depart from Perth (Fremantle), making it an excellent option for luxury cruisers.

Notable Harbours in the Suez Canal

• Suez Canal, Egypt: The heart of the journey, the Suez Canal is not just a transit point but a remarkable experience in itself. Cruisers often have the opportunity to enjoy views of the canal's unique geography and maybe catch glimpses of the local wildlife along the banks as you sail through. Don't miss the chance to learn about the history of this engineering marvel by engaging with onboard lectures or guided tours provided by experts.

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After the Suez Canal Experience

• Petra, Jordan: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Petra is known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, famously accessed through a narrow gorge called Siq. Cruise visitors can spend a day exploring this iconic site, hiking to the Monastery or Treasury, and immersing themselves in the ancient Nabatean culture.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: As the port for Rome, Civitavecchia offers easy access to the Eternal City. While there, don’t miss the chance to visit the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. Consider a guided tour to experience these magnificent sites, ensuring you see all the highlights in a limited timeframe.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A global metropolis, Dubai is packed with extravagant shopping, modern architecture, and lively nightlife. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, soak in the views from the observation deck, and explore the historic Al Fahidi District. An evening in the Dubai Marina offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement to cap off your stopover.
• Singapore: As a vibrant melting pot of cultures, Singapore offers an array of activities for any traveler. While docked, visit the stunning Gardens by the Bay, the fantastic Marina Bay Sands resort, or explore the delicious hawker food scene. A guided city tour can help you navigate the sights efficiently, ensuring you don’t miss out!
• Alexandria, Egypt: Known for its rich history and Mediterranean charm, Alexandria features the historic Lighthouse of Alexandria and the Ancient Library of Alexandria. Visitors can explore the city's connections to Cleopatra and Alexander the Great in the many museums and archaeological sites, making it a fascinating prelude to your Suez Canal journey.

Best Times to Cruise to the Suez Canal

When planning your Suez Canal adventure, consider cruising between October and April for ideal temperatures. Expect milder conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 20-25°C, making it perfect for activities both onboard and ashore. Summer months (May to September) can become quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 30°C, making the experience a challenge, especially during excursions.

Cost Overview for Suez Canal Cruises

A typical cruise to the Suez Canal may range from $1,800 to $2,700 AUD for a weeklong journey, while two weeks can run between $3,600 to $5,400 AUD. Luxury cruises tend to start around $5,500 AUD for a week and can escalate to around $12,000 AUD for a complete two-week adventure. Meals are usually included aboard ships, but for dining ashore, expect food costs to range from $20 to $40 AUD, while drinks typically vary from $8 to $15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're eyeing a cruise to the Suez Canal, consider these captivating alternatives:

• Red Sea: Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, the Red Sea is perfect for snorkelers and divers alike. Its warm waters and stunning beaches make it a go-to alternative for sun-soaked adventures!
• Eastern Mediterranean: From sun-drenched beaches in Greece to ancient ruins in Turkey, the Eastern Mediterranean offers a treasure trove of experiences, perfect for culture enthusiasts and sun-seekers.
• Western Mediterranean: With a mix of iconic cities and picturesque coastlines, the Western Mediterranean is perfect for travelers seeking immersion in the diverse cultures of Spain, Italy, and France.
• Southern Africa: If you're after adventure, Southern Africa offers stunning safaris, rich culture, and world-renowned vineyards. Combine the excitement of city life with breathtaking natural beauty for the ultimate getaway.
• Baja California, Mexico: If you fancy beautiful beaches and marine biodiversity, Baja offers opportunities for whale watching, diving, and relaxing on sandy shores, making it an enticing alternative.

Ready to embark on this captivating journey through the Suez Canal? Let Cruise1st help chart your path to unforgettable destinations loaded with history, adventure, and unforgettable experiences!