Cruise Africa & Middle East | Windstar Cruises' Arabian Nights & Egyptian Days

Day 1 |  Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

A harmony of culture, history and contemporary life, the seaport city of Jeddah is the country's main commercial hub and the gateway to holy Mecca and Medina. Discover beautiful landscapes and stunning architecture, including the Hijazi-style town of Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, plus remarkable arts and entertainment options, shopping districts and multi-cultural waterfront dining. Following embarkation, delight in a welcome reception as you set sail.

Day 2 |  Yanbu, Saudia Arabia

Known for its incredible beaches and lakes, coral reefs and desert landscapes, delight in the wonders of Yanbu. Once used as a spice trading route, now considered the scuba capital, explore traditional-style homes and marketplaces in the Yanbu Historic District, or journey to the 1st-century B.C.'s well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, a remnant of a Nabataean civilization, its tombs and decorated facades.

Day 3 |  At Sea

Explore the redefined public areas including a library, boutique and lounges, plus enjoy the elevated pool, whirlpool, and fitness center for those healthy workouts, or be pampered with a treatment at the renewed World Spa by Windstar.

Days 4 - 5 |  Safaga/Luxor, Egypt

Step back in time to the days of the Pharaohs as you visit this remarkable ancient land. Uncover the mysteries of Luxor's Valley of the Kings, including King Tut's tomb, located in the West Bank. Stand in awe at the architectural masterpiece of Hatshepsut Temple and the 60-foot statues of Colossi of Memnon. Visit the East Banks' Karnak temple complex, the most religious temple of ancient Egypt. Spend a day beachside, or swim with the fish and dolphins amid the beautiful corals, savoring the beauty of the Red Sea.

Days 6 - 7 |  Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Once a quiet fishing village and important transit point, now a glitzy resort town with miles of warm coastal waters along the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula, unique experiences abound. Perfect for beachgoers, snorkelers, and divers alike, discover beautiful beaches, coral reefs brimming with marine life, as well as world-class shopping, attractions, and vibrant nightlife. For an optional escorted tour, traverse the winding roads to Mt. Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery, believed to be the sacred site where Moses saw the burning bush and received the Ten Commandments. For those who wish an optional desert adventure, Bedouin guides will accompany you on a camel ride to engage in their culture, concluding with a cup of Bedouin black tea made with desert herbs.

Day 8 | Ain Sokhna/Cairo, Egypt

Located on the right bank of the Nile River, this ancient city is the largest metropolis in the whole of Africa. Infused with a mosaic of traditions, cultures and history, discover a wealth of historic archeological sites, priceless artifacts and colorful souks. Embark on an optional guided excursion to the Egyptian Museum, filled with a vast global collection of Pharaonic antiquities before exploring the famous Giza Pyramid complex guarded by the Great Sphinx or visit the royal tombs of sacred Sakkara.

Day 9 |  Hurghada, Egypt

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Hurghada welcomes travelers with luxury resorts, sparkling turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs and Arabian desert adventures. Enjoy Red Sea dive opportunities including a semi-submarine excursion; head to the desert on an optional 4x4 vehicle safari or mingle with locals at a produce market, followed by lunch with a local Egyptian family.

Day 10 |  Aqaba/Petra, Jordan

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast spread before disembarkation to the red rock-carved city of Petra. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, experience this fabled Nabatean city. Marvel at the dazzling rock formations, high cliffs and narrow gorges that reveal intricately cut rock tombs, temples and wealth of ancient provincial remains.