Alexandria Port’s Autumn Surge: A Promising Signal for Egypt’s Cruise Comeback

Egypt is experiencing a resurgence in cruise tourism, particularly marked by the recent activity at Alexandria Port. Throughout the autumn of 2025, the port welcomed various prominent ship calls, signaling a rejuvenation in its status as a key cruise destination.

Between September and October 2025, the Norwegian Viva, part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s expanded Eastern Mediterranean program, made three visits to Alexandria, bringing nearly 14,000 passengers to the historic city. The latest of these visits took place on October 13, where port authorities, in collaboration with multiple Egyptian ministries, emphasized the growing significance of cruise tourism in Egypt’s economic revival.

Upon its arrival, the Norwegian Viva was escorted safely by tugs and security vessels, with disembarkation managed by the General Administration of Passenger Movement. This organization facilitated excursions for passengers to explore the rich cultural and historical sites before the ship continued its journey to Greece.

Another scheduled visit by the Norwegian Viva on October 21 coincided with a nine-night cruise that began in Piraeus and included stops in Istanbul, Mykonos, Rhodes, Kusadasi, Limassol, and Santorini. This itinerary marks a definitive return of Alexandria to high-end cruise routes.

Additionally, other cruise ships such as Aroya from AROYA Cruises, Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam, and Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady have all visited Alexandria this autumn. This influx of vessels has made this one of the busiest seasons for the port in recent years and reinforces Egypt’s emerging prominence as a hub for Mediterranean and Red Sea cruises.

The increase in activity is the culmination of long-term government efforts to enhance Egypt’s maritime tourism profile. While Nile cruises have seen growth over the last decade with new vessels like Viking Osiris, Viking Aton, and Viking Sobek, seaside cruising is finally gaining significant traction.

Investments in port infrastructure in Alexandria, Safaga, and Sharm El Sheikh, along with improved stability in the region and heightened interest from global cruise lines, are solidifying Egypt’s position on the cruise map. With many more ship visits anticipated into 2026, the strategy to combine Egypt’s cultural heritage with modern maritime tourism is proving successful, indicating that the Mediterranean gateway has truly regained its significance.

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