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

Egypt is making a notable comeback as a cruise destination, particularly at Alexandria Port, which has seen an influx of ship calls during the autumn of 2025. This uptick in cruise activity highlights a renewed confidence in the nation’s potential along the Mediterranean and Red Sea, following a decade of recovery.

In September and October 2025, the Norwegian Viva, part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s expanded Eastern Mediterranean itinerary, made three visits to Alexandria, bringing approximately 14,000 passengers to the historical site. The most recent port call on October 13 involved close cooperation with various Egyptian ministries to emphasize the sector’s growing significance in the country’s economic revival.

The Norwegian Viva’s arrival was notably well-coordinated, featuring escort from tugs, pilot boats, and security vessels, with operations continuously monitored via radar. Guests enjoyed organized excursions to cultural landmarks before the ship continued its journey to Greece.

The return of Norwegian Viva on October 21 coincided with a nine-night cruise that includes stops in Piraeus, Istanbul, Mykonos, Rhodes, Kusadasi, Limassol, and Santorini, marking Alexandria’s renewed presence on high-end cruise itineraries.

Other ships like Aroya from AROYA Cruises, Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam from Holland America Line, and Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady have also frequented the port, making this autumn one of the busiest seasons in recent years for Alexandria. This surge underscores Egypt’s emerging role as a vital hub for Mediterranean and Red Sea cruises.

Long-term government initiatives to enhance maritime tourism have played a critical role in this resurgence. While Nile cruising has thrived over the past years with new vessels like Viking Osiris, Viking Aton, and Viking Sobek, the sea cruise sector is now regaining significant traction.

Investments in port facilities at Alexandria, Safaga, and Sharm El Sheikh, coupled with improved stability and a growing interest from international cruise operators, are establishing Egypt’s foothold on the regional cruise map. With more cruise calls projected into 2026, Egypt’s strategy to merge its rich cultural heritage with modern maritime tourism is yielding positive outcomes, indicating that the nation’s Mediterranean gateway is regaining its status.

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