Nicko Cruises Launches Jeddah Land Program in Response to Red Sea Rerouting
Nicko Cruises is set to enter the Saudi Arabian market with a new 4-night land program in Jeddah, integrated into their revised world cruise itinerary aboard the Vasco da Gama for the 2025-2026 season. The cruise departed from Hamburg earlier this month, but ongoing regional security issues in the Red Sea have led the company to modify the segment originally planned to transit from Dubai to Piraeus on March 20, 2026. Instead, passengers will disembark at Salalah, Oman, and be flown by charter to Jeddah while the ship continues repositioning independently.
The Jeddah program aims to immerse guests in the city’s rich heritage, food, and culture. Travelers will stay in a 4-star hotel and participate in excursions showcasing significant attractions, including the historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its coral-stone architecture and traditional markets. After their stay, guests will reboard Vasco da Gama to continue their journey through the Suez Canal and on to Europe.
Guido Laukamp, the Managing Director of Nicko Cruises, noted that while the company hopes for stabilization in the Yemen region, they are taking steps to ensure passenger safety and provide substantial cultural experiences. This new offering comes as more cruise lines begin operations in the region; for instance, Celestyal has announced its debut calls to Jeddah, and MSC Cruises is ramping up its sailings in the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia’s cruise industry is rapidly progressing, recently joining the Cruise Arabia Alliance, which includes Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar. This partnership aims to enhance multi-country itineraries and consolidate the Gulf’s appeal as a cruising destination. Additionally, the upcoming launch of Connections Cruise Arabia in September 2025 intends to gather industry leaders to discuss the future growth and visibility of the Gulf’s cruise market.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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