Discover the Echoes of Antiquity from Aqaba to Pireaus

Arrive in Aqaba and step aboard your luxurious Emerald Cruises superyacht to embark on an unforgettable cruise of the Red Sea. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Aqaba prior to 07:00 PM.

On the edge of the Red Sea, Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city, is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and sunken vessels. Divers and snorkellers are drawn to warm, clear waters to explore these underwater ecosystems. Beyond its natural allure, Aqaba holds a significant place in history.

Today we set off early in the morning to reach Eilat. Eilat, on the edge of Negev Desert between Egypt and Jordan and encircled by unique rock formations, is a destination of sun, sea and desert. Famous for water sports and incredible natural beauty, Eilat is the gateway to the Coral World Underwater Observatory with Aquarium Museum, Shark Tank, Turtle and Stingray Pool.

On the tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula is the glamorous resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh. Here, the desert meets the sea, creating an environment rich in biodiversity and a melting pot of cultures. Visitors can dive into the fascinating world beneath the Red Sea’s surface, stroll through ancient mosques or bustling bazaars.

Safaga is an enchanting Egyptian city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, water sports, and interesting history. The former fishing village is known for its fresh air, black sand dunes, and mineral springs.

Safaga serves as a gateway to some of Egypt's most iconic historical sites that bring you into the heart of authentic Egypt. One of them is Luxor, used to be known as “The city of Hundred Doors “. It is considered by many to be the world’s greatest open-air museum where some of the most majestic temples lie.

Positioned on the western shore of the Red Sea's Gulf of Suez, Ain Sokhna is an elegant seaside town. It's only two hours from the Egyptian capital, Cairo, making it the perfect base for visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Ain Sokhna, which translates to 'hot spring,' was named after the nearby sulphur springs that flow from the Gebel Ataqa, the northernmost mountain in the Eastern Desert. The hot springs are said to have immense therapeutic effects.

Today we cross the Suez Canal before reaching Haifa in Israel. The Suez Canal, built by Ferdinand de Lesseps and completed in 1869, carves through 162km of desert, linking the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.

In Haifa enjoy views of the bustling harbour set against the backdrop of Mount Carmel. Within the city, the restored stone houses and cafés of the German Colony neighbourhood create picturesque streetscapes. Dine at one of the many eateries and try local specialities such as Shawarma, a Middle Eastern dish of sliced meat or the savoury pastries Borekas filled with cheese, spinach, or potato. 

Ashdod is a gateway to other significant sites in Israel, notably the 5000-year-old city of Jerusalem and further east, the Dead Sea, known for its therapeutic properties. A visit to Jerusalem is of profound historical and religious significance. It seamlessly blends ancient with modern day and has many must-see monuments such as the Western Wall and The Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 

After breakfast, you can set off to explore Ashdod, a gateway to many significant sites in Israel. In the afternoon, we’ll welcome you back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey, where you’ll get to explore the Mediterranean coastline.

The city of Ashdod is a gateway to other significant sites in Israel, notably the 5000-year-old city of Jerusalem and further east, the Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on the earth’s surface known for its therapeutic properties. A visit to Jerusalem is of profound historical and religious significance. It seamlessly blends ancient with modern day and has many must-see sacred monuments such as the Western Wall, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the gates of the Old City.

Israel’s third-largest city, Haifa is a bustling port city offering stunning seaside views and vibrant urban life. One notable landmark is Mount Carmel, a coastal mountain range that creates an impressive city backdrop. Perched atop Mount Carmel, you'll find the Shrine of the Bab, a majestic golden-domed structure surrounded by the Baha'i Gardens, known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa. 

Larnaca is the third largest city in Cyprus and was built over the ancient ruins of the city of Kition. It is a place where past and present blend into a delightful mosaic of sun and culture. It is a destination that amazes every guest with its diversity, its special atmosphere and the hospitality of its people.

The ancient seaport of Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite and the entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the city's iconic landmarks is the Paphos Archaeological Park, home to a remarkable collection of Greco-Roman ruins. Here, you can explore the ancient Odeon amphitheatre, the Tombs of the Kings, and the stunning mosaic floors of four Roman villas. 

The cityscape of Antalya is a mesmerising blend of azure skies, dense forests, and the blue Mediterranean Sea. The Taurus Mountains provide a contrast to the city's sun-soaked beaches, making Antalya a paradise for nature lovers. Antalya's rich history unfolds in its well-preserved old town, Kaleiçi, where Roman-era harbour walls, Hellenistic gates, and Ottoman-era houses pay homage to the city's storied past. 

Kas is a small coastal town, well known for its quaint, white-washed houses, clear turquoise waters, and ancient ruins. Start your visit by exploring the ancient ruins that dot the city. The Hellenistic Theatre, built in the 4th century BC, offers panoramic views of the town and sea.  

The Medieval City of Rhodes, known as the ‘Island of Knights’, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Encircled within a four-kilometre length of wall, the city's medieval buildings, the Street of the Knights, and the Palace of the Grand Master make you feel like you’re in the Middle Ages. Rhodes is also famous for delicious local dishes — try the melekouni (a traditional sweet) and pitaroudia (chickpea fritters). 

Kos is a Greek island just four kilometres off the coast of Bodrum, Turkey. It's the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, and home to several historic ruins, including an ancient agora, a Roman Odeon, and the Asklepion, an ancient healing temple.

Patmos is a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea steeped in religious history. The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, a UNESCO World Heritage site, towers over the island's capital, Chora. Nearby you'll find the Cave of the Apocalypse, where, according to tradition, Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation. The local cuisine of Patmos is a delightful mix of traditional Greek dishes and fresh seafood. 

Visiting Kusadasi offers a fascinating blend of history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant markets. Its history dates to ancient times, with early settlements by the Lelegians and Carians around 3000 BC. The town has seen many rulers, including the Byzantines, Venetians, and Genoese. 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Athens, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 12:00 PM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.