Secrets of the Red Sea - 11 Days from Jeddah to Aqaba

Situated on the eastern shore of the Red Sea, from the 7th century Jeddah became a major port along the Indian Ocean trade routes. Its strategic position, particularly for travellers and goods bound for Mecca, enabled it to play a central role in the Saudi economy. Today still, the city cleverly blends its heritage derived from its ancient history with its current modernism. In Al-Balad, Jeddah’s old town listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, take a deep-dive into this glorious past by admiring the fine details of the Hejazi architecture. The result of combining multiple influences borrowed from merchants and travellers with the regional traditions of construction using coral, it reflects ancestral and magnificent know-how. You will also have the chance to discover the Beit Nassif museum and cultural centre in what was once the house of Nassif, built in the late 19th century.

On Baridi Island, Saudi Arabia reveals an unexpected facet. The fine sand of the Red Sea and the crystal-clear water try to outdo each other with their beauty and offer an idyllic setting where time stands still. Spend some time relaxing or enjoy the water-based activities on offer. Swimming and snorkelling are two of the options available at this port of call.

Yanbu was established more than 2,500 years ago, when the city was a stopping point on the spice and incense route between Yemen and Egypt. In the city’s historic district, the Hejazi architecture that is typical of the Red Sea coastal areas will reveal itself during a walking tour that will also take you to discover the former residence of the famous Lawrence of Arabia. Admire the copper, the spices, and explore a variety of shops selling local arts and crafts as you wander through Souq Al Lail, the city's night market. Yanbu also stands out for its exceptional aquatic environment featuring a coral reef and a rich biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

A former fishing and mining village, Safaga is now a charming seaside resort with much to offer. Located on the western coast of the Red Sea and preserved from mass tourism, the town will really plunge you into the heart of authentic Egypt and is an ideal departure point for an excursion into the desert in search of the Bedouin. The site is also renowned for the beauty of its underwater world, perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. Above all, though, this stop in Safaga provides the opportunity to discover Luxor, the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, considered to be one of the world’s greatest open-air museums thanks to its exceptional Pharaonic heritage.

Once a small fishing village nestling in the entrance of the Gulf of Suez, Hurghada is now an important Red Sea resort. The city, which developed exponentially over the 20th century, is home to magnificent buildings, such as the Mosque El Mina Masjid: located near the port, it has different characteristics of Islamic architecture to be admired. However, the city is particularly renowned for its exceptional underwater world that you will be able to discover snorkelling. Unless you prefer to take an excursion in a glass-bottomed boat: a perfect opportunity to admire superb coral reefs and countless colourful fish without getting wet!

Situated in the far south of the State of Israel, on the banks of the Gulf of Eilat, on the edge of the Negev Desert between Egypt and Jordan, Eilat is internationally renowned as a high-end seaside resort and spa town, as well as for its magnificent natural sites. The first references to this place date back to the time of King Solomon. His legendary mines are said to be located not far from the now-modern city. It is the departure point for visiting the Masada fortress and for the incredible experience of swimming in the Dead Sea.

Located in the Red Sea within the eponymous gulf, Aqaba offers Jordan its only access to the sea. At the crossroads of the land and sea routes that linked Asia, Africa and Europe, the town is rich with more than 5,000 years of history. The warm waters of the Red Sea attract holidaymakers and divers to this seaside destination; the underwater sites home to coral and fishes are some of the most beautiful in the world. Aqaba is also the gateway to the magnificent desert of Wadi Rum and the marvellous site of Petra.

Itineraries are subject to change.