October 3, 2026 — Aroya Cruises, the Saudi-owned line that sails from Istanbul, has formally entered the UK market and says it intends to grow from one ship to three, with the second arriving in 2032 or 2033.
Aroya is part of Cruise Saudi, which is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. It held its first London trade event on October 2, 2026, Seatrade Cruise News reports. Acting chief executive Taha Nazer told the audience, “We are planning three ships,” and said the line is working with shipyards on purpose-built vessels instead of buying and refitting older ones. Which yard, and when an order will be placed, are TBA.
Where Aroya sails
| Program | When | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Mediterranean | October 2026 – March 2027 | Six- and seven-night cruises from Galataport, Istanbul, with overnight calls at Alexandria plus Marmaris, Bodrum and Kuşadası; guests can also board in Alexandria |
| Western Mediterranean | June – July 2027 | New 14-night voyages reaching Italy, Malta, Tunisia and Croatia |
| Red Sea | Winter (exact dates TBA) | Themed cruises from Sharm El Sheikh and Jeddah; a September “grand voyage” moves the ship to Jeddah through the Suez Canal |
The line says it sells in 25 markets and has carried guests of more than 100 nationalities, and that 70% of its passengers are non-Muslim, many of them European.
What it means for airline travelers
- Istanbul is the main gateway. Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) both serve the city; Galataport is in the city center. Fly in a day early if you are on standby.
- Alexandria boarding gives a second option for travelers already in Egypt.
- Red Sea cruises start from Jeddah (JED) or Sharm El Sheikh (SSH). Check entry and visa rules for Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye for your passport before booking.
- Interline and travel-industry rates: none were announced. The UK launch was aimed at travel agents, so ask your interline agency whether Aroya is available.
- The fleet growth is years away. Nothing changes for current bookings.
Sources
- Seatrade Cruise News — Aroya enters UK market, plans three-ship fleet
