12 days from

£7495.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview

Highlights

Dates & Prices

Itinerary

Map

Ships

HighlightsExploring the Ancient City of Petra: Visit the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its stunning rock-carved architecture, including the famous Treasury.
Suez Canal Transit: Experience the unique journey of transiting the Suez Canal, a historic waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
Relaxing in Sharm el Sheikh: Enjoy the beautiful resort town of Sharm el Sheikh, with options for snorkeling in the Ras Mohamed National Park or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.
Exploring Jeddah's Historic Center: Discover Jeddah's historic UNESCO-listed center, Al Balad, with its traditional architecture, bustling souqs, and a visit to Beit Nassif, a well-preserved historical coral house turned museum.

                    Highlights
                    Exploring the Ancient City of Petra: Visit the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its stunning rock-carved architecture, including the famous Treasury.
Suez Canal Transit: Experience the unique journey of transiting the Suez Canal, a historic waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
Relaxing in Sharm el Sheikh: Enjoy the beautiful resort town of Sharm el Sheikh, with options for snorkeling in the Ras Mohamed National Park or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.
Exploring Jeddah's Historic Center: Discover Jeddah's historic UNESCO-listed center, Al Balad, with its traditional architecture, bustling souqs, and a visit to Beit Nassif, a well-preserved historical coral house turned museum.

                  

Ship Hebridean Sky

Capacity: 114, Type: Luxury Small Ship Cruise

Feture image for Wonders of Antiquity - 12 Days From Cyprus to Saudi Arabia

Join the MS Hebridean Sky for this passage through antiquity as we sail from Cyprus to Saudi Arabia discovering a wealth of sites along the way. Exploring by sea allows us to incorporate a heady mix of fascinating places with great ease and we will visit the magnificent ‘Rose Red City’ of Petra and the ancient city of Hegra in Saudi Arabia which has only recently opened to tourists. These sites are irresistible attractions for the genuine traveller and as you explore these vast and complex Nabataean cities, whose wealth came from their proximity to the ancient Middle East trade routes, you cannot help but be impressed by the industry and sophistication of this ancient civilisation.

Our voyage begins in the Cypriot port of Limassol from where we will visit the Temple of Apollo and the ruins of Kourion with its Greco-Roman Theatre and lovely coastal views. Following a transit of the Suez Canal we spend time in Egypt exploring some of the great monuments of the pharaohs. Visit Cairo’s magnificent Egyptian Museum, see the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx and spend a day exploring the mesmerising underwater world of the Red Sea. We continue to Jordan where there is the option to spend time in Petra, a city set deep in the Edom mountains that was hewn directly from the rock by the Nabataeans and an amazing feat of engineering. After a relaxing day at sea we arrive in Saudi Arabia where we spend our final days discovering the captivating site of Hegra, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the fascinating historic cities of Yanbu and Jeddah.

Our itinerary represents small ship cruising at its best and is timed for October when temperatures will be pleasant for exploring and, with the aid of our knowledgeable local guides and excellent Guest Speaker, we will learn of some fascinating civilisations. In addition to visiting some of the world’s most impressive and historic sites, there will be time to relax on board the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky. With just over 100 passengers, our trips ashore will be a pleasure and whether your interest lies in ancient history, modern politics or simply the joy of experiencing new places, this journey has much to offer.

Exploring the Ancient City of Petra: Visit the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its stunning rock-carved architecture, including the famous Treasury.
Suez Canal Transit: Experience the unique journey of transiting the Suez Canal, a historic waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
Relaxing in Sharm el Sheikh: Enjoy the beautiful resort town of Sharm el Sheikh, with options for snorkeling in the Ras Mohamed National Park or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.
Exploring Jeddah's Historic Center: Discover Jeddah's historic UNESCO-listed center, Al Balad, with its traditional architecture, bustling souqs, and a visit to Beit Nassif, a well-preserved historical coral house turned museum.

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

show reverse itinerary

Day 1 London to Limassol, Cyprus.

Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky as we moor overnight.

Day 2 Limassol.

This morning we drive to the Temple of Apollo, one of the main religious centres of ancient Cyprus. We will continue to the ruins of Kourion, a city built in 1200 BC. The most spectacular site at Kourion is the Greco-Roman Theatre which has been completely restored and is used today for open-air musical and theatrical performances. We will also visit the Medieval Kolossi Castle before returning to the ship for lunch. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace.

Day 3 At Sea.

A relaxing day at sea, maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck as we sail towards the North African coast.

Day 4 Suez Canal Transit, Egypt.

Spend the day in transit of the Suez Canal and the Great Bitter Lake.

Day 5 Sokhna for Cairo & Giza.

A full day tour is dedicated to the capital city of Cairo. From our berth in Sokhna we drive to the impressive Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the tombs of the great pharaohs and their queens. After lunch we visit the Egyptian Museum with 107 halls that are separated into seven sections. The museum houses statues, jewels and treasures of Tutankhamun. We will visit the Amarna Room and see the Fayoum portraits, and monuments from the later periods from the Greeks and the Romans. For those returning to Cairo an alternative tour will visit Memphis, the first capital of Egypt, founded by King Narmer in 3200 BC in a strategic position on the west bank of the Nile. In the open-air museum we can see the enormous Colossus of Ramses II. Nearby is the necropolis at Saqqara which includes the Mastaba of Ti and the tomb for King Djoser which was Egypt’s first pyramid, a landmark achievement of this ancient civilisation’s development of architectural wonders.

Day 6 Sharm el Sheikh.

After a morning at sea we arrive at the resort town of Sharm el Sheikh. It is, however, offshore that our interest lies with the clear waters of the Red Sea. Maybe join a snorkelling tour to the Ras Mohamed National Park. Designated a National Park in 1983 the reef ecosystems here protect a diversity of fish species and coral. Alternatively take a glass bottomed boat tour as we view some of the many species of colourful fish, coral and sponges that live in these waters.

Day 7 Aqaba for Petra, Jordan.

From our berth in Aqaba we drive to the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra which was carved out of rose-red sandstone about 2,000 years ago and has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Walk past the Obelisk Tomb and then through the Siq, the narrow 1.2 kilometre gorge that leads to Petra’s most impressive monument, the Treasury, which was carved out of the pale reddish sandstone in the 1st century BC. Pass by the dozens of classical Nabatean ruins and tombs known as the Street of Facades, the remarkable 3,000 seat Theatre, the Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street, the Byzantine Church, the Temple, the Monumental Arch and the mighty Qasr el-Bint Faroun. After lunch amidst the ruins of Petra we have a little free time to explore further independently before returning to our ship. Alternatively, for those interested in staying by the Red Sea we will arrange a transfer to one of the city’s beach clubs where you can spend the day relaxing.

Day 8 At Sea.

Spend the day cruising as we continue our journey south.

Day 9 Al Wajh for Hegra, Saudi Arabia.

Arriving into Saudi Arabia at Al Wajh there will be a choice of activities today. A full day tour will drive inland to the Alulah region and ancient Hegra, the largest conserved site of Nabataean civilisation south of Petra. Hegra was both a trading centre and military stronghold enabling the Nabataeans to control the Arabian caravan trade and the site has been left practically undisturbed for 2,000 years. Here, surrounded by desert, we can find over 100 well-preserved tombs hewn from the rocks of the Hijaz mountains, featuring beautifully carved facades dating back to the first century BC. The largest of the tombs is that of Lihyan, son of Kuza at 72 feet tall. Alternatively explore the city of Al Wajh, once a key port for silk road merchant ships. Visit the atmospheric old town and market, the 200-year-old Al-Ashraf Mosque, which overlooks the bay, and Al Wajh Castle which was built in 1875 toward the end of the Ottoman period.

Day 10 Yanbu.

Over lunch we sail into Yanbu. With a history dating back at least 2,500 years Yanbu is one of the oldest ports on the Red Sea. The city was built around the port which was a staging post on the spice and incense route from Yemen to Egypt and the Mediterranean as well as being the natural port for the ancient oasis of Madinah. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic city including the recently restored Souq Al Lail (night market) which was opened at night to serve the resident fisherman and viewing the city’s unique Hejazi architecture found along the Red Sea coast. Also visit the restored former home of T.E Lawrence who lived in the city from 1915-1916.

Day 11 Jeddah.

The historic crossroads of pilgrims and traders, and the traditional gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon as we discover the traditional architecture and oriental scents of the city. Arriving over lunch we will explore the atmospheric streets of Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO listed historical centre, feel the buzz in the local souqs and spend time at Beit Nassif, one of the city’s best preserved historical coral houses and now a museum and cultural centre. Built in the 1880s it is also known as the “house with the tree” as this was the only tree in Jeddah until the 1920s.

Day 12 Jeddah to London.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

show main itinerary

Itineraries are subject to change.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.

Spend the day cruising as we continue our journey south.

Spend the day in transit of the Suez Canal and the Great Bitter Lake.

A relaxing day at sea, maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck as we sail towards the North African coast.

Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky as we moor overnight.

* = Indicative

Hebridean Sky

Length	90 metres
Built/refurbished	1992/2016

Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Representative. Hebridean Sky is the perfect blend of luxury and adventurous exploration. Is it a luxury ship? An adventure ship? It’s both! The vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016.

ONBOARD DINING

Great expeditions require great food! We are pleased to offer daily changing breakfast, lunch and dinner menus with an emphasis on providing well balanced and nutritional cuisine. Our team of international chefs has boat loads of creativity and you are sure to experience a variety of interesting dishes throughout your voyage. The restaurant is located on Deck 2 and our service team looks forward to providing a memorable dining experience.

IMPECCABLE SMALL-SHIP AMENITIES

Returning from excursions, passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a gracious space for relaxation, surrounded by panoramic windows. Other Sea Explorer features include:

Library with Internet access

Lounge with audiovisual facilities

Dining room

Wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi

Exercise room

Medical facilities with available doctor

Elevator serving all passenger decks

Swimming/zodiac platform

All Voyages Include:

Up to Two Pre-Voyage Hotel Nights

Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner

Certified Emergency MD and Clinic

World Class Cuisine

Live Entertainment

Complimentary Coffee/Tea station

Voyage Photographer

Dedicated Passenger Service Manager

Complimentary Expedition Jacket

Please note deck plan may vary.

Overview

Highlights

Dates & Prices

Itinerary

Map

Ship

Wonders of Antiquity - 12 Days From Cyprus to Saudi Arabia

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Hebridean Sky

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