Sea Transport
Yachting
For travel advisors seeking new and exclusive experiences for their discerning clientele, the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia is rapidly establishing itself as a premier yachting destination. The region combines the natural beauty of the Red Sea with state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional service, setting the stage for a yachting paradise that rivals traditional destinations in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
Jeddah: The Gateway
Jeddah, with its well-established infrastructure and accessibility by air from major international hubs, serves as the primary starting point for luxury yacht charters. The city’s commitment to enhancing its yachting credentials is showcased by the recent inauguration of the Aramco Marina at the Jeddah Yacht Club. This marina provides high-quality fuelling options and is a significant addition to the services available to the yachting community, which aligns with the excitement of events like the Formula 1 Saudi Grand Prix.
Sindalah: A Jewel in the Crown of NEOM
Set to open in Q4 2024, Sindalah Island is the latest first-to-open development under the NEOM project umbrella. In partnership with BWA Yachting and JLS Yachts, Sindalah is preparing to provide comprehensive concierge and maritime agency services, catering to the needs of superyacht owners and guests. These collaborations ensure world-class support for yachting operations, including customs and clearance procedures, logistical support, and financial services. Sindalah will feature a marina with 86 berths for yachts up to 50 metres, and additional serviced offshore buoys for superyachts up to 180 metres. The development aims to create a vibrant energy throughout its seasons, providing guests with a range of experiences both on and off the water.
It has to be said that the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia will quite definitely soon be positioned as a key destination on the global yachting map. With Jeddah serving as the gateway and Sindalah Island soon to be a luxury hub complete with unparalleled facilities and services, the region promises to attract the world’s yachting elite. For travel advisors, these developments represent an opportunity to offer a novel and high-calibre yachting experience to clients seeking “something different”.
Cruising the Red Sea Coast
Cruise Saudi – A Catalyst for Growth
In 2021, the Public Investment Fund launched Cruise Saudi, a company dedicated to establishing and developing the cruise industry in KSA. Cruise Saudi aims to position Saudi Arabia as a prominent tourist destination on the international cruise map while aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The company’s strategic focus includes the development of cruise ports and terminals across several Saudi cities to ensure an integrated experience for visitors.
Aroya Cruises, affiliated with Saudi Cruise Company and wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund, stands as the first cruise line in Saudi Arabia. The unveiling of its inaugural cruise ship – the “Manara” – in December 2023, marked a significant milestone in the country’s cruise industry. The vessel, formerly known as the World Dream – the Dream Cruises flagship, was bought by Cruise Saudi following the collapse of Genting Hong Kong. The ship was originally designed for the Asian cruise market and has a large number of restaurants together with a casino and specially designed cabins. It is undergoing significant refurbishments to tailor its offerings to Arabian audiences. This includes the transformation of casino areas into shopping arcades, emphasising the company’s dedication to providing a culturally appropriate experience.
The vessel, boasting 19 decks and 1,682 cabins, is scheduled to commence trips from Jeddah in the latter part of 2024, with Aroya Cruise aiming to provide distinctive experiences tailored to Arab markets, encompassing innovative cabin designs, diverse event programs, and authentic Arabian hospitality.
Overall, the emergence of cruising in Saudi Arabia signifies a transformative shift in the country’s tourism landscape. With initiatives like Cruise Saudi and pioneering ventures like Aroya Cruise, KSA is poised to become a prominent player in the global cruise industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of Arabian culture, hospitality, and innovation promises to offer passengers an unparalleled cruising experience along the captivating coastlines of Saudi Arabia.
The future – Cruise Saudi Teams with T. Mariotti S.p.A and Aman Group for Aman at Sea Luxury Yacht
T. Mariotti S.p.A has partnered with Aman Group and Cruise Saudi to unveil a pioneering project, “Aman at Sea”, an ultra-luxury yacht cruise ship scheduled to debut in 2027. The 183-metre vessel will incorporate innovative dual fuel technology, using both marine gasoil and green methanol, and is designed to offer a fusion of an ultra-luxury ship and a private yacht experience.
The yacht will feature 50 exclusive luxury suites, each with its own private balcony, embodying the elegant and tranquil design philosophy Aman is renowned for. Planned amenities are set to include multiple dining options, a comprehensive Aman Spa with a Japanese garden, two helipads, and a large Beach Club at the yacht’s stern, providing guests with direct access to the ocean.
The project, which is a significant step for T. Mariotti, demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovative luxury maritime solutions. Aman Group views this collaboration as an expansion of its brand into new realms, bringing its unique style of luxury to the high seas, thereby transforming the concept of maritime hospitality.
The initiative has secured financial backing from a consortium led by Intesa Sanpaolo, overseen by Nanni Grazzini. In alignment with this new venture, Aman has appointed Jonathan Wilson as the Chief Executive Officer of Aman at Sea. Under his leadership, the project aims to redefine luxury cruising while maintaining the distinct spirit of Aman throughout global maritime journeys. The official name of the vessel will be announced in due course.