Port of Alexandria sees uplift in number of cruise calls

Egypt’s Alexandria Port has seen a steep increase in the number of cruise calls in recent weeks, which Karim Youssef, head of cruise, Egyptian Ports said is ‘contributing to a boost in the city's economy and highlighting its growing popularity as a Mediterranean cruise destination.’ 

According to Youssef, local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, are experiencing growth in revenue while new new job opportunities are being created for the city's residents.

Recent arrivals

Recent arrivals include Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam, TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 6, AIDA Cruises’ AIDAblu and MSC Cruises’ MSC Lirica. Each of these vessels brought thousands of tourists to the city to explore Egypt’s ancient ruins, rich culture and sandy beaches.

Highlights include the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar built 298–302 AD and the library and cultural center, Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The city also has a thriving arts scene and delicious cuisine.

Day tours from the port to Cairo include visits to the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx, Sakkara, which is the site of the first and oldest pyramid in Egypt, Old Cairo and the Grand Egyptian Museum. 

Improvements 

To accommodate this influx of visitors, Alexandria Port has been working to improve its infrastructure and services. Upon arrival, cruise passengers are met with a warm welcome, including traditional Egyptian entertainment and cultural performances. The port authorities, in collaboration with the Egyptian Tourism Authority, have streamlined the arrival process and provided efficient transportation to various tourist attractions.

The Egyptian government has been actively promoting cruise tourism as a key component of its economic development strategy. The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with The Ministry of Transport & the local authorities, has been investing in infrastructure improvements, such as modernising port facilities and enhancing transportation links to tourist attractions.

Ports of Egypt

Ports of Egypt, a MedCruise member, represents Alexandria, Port Said, Sharm El Sheikh, Suez, Hurghada and Safaga. Collectively, they received 206 calls and 198,124 passengers in 2023.