Aroya Cruises announced on September 21, 2026, an expanded deployment for its 2027 Mediterranean season alongside its first winter season in the region starting October 2026. The company will launch new itineraries from its homeport at Galataport, Istanbul, in May 2027 and introduce seven-night winter cruises from Istanbul to Egypt and Turkey.
New Itineraries and Ports of Call
The 2027 summer schedule will include six-, seven-, and eight-night cruises exploring Turkey, Egypt, and Greece. These itineraries add new destinations such as Nafplion in Greece and Antalya in Turkey. Alexandria, Egypt, will serve as a second embarkation port, enhancing embarkation options alongside Istanbul.
Aroya Cruises will also
debut two 14-night voyages in 2027. One will operate in the western Mediterranean, sailing from Istanbul in June through ports including Catania, Salerno, Civitavecchia, Cagliari, La Goulette, and Valletta. The other 14-night voyage in July will cover the Adriatic Sea, with stops in Katakolon, Sarandë, Bar, Trieste, Zadar, Korčula, and Bari.
Geographic Coverage and Route Details
In addition to Eastern Mediterranean destinations, the expanded itinerary portfolio covers western Mediterranean and Adriatic regions. The western Mediterranean 14-night cruise calls in Italy, Tunisia, and Malta. The Adriatic voyage spans Greece, Albania, Montenegro, Italy, and Croatia.
Longer itineraries will offer interporting in Italy, allowing guests to begin or
conclude their cruises in either Civitavecchia or Trieste, providing greater flexibility for travelers within the region.
Traveler Options and Winter Season Expansion
The introduction of overnight calls in Alexandria offers passengers increased flexibility and extended shore time in Egypt. Multiple embarkation ports, including the primary Galataport in Istanbul and the added Alexandria port, provide varied boarding choices.
Aroya will operate its first winter season in the Mediterranean starting October 2026, with seven-night cruises from Istanbul to Egypt and Turkey. These routes include overnight stays in Alexandria and visits to Turkish ports Kusadasi and Marmaris, expanding seasonal options beyond the traditional summer period.
Official Statements and Strategic Outlook
Ala Tashkandi, Commercial Executive
Director of Aroya Cruises, stated that the expanded program enhances flexibility to meet diverse market demands and introduces more travelers to the company’s Arabian cruise experience. He emphasized that partnerships are central to growth, strengthening cruising demand, creating wider tourism opportunities, and delivering lasting value to visited destinations.
