The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, situated in the heart of the Middle East, is renowned for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and incredibly hospitable people. One of the most iconic sites in Jordan is Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, famous for its stunning rock-cut architecture. Fun fact: Jordan also boasts the lowest point on Earth outside of Antarctica at the Dead Sea, where you can float effortlessly in its salty waters! Cruising to Jordan provides an incredible opportunity to explore a unique blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, all while enjoying the relaxing amenities aboard your cruise ship.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Jordan
- MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 7 dedicated to itineraries that include a visit to Jordan. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seascape are renowned for their exciting array of onboard activities, such as aqua parks, and immersive entertainment options. The MSC Virtuosa also features a luxurious spa and multiple dining options highlighting international cuisine. Departures typically occur from Miami or Port Canaveral, offering seamless access to an extraordinary journey through the captivating region.
- Princess Cruises includes a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 that visit Jordan. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly noted for their excellent service and a variety of dining venues offering everything from casual fare to gourmet experiences. The Grand Princess is exceptional with its Movies Under the Stars feature for unforgettable evenings. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, ensuring straightforward embarkation for your soaring adventure.
- Holland America Line has a fleet size of 11 ships, with 4 featuring itineraries to Jordan. The Nieuw Statendam and Eurodam stand out for their fine dining options and enriching onboard classes that enhance your travel experience. These ships typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, allowing guests easy access to historical and cultural exploration upon arrival in Jordan.
- Royal Caribbean Cruises operates 29 ships, with 1 offering itineraries that feature Jordan. The Rhapsody of the Seas provides exhilarating onboard activities, such as rock climbing and themed parties that cater to all ages. Departures are typically from San Juan or Barcelona, making it a breeze to embark on your incredible cruise through this fascinating region.
- Carnival Cruise Line includes a fleet size of 27 ships, of which 3 frequently cruise to Jordan. The Carnival Panorama and Carnival Magic are particularly popular for their lively onboard atmosphere and entertainment choices, ensuring there is excitement for everyone. Departures are commonly from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing seamless transitions into your exciting travel adventures.
Luxury and Small Ship Options in Jordan
- Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 offering itineraries that include Jordan. The Nautica and Regatta are particularly renowned for their luxurious atmosphere and gourmet dining routes, ensuring guests enjoy exceptional culinary experiences that highlight local flavours. Departures usually occur from Miami or Barcelona, ensuring an elegant journey towards discovering the treasures of Jordan.
- Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries in Jordan. The Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward are treasured for their intimate settings and engagement with local experiences, such as extended stays for community events and nightlife. Departures most often occur from Miami or Lisbon, allowing for smooth connections to the captivating beauty of Jordan.
- Seabourn boasts a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 2 focusing on itineraries that visit Jordan. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Ovation provide all-inclusive luxury experiences, featuring fine dining, expansive suites, and personalised attention for a serene cruise. Departures commonly occur from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring a refined and elegant entry into your explorations of this historic destination.
- Explora Journeys features a fleet of 2 ships, with both offering itineraries that include Jordan. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focus on wellness and luxury experiences, providing an upscale atmosphere for guests. Most departures take place from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure through this region brimming with wonders.
- Fred Olsen has a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries featuring Jordan. The Balmoral and Bolette are known for their classic cruising style and personal touch, offering an authentic experience of the area. Most departures typically occur from Southampton or Liverpool, providing convenient access for UK guests eager to explore Jordan.
Top Harbours to Explore in the Yucatán Peninsula
- Port of Aqaba – The gateway to renowned sites, the Port of Aqaba offers stunning views of the Red Sea and access to remarkable excursions. Explore the archaeological wonders of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its iconic rock-cut architecture. You might also consider snorkelling or diving at the coral reefs in the nearby Red Sea or simply relax at the local beaches.
- Petra – While not a port in the traditional sense, many cruises provide excursions to, or dock near, Petra due to its historical significance. Experience the breathtaking entrance called the Siq as you explore this ancient city believed to have been established in the 5th century BC. The Treasury and the Monastery are highlights not to be missed!
- Wadi Rum – Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum offers stunning desert scenery and outdoor adventures. Consider booking a jeep tour to explore the massive sandstone mountains or partake in a camel ride through scenic landscapes. Many visitors enjoy stargazing at night and capturing stunning sunset views over the red sand dunes.
- Dead Sea – Known for its unique properties, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Visitors can relax on the shores and experience the extraordinary floating sensation due to the high salt content. Don’t forget to indulge in a mud bath, as the mineral-rich mud is said to have therapeutic benefits.
- Sana’a – Experience the blend of ancient and modern culture in this fascinating city, known for its majestic architecture and mountain scenery. Explore the UNESCO-listed old city, featuring the Great Mosque and beautiful traditional houses. Sample authentic Yemeni dishes in local eateries to enrich your experience!
When to Cruise to Jordan
The climate in Jordan is typically warm, with the best times to visit being spring and autumn. From January to March, temperatures average between 10°C and 20°C, making it suitable for exploration without intense heat. Spring (April to June) brings warmer weather, ranging from 15°C to 30°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months (July to September) can be extremely hot, with temperatures rising above 35°C, but this is also a vibrant time of the year with local events and festivals. Autumn (October to November) offers more moderate temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, which is ideal for adventure seekers wanting to explore the historic sites and landscapes.
Costs of Cruising to Jordan
A one-week cruise to Jordan typically costs between £900 and £1,700, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodations planned. Luxury cruises usually start around £3,500, escalating based on desired services and amenities. When exploring Jordan, budget approximately £12 to £30 for meals in local restaurants, while drinks typically cost between £4 and £10, allowing you to sample local flavours during your extraordinary visit.
The natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals of Jordan await your exploration. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on a remarkable journey through this stunning region!