Cruise Description

17 Night cruise departing from Athens to Abu Dhabi onboard Crystal Symphony.

An epic voyage from Europe down into Arabia, beginning in ancient Athens before a famed journey down Egypt's Suez Canal for back-to-back overnights in both Safaga and Aqaba. After touring the ruins of Luxor and exploring the famed coral reefs of the Red Sea, sail toward Muscat. Marvel at the beauty of Omani culture before ending the journey amongst the skyscrapers of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Highlights of this cruise:

Athens
Venture through Greece’s largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the world`s oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments.

Safaga
On the Red Sea coast, this small city offers beautiful beaches and glorious weather, even snorkeling and diving among the offshore reefs. More intriguingly, it serves as the gateway to Luxor on the west bank of the Nile River, where the Valley of the Kings reveals the elaborate tombs and underground mausoleums of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II.

Aqaba
Situated at the top of its namesake gulf, Aqaba brings a refreshing release from the rose-colored desert to the north. Its sandy beaches and coral reefs are the most pristine on the Red Sea, and Jordanians hope to preserve them through careful planning. Beyond the modernity of Aqaba itself, the UNESCO treasure of Petra – an ancient rock-carved Nabataean city once lost to the Western world – and the wonders of the Wadi Rum await discovery.

Dubai
Home to the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and dozens of ultra-glamourous luxury hotels, Dubai is truly a modern wonder. After exploring the new sites of the city, find yourself amongst traditional winding souks and local charm.

Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a bustling city with extraordinary sky scrapers, wide, tree-lined boulevards, and some of the most elite cultural destinations. This city is considered the wealthiest city in the world, but still retains a humble charm with its central souk and artisan hub for traditional crafts.