Cruise Saudi, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public
Investment Fund (PIF) has opened bookings for its luxury cruise line,
Aroya Cruises.
The former World Dream, Aroya is a 335-metre floating resort with
1,678 cabins, including luxury suites and villas. It’s being marketed as
a one-of-a-kind authentic Arabian experience.
World Dream, a former Genting Hong Kong cruise ship, was sold in
Singapore to Cruise Saudi in March 2023, although at the time the buyer
was not disclosed.
Under its new owner, the ship can accommodate 3,362 passengers and
includes 20 entertainment venues across 18 decks, including performances
in the 1,018-seat theatre.
Facilities at the Blossom by Aroya spa include a thermal suite, snow room, relaxation room and treatment room.
With five complimentary restaurants, 11 specialty restaurants, and 12
cafés and lounges, Aroya offers plenty of F&B options, spanning
Lebanese, Italian and Asian cuisine. IRTH is the first Saudi restaurant
at sea to feature traditional Arabian dining.
Dr. Joerg Rudolph, president of Aroya Cruises, said, “We have been
steadfast in our mission to create a ‘remarkably Arabian’ cruise line
offering for guests at sea and onshore, commercially, and sustainably,
and we look forward to sharing this with our passengers.”
The cruise line’s inaugural sailing is scheduled for December 16,
2024. The three-day roundtrip Red Sea cruise from Jeddah will also visit
the Cruise Saudi-owned private island.
Aroya’s announcement comes during a time when cruise lines are cancelling routes via the Red Sea.
Cabins fares start from SAR 558 (US$150) per person, per night.