The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has announced a significant enhancement to its cruise incentive program by including the stoppage of passenger and cruise ships at Timsah Lake to utilize Ismailia Yacht Marina for tourism purposes in the calculation of rebate percentage of Suez Canal granted to Cruise Ships.

This allows cruise lines to count their time spent in Ismailia toward the required 72-hour stay in Egyptian ports, and enabling them to benefit from the 50% rebate on normal Suez Canal transit tolls for each voyage of a round trip, in addition to other available incentives.

A Strategic Gateway in the Heart of the Canal

Located on the picturesque Timsah Lake, Ismailia Yacht Marina enjoys a unique position midway between Port Said and Suez, making it a natural stop for transiting tourist yachts and cruise vessels. The marina is situated adjacent to one of the Suez Canal Authority’s marine shipyards and close to the headquarters responsible for managing one of the world’s most important waterways. It is conveniently located just 110 km from Cairo International Airport and 80 km from both Port Said and Suez.

Reviving the Historic Charm of Ismailia:

These efforts align with the Egyptian Government’s vision to revive and promote the rich heritage of Ismailia, the city named after Khedive Ismail, whose modernization efforts transformed Egypt and culminated in the inauguration of the Suez Canal.

Visitors to Ismailia can explore many interesting cultural and historical attractions. Among Ismailia’s highlights is the French Catholic Church, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of its unique multicultural heritage. Considered one of the oldest churches in the world, it reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city over the centuries.

Another must-see is the Ismailia Museum, also known as the Ferdinand de Lesseps Museum. Originally built in 1911 as the residence of the Suez Canal’s renowned engineer, the historic building now houses a valuable collection of documents, engineering tools, maps, and memorabilia related to the construction of the Canal, including invitations sent to world leaders for its grand inauguration ceremony.

The city also offers a fascinating journey through history with archaeological treasures dating back to the Pharaonic, Ptolemaic, and Roman periods, providing visitors with a glimpse into the civilizations that once flourished in the region.

Beyond its historical heritage, Ismailia is known for its vibrant local culture and agricultural traditions. The city celebrates its rich produce through annual festivals dedicated to local specialties, including the famous mango and strawberry festivals, which highlight the importance of agriculture in the identity of the region.

By combining attractive cruise incentives with authentic cultural experiences, Egypt is creating new opportunities for cruise lines to offer passengers an unforgettable journey through history, heritage in the heart of Suez Canal.

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Egyptian Ports