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August 25, 2025

AROYA is new, is different – remarkably Arabian. As a cruise writer with experience from 26 different cruise lines, I am witnessing how certain boundaries are shifting on board this new brand: AROYA Cruises combines an Arabian lifestyle, first-class family offers, and exciting routes to create an extraordinary experience.

My first thought: no casino – okay. But a cruise without any alcohol – can that work? Absolutely yes, as AROYA Cruises proves in its own relaxed way. A huge selection of mocktails quickly dispels any thoughts of alcohol, and those who still don’t want to go without beer or wine can opt for the non-alcoholic versions on offer. Even more reason to enjoy new experiences on board, from fragrant Saudi coffee with dates to shisha lounges at sea. But let’s start the journey officially in Istanbul, AROYA’s home port in the Mediterranean. The metropolis on the Bosporus is worth at least one overnight stay to explore its countless sights. The historic Hagia Sophia, formerly the largest domed building in the world, was once a Christian church, then a museum, and is now a mosque. It is well worth a visit, as are the Blue Mosque and the New Mosque, Yeni Cami. In the hot summer temperatures, a visit to the Theodosius Cistern and the Grand Bazaar offers some cooling and insights into the city’s past and present bustle. Back across the Galata Bridge, the path leads to the Karaköy district, past the many local fishermen. Those who climb the Galata Tower not only get to see a fantastic 360-degree panorama of the city but can also spot their cruise ship in the nearby Galataport – also known as Modern Istanbul. This vast complex of shops, restaurants, cafés, and bars features a large cruise terminal that is initially invisible. It extends underground along the quay wall, together with a parking garage. Those who have booked the Khuzama experience, AROYA’s suite program, get on board much faster and more relaxed. You are welcomed with a separate check-in counter and culinary snacks already in the terminal. Accompanied by a butler, the way leads directly to the Khuzama area with a restaurant, bar, and lounge on board. Lunch is still being served there. While the butler takes my hand luggage directly to my cabin, I am already sitting at the set lunch table with a view of Istanbul. I have never sat down to eat so quickly after embarking. I immediately noticed the attentive service and the Arabic-inspired food selection.

The AROYA brand

AROYA stands for a combination of two words. Arabic “AR” and “ROYA” which means “vision” or “dream.” With this, the first Arab shipping company expresses its claim to create a new kind of cruise – rooted in Arab culture and at the same time open to the world. The brand essence is based on four core values that are deeply rooted in Arab tradition: Enrichment – promoting what strengthens culture and society as the basis for sustainable development and prosperity; Inspiration – inspiring travelers with new impressions and ideas; Generosity – making hospitality and service of the highest standard a matter of course; and Respect – for fellow human beings, cultures, and nature. AROYA thus stands not only for a cruise brand, but for a vision of the Arab way of life at sea.

But where does the ship come from? Today’s AROYA has a remarkable history. It was originally commissioned as World Dream by the Genting Group at the Meyer shipyard in Papenburg (Germany) and entered service in 2017. With the insolvency of the parent company during the Covid pandemic, Cruise Saudi, the parent company of AROYA Cruises, took over the vessel. A comprehensive refit then began in Bremerhaven: interiors, cabins, restaurants, and leisure areas were completely redesigned to transform the ship into a floating symbol of Arab culture. An Asian cruise ship was thus turned into a maritime ambassador of the Saudi Arabian way of life. That´s exactly what I´m here to experience on this voyage. After its maiden voyage under the AROYA flag at the end of December 2024 and a season in the Red Sea, the ship is based in the eastern Mediterranean for the summer season. A crew of 1,600 takes care of the guests in the 1,678 cabins (including 9 villas, 14 premium suites, and 131 suites). The gross tonnage of 151,000 gives an idea of the dimensions of the 335-meter-long AROYA with 19 decks. Let’s start with a look at my type of cabin:

Superior Suite

The Superior Suites at AROYA combine elegant design with Arabic-inspired details in a space measuring 40 to 50 square meters. Two balcony doors offer views of the sea, while warm colors in cream and gold convey a sense of tranquility. A large private balcony measuring 6 to 16 square meters invites you to enjoy breakfast in the first rays of sunlight. The living area is furnished with high-quality fabrics, and a seating area with soft cushions ensures comfort. The bedroom offers a king-size bed with the finest cotton bedding, flanked by gold-decorated lamps. Here, functionality meets understated luxury – for example, the bed can be separated from the living area by a curtain – yet both areas have separate balcony access. The bathroom surprises with a spacious rain shower plus a separate bathtub, and luxurious toiletries. The service includes a personal butler who can make restaurant reservations, organize excursions, or arrange small snacks on request. Suites are available in different categories. Let’s take a look at the largest option on board.

A palace at sea – the Royal Villa

When you enter the Royal Villa, you are greeted by a scene that is more reminiscent of a modern Arabian palace than a ship’s cabin – the size of approximately 400 square meters makes this clear. The centerpiece is a huge living and dining area, from which the view through the panoramic windows sweeps over the bow of the ship. The dimensions are overwhelming – spanning the entire width of the vessel. High above the bridge, this villa towers over the waves like a residence. On both sides, there is a master bedroom with a private loggia and whirlpool, an elegant bathroom with subtle gold décor, rain showers, a freestanding bathtub, and luxurious amenities. In addition, there are separate bedrooms on both sides, also with king-size beds and separate bathrooms, so that a large family or group of friends of up to 12 people can enjoy luxury at sea. A team of butlers is on hand around the clock to fulfill your every wish, whether it’s a private dinner, freshly baked bread from the galley, or a perfectly arranged excursion. Particularly exceptional: a private spa treatment room where massages and beauty treatments can be enjoyed directly in the suite, as well as a playroom that gives younger guests their own space, including complete gaming equipment.

Khuzama Experience – the luxury program from AROYA

AROYA Cruises has named its premium offering Khuzama (Arabic for desert lavender) – a tailor-made experience that combines Arabian hospitality with international luxury. Purple, like the shape of lavender flowers, runs through the design concept. In addition to the spacious living areas of the suites with modern amenities, a personal butler, 24-hour room service, and daily turndown service are available. A laundry package is included, as are the premium beverage package, reserved seats at the big evening shows, and access to the exclusive Khuzama lounge and restaurant. The Khuzama Bar is open 24 hours a day. Guests also benefit from priority embarkation and disembarkation, fast luggage delivery, and Wi-Fi for two devices—a comprehensive comfort package. For the villas, the free service is expanded to include amenities such as an upgraded beverage package, faster internet, and minibar refills.

Surprise at the start of the cruise

The nightly Welcome Onboard party on the pool deck surprises me. Despite the late hour, families with children, couples of different ages and backgrounds mingle here to admire a clown show and the acrobatic spectacle of the dynamic show ensemble. Afterwards, a DJ further heats up the atmosphere with massive beats. The cruise director and his assistant guide the program in the on-board languages of English and Arabic. It quickly becomes clear that there is an exciting mix of international guests on board. No one needs to worry about dress codes, as there are none at AROYA. The atmosphere is casual, and there are no rules regarding women covering up, although you will meet guests who travel in traditional clothing due to their own religious beliefs. On my itinerary, which does not include any EU ports, there are many vacationers from Central Asia in addition to Arab and European guests. From Kazakhstan to Turkmenistan to Russia. Over time, this is also reflected in the selection of cocktails of the day: Moscow Mule or White Russian – always alcohol-free, of course. This allows guests to immerse themselves in other cultures while still on board, rather than waiting until the ship docks at the next port. And they get along well on board, as I learn from my conversations with very friendly guests from Saudi Arabia. Even their different attitudes toward clothing don’t matter.

But before we reach the Turkish luxury resort of Bodrum, we have a day at sea and a spectacular journey through the Dardanelles ahead of us. While enjoying a delicious breakfast, I almost missed the passage under the world’s longest suspension bridge, the Çanakkale 1915 Bridge, which was completed in 2022. The day at sea also invites exploring the ship in more detail.

Arabian ambience meets Western comfort

The design of the AROYA bears the unmistakable hallmarks of Arabian pattern. The interior is dominated by warm beige, cream, and sand tones, complemented by accents in terracotta and copper. Lounge areas with soft upholstery and decorative cushions create a cozy, communicative, and at the same time elegant atmosphere. Tapestries, alcove walls with artistically illuminated ceramic vases and ornaments, reflect traditional forms, while large rooms such as the main restaurant exude lightness with light woods, geometric patterns, and open architecture. The art gallery on the two decks deliberately plays with contrasts between Arabic-inspired motifs in minimalist imagery and magnificent color photographs that spread a holiday mood.

The exterior design continues the concept: spacious terraces with lounge furniture in light natural colors open onto the sea, and decorative lanterns cast a warm light in the evening. The view from the outdoor area of the Al Matal Lounge across the pool deck at sunset is particularly impressive – when the soft ambience of the lounge blends with the colors of the sky and the setting almost feels like an oriental patio.

Family paradise at sea

AROYA Cruises pays special attention to families. The kids’ club is the largest at sea, covering almost 1,858 square meters, and is a paradise for children of all ages. Here, the little ones can be looked after in the nursery, while teens can get together in their own club. Special offers go far beyond classic childcare: the “Chefs Academy” offers a professional cooking studio for children, where the youngest passengers can discover their culinary talents. Another unique feature is the Sailors’ Bridge, a bridge simulator that offers little captains realistic navigation experiences. In the Sailors’ Workshop, children can even build their own little ship – enrichment offers that are unparalleled on cruise ships.

There is also a large aqua park with slides, mini golf, a 4D cinema, and a high ropes course with a roll glider that runs along the ship at a height of over 40 meters. This means that adults can also enjoy a thrill- and action-packed program.

Turkish Riviera and Egypt or Greece (Itineraries in summer 2025)

Bodrum emerges on the horizon early in the morning as the first port of call. Along the waterfront promenade, lined with rich magenta bougainvillea, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the city center. Whether sightseeing with the imposing St. Peter’s Castle, including the Maritime Archaeology Museum, shopping, or simply relaxing on the city beach with cool drinks at the countless bars, everyone will find something to suit their taste here. Thanks to the very long layover until 2 a.m., the AROYA makes a very special appearance. The ship sends greetings to Bodrum in light blue LED scrolling text and proudly presents its origins: with “Cruise Saudi – Yalla Cruise” (translated as “Let’s cruise”). That’s what I call a successfully staged advertising appearance in front of the well-filled restaurants and bars on the waterfront promenade. After all, with Istanbul as its embarkation port, the cruise line is also targeting the source market of Turkey.

The next morning, the ship docks at the pier in Marmaris, Turkey, with a precise turn. Here, the crystal-clear water beckons boat trips. After a quick breakfast, I set off on the “Marmaris Panorama Tour.” The bus drives over a mountain pass through the so-called Lovers Path, where countless couples have left their initials on the avenue of eucalyptus trees. In the small town of Akyaka, we board a small boat to sail down the aquarium-like, clear Azmak River and then enjoy refreshments at the nearby Ottoman Palace Hotel. After returning to Marmaris, it is worth taking a walk through the modern marina to the adjacent old town. A visit to Marmaris Kalesi Castle is worthwhile thanks to the magnificent view and photo opportunity of the nearby cruise ship, as is a quick dip in the sea at the city beach.

Let’s stick to the route that allows us to rediscover Turkey. The next day, Kaş, another rarely visited port on the Turkish Riviera, is on the agenda. This time, tender boats take us to the coastal town. My excursion of choice: a trip on a classic Turkish gulet boat to Kekova Island. There, hidden bays and the ruins of a sunken ancient city await discovery. Swimming in the crystal-clear water is just as much a part of the excursion program as a barbecue on board. Unfortunately, there is not enough time after the excursion to stroll through the tranquil town of Kaş. The AROYA is already setting course for its next destination, Egypt, at 4 p.m.

The next morning, Alexandria welcomes us with a very polished cruise terminal. In Alexandria, the excursion program ranges from the Bibliotheca Alexandrina to Fort Quaitbey to the Kom el Shuqafa necropolis. In this traditional port city, historic, magnificent buildings are accompanied by chaotic streets with honking taxis and bustling street vendors. This time, I am denied the scent of sweet mint tea or fresh spices – the heat calls us back to our air-conditioned ship. A brief farewell at the sail away with interesting conversations at the railing, and we are already heading back north. At full speed of around 23 knots, we spend a day at sea heading back to Istanbul.
As an alternative to this route, a tour of Greece with Rhodes, Mykonos, and Piraeus is also offered from/to Istanbul. From the end of September, three- to five-night cruises in the Red Sea are available from Jeddah, with destinations in Egypt (Safaga, Marsa Alam and Sharm El Sheikh) and the private Saba Beach on the Saudi Arabian island of Jabal Al Sabaya. In February, the AROYA will change its itinerary to the Arabian Gulf, where it will connect Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates on week-long voyages, initially from Dubai and then from Dammam, until the end of May.

Middle East flavors and international variety

Guests can experience the most authentic flavors of Saudi-Arabia in the specialty restaurant irth, where bread is baked directly on the walls of the traditional round tandoor oven. In front of the restaurant, the origin of the ingredients can be traced back to five Saudi Arabian regions – a surprising insight for me. Olives from the north (Al-Jawf), dates from the center (Buraidah), or coffee beans from the south (Al-Dayer, Jizan). And it is precisely this fragrant Saudi coffee that is also offered at irth, which has an integrated café.

Those who prefer to dine al fresco will find what they are looking for at The MEAST steakhouse. The restaurant also has an outdoor area on the promenade deck. Succulent cuts sizzle on the open grill and taste even better when served at sunset. La Tavola restaurant has a Mediterranean and family atmosphere, where homemade pasta, pizza, and antipasti are served with Italian warmth, and the herbs are grown directly in the restaurant’s greenhouse. Bamboo Kitchen offers Far Eastern variety with specialties from Japan, China and Thailand: from steaming hot pots and artfully rolled sushi to teppanyaki shows where knives dance in the air. For families, Space Diner is an experience. Not only does it offer the opportunity to dine in a space capsule, but digitally projected games on the table also turn eating into a playful adventure. Layalina, a Lebanese restaurant and stage in one, invites guests to a dinner show: spicy mezze, juicy lamb, accompanied by dancing, drumming, and singing. A finale full of energy and color, where guests clap, laugh, and film. All these specialty restaurants are among the surcharge options at AROYA, offering à la carte dishes that make a noticeable dent in your budget.

Included in the price of the voyage: the main restaurant Al Waha, which operates without fixed table times or seat assignments. This allows for very flexible and informal dining. The offer is complemented by the classic buffet restaurant Amwaj and the Amwaj Terrace, where light meals and snacks are served from a modern food truck – ideal for a snack between meals or to satisfy your hunger after a long day of sightseeing. Khuzama guests also have access to the exclusive Khuzama Restaurant, where high-quality ingredients are freshly prepared in its own kitchen.
Another special feature on board: all dishes are halal – you won’t find any pork here. Instead, the flavors and preparation methods are dominated by the principles of Arabic cuisine, while also drawing on international inspiration.

Entertainment between tradition and modernity

In the evening, I am surprised by the diverse entertainment on offer: from international shows with Adele and Tina Turner covers at the AROYA Theatre, to traditional Saudi live music with oriental instruments at the Dallah Café, to a comedy show at Layalina and a nightly DJ session at the outdoor club Beats. Here, Arab culture and Western entertainment mix. When a 14-piece male orchestra strikes up Saudi live music in the “Arabian Night” – without any spectacular show elements – you wouldn’t guess the atmosphere you’re about to experience. In the stands at the AROYA Theatre, hands are waving in the air, people are clapping, singing along, and in some cases even getting up and dancing.

Wellness, sports, and experiences on board

Those seeking relaxation will find it in the Blossom Spa, which offers an oasis of calm with Oriental-inspired treatments, a steam bath, thermal pools, and modern treatment rooms. In addition, there is a spacious fitness area with state-of-the-art equipment, while the large sports deck offers space for basketball, pickleball, or volleyball – activities that are particularly popular in the early evening when the sea breeze cools down. The onboard program ranges from morning yoga to dance classes and fashion shows, ensuring a varied day. For an extra charge, the AROYA also offers modern experiences: an escape room for adventurous teams, the futuristic VR room Glitch, a Formula 1 simulator, or private karaoke rooms where guests can perform their favorite songs in small groups. This makes the journey not only a relaxing one, but also a kaleidoscope of sports, games, and entertainment.

Coffee, sweets, and refreshing treats

An integral part of Saudi hospitality is Saudi coffee, which is served on board in shiny gold dallah pots – accompanied by small porcelain cups and delicious dates. In the cafés and lounges, especially in the elegant Marka Café, this spicy coffee, refined with cardamom and saffron, characterizes life on board. Those with a sweet tooth will find chocolate variations and a chocolate fountain at the Choco Bar, while the Melo Pearl Bar serves creative milkshakes. The Boba Bar on the promenade deck is trend-conscious, offering bubble tea in colorful variations, while the Crêperie offers warm, fragrant crêpes and waffles in a wide variety. Families with children love the Coral Creamery, a colorful ice cream parlor in the style of a kids’ club. For a healthy balance after a workout, the Blend Bar is located right next to the fitness area, where freshly squeezed juices, salads, and wholesome snacks perfectly round off your workout.

A concept that is different

AROYA Cruises deliberately breaks with conventional cruise traditions and focuses on a concept that is deeply rooted in Arab culture. This includes exclusive “Lady Hours” at the adults-only pool, where women can relax undisturbed. Even the Al Matal observation lounge above is closed during this time to guarantee absolute privacy. Separate “female only” times also apply to the fitness center and spa. Life on board is complemented by several shisha lounges, where guests can enjoy the sea view while smoking aromatic tobacco, as well as a compass-aligned prayer room that caters to spiritual needs. Instead of a casino, guests can enjoy a spacious shopping area, the “Souk,” which is designed like an oriental bazaar and even has its branch in the exclusive Khuzama area.

Dining times are also deliberately set later, in keeping with the rhythm of Arab life. That takes some getting used to for Western guests at first. The Amwaj buffet restaurant is open for lunch between 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and for dinner from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. On sea days, the main restaurant Al Waha offers lunch between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and dinner from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. To ensure that no one goes hungry between meals, the Amwaj Terrace offers light dishes from a buffet or small food trucks. It also provides a late-night snack between 11:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. The specialty restaurants usually serve dinner between 7:00 p.m. and at least 11:00 p.m., with the Space Diner even staying open until 1:00 a.m. Speaking of opening hours, the pools are also open for surprisingly long hours and are equipped with lifeguards: the large family pool until 10:00 p.m. and the Sky Pool for adults until midnight in some cases.

This concept sets the AROYA apart from Western cruise ships and makes it a place where cultural authenticity and modern travel experiences merge. In conversations with Saudi guests, this maintained authenticity was also particularly well received. It remains to be seen whether all these aspects can continue to be implemented successfully without change as the target group expands further into Western regions.

As our ship slowly steers toward Galataport after a week along the impressive backdrop of Istanbul, I am already gathering many lasting impressions of this trip. As I take one last souvenir photo on the balcony, there is a knock at the door. My butler Mark picks me up at the pre-arranged time and accompanies me off board. The very attentive, never intrusive service is complemented by the friendliness of the crew, which will remain particularly memorable.

AROYA Cruises is definitely very different from conventional cruise lines. That’s exactly what makes it so charming and appealing. It´s ideal for anyone who likes to try something new. For those who want to get to know new cultures, not just at their destination, but right on board the cruise ship. And, of course, for families with children, because the huge range of offers for this target group comes at very affordable prices.

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Josef Eisenberger

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