I sailed on Aroya Cruises – why the first Arabian cruise line is unlike any other at sea

Words by Colin Streater

“Unlike anything you will have experienced before” is what I was told as I boarded the cruise ship Aroya for the first time. Always wary of such statements, I approached the experience with a degree of scepticism. I needn’t have worried. Aroya surpassed my expectations by a country mile.

From the super-speedy “Khuzama” (more on that later) check-in and warm welcome, things got better and better.

Fiercely proud of its position as the first premium Arabian cruise line, Aroya sets out its stall perfectly. Every cabin on board is nothing short of impressive. Whether you choose a Villa, Suite or even an Interior Cabin, the standards are exceptionally high.

Aroya Cruises is the first premium Arabian cruise line

What are the cabins like on Aroya Cruises?

I stayed in a Superior Suite, which was beautifully appointed and thoughtfully designed. It featured a comfortable double bed, along with a sofa bed sleeping two additional guests, and a room-dividing curtain. The spacious walk-in wardrobe was a particularly welcome touch.

At the very top end of the accommodation offering are the Presidential and Royal Villas, each featuring multiple rooms and representing the epitome of luxury, refinement and style.

Aroya Cruises cabin

What is the Khuzama Experience?

All suite guests enjoy the Khuzama Experience, described as “a private realm of elevated refinement in the heart of the sea”, and it certainly lives up to that promise. With its own dedicated lounge, exclusive restaurants and even butler service, it offers an added level of comfort and exclusivity.

The ship boasts an extensive art collection inspired by historical Arabian culture and heritage, reimagined through a contemporary lens. Art is a focal point throughout the vessel, from public spaces and restaurants to the lifts themselves. Simply walking around the ship becomes a visual and sensory experience unlike any other I have encountered at sea.

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The ship boasts an extensive art collection

Is Aroya Cruises good for families?

As you would expect, there is a large open-air pool complex complete with water flumes and dedicated children’s areas, creating the perfect environment for family fun. However, for those seeking a more adult atmosphere, there is also an adults-only pool located towards the front of the ship.

Aroya’s attention to detail is evident throughout. The entertainment programme is comprehensive, running from morning until late evening. So whilst you’re not on one of their exciting excursions, there are plenty of dedicated activities to keep younger guests entertained.

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There are waterslides for children

What are the entertainment and activities like?

Expect arcade games, Glitch VR – allowing guests to experience thrilling virtual reality games and immersive interactive experiences – climbing walls, rope courses and waterslides. Kids’ and teens’ clubs run throughout the day and evening too.

I managed to see the Rock Anthems concert in Legend’s Lounge, which was a hugely entertaining set featuring some of the world’s most famous rock songs.

Many of the shows and competitions I experienced took place in the ship’s atrium and were easy to stumble across simply by following the music, with the performances adding to the lively atmosphere throughout the ship.

There is even an escape room for those feeling brave enough to take on the challenge. We finished with just one minute and 45 seconds to spare, so it really is challenging.

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Aroya has many shows and competitions

Where should you eat on Aroya Cruises?

The food was consistently of an incredibly high standard. I made a point of dining in as many of the ship’s restaurants as possible and was impressed that neither the quality of the cuisine nor the service ever dipped.

My personal favourite was Bamboo, the Asian-inspired restaurant offering everything from theatrical teppanyaki dining to Thai, Japanese and other regional specialities.

Elsewhere on board, guests can choose from La Tavola for Italian cuisine, Layalina for Lebanese dishes and Meast Steakhouse, alongside the American-themed Space Diner, Fish Market seafood restaurant and the complimentary dining venues, including Al Waha and the Amwaj buffet. There are also ice cream parlours, cafés and even cigar lounges. Whatever your tastes, Aroya appears to have thought of everything.

Where does Aroya Cruises sail?

Our cruise departed from the magnificent Turkish city of Istanbul before visiting Marmaris, Bodrum, Kaş and Alexandria in Egypt. Each destination offered something entirely different, whether your interests lie in history and culture or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches.

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My favourite restaurant was Bamboo

What are the excursions like?

For me, the highlights included visiting the sites associated with two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Bodrum and the site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria.

I was also fascinated by the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built near the location of the ancient Library of Alexandria. While not one of the official Seven Wonders, the original library was one of the greatest centres of learning the world has ever known. The modern replacement is equally impressive, with capacity for millions of books and serving as a fitting tribute to its remarkable predecessor.

Is there a spa onboard?

For relaxation there is a comprehensive spa on board, and I can wholeheartedly recommend one of their massages. Mine was so relaxing that I fell asleep during the treatment and remained wonderfully relaxed for days afterwards.

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For relaxation there is a comprehensive spa on board

Our verdict: Is Aroya Cruises worth booking?

My overriding impression of Aroya was one of genuine warmth, diversity and inclusion viewed through an Arabian lens. The atmosphere throughout the ship is welcoming and authentic, with customer service delivered naturally rather than through scripted interactions. The friendliness of both crew and guests creates a genuinely enjoyable environment.

This spirit was perfectly illustrated when we returned to the ship in Bodrum. Crew members greeted returning guests with music and dancing on the quayside, creating a memorable end to an excellent day ashore. It was a simple gesture, but one that perfectly captured the personality of the ship and the warmth of its multinational crew.