AROYA diaries: a journey in Arabian luxury

By Zainab Altaitoon

AROYA Cruises, the first Arabian cruise, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Saudi Arabian coastline from the sea. A brand-new venture launched by Cruise Saudi, a company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund, AROYA Cruises is set to redefine holidays in the region. TTN had the opportunity to embark on a three-day journey aboard AROYA, the brand’s first vessel, alongside select travel agents, VIPs and members of the press.

Setting sail from Jeddah
As we stepped aboard AROYA at the Jeddah Islamic Port, we were immediately struck by the stunning Arabian designs and luxurious decor that adorned the ship. The hallways were vibrant, filled with art that beautifully reflected the region’s rich culture. Live harp music floated through the air, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere as we made our way to our cabins.
The cabins were spaciousness and elegant. The balcony provided a breathtaking view of the Red Sea, making it the perfect spot to relax. After settling in, we headed to the Amwaj Restaurant for dinner. The buffet was a varied spread of local and international cuisines, showcasing the best of Arabian hospitality. The staff was helpful, guiding us through the array of dishes and ensuring we all felt at home.
As night fell, we made our way to the Sky Pool Deck. The atmosphere there was electric as we watched a spectacular display of drone lights and fireworks celebrating the cruise’s inaugural voyage and Saudi Arabia’s successful bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The Jeddah Yacht Club and the corniche provided a stunning backdrop, making the moment unforgettable.

A day of exploration
Waking up to the gentle sway of the ship, the next morning began with a delicious breakfast that set the tone for the day. Afterward, a guided tour of the vessel unlocked its various offerings. We were particularly impressed by the villas on board, each one a masterpiece of design. Spacious and filled with natural light, these accommodations featured large balconies and stunning views. The Royal Villa, with its six rooms, spa, gaming room and private jacuzzi, was perfect for families travelling together.
Next, we ventured into AROYA Dukkan, a unique blend of pharmacy and convenience store, as well as the AROYA Souk and the duty-free shops. Here, we browsed through a variety of luxury brands. After some retail therapy, we stopped by Dallah Café for traditional Arabic coffee (gahwa) paired with delicious sweets – a perfect way to recharge.
In the evening, we attended an Arabian Music Night at the onboard theatre, which can accommodate over 900 guests. The performances were captivating, showcasing the region’s rich musical heritage.

Relaxation, entertainment
On our final day aboard AROYA, we took the opportunity to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. I woke up early, brewed a cup of coffee, and enjoyed it on the balcony while watching the sunrise. The colours of the sky transformed as the sun rose, and the sound of the waves created a serene start to the day.
Later in the afternoon, we attended a magic show that left everyone in awe. The talent displayed was remarkable, adding a sense of wonder to our cruise experience. After the show, we headed to Bloom Spa for a rejuvenating yoga session. The wellness area on the ship is expansive, offering everything from beauty treatments to a thermal suite.
As the sun began to set, we relaxed by the pool, feeling the gentle breeze and watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink.
To wrap up our cruise experience, we attended an Arabic Comedy Show in the theatre. The laughter and camaraderie felt contagious, providing the perfect ending to our journey before preparing for disembarkation the next day.
Our experience on AROYA was nothing short of magical. From the luxurious accommodations to the delicious dining options and the multitude of entertainment choices, every moment was thoughtfully curated to ensure guest satisfaction. The ship not only caters to various tastes and preferences but also emphasises comfort and joy, which is evident in the way the crew interacts with us.