Overview
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Ships
Join the MS Hebridean Sky for this passage through antiquity as we sail from Cyprus to Saudi Arabia discovering a wealth of sites along the way. Exploring by sea allows us to incorporate a heady mix of fascinating places with great ease and we will visit the magnificent ‘Rose Red City’ of Petra and the ancient city of Hegra in Saudi Arabia which has only recently opened to tourists. These sites are irresistible attractions for the genuine traveller and as you explore these vast and complex Nabataean cities, whose wealth came from their proximity to the ancient Middle East trade routes, you cannot help but be impressed by the industry and sophistication of this ancient civilisation.
Our voyage begins in the Cypriot port of Limassol from where we will visit the Temple of Apollo and the ruins of Kourion with its Greco-Roman Theatre and lovely coastal views. Following a transit of the Suez Canal we spend time in Egypt exploring some of the great monuments of the pharaohs. Visit Cairo’s magnificent Egyptian Museum, see the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx and spend a day exploring the mesmerising underwater world of the Red Sea. We continue to Jordan where there is the option to spend time in Petra, a city set deep in the Edom mountains that was hewn directly from the rock by the Nabataeans and an amazing feat of engineering. After a relaxing day at sea we arrive in Saudi Arabia where we spend our final days discovering the captivating site of Hegra, the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the fascinating historic cities of Yanbu and Jeddah.
Our itinerary represents small ship cruising at its best and is timed for October when temperatures will be pleasant for exploring and, with the aid of our knowledgeable local guides and excellent Guest Speaker, we will learn of some fascinating civilisations. In addition to visiting some of the world’s most impressive and historic sites, there will be time to relax on board the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky. With just over 100 passengers, our trips ashore will be a pleasure and whether your interest lies in ancient history, modern politics or simply the joy of experiencing new places, this journey has much to offer.
- Exploring the Ancient City of Petra: Visit the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its stunning rock-carved architecture, including the famous Treasury.
- Suez Canal Transit: Experience the unique journey of transiting the Suez Canal, a historic waterway connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
- Relaxing in Sharm el Sheikh: Enjoy the beautiful resort town of Sharm el Sheikh, with options for snorkeling in the Ras Mohamed National Park or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.
- Exploring Jeddah's Historic Center: Discover Jeddah's historic UNESCO-listed center, Al Balad, with its traditional architecture, bustling souqs, and a visit to Beit Nassif, a well-preserved historical coral house turned museum.
21 October, 2024 to 01 November, 2024 on Hebridean Sky
Prices
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Mawson Deck Corner Suite
£ 8995 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Suite
£ 7995 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
£ 9995 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite
£ 11495 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
£ 7495 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Sole
£ 8995 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Mawson Deck Premium Suite
£ 8495 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
£ 10495 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
£ 8495 GBP pp
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
• Safe
• Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed.
Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 London to Limassol, Cyprus.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Limassol.
This morning we drive to the Temple of Apollo, one of the main religious centres of ancient Cyprus. We will continue to the ruins of Kourion, a city built in 1200 BC. The most spectacular site at Kourion is the Greco-Roman Theatre which has been completely restored and is used today for open-air musical and theatrical performances. We will also visit the Medieval Kolossi Castle before returning to the ship for lunch. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace.
Day 3 At Sea.
A relaxing day at sea, maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck as we sail towards the North African coast.
Day 4 Suez Canal Transit, Egypt.
Spend the day in transit of the Suez Canal and the Great Bitter Lake.
Day 5 Sokhna for Cairo & Giza.
A full day tour is dedicated to the capital city of Cairo. From our berth in Sokhna we drive to the impressive Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the tombs of the great pharaohs and their queens. After lunch we visit the Egyptian Museum with 107 halls that are separated into seven sections. The museum houses statues, jewels and treasures of Tutankhamun. We will visit the Amarna Room and see the Fayoum portraits, and monuments from the later periods from the Greeks and the Romans. For those returning to Cairo an alternative tour will visit Memphis, the first capital of Egypt, founded by King Narmer in 3200 BC in a strategic position on the west bank of the Nile. In the open-air museum we can see the enormous Colossus of Ramses II. Nearby is the necropolis at Saqqara which includes the Mastaba of Ti and the tomb for King Djoser which was Egypt’s first pyramid, a landmark achievement of this ancient civilisation’s development of architectural wonders.
Day 6 Sharm el Sheikh.
After a morning at sea we arrive at the resort town of Sharm el Sheikh. It is, however, offshore that our interest lies with the clear waters of the Red Sea. Maybe join a snorkelling tour to the Ras Mohamed National Park. Designated a National Park in 1983 the reef ecosystems here protect a diversity of fish species and coral. Alternatively take a glass bottomed boat tour as we view some of the many species of colourful fish, coral and sponges that live in these waters.
Day 7 Aqaba for Petra, Jordan.
From our berth in Aqaba we drive to the breathtaking Nabatean city of Petra which was carved out of rose-red sandstone about 2,000 years ago and has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Walk past the Obelisk Tomb and then through the Siq, the narrow 1.2 kilometre gorge that leads to Petra’s most impressive monument, the Treasury, which was carved out of the pale reddish sandstone in the 1st century BC. Pass by the dozens of classical Nabatean ruins and tombs known as the Street of Facades, the remarkable 3,000 seat Theatre, the Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street, the Byzantine Church, the Temple, the Monumental Arch and the mighty Qasr el-Bint Faroun. After lunch amidst the ruins of Petra we have a little free time to explore further independently before returning to our ship. Alternatively, for those interested in staying by the Red Sea we will arrange a transfer to one of the city’s beach clubs where you can spend the day relaxing.
Day 8 At Sea.
Spend the day cruising as we continue our journey south.
Day 9 Al Wajh for Hegra, Saudi Arabia.
Arriving into Saudi Arabia at Al Wajh there will be a choice of activities today. A full day tour will drive inland to the Alulah region and ancient Hegra, the largest conserved site of Nabataean civilisation south of Petra. Hegra was both a trading centre and military stronghold enabling the Nabataeans to control the Arabian caravan trade and the site has been left practically undisturbed for 2,000 years. Here, surrounded by desert, we can find over 100 well-preserved tombs hewn from the rocks of the Hijaz mountains, featuring beautifully carved facades dating back to the first century BC. The largest of the tombs is that of Lihyan, son of Kuza at 72 feet tall. Alternatively explore the city of Al Wajh, once a key port for silk road merchant ships. Visit the atmospheric old town and market, the 200-year-old Al-Ashraf Mosque, which overlooks the bay, and Al Wajh Castle which was built in 1875 toward the end of the Ottoman period.
Day 10 Yanbu.
Over lunch we sail into Yanbu. With a history dating back at least 2,500 years Yanbu is one of the oldest ports on the Red Sea. The city was built around the port which was a staging post on the spice and incense route from Yemen to Egypt and the Mediterranean as well as being the natural port for the ancient oasis of Madinah. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic city including the recently restored Souq Al Lail (night market) which was opened at night to serve the resident fisherman and viewing the city’s unique Hejazi architecture found along the Red Sea coast. Also visit the restored former home of T.E Lawrence who lived in the city from 1915-1916.
Day 11 Jeddah.
The historic crossroads of pilgrims and traders, and the traditional gateway to Mecca, Jeddah is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon as we discover the traditional architecture and oriental scents of the city. Arriving over lunch we will explore the atmospheric streets of Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO listed historical centre, feel the buzz in the local souqs and spend time at Beit Nassif, one of the city’s best preserved historical coral houses and now a museum and cultural centre. Built in the 1880s it is also known as the “house with the tree” as this was the only tree in Jeddah until the 1920s.
Day 12 Jeddah to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Re…
Hebridean Sky
| Length | 90 metres |
|---|---|
| Built/refurbished | 1992/2016 |
Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Representative. Hebridean Sky is the perfect blend of luxury and adventurous exploration. Is it a luxury ship? An adventure ship? It’s both! The vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016.
ONBOARD DINING
Great expeditions require great food! We are pleased to offer daily changing breakfast, lunch and dinner menus with an emphasis on providing well balanced and nutritional cuisine. Our team of international chefs has boat loads of creativity and you are sure to experience a variety of interesting dishes throughout your voyage. The restaurant is located on Deck 2 and our service team looks forward to providing a memorable dining experience.
IMPECCABLE SMALL-SHIP AMENITIES
Returning from excursions, passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a gracious space for relaxation, surrounded by panoramic windows. Other Sea Explorer features include:
- Library with Internet access
- Lounge with audiovisual facilities
- Dining room
- Wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi
- Exercise room
- Medical facilities with available doctor
- Elevator serving all passenger decks
- Swimming/zodiac platform
All Voyages Include:
Up to Two Pre-Voyage Hotel Nights
Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner
Certified Emergency MD and Clinic
World Class Cuisine
Live Entertainment
Complimentary Coffee/Tea station
Voyage Photographer
Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
Complimentary Expedition Jacket
Please note deck plan may vary.
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