Cruises in the Middle East

Why go to the Middle East?

Choosing a cruise to the Middle East means embarking on a perfect blend of cultural discovery, relaxation and adventure at sea. Each port of call reveals a piece of history and a vibrant and exotic culture. At Filovent, we offer you two must-see destinations in the Middle East: Egypt and Turkey. I have put together the essential information you need to prepare for your cruise.

Egypt, a journey back to the time of the pharaohs

What type of boat will you be traveling on during the cruise in Egypt?

During this cruise in Egypt, you will sail and live for a few days at the side of the boat. This traditional Egyptian sailing boat is equipped with very spacious communal living areas, both inside and out. Enjoy sunbathing on the deck to contemplate the landscape outside and luxurious private cabins with a view of the Nile and their own indoor bathroom. The Dahabieh offers you modernity with its recent equipment, without losing the authenticity of its 19th century ancestor.

Egypt cruise package

The cruises in Egypt that we offer are all-inclusive cruises that allow you to discover many sites in a unique way.

The concept is to rent one or more cabins on a boat with a crew that will take great care of you. You therefore share the boat with other people, but you have your own private and comfortable space. You also have the option of completely privatizing a boat with a crew.

Numerous options are available, allowing you to find the cruise that suits you, with durations (from 3 to 15 days) and very different prices.

Our prices for a cruise in Egypt

For 2 people, the price of a cabin can vary depending on the boat, the desired period and the chosen cabin. Here is a dead reckoning of the prices for a 10-day sailing itinerary with a visit to Cairo and Luxor:

• The price includes: most meals (specified in the description of the package), a French-speaking guide, sheets and towels, and activities, transfers and hotels included in the program.
• The price does not include: flights (unless specified), tips, activities and meals not included in the program.

Activities and must-sees on a cruise in Egypt

If you are wondering where to go in Egypt, here are the must-sees:

Cairo: The Egyptian capital is a treasure trove of historical and cultural discoveries. It allows you to delve into the country's ancient history with its iconic monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the brand new Grand Egyptian Museum. It is a must-see, especially if you want to take a family cruise on the Nile.

Luxor: This city, often referred to as "the world's largest open-air museum", overlooks the Nile and offers a panorama of majestic temples and royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

Temple of Edfu: Located between Luxor and Aswan, the Temple of Edfu is one of the best preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, this imposing monument is a masterpiece of Egyptian architecture.

Temple of Philae: Located on an island in Aswan, the Temple of Philae is dedicated to the goddess Isis. With its majestic pylons, inner chapels and peaceful atmosphere on the side of the boat, the Temple of Philae is a must-see!

When to go on a cruise in Egypt?

Although it is very hot in summer and milder in winter, the best time for a cruise in Egypt can vary depending on the region.

In general, the peak tourist season runs from November to February, with mild temperatures and sunny days. This is the best time to visit tourist sites such as the pyramids of Giza and Luxor, or to take a cruise on the Nile.

Spring and fall, from March to May and September to October, are also pleasant times to travel on your ship.

Here is a summary table of temperatures in Egypt to help you prepare for your cruise in the Middle East:

Turkey, from ancient cities to secret coves

What type of boat is used for a cruise in Turkey?

The most suitable boat for a cruise in Turkey is the gulet. Its wooden superstructure offers more space on board, while its full-displacement hull provides excellent stability at anchor. Last but not least, its shallow draft allows it to anchor close-hauled in sheltered coves and bays overnight. You therefore benefit from large, very quiet and comfortable outdoor and indoor spaces. You will also be accompanied by a crew generally made up of a commander and hostesses who will ensure your comfort at the side of the boat and in the port.

Cruise package in Turkey

The cruises in Turkey that we offer are all-inclusive cruises that allow you to discover the Mediterranean and enjoy a relaxing vacation. The concept is the same: you rent one or more cabins on a boat with a crew that will take great care of you. You share the boat with other people, but you have your own private and comfortable space. The gulets in Turkey are intimate since they often have a maximum capacity of around twenty people, with families with children, couples or groups of friends. You also have the option of fully privatizing a boat with a crew, departing from various bases.

Numerous options are available to meet (almost) all your needs. The duration of our cruises in Turkey range from 4 to 8 days and at different prices.

Our prices for a cruise in Turkey

For 2 people, the price of a cabin can vary according to various criteria such as the ship, the sailing itinerary, the desired period or even the cabin chosen. Here we give you a dead reckoning of the prices for an 8-day sailing itinerary for two people.

• The price includes: the services of the crew, nautical accessories, sheets and towels, certain activities and meals.
• The price does not include: flights (unless specified), visas, transfers from the airport, certain excursions and activities, alcohol and tips.

Activities and must-sees on a cruise in Turkey

If you were wondering where to go in Turkey, we have made a selection of must-see places and activities for you:

Kaleköy and Kekova: This Turkish duo on the Mediterranean is well worth a visit! Kaleköy is a town on the coast that is only accessible by boat and is home to a multitude of terraces that are popular with everyone. Kekova, on the other hand, is an uninhabited island surrounded by ancient remains, some of which lie under the waters following an earthquake in the 2nd century. Accessible only by boat, this site is protected and diving is prohibited, but it can be explored by kayak or from a glass-bottom boat.

What is there to do in Kaleköy and Kekova?

• Set off on an adventure and explore the sunken city to discover stairs and stone walls that are still intact.
• A visit to Simena Castle in Kaleköy, a medieval fortress, promises a breathtaking view of the bay.
• For a touch of the seabed, take a stroll to one of the many terraces to enjoy a homemade ice cream in Kaleköy.

Bodrum: Today it is a popular seaside resort, where history and modernity meet. This is where the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was located. Today, the city is famous for its lively atmosphere, its heavenly beaches and its harbor full of traditional schooners, just like yours!

What is there to see and do in Bodrum?

• Explore the ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus because even though the building has been destroyed, some structures still remain, and they are just waiting for you!
• It is a very beautiful place to enjoy the turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, especially at the beaches of Bitez and Torba.
• To touch the seabed, treat yourself to mezzes in the marina while admiring the yachts and other boats.

Fethiye: One of the most beautiful natural harbors in Turkey is surrounded by pine-covered mountains and white sandy beaches. Formerly known as Telmessos, the city is home to heavenly coves accessible only by boat.

What is there to see and do in Fethiye?

• Enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey: Ölüdeniz beach and its blue lagoon, which are now protected by a nature reserve.
• For a change of scenery, take a paraglider from Mount Babadağ for a spectacular view over the Ölüdeniz lagoon.
• Set off in your schooner to explore the Butterfly Valley, a secluded cove hauled in by cliffs, accessible by boat or via a hiking trail.

When to go on a cruise in Turkey?

The best time to go to Turkey is between May and September, thanks to the mild temperatures and sunny days. The low season is between October and April, when the days get cooler but the country does not lose any of its charm.

Here is a summary table of temperatures in Turkey so that you can best prepare for your cruise in the Middle East:

How do I book a cruise in the Middle East?

To book your cruise in the Middle East, you can submit a booking request directly on our website. After receiving your request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to discuss your plans (duration, budget and activities). You will then receive cruise suggestions tailored to your preferences by email. Once you have chosen your cruise, you can pay a deposit via your customer area to confirm the booking.