ROL Cruise recommends...
Discover ancient Aqaba at its Archaeological Museum
Housed in the former palace of Sharif Hussein Bin Ali, the Archaeological Museum boasts exhibits dating back to the Bronze Age, a number of artefacts produced between the seventh and twelfth centuries and an impressive collection of ancient gold coins. This attraction is a must-visit for anyone on a cruise to Aqaba looking for a glimpse at what life used to be like in this popular Jordanian city.
Travel back to 300 BC with a trip to Petra
Famous for its rock-cut architecture and water-conduit system, the nearby ancient city of Petra is one of the world’s best-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites and makes for an essential Aqaba cruise excursion. Dating back to around 300 BC, Petra is formed of an awe-inspiring combination of impressive temples, tombs, churches and passageways made from rose-coloured stone.
Marvel at the spectacular Wadi Rum desert
Meanwhile, further off the beaten track, the protected desert of Wadi Rum is an unforgiving but spectacular landscape just waiting to be explored. Prepare for dramatic sandstone mountains and chasms lined with ancient inscriptions at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most tour operators offer either half- or full-day tours to the region, but for the more adventurous Aqaba cruise passenger, there is also the opportunity to strip back to basics and sleep over at one of the desert camps.
Make the most of Aqaba’s sun-filled days
One of the best parts of a cruise to Aqaba (as well as its proximity to world-famous hotspots and great water sports offerings) is its weather. With temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees Celsius even in the winter, rising to around 35 degrees in the summer, this is a great place for a spot of sun-worship. Adopt the locals’ schedule for the most relaxing break - take a siesta between 2 pm and 6 pm to make the most of the cooler evenings.
Excite your taste for adventure with a range of water sports
Whatever your preference when it comes to getting active in and around water, Aqaba is sure to cater to your every whim. Whether it’s scuba diving or yachting that takes your fancy, you’ll be more than satisfied by the immense number of hotels and clubs offering water sport adventures across the city and beyond.
