Sharm El Sheikh Cruise Port

Sharm El Sheikh is a Red Sea port and resort city on the southern tip of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, in South Sinai Governorate. It sits on a promontory overlooking the Straits of Tiran at the entrance to the Gulf of Aqaba. Cruise ships generally visit as a port of call rather than a turnaround port. The city's civilian port development began in the mid 1980s, and the marina and seaport have since become an important part of life on the coast. The marina has been redeveloped for yachts and sailing boats and includes a passenger terminal for cruise ships, with port facilities upgraded over time.

Sharm El Sheikh has a subtropical arid climate, with warm conditions for much of the year. January temperatures typically range from 18 to 23 degrees Celsius, while August can reach 33 to 37 degrees. The Red Sea remains warm too, with water temperatures generally between 21 and 28 degrees Celsius through the year.

The sea is one of Sharm El Sheikh's biggest attractions. Warm, clear water and rich marine life have made the area particularly popular with divers. Ras Muhammad National Park lies at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Red Sea and Gulf of Suez meet. Strong currents around the park support a varied underwater environment. Shark Reef is known for its steep wall dropping to more than 800 metres, while nearby Yolanda Reef takes its name from the wreck of the Yolanda.

The wider area is closely associated with the biblical story of Moses and Mount Sinai. St. Catherine's Monastery stands at the foot of the mountain and was built between 527 and 565 AD. In 1982, former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak designated Sharm El Sheikh the City of Peace.

There is plenty to explore beyond the beach and diving sites. The old market area has colourful Bedouin handicrafts and traditional Arab bazaars, while restaurants cater to an international audience with Egyptian, Lebanese and seafood dishes. Evening entertainment adds another side to the resort, with a broad choice of restaurants and nightlife venues.