Cruise port Sharm El-Sheikh
Port information & tips for Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm El-Sheikh on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula is the sparkling jewel of the Red Sea and a paradise for sun worshippers and divers alike. The city impresses with a fascinating blend of oriental charm, crystal-clear water and an imposing desert backdrop. Absolute highlights nearby include the magnificent Al-Sahaba Mosque with its intricate architecture and the bustling Old Market, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of spices. The colorful coral reefs right off the coast are also a major draw. Cruise ships dock at Sharm El Sheikh Port, located about five kilometers from the tourist hub of Naama Bay. Thanks to short distances and good connections, both the old town and the beautiful beaches are easily accessible by taxi.
Sharm El-Sheikh, located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is an important destination for Red Sea cruises. The port and the modern cruise terminal, which is being extensively modernized until 2025, are strategically positioned and well connected to the international airport.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is primarily by plane to Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH), which is located only about 10 to 16 kilometers from the cruise port. Due to the longer flight time, arriving at least one day before the scheduled embarkation is recommended to start your cruise experience in a relaxed manner.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH), you can easily reach the port and surrounding hotels by taxi or private transfer. Taxis are available around the clock, but it is advisable to agree on the fare in advance. Many cruise lines and local providers also offer comfortable and air-conditioned shuttle services, which represent a reliable option to the terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free start to your cruise, an overnight stay in one of the numerous hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh is highly recommended. Many accommodations near the port or in areas like Naama Bay offer an ideal opportunity to acclimatize and ensure a relaxed arrival on embarkation day.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
Sharm El-Sheikh, located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is an important destination for Red Sea cruises. The port and the modern cruise terminal, which is being extensively modernized until 2025, are strategically positioned and well connected to the international airport.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is primarily by plane to Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH), which is located only about 10 to 16 kilometers from the cruise port. Due to the longer flight time, arriving at least one day before the scheduled embarkation is recommended to start your cruise experience in a relaxed manner.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport (SSH), you can easily reach the port and surrounding hotels by taxi or private transfer. Taxis are available around the clock, but it is advisable to agree on the fare in advance. Many cruise lines and local providers also offer comfortable and air-conditioned shuttle services, which represent a reliable option to the terminal.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free start to your cruise, an overnight stay in one of the numerous hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh is highly recommended. Many accommodations near the port or in areas like Naama Bay offer an ideal opportunity to acclimatize and ensure a relaxed arrival on embarkation day.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Sharm El-Sheikh is located in the southern part of the peninsula and, thanks to its location, offers an excellent starting point for exploring the coast as well as the Old Town.
Taxi
Official taxis wait for passengers directly at the port exit and provide a comfortable ride to popular tourist centers such as Naama Bay or Shark's Bay. The drivers will take you quickly to your desired destinations and are also available for individual sightseeing tours.
Microbuses
The white minivans are the typical local mode of transport and run continuously on the main roads between the port, the Old Market, and Naama Bay. These buses are an affordable and authentic option and can be easily waved down by hand from the roadside.
On Foot
The charming Old Market district, with its traditional bazaars and the impressive Al-Sahaba Mosque, can be reached in about a 15- to 20-minute walk. The path leads along the bay and already offers the first beautiful views of the Red Sea.
To make the most of your precious time in Sharm El-Sheikh, we recommend a combination of the cultural richness in the immediate vicinity of the port and the fascinating natural landscapes of the direct surroundings.
Old Market & Al Sahaba Mosque
The historic district fascinates with its lively bazaar and the impressive architecture of the Al Sahaba Mosque; additionally, the center is an ideal destination for a first authentic impression of the city thanks to its proximity to the port.
Naama Bay
This popular neighborhood attracts visitors with its inviting sandy beaches and a wide promenade; at the same time, the bay is perfect for a relaxed day by the sea and offers first-class tourist infrastructure thanks to numerous cafes and shops.
Ras Mohammed National Park
This protected natural paradise at the southern tip of the Sinai is world-famous for its colorful coral reefs and crystal-clear lagoons; furthermore, the pristine beauty of the park can be ideally explored as part of a day trip thanks to short travel distances.
El Fanar Beach (Ras Um Sid)
Only about ten minutes driving time from the cruise port, the exclusive El Fanar Beach Club awaits you at Cape Ras Um Sid, offering one of the most spectacular views of the Red Sea. This location is ideal for cruise guests as it combines relaxation on high-quality loungers with a world-class snorkeling experience directly at the hotel's own house reef. Thanks to the first-class infrastructure including showers, changing rooms, and excellent gastronomy, you can enjoy a comfortable day by the sea here. It is best to visit the beach club directly in the morning to experience the impressive underwater visibility during calm seas, and plan your return journey to the ship completely relaxed about ninety minutes before departure.
The way back to the port of Sharm El-Sheikh is extremely pleasant and safe thanks to the short distances and the high availability of means of transport.
Taxi
In the tourist centers such as Naama Bay, Soho Square, and the Old Market, blue and white taxis are available at all times at marked stands and in front of the major hotels. The drivers will take you directly to the secured port entrance in the bay of Sharm El Maya and ensure a punctual arrival directly at the ship terminal.
Shuttle Bus
Many cruise lines offer organized shuttle buses that run at regular intervals between the port and central meeting points like the Old Market or Naama Bay. The stops are well marked on site and allow for a relaxed return journey without waiting times directly to the port grounds.
On Foot
Guests visiting the nearby Old Market can easily make their way back to the ship on foot. The walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes along the bustling main street of Sharm El Maya directly to the guarded port gate and is easy to find thanks to the flat route and good orientation towards the bay.
