Port information & tips for Al Manamah
Manama is the vibrant capital of Bahrain and welcomes cruise guests as a fascinating blend of futuristic skyline and millennia-old history on the Persian Gulf. The metropolis impresses with its bold architecture and lively bazaars, while simultaneously preserving its deeply rooted cultural heritage. Special highlights include the magnificent Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, the historic Bab Al Bahrain city gate with its labyrinthine souq, and the informative Bahrain National Museum. Ships dock at the modern Khalifa Bin Salman Port in Hidd, which offers a comfortable welcome thanks to its first-class infrastructure. From this terminal, the city center can be reached easily in about twenty minutes, allowing for an uncomplicated discovery of the island's diverse treasures.
The port of Al Manamah in the Kingdom of Bahrain is primarily served by the Khalifa Bin Salman Port, which is a modern industrial port located on the island of Muharraq. Travel for cruise guests from the DACH region typically takes place by plane, with transfers to the ship being convenient and well-organized.
Airplane
Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is the nearest airport and is located only about 10 to 15 kilometers from the center of Manama. Direct flights from the DACH region are available, so after a relaxed journey, you only need a short transfer to the cruise ship. You should plan for about 30 minutes for the trip to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Bahrain International Airport, you can reach the port comfortably by taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Taxis are available directly at the airport and will take you to the city center of Manama in about 15 to 20 minutes, or to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port in around 30 minutes. Additionally, cruise lines often offer their own shuttle buses that run from the port to central points in Manama, such as the Bab Al Bahrain.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight time from the German-speaking region, a relaxed arrival at least one day before embarkation is recommended. A pre-cruise hotel in Manama offers you the opportunity to acclimatize before the cruise and gather your first impressions of the city. Many hotels in Manama are well-connected to the airport thanks to short transfer routes.
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 and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Al Manamah in the Kingdom of Bahrain is primarily served by the Khalifa Bin Salman Port, which is a modern industrial port located on the island of Muharraq. Travel for cruise guests from the DACH region typically takes place by plane, with transfers to the ship being convenient and well-organized.
Airplane
Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is the nearest airport and is located only about 10 to 15 kilometers from the center of Manama. Direct flights from the DACH region are available, so after a relaxed journey, you only need a short transfer to the cruise ship. You should plan for about 30 minutes for the trip to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Bahrain International Airport, you can reach the port comfortably by taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Taxis are available directly at the airport and will take you to the city center of Manama in about 15 to 20 minutes, or to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port in around 30 minutes. Additionally, cruise lines often offer their own shuttle buses that run from the port to central points in Manama, such as the Bab Al Bahrain.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight time from the German-speaking region, a relaxed arrival at least one day before embarkation is recommended. A pre-cruise hotel in Manama offers you the opportunity to acclimatize before the cruise and gather your first impressions of the city. Many hotels in Manama are well-connected to the airport thanks to short transfer routes.
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 and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Khalifa Bin Salman Port is located about 13 kilometers outside the city center and, thanks to a modern infrastructure, offers convenient onward travel with various motorized means of transport. Due to its location in the industrial area of Hidd, the transfer to the capital ideally takes place directly via the well-developed highways.
Shuttle Service
Most cruise lines provide organized shuttle buses that take you directly to Bab Al Bahrain at the entrance of the traditional Souk or to modern shopping malls. These trips are uncomplicated and simultaneously offer a first overview of the impressive skyline of Manama.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Numerous official taxis wait at the terminal exit for the arrival of the ships and bring you quickly to the city center. Additionally, you can easily use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to reach landmarks such as the Al-Fateh Mosque flexibly and in air-conditioned comfort.
Car Rental
Right at the terminal, you will find branches of well-known car rental companies for an individual exploration of the island. This option allows for an independent drive to the Bahrain International Circuit or to the Tree of Life and offers a relaxed travel experience thanks to the clear signage.
To make the most of your stay in Manama, we recommend a versatile route that combines the vibrant charm of the traditional market with the architectural masterpieces and historical treasures of the island.
Bab Al Bahrain & Manama Souq
This historic gateway marks the entrance to the city's lively bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in a world of oriental spices and the finest handicrafts while enjoying the authentic Arabian way of life in the winding alleys.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
This magnificent building, one of the largest mosques in the world, impresses with its monumental architecture and massive fiberglass dome, offering a fascinating insight into the religious and cultural identity of Bahrain thanks to its central location.
Qal'at al-Bahrain
This imposing fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and, thanks to the short travel time from the port, an ideal destination for explorers, where the view from the historic walls directly by the sea towards the modern skyline provides a perfect contrast for souvenir photos.
Bab Al Bahrain & Manama Souq
The magnificent Bab Al Bahrain city gate marks the entrance to the historic Manama Souq and is easily accessible from the port in about twenty to thirty minutes by convenient shuttle buses or taxis. In the lively alleys of this traditional market, you will dive deep into oriental culture and find fragrant spices, high-quality textiles, and excellent gold jewelry. Thanks to authentic places to stop, such as the famous Haji’s Cafe, you can also enjoy a perfect atmosphere for a short rest with a local tea or coffee. Ideally, start your tour in the morning to experience the full variety of the market, and return to the ship relaxed at least ninety minutes before departure.
The return journey to the modern Khalifa Bin Salman Port in Hidd is safe and efficient thanks to excellent transport links and clear organization.
Cruise Line Shuttle Service
Many cruise lines offer a convenient shuttle service between Bab Al Bahrain at Manama Souq or major malls such as City Centre Bahrain and the ship. Simply look out for the marked stopping points and the departure times for the final return trip to the terminal communicated by the onboard staff.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services
Officially registered taxis can be found at any time in front of all major sights, such as the National Museum, and the city's large hotels. Additionally, the return journey to the port in Hidd can be easily booked via apps like Uber or Careem, ensuring you arrive punctually and directly at the guarded port entrance.
Accessibility of the Terminal
Thanks to its location in a modern industrial area, the Khalifa Bin Salman Port is well-prepared for vehicle traffic and can be easily reached by shuttle or taxi. The guarded access gates ensure you return safely to your ship, with a time buffer of about 45 minutes for the return journey from the city center guaranteeing a relaxed arrival.
