33 subtly influenced by regional aesthetics. Together with SMC Design, we also developed the ship’s art collection, which comprises 1,425 commissioned works – 65 per cent of which are from Saudi Arabia. The artworks reflect five curated themes that celebrate the kingdom’s heritage, craftsmanship, landscapes, calligraphy and architectural patterns.” Marine outfitting firms De Wave Group and MJM Marine carried out the renovation work onboard the vessel. “Their expertise enabled a fast-track refit ahead of our service launch,” says Rudolph. “COLUMBIA blue provides ship management and hotel operations, ensuring consistently high standards across technical performance, crew management and guest service. Onboard retail is operated exclusively by Gebr. Heinemann, which offers an international product range aligned to our guest profile.” The onboard amenities and experiences have been carefully curated to fully immerse guests in Saudi Arabian culture and priotirise Hafawa. “AROYA’s onboard experience blends leisure, entertainment and dining in a way that appeals to a broad international audience while staying true to its regional identity,” explains Rudolph. “Culinary offerings combine international favourites with authentic regional concepts and include IRTH, the first Saudi restaurant at sea, where Saudi coffee and dates are served in traditional style. Other notable venues include cafes such as Marka and Layalina, which showcases Lebanese cuisine alongside a special entertainment programme.” Itineraries and shore excursions highlight the best of the regions the ship visits too. When it began sailing, AROYA homeported in Jeddah and sailed three- and four-night Red Sea itineraries to Al Aqaba in Jordan, Ain Al Sokhna and Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, and Cruise Saudi’s private island, Jabal Al-Sabaya Island (known as Saba Beach). In June 2025, the ship repositioned to the Eastern Mediterranean and began operating six- and seven-night voyages from Galataport Istanbul, Turkey, to other ports in the country, as well as destinations in Greece and Egypt. “The Mediterranean expansion was a natural progression for Aroya Cruises, offering world-renowned destinations, excellent air links to our core markets, and the ability to complement our Red Sea programme with a year-round calendar,” says Rudolph. “This expansion allows us to diversify our itineraries “ Partnerships have been instrumental in shaping AROYA into the product we have today” Created by SMC Design, IRTH is the first Saudi Arabian restaurant at sea and features design details inspired by the five main regions of the kingdom
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