About The Port Of Aqaba
Set on Jordan's southern coast where the Red Sea meets the desert, Aqaba pairs a compact waterfront with layers of history. The Aqaba Fort and the nearby Ayla ruins trace centuries of trade and settlement along this ancient crossroads, while the harbor itself has long served travelers moving between Arabia, Africa, and the Levant.
Most visitors use Aqaba as a launching point for excursions inland, since the port sits within reach of Petra's carved facades and the sweeping red-rock landscapes of Wadi Rum. Those who stay closer to the pier find a walkable town center with markets, cafes, and views across the gulf toward Egypt and Israel. The combination of coastal ease and desert wonder just beyond makes Aqaba a memorable point of arrival or departure.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Aqaba.
Day Trip to Petra
The rock-carved facades of the Treasury and Siq canyon sit roughly two hours from the pier by road, making a full-day guided excursion essential for reaching Jordan's signature ancient city.
Explore Wadi Rum
Jeep or camel tours across this red-sand desert of towering sandstone cliffs reveal the dramatic landscape that inspired countless films; book ahead since the drive from Aqaba takes about an hour each way.
Snorkel the Red Sea
Aqaba's coral reefs and clear, warm waters are easily accessed via short boat trips or shoreline dive centers near the port, offering a quick contrast to the desert excursions inland.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Aqaba
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 7, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 10 | $7,545 | ||
| Apr 7, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 17 | $17,963 | ||
| Apr 24, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Nautica | 53 | $18,499 | ||
| Sep 5, 2027 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Sun | 21 | $5,119 | ||
| Sep 5, 2027 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Sun | 23 | $5,588 | ||
| Oct 30, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $10,495 | ||
| Nov 11, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 9 | $4,993 | ||
| Nov 20, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 11 | $6,466 | ||
| Jan 4, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Vista | 96 | $46,749 | ||
| Jan 11, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 151 | $75,600 | ||
| Jan 11, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 137 | $72,000 | ||
| Jan 18, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Aurelia | 182 | $99,799 | ||
| Feb 14, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Vista | 55 | $25,899 | ||
| Mar 2, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Vista | 19 | $8,699 | ||
| Mar 2, 2028 | Oceania | Oceania Vista | 38 | $20,099 | ||
| Apr 6, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 65 | $42,000 | ||
| Apr 13, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 11 | $7,524 | ||
| Apr 24, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 9 | $5,852 | ||
| Apr 26, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 45 | $25,000 | ||
| Apr 26, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 31 | $20,000 |
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