Ports of Call in Egypt | Egypt Ports

• 16 / 5 / 2023

Ports of Call in Egypt | Egypt Ports

With its rich history and culture, Egypt has become a cruise traveler’s paradise. With its perfect position linking Africa, Asia, and Europe, the country is home to some of the most important ports in the world. Whether the traveler is stepping off a cruise ship for a short stop or planning to stay longer, Egypt’s ports present an exciting opportunity to experience a blend of ancient wonders, vibrant markets, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Here’s a closer look at some major Egyptian ports of call and what makes each of them special.

Egypt has 18 seaports, including:

10 ports on the Red Sea:
1 - Berenice Port
2 - Safaga Port
3 - Hurghada Port
4 - Sokhna Port
5 - Adabiya Port
6 - Zeitiyat Port
7 - Suez Port
8 - El-Tor Port
9 - Sharm El-Sheikh Port

10 - Nuweiba Port
11 - Taba Port

8 ports on the Mediterranean Sea:

1 - El-Arish Port
2 - East Port Said Port
3 - West Port Said Port
4 - Damietta Port
5 - Abu Qir Port
6 - Alexandria Grand Port
7 - Gergoub Port
8 - El-Max Port (under construction).

The seaport of Alexandria occupies a leading position among the ports of the Arab Republic of Egypt in terms of commercial traffic volume, handling approximately 60% of Egypt's foreign trade. Alexandria is located on the western end of the Nile between the Mediterranean Sea and Lake Mariout... Alexandria is the second most important city in the Arab Republic of Egypt and its main port, accounting for more than three-quarters of the country's foreign trade. The shallow Eastern Harbor is not used for navigation, and Alexandria has two harbors (the Eastern Harbor) between the peninsula.

Along the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria Port is Egypt's largest, busiest, and most important port. It is the main port of call for cruise ships, and it serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Alexandria. Tourists can visit the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina, enter through the spooky underground Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, or contemplate the ancient Qaitbay Citadel. Treat yourself to the opportunity to taste fresh seafood along the picturesque waterfront.

 The port is surrounded to the north by the city center, to the west by the railway station and railway lines, and to the south by a side canal linking the Suez Canal to Lake Manzala. Local land freight transport has many options for getting to the port from the city centre. The M40 international coastal road runs through Port Said from west to south. Regional traffic and most trucks approach the port from the south. After leaving the M40 north, trucks arrive on Ismailia – Port Said Road to Azmy Street at the port border.

Port Said is located at the northern entrance to the Suez Canal and serves as an important transit hub for global trade and a popular stop for cruise ships. Walk along the beautiful Corniche, take in some colonial architecture, and visit the Port Said Military Museum to understand the city’s historical significance. Alternatively, a ferry could take you to Port Fouad for some quiet street exploration.

At the southern entrance of the Suez Canal lies another important maritime hub, the Suez Port. Though the city itself is more industrial, it serves as an excellent portal toward Egypt's prime attractions, namely the Great Pyramids of Giza and the hustle and bustle of Cairo.

El Sokhna Port is considered the port of the century, which is one of the newest ports that was created by the system B.O.T, which is managed by the system of logistics centers that is one of the enormous national projects.  And is the fruit of the planning and implementation of a systematic stage, of crucial usage in placing Egypt on the global marine map. 

It is the first comprehensive, integrated, and multipurpose hub port which is called "Third Generation Ports". You can even take a Giza Pyramids Tour with Camel Ride from Sokhna Excursions if you have enough time before your cruise ship sets sail.

Safaga Port is one of the oldest red seaports, used for the docking of ships in Safaga Shore Excursions. Its real work began in 1911 with the export of phosphate ore, and during the Second World War, it played a crucial role in serving the Allies.

The port plays a vital role in transporting Egypt's foreign trade of dust and mineral ores. It receives large quantities of grain, general goods, and heavy equipment. Also, it plays a role in the traveling and returning of the passengers working in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries, and from Upper Egypt as well as the tourists visiting the South Valley.