Cruises, Cruise Deals & Cruise Holidays

If you don't do the trips there really is not much else to get off the ship for. They tend not to be in tourist areas and the distances to things of interest would make it difficult to explore on your own. The ports (apart from Sharm) are all very commercial and not equipped for tourists. There was a frequent and free shuttle bus provided at Aqaba which took us into the town (5 mins). We wandered about for an hour or so and although we didn't feel unsafe we didn't feel particularly welcome either. I don't think they are used to tourists. The port authorities don't seem to like tourists wandering about in the port area either. We walked into Sharm on the last day (about 10-15 mins gentle stroll) and looked around the shops. That was OK but be prepared to be hassled by the traders. Also if you go for a drink check prices before you order as we didn't and were charged £8 for 4 cans of coke! These were the only occasions when we left the boat on our own so I can't comment further on the safety issue. We certainly weren't warned against exploring on our own but as I said earlier it would have been very difficult to organise things for ourselves. Besides there was lots to do on the ship!

I think you are very brave going cruising with such young children. The trip to Petra was a very long and pretty exhausting day but well worth the effort. It was a 7.30am start, well over 2 hours on the coach with just a short stop for photos and a long walk down the gorge into Petra. There isn't time for any exploring, it is purely a viewing experience and then a long hike back out again (about one hour each way). If you decide to take advantage of the transport available (horse and carriage) I think it was about 30 euros each way but don't pay in advance as I heard that some people either had to pay more half way up the hill or get out and walk the rest of the way. Oh and don't listen to anyone who tells you that the ride is included in your trip. It isn't! Lunch was in a hotel and then we wandered around the market stalls for a while and were entertained by some musicians before the trip back. We were back on board at about 6.30pm so it is a long day. I think you will need lots for your children to do as it is not a child friendly trip and be prepared for a lot of walking in the heat and exposure to the sun. Good luck, and I am sure that you will enjoy it.