Saudi Arabia, in pursuit of hosting 1.3 million cruise visitors by 2035, has identified the cruise industry as a vital element of its Vision 2030 framework. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goals of diversifying the economy and promoting tourism. The increasing popularity of cruises among the under-20 demographic, showing the fastest growth, highlights the demand for innovative onboard experiences.
To bolster the cruise sector, Cruise Saudi is developing world-class cruise facilities in key Saudi ports, facilitating larger cruise ship arrivals. For instance, MSC Cruises reported a 40% increase in Saudi Arabian sailings over a 24-month period. Continuing to build on this success, MSC has plans to run over 20 separate sailings spanning from seven to fifteen nights from Jeddah to Aqaba between November 2023 and April 2024.
WhiteWater is collaborating with MSC Cruises to create a dynamic mix of attractions for different age groups on over 10 ships
Meeting the challenge of keeping guests entertained for extended sailings, WhiteWater is collaborating with MSC Cruises to create a dynamic mix of attractions for different age groups on over 10 ships, enabling families to all be entertained within a small space. The two AquaTube water slides on the MSC Seascape, for example, provide thrilling experiences as they spiral above the deck. These slides, crafted from translucent fiberglass, create alternating light and dark sensations, amplifying the excitement and offering stunning views of the water below. The AquaTubes are ideal for guests over 102 cm tall, while the AquaPlay 150 caters to younger passengers – an immersive pirate ship-themed playground experience without long lines.
“There’s enormous potential for the cruise industry within Saudi Arabia”
“There’s enormous potential for the cruise industry within Saudi Arabia, especially with AROYA Cruises on the horizon,” said WhiteWater’s GM & RVP, Middle East & India, Mike Rigby. “As more people come to embrace the cruise industry as a way of travel, there will continue to be a need for these venues to keep people entertained over long spans of time, and water parks are one of the best ways to accommodate large volumes of people all at the same time.”