Jordan Port of Aqaba Cruise Ship Port Guide

Navigating the Aqaba Cruise Terminal

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Dropping into Aqaba’s Cruise Terminal

If you’re sailing into Aqaba, Jordan, there’s a bit of paperwork to handle. Got a boat? You’ll need to register it through the terminal’s online portal if it’s your first visit.

Planning to explore? Tour operators have to submit visa paperwork to get access to the port. Joining a tour? Make sure they have your complete passport info at least 72 hours before docking. No pre-approval? No problem – just hop on the public shuttle bus instead.

The passenger area is well away from all the cargo hustle and bustle. You’ll find help desks with staff who speak multiple languages, free Wi-Fi to check in with folks back home, money exchange open around the clock, and medical help if you need it.

Transportation Options From Port to City Center

Aqaba’s port is super close to the city center, but you’ll still need a way to get there. The good news? Licensed private transfers are available around the clock for hassle-free door-to-door service.

You’ll hop in with other travelers in comfy cars, SUVs, or minibuses – whatever fits your crew best. Expect to shell out about $46-$53 for smaller groups of 1-6 people, and they can easily handle bigger groups up to 14 too. It’s just a quick 20-minute ride to city hotels, while Petra is a bit further at 2 hours and 20 minutes. And don’t worry – you can cancel without penalty up to 24 hours before your pickup time.

Top Shore Excursions and Activities

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Aqaba opens the door to Jordan’s most amazing sights, with tons of great shore excursions to choose from. Everyone wants to see Petra – it’s the big one – where you can walk through the narrow Siq canyon until the Treasury appears like magic (UNESCO loved it so much they made it official). If adventure’s more your thing, hop in a jeep through Wadi Rum‘s red desert landscape or chill with Bedouins under the stars.

Love the ocean? Check out the colorful coral reefs from glass-bottom boats or grab a snorkel and dive in yourself. Stick around town and you can wander through Aqaba’s old castle and haggle in the local markets. Got an extra day? Float like a cork in the super-salty Dead Sea – literally the lowest spot on Earth and a totally weird but fun experience.

Practical Visitor Information

Practical Visitor Information

Planning your Aqaba visit? Here’s what you need to know about getting around. The port has 12 terminals for different types of cargo, with cruise ships pulling into one of four berths that can handle 23 ships at once.

You’re only a quick 10-minute drive from Eilat in Israel, and most travelers can get visas right when they arrive. If you’re on a cruise, bring your itinerary – you might not have to pay the visa fee.

Taxis are waiting at the port, but make sure to agree on the price before you get in. There are public buses that’ll take you to central Aqaba (about 5km away), or if you’re lucky, your cruise line might offer free shuttle service to Aqaba Mall.

Shopping and Dining Highlights

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Shopping and Dining Highlights

Aqaba’s shopping scene has something for everyone – from bustling traditional souks to sleek modern stores. Head to Old Town for gorgeous textiles and handmade crafts, but remember to haggle – it’s part of the fun! If you’re around on Friday evenings, don’t miss Souk by The Sea where over 50 local artisans sell their unique creations.

Keep an eye out for cool souvenirs like colorful Hebron glass, intricate mother-of-pearl boxes, and beautiful traditional jewelry (which is priced by weight). Just a heads-up: most shops shut down for afternoon naps between 3-6 PM, so plan your shopping trips around that.

When hunger strikes, you’ve got options! Grab a table at a waterfront restaurant for just-caught seafood, dig into mansaf (a hearty local favorite), or snack on the go with a juicy shawarma. Evenings are really the sweet spot for both shopping and eating – the temperature cools down and everything comes alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wi-Fi Available at the Cruise Terminal?

Yes, there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the Aqaba Cruise Terminal. No catch – just connect your devices without needing to buy anything or sign up for a membership. Makes staying in touch while you’re passing through pretty straightforward.

Are There ATMS or Currency Exchange Services at the Port?

You’ll find ATM options at the port are pretty slim – kind of like looking for water in the desert. Your best shot is to hit up the Bank al Etihad ATM by Mazaya Hotel, or just head into Aqaba where there are 22 banks to choose from.

What Security Procedures Should Passengers Expect When Returning to the Ship?

After your time ashore, you’ll need to go through a quick security check to get back on the ship. Just have your ID ready, toss your bags on the scanner, and you might need to walk through a metal detector. The crew will match your face to your photo, then you’re good to head up the gangway and back to your floating vacation.

Can Passengers With Limited Mobility Navigate the Terminal Easily?

Can Passengers With Limited Mobility Navigate the Terminal Easily?

Getting around the Aqaba terminal with mobility challenges? Good news! The new setup is pretty wheelchair-friendly. You won’t have to deal with those annoying shuttle transfers since ships dock directly at the terminal. They’ve designed the whole place with accessibility in mind, so you’ll find clear paths from check-in all the way to boarding your cruise.

Is There Luggage Storage Available for Passengers Exploring Independently?

Yes, you can stash your bags at Radical Storage spots around the city center. They’re open 24/7 and charge ﷼25 per bag each day. Some hotels will hold your stuff too, but it’s smart to call ahead and set that up before you arrive.