Port Said’s spruced-up cruise terminal has got you covered with three massive 400-meter berths, free WiFi, and all the basics you need.
For other Egypt Cruise destinations check out our Egypt Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
Fancy a trip to Cairo to see the pyramids or a jaunt to Alexandria? No problem – they’ve got shore excursions sorted. Getting around is a breeze with cheap taxis, mini-buses, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one of those quirky horse-drawn carriages that locals love.
Need cash? The terminal’s exchange service has your back, plus there’s plenty of spots to grab souvenirs.
Take some time to wander around and check out the colonial buildings – they’re pretty impressive. Make sure you catch the views of the Suez Canal from the lighthouse, and if you’ve got time, the National Museum is worth poking around in.
Port Said’s basically your ticket to all the cool stuff Egypt has to offer.
Map of Said Cruise Ship Port
Navigating Port Said’s Cruise Terminal Facilities
Stepping off your cruise ship in Port Said, you’ll walk into a freshly upgraded terminal that’s built to handle international travelers like yourself. The place has three berths that stretch 400 meters with enough depth (10 meters) for even the biggest cruise ships.
Once inside, you’ll find comfortable reception areas, a tourist info desk where actual humans can answer your questions, and free WiFi so you can immediately post those canal photos. There’s a cool little oriental bazaar for picking up souvenirs before you venture out. The terminal sits in just the right spot to easily access the city – it’s basically your doorway into Egypt.
If you need a coffee or snack while figuring out what to see first, grab a seat at one of the nearby cafés before heading out to explore this historic canal city.
Shore Excursion Options From Port Said
Port Said gives you five amazing options for diving into Egypt’s ancient wonders. You can choose between private tours or join a group – both come with expert Egyptologists who’ll tailor the experience to what you want to see. Most trips cover everything you need: transportation back and forth, entry tickets, food, and drinks, so you don’t have to sweat the details.
- Cairo’s Wonders – Check out the iconic Giza Pyramids, get up close to the Sphinx, and wander through the Egyptian Museum where King Tut’s treasures steal the show
- Ancient Capitals – Head to Memphis and Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid – the oldest pyramid complex in the country
- Alternative Journeys – Take a trip to Alexandria’s cool sites or lose yourself in Islamic Cairo and haggle your way through traditional markets
Just make sure to grab your spot early – these 10-14 hour adventures book up fast when cruise ships are in town!
Local Transportation and Getting Around
Getting Around Port Said
So you’ve docked in Port Said and need to get moving? No worries – you’ve got plenty of cheap options to explore this bustling port city.
Taxis are everywhere – just look for the white and blue ones. They’ll take you anywhere in the city for under LE 5, but don’t forget to haggle over the price before jumping in. If you’re really watching your wallet, the mini-buses are a steal at just LE 2.50.
Want some awesome canal views without spending a dime? Hop on the free ferries crossing to Port Fouad – they run every 15-30 minutes.
For something with a bit more character, grab one of those horse-drawn carriages hanging around the cruise port. Pretty cool way to see the sights!
Heading to Cairo? You might want to book a private transfer in advance – they start at $291 for your group and will drop you right at your hotel.
Historical Landmarks and Cultural Attractions
Beyond the busy port, the city shows off its rich history through some really impressive landmarks and cultural hotspots. You’ll discover architectural gems from the Port Said Lighthouse with its stunning Suez Canal views to the colonial buildings featuring fancy balconies and detailed wooden doors.
- Check out the Port Said National Museum where you can see cool artifacts from Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, and Islamic times
- Take a look at the Ferdinand de Lesseps Statue honoring the French guy who engineered the Suez Canal
- Soak up local vibes at El Gomhoureya Theater with its traditional shows and cultural festivals
See what’s on offer from the Port of Alexandria for a different Egypt Cruise destination.
Practical Information for Cruise Passengers
Practical Information for Cruise Passengers
Planning your cruise stop in Port Said? Here’s what you need to know after you’ve checked out the historic sites. The new terminal’s got free Wi-Fi, places to exchange money, and a bazaar where you can snag some authentic souvenirs – just remember to haggle, it’s part of the fun!
For getting around, grab one of those white and blue taxis (they shouldn’t cost more than LE5 within the city) or hop on the free ferry to Port Fouad that runs 24/7. Most travelers can get a visa when they arrive for $25.
Thinking about a trip to Cairo? Make sure your ship stays in port for at least 6 hours. Jot down these emergency numbers just in case: 122 for police and 123 for ambulance. Oh, and always check that your guides have those yellow Tourism Police ID cards – it’s worth the peace of mind!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Port Said Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Navigating Port Said as a woman on your own? It’s doable, but keep your street smarts handy. The city’s reasonably safe, but you’ll definitely want to dress modestly, stay alert, and maybe skip those late-night walks. Grab yourself Uber or Careem instead of random taxis when getting around – much safer bet. Think of it like any unfamiliar city – smart caution goes a long way!
Where Can I Exchange Currency Near the Cruise Terminal?
Need to swap cash near the cruise terminal? Banks close to the dock offer exchange services, and there’s a booth right at the port. ATMs scattered around are handy too, and some hotels nearby can help you out. If you’re stuck, don’t worry – plenty of local shops will take US dollars or euros directly.
What Local Delicacies Should Cruise Passengers Try in Port Said?
Grab a seat at the waterfront market and dig into some fresh barbouni right off the boat! While you’re in Port Said, don’t miss out on their killer seafood cooked in those traditional forn ballas ovens. The Beef Port Saiid swimming in garlic butter is honestly to die for, and make sure you save room for manga’ouna pastries – they’re sweet treats that’ll hit the spot after all that exploring.
Are There Beaches Within Walking Distance of the Cruise Port?
Yes, there’s City Beach right along the Malecon – you can easily walk there from Taino Bay cruise terminal. It’s nothing spectacular (kind of a mix of sand and pebbles), but honestly it’s super convenient if you just want to hit the beach without going far from the ship.
What Are Typical Tipping Customs When Visiting Port Said?
When you’re in Port Said, tipping your guides around $20 USD (about 1000 EGP) per day and drivers roughly $10 USD is pretty standard. It’s a nice way to say thanks for their service, and honestly, it helps break the ice with locals while you’re exploring the city.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Safaga Cruise Ship Port .
