Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt

The port and town of Sharm-el-Sheikh lies near the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Straits of Tiran meet the Gulf of Aqaba. With its strategic position, the Sinai posed a desirable target for various rulers over the centuries. In recent times, the last battle for the Sinai was fought between Egypt and Israel from 1967 to 1979, ending with a peace treaty signed in Washington, D.C. Since the withdrawal of the Israelis, more and more Egyptians have settled in the Sinai, taking advantage of the booming tourist trade. However, vast interior regions are still sparsely populated. Many Bedouins have been affected by the advent of the 21st century, which is rapidly changing their age-old customs and nomadic lifestyle. As tourism and hotel projects continue to spring up along the Sinai coast, contact with Bedouins not involved in tourism is becoming increasingly rare. Once their nomadic life kept them on the move with their tents; today, many Bedouins cultivate grain, vegetables and dates, in addition to catering to the tourists. Sharm-el-Sheikh was initially developed by the Israelis during the Sinai occupation. Na’ama Bay, a short drive from the port, has grown from virtually nothing into a sizeable resort since the early 1980s. Between the two towns, a string of hotels line a once-untouched coastline. Resorts offer great opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving. Glass bottom boat trips are available for those preferring to view the exotic marine life of the Red Sea without getting their feet wet.

Pier Information

The ship is scheduled to dock at Sharm-el-Sheikh. The town centre is about one mile (over one and a half kilometres) from the port. Taxis are not easily available at the pier, nor do drivers speak English.

Shopping

The majority of shops are located at the resort area of Na’ama Bay, located five miles (eight kilometres) from the port. Egyptian cotton, papyrus prints, jewellery and especially gold cartouches are popular items. Most shops are open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; some may close several hours during lunch. The local currency is the Egyptian pound.

Cuisine

There are plenty of eateries at Na’ama Bay. Top category resort hotels offer a variety of restaurants with everything from seafood to international cuisine and fast food. Typical local dishes include spit-roasted lamb, mutton stew, rice pilaf and chicken with saffron. Seafood is also a good choice.

Other Sites

Beaches The most popular pastime in Sharm-el-Sheikh as well as in Na’ama Bay is exploring the underwater marine life. Diving tours are available at water sports centres at various resorts. Private Arrangements For those guests interested in touring at your leisure, we are pleased to offer both half-day and full-day private arrangements by private car or van. You may book this in advance at www.silversea.com or it may be purchased on board, subject to availability. Other private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board.