The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has announced a significant enhancement to its cruise incentive program by including the stoppage of passenger and cruise ships at Timsah Lake to utilize Ismailia Yacht Marina for tourism purposes in the calculation of rebate percentage of Suez Canal granted to Cruise Ships. This allows cruise lines to count their time spent in Ismailia toward the required 72-hour stay in Egyptian ports, and enabling them to benefit from the 50% rebate on normal Suez Canal transit tolls for each voyage of a round trip, in addition to other available incentives.
Briefoverview of Ismailia Marina:
A Strategic Gateway in the Heart of the Canal
Located on the picturesque Timsah Lake, Ismailia Yacht Marina enjoys a unique position midway between Port Said and Suez, making it a natural stop for transiting tourist yachts and cruise vessels. The marina is situated adjacent to one of the Suez Canal Authority’s marine shipyards and close to the headquarters responsible for managing one of the world’s most important waterways. It is conveniently located just 110 km from Cairo International Airport and 80 km from both Port Said and Suez.
Reviving the Historic Charm of Ismailia:
These efforts align with the Egyptian Government’s vision to revive and promote the rich heritage of Ismailia, the city named after Khedive Ismail, whose modernization efforts transformed Egypt and culminated in the inauguration of the Suez Canal.
Visitors to Ismailia can explore many interesting cultural and historical attractions, including:
1- The French Catholic Church – one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, reflecting Ismailia’s unique multicultural heritage, and one of the most ancient churches in the world.
2-Ismailia Museum (Ferdinand de Lesseps Museum) – originally built in 1911, this historic residence showcases documents, engineering tools, maps, and memorabilia related to the construction of the Suez Canal, including invitations sent to world leaders for the Canal’s grand inauguration ceremony.
3- Archaeological Treasures – the city also has remarkable sites dating back to the Pharonic, Ptolemaic, and Roman ages.
4- Vibrant Local Culture – Ismailia is also renowned for its annual fruit products festivals, especially mango and strawberry festivals, celebrating its agricultural richness.
By combining attractive cruise incentives with authentic cultural experiences, Egypt is creating new opportunities for cruise lines to offer passengers an unforgettable journey through history, heritage in the heart of Suez Canal.
