Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to Saudi Arabia West
Stirring to the curious soul, Saudi Arabia West is a world soaked in significance. For Muslim’s, the journey to Mecca is a homecoming to the holiest city on earth with its Kaaba first built by the prophet Abraham. Over in Medina and thousands flock to the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed and to stand in spiritual splendour. But Saudi Arabia West is more than a place of pilgrimage, as a yacht charter destination its rich, diverse, exciting, enigmatic, and filled with incredible diving spots dotted along the Red Sea.
Reasons to Charter a Yacht in Saudi Arabia West
Spiritual Homelands
Those of Muslim faith are invited to visit the major cities of Mecca and Medina, whereas non-Muslims aren’t permitted to step into the holy city. Those who find their way to Mecca will be floored by the emotional elegance. Sun washed buildings stashed in the hillsides, the sacred Kaaba standing true, and the hajj pilgrimage a must for those who make the journey.
World Heritage Wonders
In Saudi Arabia West, there are plenty of World Heritage wonders to trip over. Jeddah brings joy with its glorious coral clad architecture. Al Magar in the south is also home to an 85,000-year-old human footprint, and everywhere you turn there are echoes of the storied past. History is rich and the landscape scattered with pre-Islamic points. Madain Salah is said to be the Saudi version of Petra, with its massive rock hewn tombs and intricate funeral chambers.
Azure Waters
The Red Sea is ever a welcoming sight with its azure hues and delicate coral beds. The coastline that ebbs and flows to the west remains untapped. The Red Sea Project catapults this stretch of shimmering sea into being a divine destination for snorkelers. Scuba the waters close to Jeddah and see sharks, barracuda, dolphins, rays, and endless bright and beautiful shoals flitting beneath the sun dappled sea.
Where to Visit in Saudi Arabia West
Jeddah
On the western coast, perched on the Red Sea, Jeddah is one of the must-see yacht destinations in Saudi Arabia. This former crossroads and gateway into the lands of Mecca makes for a fascinating port of call. With a ritzy waterfront, the UNESCO treasure of Al Balad, a unique blend of old meets new, cheerful souks and world-class dining and diving, Jeddah ticks all the boxes.
Abha
A little off the beaten track and inland from the shore, but for those seeking a full and rich experience of Saudi Arabia West, it’s well worth taking the trip to Abha. Lush hills and mountains brim with chattering monkeys, the colourful local villages are lively markets, and the Rijal Almaa Heritage Village holds UNESCO status and a similar architectural style to Yemen.
Farasan Islands
A rich archipelago of 84 islands makes up the coral reef majesty of the faraway Farasan Islands. Blue waters - the perfect shade of sapphire, incredible underwater sights, and spectacular historical spots that go all the way back to the first millennium mark plenty of reasons to visit. The traditional fishing villages are full of charm, and it’s easy to while away your time beneath the blue chasing the parrot fish or relaxing on land watching the skies for the spectacular displays of native birds.
When to Charter a Yacht in Saudi Arabia West
For a comfortable sailing adventure to the shimmering hot shores of Saudi Arabia West, between the months of October and March is best. This sees softer temperatures making it an excellent time for travelling to the spectacular inland sites and diving along the coast.