Saudi-owned Aman at Sea considering Madeira port calls for Amangati from 2028

Aman at Sea is exploring the possibility of including Madeira in future itineraries.

The ultra-luxury cruise line, part of owned by Cruise Saudi, is considering introducing calls to the Portuguese archipelago from 2028, according to the Administration of the Ports of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (APRAM).

The potential deployment was discussed during the 68th MedCruise General Assembly, which took place in Palermo, Italy, between June 9th and 12th and brought together cruise lines, ports, and industry stakeholders from across the Mediterranean.

“One new cruise line, Aman at Sea, operating within the premium luxury segment, expressed interest in including Madeira in its itineraries, with a first call currently projected for 2028,” said Patrícia Bairrada, Commercial Director, APRAM.

“Our meetings with cruise lines already visiting Madeira were equally encouraging. They provided excellent feedback on the destination and expressed their intention to further expand their offering of new and diversified shore excursions,” Bairrada added.

If confirmed, the deployment would represent a further expansion of Aman at Sea’s Mediterranean footprint following the launch of its first vessel, Amangati, which is currently under construction at the T. Mariotti shipyard in Italy.

The 94-guest vessel is scheduled to enter service in spring 2027 and will initially operate a series of five- to eight-night Mediterranean voyages.

The inaugural programme is focused on Mediterranean Spain, the Dalmatian Coast, and the French Riviera, with itineraries featuring ports that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships.

Aman at Sea is a joint venture involving Cruise Saudi and luxury hospitality brand Aman. The venture represents a further extension of Saudi investment into the global cruise sector and complements Cruise Saudi’s existing ownership of AROYA Cruises.

Amangati has been designed for the ultra-luxury segment, accommodating a maximum of 94 guests across 47 suites. Accommodation ranges from 731 to 3,811 square feet and all suites feature private terraces.

The ship’s small scale is expected to provide greater itinerary flexibility and allow access to ports and anchorages that are unsuitable for larger vessels. Selected voyages have already been scheduled to coincide with major Mediterranean events, including the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix.

Some itineraries will also include a transit of Venice’s Grand Canal, with the vessel sailing past landmarks such as St Mark’s Square before departing the city via the canal at sunset.

Onboard facilities will include a 12,817-square-foot spa spanning two decks and featuring eight treatment suites, alongside a fitness studio, beauty lounge and medical centre. Dining venues will include Mediterranean and Japanese concepts, while entertainment facilities will comprise a jazz club, cinema and youth lounge.

The vessel will also feature two helipads and six tenders, which will support guest embarkation and shore excursions.