Aroya Cruises has completed its Mediterranean Games 2026 charter in Taranto, Italy. Serving as part of the Games’ Mediterranean Village, the Aroya hosted over 4,000 competing athletes from 26 nations.
The company said in a press release that across the 20-night charter, Aroya welcomed more than 15,100 athletes, delegation members and visitors.
Taha Nazer, acting CEO of Cruise Saudi, said: “The successful delivery of this charter marks an important milestone for Aroya, demonstrating our ability to support major international events while maintaining the quality and care that define our guest experience.”
Approximately 1,200 crew delivered a comprehensive hospitality program encompassing accommodation, tailored dining, training and recovery facilities and entertainment.
In recognition of this contribution, the International Committee of the Mediterranean Games held a special event onboard September 1 to acknowledge Aroya’s role in the games and the dedication of its team. The event took place ahead of the closing ceremony on September 3.
“Recognition from the International Committee of the Mediterranean Games reflects the commitment of our teams, and I thank every colleague for the exceptional work that made this achievement possible,” added Nazer.
Aroya also welcomed heads of state, royalty and senior government representatives, including:
- S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco
- E. Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova
- President of North Macedonia
- E. Joseph Aoun, President of the Lebanese Republic, and
- E. Albulena Haxhiu, Acting President of the Republic of Kosovo.
Ministers and Olympic committee leaders also visited the vessel, while dedicated media days welcomed press representatives from participating countries.
Highlights included a dining experience for H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.
The wider dining program was developed around athletes’ nutritional requirements and delivered by 273 culinary professionals representing 15 nationalities.
To accommodate athletes’ competition schedules, the team also prepared an average of 550 packed lunches daily for delivery to competition venues.
A fully equipped gym and dedicated studios were complemented by 20 treatment rooms available for athletes to use with their own physiotherapists.
Between competitions, athletes and their delegations could enjoy a varied program of entertainment and leisure experiences.
The ship also offered dedicated cultural areas and meeting rooms. Ahead of embarkation, 1,678 staterooms were configured with twin-bed arrangements.
A 24-hour laundry service processed 8,600 bags and handled delegation team kits, while coordinating luggage handling and managing visitor access supported daily operations.
