Cruise line returns to Egypt

Princess Cruises has provided a boost for Egypt's holiday market with the announcement that it is reinstating calls to ports in the country.

In February this year, the company removed Egyptian destinations from its itineraries in response to the civil and political unrest in the African nation.

However, the end to the dispute has allowed the country and its tourism industry to return to normal, meaning the cruise line's Star Princess, Dawn Princess, Ocean Princess and Pacific Princess ships have returned to their original schedules.

Travellers planning family cruises and other voyages with the company therefore have the option of visiting the Egyptian ports of Alexandria and Port Said over the coming months.

Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises' executive vice president, said: "The situation in Egypt has calmed considerably since widespread protests earlier this year and the tourist areas aren't currently being affected.

"So we're pleased to tell passengers they can once again plan to experience this country's iconic pyramids and other ancient wonders."

The operator's first call to Egypt is scheduled for May 15th.