Guest of Honour 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
- New
Oriental wonders & civilisations
Muscat - Doha
Dates:
18/11/2023
to
28/11/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
With featured guest Hubert Védrine, senior French civil servant and politician.
“Travelling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller” said the famous Berber explorer Ibn Battûta. Almost seven centuries later, while humans have partly tamed the arid landscapes of the immense Arabian Desert, the Oriental charm remains and its history is written in the present tense. Bathed by the Persian Gulf, crossed by a desert dotted with oases whose mere mention is enough to captivate us, the Eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula welcomes you for an all-new 11-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville.
The Sultanate of Oman is as discreet as its Emirati neighbours are bold. The sea maintains a special place in the kingdom of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor. The fishermen here perpetuate millennial traditions while the shipyards are still in operation. Between the sea and the desert, you will sail through the carved fjords of Musandam from Khasab and, leaving from Sur, you will experience the enchantment procured by the shade and cool of a wadi - lush oases planted with palm trees. On the Daymaniyat Islands, you can dive and snorkel in an exceptional natural sanctuary where turtles come to nest. In the capital, Muscat, the fragrances of the Orient and of incense will intoxicate you, the sparkling colours of the markets will captivate you, and the vibrant bustle of the souk will enchant you. The Near East exudes its incredible poetry.
In this region of the world, ancient cities rub shoulders with the futuristic towns designed and shaped by the greatest contemporary architects. Dubai and its skyscrapers that are among the tallest in the world; Abu Dhabi, with its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and its new Louvre Museum; Doha and its bay offering a panorama of its fascinating skyline: they all offer a singular and breath-taking experience. You will discover the capital of Bahrain, Manama, which may be less famous but is no less exciting. As a crossroads for trade routes since ancient times, today it is also more avant-garde than its Emirate sisters. The colourful souk and the Bahrain National Museum are among its must-see sites.
For the first time, you will have the opportunity to discover the Saudi city of Dammam. This modern metropolis is renowned for its pleasant waterfront and white sandy beaches; above all, though, it is the gateway to the Al Hasa oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the endless desert, imagine the largest oasis in the world, its fragrant gardens crossed by canals, springs and palm trees… palm trees as far as the eye can see. This hydraulic installation system, the historic buildings and the archaeological sites provide evidence of a sedentary human presence in the territory since the Neolithic period.
Ref : EG181123
Your itinerary
With featured guest Hubert Védrine, senior French civil servant and politician. An all-new cruise discovering the Persian Gulf, its civilisations and history, with futuristic architecture, former trading...
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE JACQUES-CARTIER
30/01/2024 to the 08/02/2024
- New
L'AUSTRAL
11/03/2024 to the 26/03/2024
L'AUSTRAL
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Hubert Védrine
Former student of the French Institute of Political Studies known as “Sciences Po” and of the French National School of Public Administration called “ÉNA”, Hubert Védrine served successively as a diplomatic advisor, spokesman and Secretary-General (chief of staff) under the presidency of François Mitterrand, from 1981 to 1995.
He was Minister of Foreign Affairs in the government of the Prime Minister Lionel Jospin under the presidency of Jacques Chirac, from 1997 to 2002. He has been chairing the François Mitterrand Institute since 2003.
Hubert Védrine has been appointed as an independent director of LVMH since 2004.
He was chosen by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan to be one of the twenty international members of the High-Level Group of the Alliance of Civilizations in 2005 and 2006.
He is the author of many publications including Sauver l'Europe (Liana Levi Editions) and Comptes à rebours, Et Après (Fayard Editions).
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: F. Bouchon
Hubert Védrine dispensera plusieurs conférences parmi lesquelles :
- Mascate et les enjeux dans l’océan Indien
- Le détroit d’Ormuz et les détroits dans le monde
- Les enjeux dans le Golfe entre émirats, Arabie et Iran
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Hubert Védrine
Former student of the French Institute of Political Studies known as “Sciences Po” and of the French National School of Public Administration called “ÉNA”, Hubert Védrine served successively as a diplomatic advisor, spokesman and Secretary-General (chief of staff) under the presidency of François Mitterrand, from 1981 to 1995.
He was Minister of Foreign Affairs in the government of the Prime Minister Lionel Jospin under the presidency of Jacques Chirac, from 1997 to 2002. He has been chairing the François Mitterrand Institute since 2003.
Hubert Védrine has been appointed as an independent director of LVMH since 2004.
He was chosen by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan to be one of the twenty international members of the High-Level Group of the Alliance of Civilizations in 2005 and 2006.
He is the author of many publications including Sauver l'Europe (Liana Levi Editions) and Comptes à rebours, Et Après (Fayard Editions).
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: F. Bouchon
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- With featured guest Hubert Védrine, senior French civil servant and politician.
- An all-new cruise discovering the Persian Gulf, its civilisations and history, with futuristic architecture, former trading cities and natural wonders.
- Explore the treasures of Islamic culture, between tradition and modernity.
- From Dammam, the possibility of exploring, for the first time, the site of Al Hasa, the largest oasis in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- From Manama, an all-new port of call, the possibility of visiting Qal'at al-Bahrain, ancient harbour and capital of Dilmun, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, the national museum and Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
- Sur, a traditional fishing port, famous for its shipyard where the Omani perpetuate ancestral methods, and the possibility of exploring a wadi, an oasis in the very heart of the desert.
- The visit of the 'fjords of Arabia' - also called the Musandam fjords - between canyons, oases and dune deserts.
- PONANT exclusive: an all-new port of call on the Daymaniyat Islands, a marine reserve renowned for its beautiful scenery and for its abundant marine life.
- An overnight stay at Abu Dhabi to enjoy the treasures of what has become the cultural capital of the Emirates, with its magnificent Louvre Museum and its magical Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
- Before your cruise: from Muscat, possibility of visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the Nizwa Fort.
Ports of Call & Excursions
18 November 2023 - Muscat
Embarkation 18/11/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 18/11/2023 at 18:00
Unlike neighbouring metropolises, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman has chosen to ban towers and skyscrapers and to cultivate the peninsula’s traditional and refined architectural style: low houses, domes, moucharaby windows, and wooden balconies. This authenticity adds to the charm of this small former maritime city protected by mountains and the forts constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century. There is no doubt that you will fall under the charm of the treasures of Omani craftsmanship: the souk in the old district of Mutrah is a perfect example of this, as is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
19 November 2023 - Sur
Arrival 19/11/2023 early morning
Departure 19/11/2023 early evening
Built on either side of a lagoon, Sur is a city and seaport in the north-east of the Sultanate of Oman, on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Connected to the sea by a channel, the port was very active for a long time, having regular dealings with Africa and India since the 6th century. Sur is renowned for being the only Omani city to have retained its traditional boatyards, where dhows (wooden sailing ships) are hand-crafted. The city’s charm stems from its immaculate white houses dotting the seafront and from its fort erected on a hill along the road to Muscat.
20 November 2023 - Daymaniyat Islands
Arrival 20/11/2023 early morning
Departure 20/11/2023 late afternoon
Set atop the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands have been a nature reserve since the 1980s. Some forty kilometres (25 miles) off the coast from Muscat, the Omani capital, their craggy coastlines form natural pools home to an incredible biodiversity. The different types of coral reefs that dot this ecosystem, the turtles that nest there, and the numerous species of fish make this an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. This rocky landscape is also the favourite spot of many birds, both endemic and migratory.
21 November 2023 - Khasab
Arrival 21/11/2023 midday
Departure 21/11/2023 evening
Located in the country’s north, on the Musandam Peninsula, Khasab is a city in the Sultanate of Oman. In the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, this small port built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and surrounded by a chain of rocky mountains was established at the mouth of Wadi Khasab. You will love its authentic scenery and particularly its fjords, which cut through the landscapes in a spectacular fashion and have earned it the moniker “Norway of Arabia”. In the city, Khasab Castle and its atypical architecture are well worth a visit to discover the history and culture of Oman.
22 November 2023 - Dubai
Arrival 22/11/2023 early morning
Departure 22/11/2023 late evening
Vertiginous, excessive, immoderate… Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, stands out for its architectural follies. Home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Kahlifa, with a total height of 828 metres, almost three times that of the Eiffel Tower, the city is also famous for the gigantic scale of the Palm Islands, its artificial islands in the form of a palm tree. You can explore more traditional districts not far away, with visits of the souks of Deira or the Gold Souk. Or perhaps you would prefer to discover Dubai Museum: located in an 18th-century fort, it tells the city’s history from Antiquity to the present day.
23 November 2023 24 November 2023 - Abu Dhabi
Arrival 23/11/2023 early morning
Departure 24/11/2023 late evening
The political capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi stands out thanks to its exceptional cultural offering. In the Saadiyat Island district, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Jean Nouvel as a museum town inspired by traditional Arab architecture, creates a dialogue between objects and works from civilisations from all over the world around the great universal questions. A little further, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts a sumptuous decor of marble, gold and glass. Abu Dhabi is also the gateway to the Al Ain oasis and its 150,000 date palms, a remarkable testimony to the settling of nomads in the region since Neolithic times, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
25 November 2023 - At sea
Arrival 25/11/2023
Departure 25/11/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
26 November 2023 - Dammam
Arrival 26/11/2023 early morning
Departure 26/11/2023 late evening
On the Saudi shores of the Persian Gulf, Dammam reveals its winding coastline, home to fine-sand beaches and pleasant seafront. The capital of the Eastern Province of Ash-Sharqiyah boasts a prime position along the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf. Edged with rows of palm trees facing the sea, this modern city is also the gateway to the beautiful Al-Ahsa Oasis. Take an optional excursion into the world’s largest oasis to see verdant gardens planted with countless palm trees, a sophisticated irrigation system, and archaeological sites attesting to human presence since the Neolithic period. The extraordinary landscape is listed as World Heritage by UNESCO.
27 November 2023 - Manama
Arrival 27/11/2023 early morning
Departure 27/11/2023 evening
At the crossroads of trade routes since ancient times, Manama, the capital of Bahrain, still bears traces of what were, for centuries, the pillars of the economy in the Persian Gulf: pearl harvesting, and the construction of traditional sailing vessels called dhows. But the major draw of this small island in Bahrain is undeniably the vestiges of human presence dating back nearly 5,000 years. The ancient harbour and capital of Dilmun, Qal'at al-Bahrain, is, along with the Dilmun Burial Mounds scattered across the island, an essential relic of this Mesopotamian civilisation. Both are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Ancient colonisations would come later, by the Assyrians, the Achaemenids, the Macedonians, then the Arabs in the Middle Ages, before the more contemporary invasions by the Portuguese, the Persians and the Ottomans. This tumultuous history now gives this small territory rich influences.
28 November 2023 - Doha
Arrival 28/11/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 28/11/2023 at 07:00
On the banks of the Persian Gulf, discover Doha, the capital of Qatar. Rising out of the desert, the city has managed to maintain its traditions in spite of a frantic race for modernity. The cliff bordering Doha Bay has magnificent views over the city centre’s enormous constructions. The silhouette of the Museum of Islamic Art rises up near the quays, where the region’s typical sailboats, known as dhows, are docked. This “fortress”, designed by Ming Pei, the architect of the Louvre pyramid, is home to the finest collections of Islamic art in the world. Not far, the lively district of Souq Waqif and its colourful stalls are also an unmissable visit.
Sur city tour
Sitting on the coast, Sur was an ancient trading hub with Eastern Africa and the rest of the world, even prior to the arrival of the Portuguese to Oman in the 16th century. Its prime location at the entrance to the Gulf of Oman has allowed Sur, since the 6th century, to monitor boat traffic in the north of the Indian Ocean and has made it well known as a destination point for sailors. Sur hosted many shipyards and became famous for its wooden ships, called dhow.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to the Sur Lighthouse. During a photo stop, you will be able to capture the view of the Ayjah Bay and admire the beautiful architecture of this three-storey tower.
You will then visit one of the few remaining traditional dhow factories. There, dhows are still built by hand, and you will likely see the craftsmen at work. Traditionally, the boats were built without nails.
You will continue to the Sur Maritime open-air museum where you can enjoy a photo stop near the historical dhow Fatah Al Khair, one of the last ocean-going passenger dhows in Oman, built in Sur.
Finally, you will proceed to Sunaysilah Fort. This 17th century fort is one of the oldest defensive buildings, which has played a pivotal role in the history of Oman, protecting Sur’s illustrious overseas trade.
You will then return to the port.
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This tour involves 300 metres of walking on flat ground with some steps to negotiate at the fort. The visit of the lighthouse is an outdoor visit only. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for about 1-hour. You will be amazed by the beauty of the canyon, which is home to crystal-clear blue water pools.
After a picnic lunch, take the same path back to the local boat.
You will then return to the port by coach. A short stop for a refreshment will be made en route.
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This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 2.5 mi (4,25 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and your swimsuit under your clothes; bring along water shoes and a towel from the ship. Sun protection is also crucial. A picnic lunch is included with your tour. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 185 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Short walk in Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for around 30 minutes and have some free time to enjoy the scenery and take a few photos.
You will then take the same path back to the local boat.
You will reboard your coach. You will make a stop en route to the port.
-
This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 1.5 mi (2,5 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The natural pools cannot be seen on this excursion, so there is no swimming. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Musandam fjords dhow cruise
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden boat used in the past by merchants and fishermen.
After boarding your traditional Omani dhow on the pier, the cruise will take you toward Musandam’s longest fjord. Often referred to as the “Norway of the Arabia”, the calm, turquoise waters contrast with the creamy white limestone cliffs. Along the way, you will pass small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter dolphins.
The dhow will anchor in the vicinity of Telegraph Island, allowing you to go for a swim or just sit back and enjoy soft drinks, tea or coffee while admiring the views of mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
After the tour, leisurely cruise back to Khasab.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must embarked and disembarked from the ladder without assistance. The snorkel equipment is not provided. The dhows can welcome 35 guests or 140 guests, depending on their size and have toilet room inside. The dhows are motorized.
Total : 65 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Jebel Harim mountains by 4WD
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration.
Your panoramic journey will allow you to discover the barren interior and the mountains of Musandam, which are speckled with fossils dating back several million years.
You will drive to Jebel Harim, which means the Mountain of Women and stands at 6850 ft (2,087 metres), it is the highest peak in Musandam. On the way, you will pass the Bedouin village of Sayh situated at 1,100 metres (3,610 ft) above sea level. From the plateau of this calm and peaceful village, you can admire the beauty of Musandam’s inland valley. By reaching the summit of the Jebel Harim, you will be able to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire peninsula.
The next stop of your tour will be at Khawr Najd, a natural creek overlooking the Indian Ocean. This is the only fjord accessible by vehicle in Musandam and offers a wonderful view at the top of the road pass.
Finally, you will drive back to Khasab.
- This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Museum of the Future
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Museum of the Future.
Located in the Financial District of Dubai, the Museum of the Future is an exhibition space for innovative and futuristic ideologies, services, and products. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, it is designed as an asymmetric torus clad in steel and glass. It has been recognised by National Geographic as one of 14 most beautiful museums in the world. Architect Shaun Killa wanted the structure to represent Dubai’s vision of the future.
From the small outdoor terrace, you can get the best view of the museum's architecture. You will then head for the exit. Take your place in your coach and return to the port.
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This tour involves little walking, on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will follow a set itinerary inside the Museum of Future, as guided tours are not permitted. Cette excursion est limitée à 40 personnes. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 85 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Mleiha archaeological site & Heart of Sharjah
This tour will provide a rare opportunity to learn about what life was like in this region years ago.
You will leave the pier for a one-hour and 15-minute ride to discover the history of Mleiha. First, you will visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which contains a wide variety of ancient artefacts and testifies to life in the area at different times.
You will then visit archaeological sites from the Neolithic period, where stone tools used by early man were discovered. You will also visit pre-Islamic sites which are only 3,000 years old and where coins from the Greek civilization were discovered buried in the sands of Mleiha.
After lunch, your tour will continue to the heritage-rich area of Sharjah, also known as the Heart of Sharjah. You will experience a traditional Emirati style and be guided around the area by a Emirati guide. This will be your opportunity to develop a greater appreciation of Emirati culture, customs and beliefs by speaking directly with locals.
Explore the Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn more about the Emirati Bedouin lifestyle, architecture, and their art and musical instruments. After this art- and heritage-rich experience, you will be guided through some old souks.
You will then return to your coach for your trip back to the ship.
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This tour involves less than 1.5 km (one mile) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that jeans, t-shirts and shorts are not permitted. No alcoholic drinks are included during the meal. The visit of the centre and archaeological sites of Mleiha is guided by an English speaking guide from Mleiha. This tour is not available on Fridays.
Total : 240 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Structural Marvels of Dubaï at sunset
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It will tell the story behind the famous structures and how a desert city evolved into a city of skyscrapers.
The tour includes outside views of Atlantis the Palm Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Cayan Tower and a photo stop at Burj Al Arab. Your drive will take you to Burj Khalifa, which is currently credited to be the world’s tallest building at a dizzying height of just over 828 metres. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai at sunset. Then, you will have time at leisure to explore Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre.
You will then return to the pier.
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This tour involves approximatively 2 hours of panoramic tour in the coach and less than one mile (1.3 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and take your sunglasses. (Admission to other Dubai Mall attractions, such as the aquarium and underwater zoo are not included).
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Shindagha Museum with spice souq
Step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Al Fahidi district, one of the oldest traditional Emirati neighbourhoods.
Your first stop on this tour will be the Al Shindagha Museum. Set along the historic waters of Dubai Creek, this museum tells the proud story of the nation’s past and reverent traditions. The Creek Museum visit will provide insight into what it was like for Emiratis to raise a family by the waterways, and how maritime trade affected their livelihoods. The museum’s 'Dubai Creek: Birth of a City' exhibition is a state-of-the-art multimedia experience that guides visitors through the dramatic development of the area over centuries. After the Creek Museum visit, you will have some free time to visit other ‘houses’ in the museum complex on your own. We encourage you to visit house 22, the Culture of the Sea pavilion, where an immersive VR experience will show you what life was like for Dubai's pearl divers as they dived beneath the ocean. You can also choose to visit the former Al Maktoum Residence.
Later, walk to the abra station to cross the creek in a typical ‘abra’ boat and stop at the aromatic Spice Souk. To round off the tour, visit Dubai's huge gold souk, a fabulous market where precious metals are sold. Here, you can find exquisite gold jewellery at the best prices in the world.
You will then board your coach to make your way back to the pier.
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This tour involves walking for 1.7 km (one mile) on flat ground with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. After the Creek Museum visit, you will follow your own itinerary inside the Al Shindagha Museum.On Fridays, this tour can only take place after 4.00 pm. Each 'abra' can accomodate 15 persons. This is not a private crossing.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sheikh Zayed mosque
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with a capacity of 40,000 worshippers.
You will learn all about how the personal dream of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, came to life, and how it became the third most popular tourist attraction in the world.
The building itself is a combination of architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations, like Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan or Egypt. Tourists and celebrants from all around the world are welcome to admire the 82 onion domes, the reflective pools, and the iconic prayer hall that houses the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
After your visit, you will reboard your coach to return to the pier.
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This tour involves 0.9 miles (1.5 km) of walking on flat surface with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The dress code needs to be followed very strictly: women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long-sleeve top (no tight clothing), and mustn’t have a low neckline; men shouldn’t wear shorts at all, but rather long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This tour can’t be operated Friday morning.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
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The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ain
From the pier, board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ain (with a comfort stop en route).
Al Ain is situated amidst a verdant terrain dotted with abundant groundwater springs. Known as the “Garden City of the Gulf”, the oasis and cultural sites of Al Ain have been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, so far only, one in the United Arab Emirates.
Upon arrival, you will visit Al Jahili Fort, one of the largest forts in the UAE. It was built in the 1890s on orders from Zayed The First as the home to members of the Al Nahyan ruling family. Al Jahili Fort has been a cultural the focal point of activities associated with philosophy and heritage of Abu Dhabi.
Next, proceed towards Al Ain Palace Museum. The museum showcases the everyday life in a ruler's fort when the late Sheikh Zayed and his family resided in the palace prior to 1966 and its transformation after the discovery of petroleum. The Bedouin style architecture dates back to 1937 and was converted into a museum in 1998 as a main cultural and tourist attraction.
Continue your tour to Al Ain Oasis (al Falaj) and admire the thousands date palms that have grown along the irrigation system that has been set up using both wells and “falajs”. These water channels have been used for centuries in the Arabic peninsula. First, you will take a golf cart around the farms inside the oasis, and then you will have free time to walk inside the Al Ain Oasis and along the falaj system.
After lunch served in a local restaurant, you will proceed to the Animal Market, which sells camel meat and milk, along with sheep, cows, goats and poultry. See the bustle of the Camel market.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the approximately 2-hour return drive to the pier.
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This tour involves 1.25 miles (2 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps at the lunch venue. The golf carts are limited in number and can each accommodate up to 10 persons. Smoking is not allowed in the oasis. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (open toe sandals for men, jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. This tour is limited to 28 participants.
Total : 160 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
On the Bedouin trails
Experience a slice of everyday Emirati life on a trip to a traditional farmhouse from Abu Dhabi, outside the city, which is an hour-long drive from Abu Dhabi pier.
Be welcomed by the friendly locals over coffee and dates, and chat about their lives, asking as many questions as you wish. Learn about Arabic coffee, dates and the importance of animals as you chat and discover the ancient Bedouin Emirati culture and life with a stroll around the farm to see where the animals are kept and to feed them.
You can also try tasting camel milk and see how a falcon, one of the world’s fastest birds, is trained to hunt.
Hear tales about age-old Bedouin culture and finish with a traditional Emirati meal.
Take part in a traditional dance with the locals while you listen to Emirati songs.
Bid adieu to the friends you met during this tour and drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves a little walking. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). We recommend that you protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 165 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
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The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Qsar Al Watan & observation deck
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Qasr Al Watan, the United Arab Emirates presidential palace.
You will visit this unique landmark in the country offering the world first-of-its-kind insight into the Arab heritage and the governing principles that shaped the history of the United Arab Emirates and its vision to the future. The palace offers you a unique opportunity to marvel at majestic hallways, explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped the nation.
After the visit, proceed to the Observation Deck at 300 in the Conrad Etihad Towers. Located on level 74, it is the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi. Soak up uninterrupted, bird’s-eye views 300 metres above the UAE capital and capture impressive photos of the city skyline, corniche and the Arabian Gulf.
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This tour involves little walking on flat grounds, with some steps. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Qsar Al Watan is a working Palace that hosts official ceremonies which justifies closures to visitors without prior notice. The Observation Deck may be closed if any private events are confirmed on short notice. Hotel Conrad Etihad Towers have only 2 elevators with access to the Observation Deck, and hence you can expect a short waiting period when going up or coming down. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Masdar City & 24 carat gold coffee
This tour will give you the opportunity to visit the futuristic city of Abu Dhabi - Masdar City and to taste a Coffee garnished with edible gold flakes.
With the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable eco-city, Masdar is leading the way by developing a “greenprint” for how cities can accommodate rapid urbanisation and dramatically reduce energy, water and waste. The city combines ancient Arabic architectural techniques with modern technology and is built around a huge central Arabic wind tunnel that channels a cooling breeze through the streets and alleys, making it comfortable to stroll around even during high summer temperatures. Masdar also harnesses the power of the sun, using clean energy created onsite from rooftop solar panels and one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the Middle East. Cars are banned within the city. It is a really unique experience travelling into the centre of the development in the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pods – small unmanned electric cars. In each electric car, 4 guest can be accommodated and 3 to 4 electric cars will be provided to explore the city.
Once you finish the Masdar city tour, it will be time for a cup of coffee. Proceed to Emirates Palace to taste palace Cappuccino, a superior blend of aromatic coffee sprinkled with real 24-carat gold flakes to give you a taste of royalty, making it unlike anything you have ever tried before. This is the epitome of indulgence in the Palace.
Following a royal experience, head back to the pier.
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This tour involves little walking. From the entrance to Masdar City, guests will be transferred by electric car. Masdar City will provide only 4 - 5 electric cars and only 4 Guest can be accommodated at one time. The entire visit of Masdar City will not be conducted with the car due to limited availability. The duration of the transfer is only 4 Minutes. The wait time from one group to the next will be around 8 Minutes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shorts and sleeveless clothing are not permitted for men and women at Emirates Palace. This tour is limited to 60 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 125 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sheikh Zayed mosque
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with a capacity of 40,000 worshippers.
You will learn all about how the personal dream of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, came to life, and how it became the third most popular tourist attraction in the world.
The building itself is a combination of architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations, like Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan or Egypt. Tourists and celebrants from all around the world are welcome to admire the 82 onion domes, the reflective pools, and the iconic prayer hall that houses the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
After your visit, you will reboard your coach to return to the pier.
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This tour involves 0.9 miles (1.5 km) of walking on flat surface with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The dress code needs to be followed very strictly: women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long-sleeve top (no tight clothing), and mustn’t have a low neckline; men shouldn’t wear shorts at all, but rather long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This tour can’t be operated Friday morning.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sunrise sand dunes with breakfast
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration of the golden sand dunes of Arabia. This unique adventure experience will give you the real feeling of a ride in the desert.
Look forward to viewing the beautiful desert scenery at sunrise from the top of the highest sand dune and taking stunning photos.
Your tour will lead you to a Desert camp, where you can relax, or enjoy a camel ride or try sand boarding on the dunes, before having breakfast.
To bring this magical Morning to a perfect close, you will re-join your vehicle for your return journey to your ship.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. The driver speaks only English. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain is bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. It is a basic English and Arabic style breakfast, which cannot be compared to the one served on board your ship. This tour is subject to weather conditions. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ahsa, the forgotten Oasis
You will depart this morning for a full day tour to Al Ahsa’s verdant lands are one of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites and the home to one of the world’s largest natural oases.
You will board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ahsa.
Upon arrival, soak up the charm of the historic neighbourhood of Al Koot in the ancient oasis town of Hofuf. Visit the Princes School & the 500-year-old Ibrahim Palace, symbolizing the wealth of the region, that combines modern and Islamic architectural styles.
Discover historical sites that date back to the Neolithic era amid the date palm groves, farmland in addition natural springs. Feel the temperature drop in the caves at Al-Qarah Hill, and explore their tall, narrow passageways totaling 1.5 kilometres in length.
Then, stop at a local restaurant to have the best Hasawi cuisine with live Arabic music.
Finally, you will re-board your coach for the drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves about 2.5 miles (4 km) of walking. Women should wear a long dress or long trousers and a long-sleeved top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline; men should not wear shorts at all, but long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt or a tee-shirt. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 240 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Panoramic tour & Museum of Al-Falwa
Depart the port for a panoramic tour around the city.
Go on a journey from old Dammam to the new Dammam and discover the Eastern Province in the morning. Stop by a mosque and experience its interiors, then pass by the date market and stop to shop for the most delicious dates in the region.
Drive to an avid collector of cultural and traditional artifacts, the millionaire philanthropist Abdulwahab Al Ghunaim, who took his hobby to a new level when he opened the Al-Falwa and Al-Jawhara Museum in 2018.
Today, a collection that began as a handful of local treasures is a valuable exhibition of more than 500,000 objects packed into a palatial villa in Dammam. The eclectic mix of items includes a 500-year-old copy of the Quran, vintage cars, antique gramophones, and some of the private possessions of Saudi Arabia’s first monarch, King Abdulaziz. Visitors can also see a traditional Saudi bedroom and meeting hall set-up. There is something in the quirky assortment of curiosities to pique the interest of every visitor.
Then stop by a mosque built by Abdul Latif Aljabr and styled as per the heritage era of the Eastern Province in 2016 (outside views only).
Drive by the fantastic houses in the golden belt area, along the Al Khobar coast and stop by the “I LOVE Khobar” sign. Overlook the Bahrain Highrise building, take some local pictures and leave for the port.
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This tour involves about 1.9 miles (3 km) of walking. Women should wear a long dress or long trousers and a long-sleeved top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline; men should not wear shorts at all, but long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt or a tea-shirt. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Manamah, capital of Bahrain
Take a day to discover some of Bahrain's best cultural gems, from the most modern to the oldest. You tour begins with a travel back in time to the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Excavations carried out since the 1950s have revealed distinct strata dating back to around 2300 B.C.
You will proceed to the Bahrain International Circuit. Having cost some US$180 million to build, the state-of-the-art racing track boasts unparalleled features that place it among the world's best Formula 1 venues. You will visit both the VIP tower, for all-round views of the circuit, and the media centre, once the largest in the world. And, if the circuit is not being used for an event, you'll even get to see the F1 control room - the place where key decisions are made during a race.
You will then visit the Bahrain National Museum, which houses a burial mound from about 2800 B.C.
After a traditional Bahraini lunch at Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, you will make a photo stop at the Grand Al-Fateh Mosque, which can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. The impressive building is crowned by the world's largest fibreglass dome.
Before heading back to the ship, continue with a stop at the maze-like Manama's Souq, with its plethora of items.
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This tour involves about 1.3 mi (over 2 km) of walking, with some steps in each visit. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Lunch is included with your tour (no alcohol served). In the mosque, the dress code needs to be followed very strictly. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 180 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cultural heritage of Bahrain
Discover Bahrain's rich cultural history on this half-day tour.
Your first visit will take you to the city of Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, known for its cultural contributions through the many restored traditional Bahraini houses that can be found amidst the narrow lanes and byways. You will visit the recently renovated Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre, a cultural landmark featuring the Kurar House, dedicated to the time-honoured craft of gold embroidery and the Iqra Children’s Library. You will make a photo stop at the House of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. It was not only the Sheikh’s residence, but also the seat of his government (the monument is currently under renovation).
You will then visit the Bin Matar House (a pearling merchant’s house), which is one of the Old Houses.
Meet a Bahraini chef in the Coffee House, and experience the local food he prepares. As you may know, Bahrain was once known as a cultural centre of the ancient Dilmun civilization. Its strategic location has led to a mixing of several cultures together, including Persian, Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Portuguese, Arab, and British. All these influences can be experienced firsthand in Bahraini cuisine. Many of the local dishes found around the island of Bahrain are inspired by these cultures, giving its visitors the unique opportunity to experience different flavours all in one country. The traditional food of Bahrain includes fish, meat, rice, and dates. Machboos is one of its most famous dishes. It consists of meat or fish and rice.
You tour will continue at the Bahrain National Museum, whose collection includes a relocated burial mound from 2800 B.C., artefacts from the Dilmun era, as well as 19th- and 20th-century exhibits related to the pearl trade.
You will then return to the ship.
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This tour involves a half-mile (800 metres) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Bahrain Fort & Al Fateh Grand Mosque
This half-day will take you to some of the key attractions in Manama, the capital of this island nation of Bahrain.
You’ll be heading for the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, which is one of the world’s largest mosques. Blending a variety of architectural styles typical of the Middle East, the huge, modern edifice boasts the largest fibreglass dome on the planet, can accommodate 7,000 worshippers at one time and also houses the National Library of Bahrain.
Next, we will head out to make a photo stop of Bahrain World Trade Centre - the Financial Harbour and the city’s glitzy shopping malls. Designed by the multi-national architectural firm Atkins, this 240-metre-high twin tower complex is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design.
You will continue your visit at Bahrain Fort. The Fort is nearly 12 kilometres from the city of Manama and is situated at Karbabad.
The Portuguese built the Fort in 1522 on the ruins of an earlier, smaller fort built by the people of Bahrain. The Portuguese added high walls, huge square towers and a surrounding moat, which is still visible to visitors. The Bahrain Fort occupies a strategic military position where seafaring navigation could be monitored. Excavations have revealed ancient soldier's barracks, horse stables, an ammunition depot, a secret passageway, ceramic utensils and Islamic and Chinese coins.
You will then return to your ship.
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This tour involves a half-mile (800 metres) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In the mosque, the dress code needs to be followed very strictly women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long sleeve top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline, men shouldn't wear shorts at all, but long pants and a full sleeves shirt.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Bahraini family traditions
Embark on a tour that will teach you about the typical day-to-day activities of a Bahraini family. Spend some time understanding their culture and traditions.
Enjoy the views of Manama as your tour bus passes the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, the Bahrain National Museum, the Bahrain World Trade Centre and the Financial Harbour.
A friendly Bahraini family will welcome you into their home. This will be an opportunity to get a taste of their everyday life and watch them prepare snacks, which you will then enjoy with them as your afternoon tea.
As Bahrain is part of the historical region of Eastern Arabia, its culture is similar to that of its Arab neighbours in the Persian Gulf region. Bahrain is very ethnically diverse and known for its cosmopolitanism. While the official religion here is Islam, the country is tolerant of other religions: Catholic and Orthodox churches, Hindu temples and a (now-defunct) Jewish synagogue can be found on the island.
After spending time with the local family, you will return to the port.
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This tour involves very little walking. We suggest wearing conservative clothing. Please note that jeans, t-shirts, shorts, and men’s open-toe sandals are not permitted. The meal includes alcohol-free beverages. The Bahraini Family will speak in English. This tour may be affected or cancelled without notice in the event of a festival or of a death in the family. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 130 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Pearl snorkeling experience
Bahrain has found fame in the Gulf region and the entire world for the tales and economic prosperity brought about by pearl diving. Pearl diving is a full-time profession for some families, and a main source of income that powers the whole economy, leaving an unforgettable legacy in Bahrain.
For centuries, Bahrain has continued to keep this heritage alive, making it a key attraction for both locals and foreigners to enjoy. Collecting and cracking oysters open requires strength, patience, good eyesight, and of course time in order to find these beautiful round pearls.
The feeling of catching and finding a pearl is indescribable, imparting a sense of pride to have achieved a task that was and still is a huge part of Bahraini heritage, an ancestral tradition and pride of the nation. Enjoy this pearl snorkelling experience as you search for oysters.
After the activity, you will return by coach to the pier.
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This tour is a shallow water Pearl Snorkelling Tour. It is not recommended for guests with any mobility challenges. Guests wishing to participate in this excursion must be able to embark on and disembark from the local boat without assistance. We recommend you wear water shoes and waterproof clothes or clothes that you can get wet. The boat has a covered roof and is equipped with toilets, ladders, and a fresh-water shower. Masks and snorkels are provided onboard. The minimum age to participate in this excursion is from 17 years of age. (This activity requires you to know how to swim.) The boat instructor is English speaking. This activity is weather dependent and can be cancelled without prior notice for safety reasons. It is limited to 34 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 200 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
17/11/2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + RELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
1.830 €
Find out more 13/11/2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + TALES OF THE ARABIAN NIGHTS 4 NIGHTS (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
4.990 €
Find out more 17/11/2023 - BUSINESS FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + RELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
5.680 €
Find out moreRELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Muscat
Meet at Muscat Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for the PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT. A VIP service will allow you to fast track all formalities at the airport to ensure a smooth arrival.
You will first be taken to a hotel for breakfast before leaving for a panoramic tour of the emblematic sites of Muscat, the Oman's capital.
First drive until the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque for a photo stop. Admire a magnificent piece of modern architecture of the Sultanate which can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.
Proceed to the national Opera of Muscat, the symbol of the sultanate and a masterpiece of Islamic art reflecting a unique contemporary Omani architecture.
Enjoy some free time at Muttrah Souq (marketplace), which is probably the oldest in Oman and replete with charm and choice. Here, you will be left on your own to wander around the narrow lanes, admire the goods on sale and enjoy the thrill of discovery.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will make a photo stop at magnificent Al Alam Palace, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Hitham Bin Tariq the ruler of Oman. The palace is located between the twin forts Mirani and Jalali. These two 16th century forts were formerly used as defence fortresses and were constructed by the Portuguese during the colonial period.
Therefore, you will discover the National Museum of Oman, dedicated to the history of the Sultanate.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Muscat to embark on board your ship.
Your programme includes:
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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During visits, passengers are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
Duration and order of the visits may varie. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 590 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
TALES OF THE ARABIAN NIGHTS (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Muscat
Meet at Muscat Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for the PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent). A VIP service will allow you to fast track all formalities at the airport to ensure a smooth arrival.
You will be transferred to the hotel Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5*.
Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (2.00 pm).
The rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
Optional activity – Dinner with a local Omani
Start your immersion in the Omanis culture by sharing a typical diner with a local Omani.
Meals are an important part of the Omani culture and represent a moment of conviviality. You will have the opportunity to visit your host’s house, taste a homemade meal and learn more about the Omani lifestyle.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Muscat/Nizwa/Jabal Akhdar
After breakfast and check-out, board your 4-wheel-drive vehicle for a 30-minute ride to visit the Grand Mosque of Sultan Quaboos, a magnificent piece of modern architecture of the Sultanate.
Continue with a 1-hour drive to explore Nizwa and its fortress. Nizwa was once the capital in the 6th and 7th century AD. Today, it remains the most popular tourist attraction, with its historical buildings and imposing fort. Nizwa Fort, with its enormous round tower, was built in the 17th century to defend the route to the interior. The fort dominates the entire area, with the town having grown around the edifice. Access to the top is only given by means of a narrow, twisting staircase barred by heavy wooden doors, studded with metal. From the top of the tower, one can get a bird's eye view of the city of Nizwa. At the end of the visit, you will proceed to the Nizwa Souq, which is renowned for its intricately hand carved Khanjar and ornately designed silver jewellery.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Depart Nizwa and make your way to Jabal Akhdar. Make an en-route stop at Birkat Al Mouz, a traditional old village featuring thousand-year-old architecture and a beautiful view.
After a 2-hour drive, arrive at your hotel, Alila Jabal Akhdar 5*.
Check-in and spend the afternoon at leisure.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 – Jabal Akhdar
Breakfast at the hotel.
Then, meet your guide and drive a few minutes in the mountains to reach one of the several small villages.
Start an easy 1-hour walk between villages with your guide and discover the history of the mountains, the way of life of the locals and enjoy the smell of the roses.
Return to the hotel.
Take lunch at the hotel.
Spend the afternoon at leisure. Several activities are available at the hotel, the full schedule of which is to be confirmed upon arrival. Your guide will be available all afternoon, should you have any questions.
Day 4 – Jabal Akhdar/Ibra/Wahiba Sands
After breakfast and checking-out, board your 4WD vehicle for a 2.5-hour drive to Ibra. Explore the ruins of Al Manzifat and travel back in time with your guide throughout this short walk through what is left of one of the oldest villages in Oman.
Board your 4WD vehicle and proceed with a one-hour drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, which stands out like an oasis in the desert, with clear green natural spring water pools.
A private lunch will be served in the Wadi for you to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
After spending some time in Wadi, you will continue your drive to Wahiba Sands, which stands out in stark contrast to Wadi Bani Khalid. The 'Wahiba Sands', often described as a perfect example of a Sand Sea, consists of large ranges of orange sand dunes running from north to south, some reaching a height of about 100 m. You will drive along the undulating sand dunes and experience the thrills of dune driving.
Arrive at Magic Camp, a luxury camp privately set up for you in the desert.
Check in and the rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
Enjoy a welcome drink over the dunes at sunset or take a walk around the camp.
Dinner will be served at the camp.
After dinner, enjoy a unique moment stargazing in the clear sky with an astronomer.
Overnight.
Day 5 - Wahiba Sands/Muscat
After breakfast and checking-out, drive for 2 hours to reach Muscat.
Enjoy some free time at Muttrah Souq (marketplace), which is probably the oldest in Oman and replete with charm and choice. Here, you will be left on your own to wander around the narrow lanes, admire the goods on sale and enjoy the thrill of discovery.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will discover the National Museum of Oman, dedicated to the history of the Sultanate.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Muscat to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotels:
The Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5* is a veritable palace located between the sea and the mountains. This hotel is an emblematic and historic site, having been built by Sultan Qaboos himself in 1985. It has many gardens, five swimming pools, a spa, six restaurants, tennis courts, and is located on the sea with a private beach. You will enjoy the calm and serenity to be found in this perfect place, which is adored by the Omani.
The Hotel Alila Jabal Akhdar 5* is located on the Jabal Akhdar mountain, at an altitude of 2,000 metres (6,560 feet). This luxury and eco-friendly boutique hotel lies within the heart of a wild and pristine environment and offers a unique breathtaking panorama. You will be enchanted by its minimalistic style and its local influences and will enjoy its swimming pool, spa, library and, quite simply, its relaxing setting.
The Magic Camp 4* proposes a glamping experience in the very heart of the Wahiba Sands desert. This eco-friendly camp with only 10 tents offers a real one-night interlude enabling you to reconnect with nature. You will stay in an individual tent and have a second private tent with bathroom and chemical toilets. Each tent has electric sockets with USB charging, comfortable beds with real mattress, quilts and pillows. A sitting area (or Majilis) adorned with Berber carpets and a lantern is available for you, as well as an installation on top of the dunes where you can enjoy the sunset seated in your armchair.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in a Deluxe Pool View room at the Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included. Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (3.00pm).
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2-nights accommodation in a Horizon View room at the Alila Jabal Akhdar 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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1-night accommodation in a Deluxe tent at the Magic Camp 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea). Alcohol is not included and not available at the dinner at the Omani house, at lunch in Wadi Bani Khalid and at dinner at the Magic Camp.
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
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VIP service at Muscat airport upon your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
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Lunch and dinner on day 1.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa, if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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This programme includes walking on uneven ground and daily bumpy rides in a 4WD vehicle, therefore it is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
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Official hotel check-in time is 3.00 pm. Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in, you may arrive at any time on the check in date.
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During visits, passengers are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee. For the visit of Grand Mosque, women must cover their hair and neck.
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Swimming is allowed at Wadi Bani Khaled. Please note that the ground is muddy and slippery and that a full coverage swimsuit or piece of clothing is mandatory.
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Your Alila 5* hotel in Jabal Akhdar is located at an altitude of 2,000 metres; we recommend your bring a warm outfit for the evening.
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Your Magic Camp 4* offers a unique experience in the Omani desert. You will sleep in a 4* tent that will conform with what a regular hotel may offer. However, please note that the bathroom is located under a private and separate tent with dry toilets, you may shower with warm water stored in a large bucket. We recommend you bring a warm outfit as nights can be chilly in the desert.
Contact of your hotel:
Ritz Carlton Al Bustan
P. O Box 1998, PC 114, Muttrah
Telephone: 968 24764921
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Jabal Al Akhdar Al Jabal Al Akhdar OM, 621, Nizwa
Telephone: 968-25344200
Magic Camp
Wahiba Sands
The duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 3.750 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Sur city tour
Sitting on the coast, Sur was an ancient trading hub with Eastern Africa and the rest of the world, even prior to the arrival of the Portuguese to Oman in the 16th century. Its prime location at the entrance to the Gulf of Oman has allowed Sur, since the 6th century, to monitor boat traffic in the north of the Indian Ocean and has made it well known as a destination point for sailors. Sur hosted many shipyards and became famous for its wooden ships, called dhow.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to the Sur Lighthouse. During a photo stop, you will be able to capture the view of the Ayjah Bay and admire the beautiful architecture of this three-storey tower.
You will then visit one of the few remaining traditional dhow factories. There, dhows are still built by hand, and you will likely see the craftsmen at work. Traditionally, the boats were built without nails.
You will continue to the Sur Maritime open-air museum where you can enjoy a photo stop near the historical dhow Fatah Al Khair, one of the last ocean-going passenger dhows in Oman, built in Sur.
Finally, you will proceed to Sunaysilah Fort. This 17th century fort is one of the oldest defensive buildings, which has played a pivotal role in the history of Oman, protecting Sur’s illustrious overseas trade.
You will then return to the port.
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This tour involves 300 metres of walking on flat ground with some steps to negotiate at the fort. The visit of the lighthouse is an outdoor visit only. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for about 1-hour. You will be amazed by the beauty of the canyon, which is home to crystal-clear blue water pools.
After a picnic lunch, take the same path back to the local boat.
You will then return to the port by coach. A short stop for a refreshment will be made en route.
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This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 2.5 mi (4,25 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and your swimsuit under your clothes; bring along water shoes and a towel from the ship. Sun protection is also crucial. A picnic lunch is included with your tour. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 185 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Short walk in Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for around 30 minutes and have some free time to enjoy the scenery and take a few photos.
You will then take the same path back to the local boat.
You will reboard your coach. You will make a stop en route to the port.
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This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 1.5 mi (2,5 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The natural pools cannot be seen on this excursion, so there is no swimming. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Musandam fjords dhow cruise
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden boat used in the past by merchants and fishermen.
After boarding your traditional Omani dhow on the pier, the cruise will take you toward Musandam’s longest fjord. Often referred to as the “Norway of the Arabia”, the calm, turquoise waters contrast with the creamy white limestone cliffs. Along the way, you will pass small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter dolphins.
The dhow will anchor in the vicinity of Telegraph Island, allowing you to go for a swim or just sit back and enjoy soft drinks, tea or coffee while admiring the views of mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
After the tour, leisurely cruise back to Khasab.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must embarked and disembarked from the ladder without assistance. The snorkel equipment is not provided. The dhows can welcome 35 guests or 140 guests, depending on their size and have toilet room inside. The dhows are motorized.
Total : 65 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Jebel Harim mountains by 4WD
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration.
Your panoramic journey will allow you to discover the barren interior and the mountains of Musandam, which are speckled with fossils dating back several million years.
You will drive to Jebel Harim, which means the Mountain of Women and stands at 6850 ft (2,087 metres), it is the highest peak in Musandam. On the way, you will pass the Bedouin village of Sayh situated at 1,100 metres (3,610 ft) above sea level. From the plateau of this calm and peaceful village, you can admire the beauty of Musandam’s inland valley. By reaching the summit of the Jebel Harim, you will be able to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire peninsula.
The next stop of your tour will be at Khawr Najd, a natural creek overlooking the Indian Ocean. This is the only fjord accessible by vehicle in Musandam and offers a wonderful view at the top of the road pass.
Finally, you will drive back to Khasab.
- This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Museum of the Future
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Museum of the Future.
Located in the Financial District of Dubai, the Museum of the Future is an exhibition space for innovative and futuristic ideologies, services, and products. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, it is designed as an asymmetric torus clad in steel and glass. It has been recognised by National Geographic as one of 14 most beautiful museums in the world. Architect Shaun Killa wanted the structure to represent Dubai’s vision of the future.
From the small outdoor terrace, you can get the best view of the museum's architecture. You will then head for the exit. Take your place in your coach and return to the port.
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This tour involves little walking, on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will follow a set itinerary inside the Museum of Future, as guided tours are not permitted. Cette excursion est limitée à 40 personnes. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 85 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Mleiha archaeological site & Heart of Sharjah
This tour will provide a rare opportunity to learn about what life was like in this region years ago.
You will leave the pier for a one-hour and 15-minute ride to discover the history of Mleiha. First, you will visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which contains a wide variety of ancient artefacts and testifies to life in the area at different times.
You will then visit archaeological sites from the Neolithic period, where stone tools used by early man were discovered. You will also visit pre-Islamic sites which are only 3,000 years old and where coins from the Greek civilization were discovered buried in the sands of Mleiha.
After lunch, your tour will continue to the heritage-rich area of Sharjah, also known as the Heart of Sharjah. You will experience a traditional Emirati style and be guided around the area by a Emirati guide. This will be your opportunity to develop a greater appreciation of Emirati culture, customs and beliefs by speaking directly with locals.
Explore the Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn more about the Emirati Bedouin lifestyle, architecture, and their art and musical instruments. After this art- and heritage-rich experience, you will be guided through some old souks.
You will then return to your coach for your trip back to the ship.
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This tour involves less than 1.5 km (one mile) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that jeans, t-shirts and shorts are not permitted. No alcoholic drinks are included during the meal. The visit of the centre and archaeological sites of Mleiha is guided by an English speaking guide from Mleiha. This tour is not available on Fridays.
Total : 240 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Structural Marvels of Dubaï at sunset
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It will tell the story behind the famous structures and how a desert city evolved into a city of skyscrapers.
The tour includes outside views of Atlantis the Palm Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Cayan Tower and a photo stop at Burj Al Arab. Your drive will take you to Burj Khalifa, which is currently credited to be the world’s tallest building at a dizzying height of just over 828 metres. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai at sunset. Then, you will have time at leisure to explore Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre.
You will then return to the pier.
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This tour involves approximatively 2 hours of panoramic tour in the coach and less than one mile (1.3 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and take your sunglasses. (Admission to other Dubai Mall attractions, such as the aquarium and underwater zoo are not included).
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Shindagha Museum with spice souq
Step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Al Fahidi district, one of the oldest traditional Emirati neighbourhoods.
Your first stop on this tour will be the Al Shindagha Museum. Set along the historic waters of Dubai Creek, this museum tells the proud story of the nation’s past and reverent traditions. The Creek Museum visit will provide insight into what it was like for Emiratis to raise a family by the waterways, and how maritime trade affected their livelihoods. The museum’s 'Dubai Creek: Birth of a City' exhibition is a state-of-the-art multimedia experience that guides visitors through the dramatic development of the area over centuries. After the Creek Museum visit, you will have some free time to visit other ‘houses’ in the museum complex on your own. We encourage you to visit house 22, the Culture of the Sea pavilion, where an immersive VR experience will show you what life was like for Dubai's pearl divers as they dived beneath the ocean. You can also choose to visit the former Al Maktoum Residence.
Later, walk to the abra station to cross the creek in a typical ‘abra’ boat and stop at the aromatic Spice Souk. To round off the tour, visit Dubai's huge gold souk, a fabulous market where precious metals are sold. Here, you can find exquisite gold jewellery at the best prices in the world.
You will then board your coach to make your way back to the pier.
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This tour involves walking for 1.7 km (one mile) on flat ground with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. After the Creek Museum visit, you will follow your own itinerary inside the Al Shindagha Museum.On Fridays, this tour can only take place after 4.00 pm. Each 'abra' can accomodate 15 persons. This is not a private crossing.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sheikh Zayed mosque
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with a capacity of 40,000 worshippers.
You will learn all about how the personal dream of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, came to life, and how it became the third most popular tourist attraction in the world.
The building itself is a combination of architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations, like Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan or Egypt. Tourists and celebrants from all around the world are welcome to admire the 82 onion domes, the reflective pools, and the iconic prayer hall that houses the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
After your visit, you will reboard your coach to return to the pier.
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This tour involves 0.9 miles (1.5 km) of walking on flat surface with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The dress code needs to be followed very strictly: women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long-sleeve top (no tight clothing), and mustn’t have a low neckline; men shouldn’t wear shorts at all, but rather long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This tour can’t be operated Friday morning.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
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The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ain
From the pier, board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ain (with a comfort stop en route).
Al Ain is situated amidst a verdant terrain dotted with abundant groundwater springs. Known as the “Garden City of the Gulf”, the oasis and cultural sites of Al Ain have been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, so far only, one in the United Arab Emirates.
Upon arrival, you will visit Al Jahili Fort, one of the largest forts in the UAE. It was built in the 1890s on orders from Zayed The First as the home to members of the Al Nahyan ruling family. Al Jahili Fort has been a cultural the focal point of activities associated with philosophy and heritage of Abu Dhabi.
Next, proceed towards Al Ain Palace Museum. The museum showcases the everyday life in a ruler's fort when the late Sheikh Zayed and his family resided in the palace prior to 1966 and its transformation after the discovery of petroleum. The Bedouin style architecture dates back to 1937 and was converted into a museum in 1998 as a main cultural and tourist attraction.
Continue your tour to Al Ain Oasis (al Falaj) and admire the thousands date palms that have grown along the irrigation system that has been set up using both wells and “falajs”. These water channels have been used for centuries in the Arabic peninsula. First, you will take a golf cart around the farms inside the oasis, and then you will have free time to walk inside the Al Ain Oasis and along the falaj system.
After lunch served in a local restaurant, you will proceed to the Animal Market, which sells camel meat and milk, along with sheep, cows, goats and poultry. See the bustle of the Camel market.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the approximately 2-hour return drive to the pier.
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This tour involves 1.25 miles (2 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps at the lunch venue. The golf carts are limited in number and can each accommodate up to 10 persons. Smoking is not allowed in the oasis. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (open toe sandals for men, jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. This tour is limited to 28 participants.
Total : 160 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
On the Bedouin trails
Experience a slice of everyday Emirati life on a trip to a traditional farmhouse from Abu Dhabi, outside the city, which is an hour-long drive from Abu Dhabi pier.
Be welcomed by the friendly locals over coffee and dates, and chat about their lives, asking as many questions as you wish. Learn about Arabic coffee, dates and the importance of animals as you chat and discover the ancient Bedouin Emirati culture and life with a stroll around the farm to see where the animals are kept and to feed them.
You can also try tasting camel milk and see how a falcon, one of the world’s fastest birds, is trained to hunt.
Hear tales about age-old Bedouin culture and finish with a traditional Emirati meal.
Take part in a traditional dance with the locals while you listen to Emirati songs.
Bid adieu to the friends you met during this tour and drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves a little walking. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). We recommend that you protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 165 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Qsar Al Watan & observation deck
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Qasr Al Watan, the United Arab Emirates presidential palace.
You will visit this unique landmark in the country offering the world first-of-its-kind insight into the Arab heritage and the governing principles that shaped the history of the United Arab Emirates and its vision to the future. The palace offers you a unique opportunity to marvel at majestic hallways, explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped the nation.
After the visit, proceed to the Observation Deck at 300 in the Conrad Etihad Towers. Located on level 74, it is the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi. Soak up uninterrupted, bird’s-eye views 300 metres above the UAE capital and capture impressive photos of the city skyline, corniche and the Arabian Gulf.
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This tour involves little walking on flat grounds, with some steps. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Qsar Al Watan is a working Palace that hosts official ceremonies which justifies closures to visitors without prior notice. The Observation Deck may be closed if any private events are confirmed on short notice. Hotel Conrad Etihad Towers have only 2 elevators with access to the Observation Deck, and hence you can expect a short waiting period when going up or coming down. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 95 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Masdar City & 24 carat gold coffee
This tour will give you the opportunity to visit the futuristic city of Abu Dhabi - Masdar City and to taste a Coffee garnished with edible gold flakes.
With the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable eco-city, Masdar is leading the way by developing a “greenprint” for how cities can accommodate rapid urbanisation and dramatically reduce energy, water and waste. The city combines ancient Arabic architectural techniques with modern technology and is built around a huge central Arabic wind tunnel that channels a cooling breeze through the streets and alleys, making it comfortable to stroll around even during high summer temperatures. Masdar also harnesses the power of the sun, using clean energy created onsite from rooftop solar panels and one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the Middle East. Cars are banned within the city. It is a really unique experience travelling into the centre of the development in the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pods – small unmanned electric cars. In each electric car, 4 guest can be accommodated and 3 to 4 electric cars will be provided to explore the city.
Once you finish the Masdar city tour, it will be time for a cup of coffee. Proceed to Emirates Palace to taste palace Cappuccino, a superior blend of aromatic coffee sprinkled with real 24-carat gold flakes to give you a taste of royalty, making it unlike anything you have ever tried before. This is the epitome of indulgence in the Palace.
Following a royal experience, head back to the pier.
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This tour involves little walking. From the entrance to Masdar City, guests will be transferred by electric car. Masdar City will provide only 4 - 5 electric cars and only 4 Guest can be accommodated at one time. The entire visit of Masdar City will not be conducted with the car due to limited availability. The duration of the transfer is only 4 Minutes. The wait time from one group to the next will be around 8 Minutes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shorts and sleeveless clothing are not permitted for men and women at Emirates Palace. This tour is limited to 60 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 125 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sunrise sand dunes with breakfast
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration of the golden sand dunes of Arabia. This unique adventure experience will give you the real feeling of a ride in the desert.
Look forward to viewing the beautiful desert scenery at sunrise from the top of the highest sand dune and taking stunning photos.
Your tour will lead you to a Desert camp, where you can relax, or enjoy a camel ride or try sand boarding on the dunes, before having breakfast.
To bring this magical Morning to a perfect close, you will re-join your vehicle for your return journey to your ship.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. The driver speaks only English. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain is bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. It is a basic English and Arabic style breakfast, which cannot be compared to the one served on board your ship. This tour is subject to weather conditions. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ahsa, the forgotten Oasis
You will depart this morning for a full day tour to Al Ahsa’s verdant lands are one of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites and the home to one of the world’s largest natural oases.
You will board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ahsa.
Upon arrival, soak up the charm of the historic neighbourhood of Al Koot in the ancient oasis town of Hofuf. Visit the Princes School & the 500-year-old Ibrahim Palace, symbolizing the wealth of the region, that combines modern and Islamic architectural styles.
Discover historical sites that date back to the Neolithic era amid the date palm groves, farmland in addition natural springs. Feel the temperature drop in the caves at Al-Qarah Hill, and explore their tall, narrow passageways totaling 1.5 kilometres in length.
Then, stop at a local restaurant to have the best Hasawi cuisine with live Arabic music.
Finally, you will re-board your coach for the drive back to the pier.
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This tour involves about 2.5 miles (4 km) of walking. Women should wear a long dress or long trousers and a long-sleeved top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline; men should not wear shorts at all, but long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt or a tee-shirt. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 240 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Panoramic tour & Museum of Al-Falwa
Depart the port for a panoramic tour around the city.
Go on a journey from old Dammam to the new Dammam and discover the Eastern Province in the morning. Stop by a mosque and experience its interiors, then pass by the date market and stop to shop for the most delicious dates in the region.
Drive to an avid collector of cultural and traditional artifacts, the millionaire philanthropist Abdulwahab Al Ghunaim, who took his hobby to a new level when he opened the Al-Falwa and Al-Jawhara Museum in 2018.
Today, a collection that began as a handful of local treasures is a valuable exhibition of more than 500,000 objects packed into a palatial villa in Dammam. The eclectic mix of items includes a 500-year-old copy of the Quran, vintage cars, antique gramophones, and some of the private possessions of Saudi Arabia’s first monarch, King Abdulaziz. Visitors can also see a traditional Saudi bedroom and meeting hall set-up. There is something in the quirky assortment of curiosities to pique the interest of every visitor.
Then stop by a mosque built by Abdul Latif Aljabr and styled as per the heritage era of the Eastern Province in 2016 (outside views only).
Drive by the fantastic houses in the golden belt area, along the Al Khobar coast and stop by the “I LOVE Khobar” sign. Overlook the Bahrain Highrise building, take some local pictures and leave for the port.
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This tour involves about 1.9 miles (3 km) of walking. Women should wear a long dress or long trousers and a long-sleeved top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline; men should not wear shorts at all, but long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt or a tea-shirt. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 110 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Manamah, capital of Bahrain
Take a day to discover some of Bahrain's best cultural gems, from the most modern to the oldest. You tour begins with a travel back in time to the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Excavations carried out since the 1950s have revealed distinct strata dating back to around 2300 B.C.
You will proceed to the Bahrain International Circuit. Having cost some US$180 million to build, the state-of-the-art racing track boasts unparalleled features that place it among the world's best Formula 1 venues. You will visit both the VIP tower, for all-round views of the circuit, and the media centre, once the largest in the world. And, if the circuit is not being used for an event, you'll even get to see the F1 control room - the place where key decisions are made during a race.
You will then visit the Bahrain National Museum, which houses a burial mound from about 2800 B.C.
After a traditional Bahraini lunch at Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, you will make a photo stop at the Grand Al-Fateh Mosque, which can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. The impressive building is crowned by the world's largest fibreglass dome.
Before heading back to the ship, continue with a stop at the maze-like Manama's Souq, with its plethora of items.
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This tour involves about 1.3 mi (over 2 km) of walking, with some steps in each visit. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Lunch is included with your tour (no alcohol served). In the mosque, the dress code needs to be followed very strictly. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 180 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cultural heritage of Bahrain
Discover Bahrain's rich cultural history on this half-day tour.
Your first visit will take you to the city of Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, known for its cultural contributions through the many restored traditional Bahraini houses that can be found amidst the narrow lanes and byways. You will visit the recently renovated Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre, a cultural landmark featuring the Kurar House, dedicated to the time-honoured craft of gold embroidery and the Iqra Children’s Library. You will make a photo stop at the House of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. It was not only the Sheikh’s residence, but also the seat of his government (the monument is currently under renovation).
You will then visit the Bin Matar House (a pearling merchant’s house), which is one of the Old Houses.
Meet a Bahraini chef in the Coffee House, and experience the local food he prepares. As you may know, Bahrain was once known as a cultural centre of the ancient Dilmun civilization. Its strategic location has led to a mixing of several cultures together, including Persian, Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Portuguese, Arab, and British. All these influences can be experienced firsthand in Bahraini cuisine. Many of the local dishes found around the island of Bahrain are inspired by these cultures, giving its visitors the unique opportunity to experience different flavours all in one country. The traditional food of Bahrain includes fish, meat, rice, and dates. Machboos is one of its most famous dishes. It consists of meat or fish and rice.
You tour will continue at the Bahrain National Museum, whose collection includes a relocated burial mound from 2800 B.C., artefacts from the Dilmun era, as well as 19th- and 20th-century exhibits related to the pearl trade.
You will then return to the ship.
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This tour involves a half-mile (800 metres) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Bahrain Fort & Al Fateh Grand Mosque
This half-day will take you to some of the key attractions in Manama, the capital of this island nation of Bahrain.
You’ll be heading for the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, which is one of the world’s largest mosques. Blending a variety of architectural styles typical of the Middle East, the huge, modern edifice boasts the largest fibreglass dome on the planet, can accommodate 7,000 worshippers at one time and also houses the National Library of Bahrain.
Next, we will head out to make a photo stop of Bahrain World Trade Centre - the Financial Harbour and the city’s glitzy shopping malls. Designed by the multi-national architectural firm Atkins, this 240-metre-high twin tower complex is the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design.
You will continue your visit at Bahrain Fort. The Fort is nearly 12 kilometres from the city of Manama and is situated at Karbabad.
The Portuguese built the Fort in 1522 on the ruins of an earlier, smaller fort built by the people of Bahrain. The Portuguese added high walls, huge square towers and a surrounding moat, which is still visible to visitors. The Bahrain Fort occupies a strategic military position where seafaring navigation could be monitored. Excavations have revealed ancient soldier's barracks, horse stables, an ammunition depot, a secret passageway, ceramic utensils and Islamic and Chinese coins.
You will then return to your ship.
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This tour involves a half-mile (800 metres) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. In the mosque, the dress code needs to be followed very strictly women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long sleeve top (no tight clothing), not low in neckline, men shouldn't wear shorts at all, but long pants and a full sleeves shirt.
Total : 75 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Bahraini family traditions
Embark on a tour that will teach you about the typical day-to-day activities of a Bahraini family. Spend some time understanding their culture and traditions.
Enjoy the views of Manama as your tour bus passes the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, the Bahrain National Museum, the Bahrain World Trade Centre and the Financial Harbour.
A friendly Bahraini family will welcome you into their home. This will be an opportunity to get a taste of their everyday life and watch them prepare snacks, which you will then enjoy with them as your afternoon tea.
As Bahrain is part of the historical region of Eastern Arabia, its culture is similar to that of its Arab neighbours in the Persian Gulf region. Bahrain is very ethnically diverse and known for its cosmopolitanism. While the official religion here is Islam, the country is tolerant of other religions: Catholic and Orthodox churches, Hindu temples and a (now-defunct) Jewish synagogue can be found on the island.
After spending time with the local family, you will return to the port.
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This tour involves very little walking. We suggest wearing conservative clothing. Please note that jeans, t-shirts, shorts, and men’s open-toe sandals are not permitted. The meal includes alcohol-free beverages. The Bahraini Family will speak in English. This tour may be affected or cancelled without notice in the event of a festival or of a death in the family. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 130 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Pearl snorkeling experience
Bahrain has found fame in the Gulf region and the entire world for the tales and economic prosperity brought about by pearl diving. Pearl diving is a full-time profession for some families, and a main source of income that powers the whole economy, leaving an unforgettable legacy in Bahrain.
For centuries, Bahrain has continued to keep this heritage alive, making it a key attraction for both locals and foreigners to enjoy. Collecting and cracking oysters open requires strength, patience, good eyesight, and of course time in order to find these beautiful round pearls.
The feeling of catching and finding a pearl is indescribable, imparting a sense of pride to have achieved a task that was and still is a huge part of Bahraini heritage, an ancestral tradition and pride of the nation. Enjoy this pearl snorkelling experience as you search for oysters.
After the activity, you will return by coach to the pier.
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This tour is a shallow water Pearl Snorkelling Tour. It is not recommended for guests with any mobility challenges. Guests wishing to participate in this excursion must be able to embark on and disembark from the local boat without assistance. We recommend you wear water shoes and waterproof clothes or clothes that you can get wet. The boat has a covered roof and is equipped with toilets, ladders, and a fresh-water shower. Masks and snorkels are provided onboard. The minimum age to participate in this excursion is from 17 years of age. (This activity requires you to know how to swim.) The boat instructor is English speaking. This activity is weather dependent and can be cancelled without prior notice for safety reasons. It is limited to 34 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : 200 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Doha
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Your first stop will be at the Souq Waqif. You will stroll down the bustling alleys of the Souq Waqif for an authentic taste of traditional commerce, architecture and culture. The maze of small shops offer an array of Middle Eastern merchandise, from spices and seasonal delicacies, such as fresh dates and nuts, to perfumes, ornate jewellery, clothing and handicrafts.
Next, start your panoramic drive of Doha via la Corniche. This long promenade stretches over four miles along the half-moon bay of Doha.
Your next stop will be made at the Katara Cultural Village. The entire Katara complex is built in a fusion of oriental architectural and retro-romantic style, different from most of Doha’s new cultural buildings elsewhere in the city. This centre houses an opera, libraries, an amphitheatre, art galleries and other academic facilities, as well as green areas.
Last stop at the Pearl, pride (or at least one of) of the city for a photo stop. The most glamour addresses in Qatar are located on these man-made, integrated and sustainable islands of almost four million square metres of reclaimed land divided into 10 architecturally distinct and themed districts.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 120 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + RELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 1.830 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + TALES OF THE ARABIAN NIGHTS 4 NIGHTS (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 4.990 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
BUSINESS FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + RELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT (PRE) + OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 5.680 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.