Deluxe Stateroom
19 m2
2
PONANT invites you on a 9-day cruise between the Gulf of Oaman and the Persian Gulf, departing from Muscat. Come aboard Le Bougainville, and set off to discover the treasures of the desert of the Arabian Peninsula.
Fujairah lies between the Persian Gulf, lush mountains and fertile plains. From the city it is possible to take an excursion into the surrounding mountains and to visit many architectural sites including Fujairah Fort, built in 1670, or Al Bidya Mosque, the oldest mosque in the United Arab Emirates.
Le Bougainville will call at Dubai for New Year’s Eve. This will be the occasion to see the Emirate as never before, enjoying its ultra-modern architecture and lively nightlife.
Le Bougainville will then drop anchor in Khasab, the gateway to the sublime “fjords of Arabia” that you will be able to explore aboard a traditional boat, before setting sail for Doha, in Qatar. In this city blending tradition and modernity, next to the most recent skyscrapers, you will discover a superb museum home to treasures of Islamic art, and the sparkling colours of the Waqif souk which brings the heart of the old town to life.
You will then stop off at the nature reserve of the island of Sir Bani Yas, a veritable wildlife sanctuary.
Your ship will take you towards Abu Dhabi, the booming capital of the United Arab Emirates. You will be able to make the most of this day to visit the fantastic new Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum and the Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world.
Finally, you will reach fascinating and futuristic Dubai, the kingdom of excessiveness, the end of your cruise.
Ref : G291222
An itinerary discovering the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Oman. Discovery of the treasures of Islamic culture, between tradition and modernity. Overnight stay in Dubai on New Year’s Eve. Visit of the...
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*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
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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:
For men:
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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:
For men:
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:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
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
Embarkation 29/12/2022 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 29/12/2022 at 21:00
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.
Arrival 30/12/2022 midday
Departure 30/12/2022 early evening
The easternmost of the United Arab Emirates unfolds onto the Gulf of Oman. Unique to the region, the geography of Fujairah is composed of lush mountains and fertile plains, as well as the vast deserts that the Emirate shares with its neighbours. It is the majestic massif of the Al Hajar Mountains that brought rain to the territory, creating the oases that were vital to the development of agriculture. Fujairah also offers travellers the possibility of visiting its historic treasures such as its castle, an old fort dating back to the 16th century, or the Al Bidya Mosque, the oldest in the United Arab Emirates, which was built in 1446.
Arrival 31/12/2022 midday
Departure 01/01/2023 at night
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.
Arrival 01/01/2023 midday
Departure 01/01/2023 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.
Arrival 02/01/2023
Departure 02/01/2023
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
Arrival 03/01/2023 at night
Departure 03/01/2023 early evening
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.
Arrival 04/01/2023 mid morning
Departure 04/01/2023 late afternoon
You’ll make a port of call on the island of Sir Bani Yas, a real naturalist dream that has been dedicated to the conservation of endangered animal species since 1971. This enchanting former reserve of the Emir of Abu Dhabi is planted with more than two million trees. Nominated “The World’s Leading Sustainable Tourist Destination”, it has one the largest populations of Arabian oryxes. The ruins of one of the oldest Christian monasteries of the pre-Islamic era, dating back to 600 AD, are visible there.
Arrival 05/01/2023 early morning
Departure 05/01/2023 late afternoon
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.
Arrival 06/01/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 06/01/2023 at 07:00
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.
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration of the sandy dunes of Fujairah region, a unique adventure experience that will give you the real feeling of a ride in the desert.
Along the way, you will pass through an area of rugged rocks and gleaming reddish sand dunes en route to Fossil Rock, where 80-million-year-old fossils are embedded in the ancient rock. You will also see Camel Rock, a curious formation protruding from the desert sand and shaped like the head of a camel.
Then, enjoy an exciting sand-dune ride over the tall, undulating dunes before a stop to relax and have some refreshment.
Afterward, re-board your 4X4 and enjoy the scenic drive back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It narrates the history 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 meters. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai.
You will then return to the pier.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Ahmedia Heritage Guest House, located in the historical centre of Dubai.
This guest house is a 2-storey villa, built in traditional Arabian style. It is the perfect location to appreciate how Dubai once was and learn about life during the early years of the city. There are no gleaming towers here, but an intimate and elegant house.
Dubai doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its many culinary experiences, which mirror all the various cultures that have made up the city. This tour invites you to dive into a whole world of flavours and you will see unveiled some secrets of Emirati cuisine from a local chef.
Upon arrival at Ahmedia Guest House, you will be welcomed with an Arabic coffee and dates. Your guide will help you exchange with the Chef. He will explain the ingredients used in Emirati cuisine. Next, it will be your turn to try your hand at cooking, using the provided ingredients and following the Chef’s instructions. You will learn some new culinary skills and enjoy a high-quality lunch, which will be expertly prepared by your own hand and overseen by a local Chef. The lunch includes non-alcoholic beverages.
After your lunch, you will once again have an opportunity to discuss with the Chef, and finally re-board your coach and head back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden sailing 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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your coach for a 1-hour drive to Al Thakira.
Upon arriving, you will amazed by the large expanse of natural greenery, which stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. This area of dense vegetation has its own unique ecosystem, which is notable for attracting resident and migratory bird life, including flamingos and herons.
You will receive a safety briefing before parting on your kayak adventure in Purple Island - a Qatari natural wonder. You will have 1 hour to paddle through the calm water of the channels, along the lush green mangrove, and may admire the endemic flora and fauna, which includes migratory birds, fish, crabs or even tiny jumping fish.
After your exploration from the sea, you will enjoy a guided walk in the mangrove forests along the beach.
At the end of the visit, you will reboard your coach and head back to your ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle for an adventure through the beautiful Nature Reserve that occupies more than half of Sir Bani Yas Island, recently awarded a label as a Sustainable Tourism Destination.
This island is the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates and is home to 10,000 free-roaming animals, a bird sanctuary and millions of trees and plants.
In 1977 following in the vision of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sir Bani Yas Island was established as a protected area, where hunting is strictly forbidden, and is has since become the largest Arabian wildlife reserve.
Your 1-hour tour includes numerous photo-stops, and you will be accompanied by an expert guide, who will help you to look for Arabian oryx, gazelles and giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs, and will teach you about the fragile ecosystem as well.
After enjoying your island tour, you will drive back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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 wold are welcome to witness the 82 onion-top 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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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.
New Year's Cruise
Spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve with PONANT!
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Muscat
Meet at Muscat airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
You will continue with the National Museum of Oman, located in the district of Old Muscat. Opened in 2016, this museum is dedicated to the history of the Sultanate.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. 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 : 140 €
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy three unforgettable days surrounded by breathtaking scenery, from the Nizwa mountains region to the magic desert of Wahiba Sands desert. Between oases, fortresses, canyons and dunes, you will combine nature, culture and art of living. This program rich in experiences will be the perfect prelude to your boarding.
Day 1 - Muscat/Nizwa
Meet at Muscat Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to Nizwa at 1-half hour drive. After enjoying a lunch at a local restaurant, you will discover 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 reach Jebel Akdhar mountain where is located the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort 5 * (about 1 hour at drive).
Check-in followed by the end of the day at leisure.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 - Nizwa/Wahiba Sands
You will depart the hotel in the morning to explore Wahiba Sands.
First, you will be taken to Sinaw Market. Then, you will continue until the Desert Nights Camp.
Check-in and lunch at the camp.
In the afternoon, you will board your 4WD vehicles and proceed with a drive over dunes towards Wadi Bani Khalid, which stands out like an oasis in the desert, with clear green natural spring water pools. You can walk inside the Wadi and, if the water is clean, you can swim in this water oasis, the best place to enjoy a break.
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 dunes running from north to south, some attaining a height of about 100 m and orange in colour. You will drive along the undulating sand dunes and experience the thrills of dune driving.
Later, you will continue your drive to your camp, and you will enjoy sunset from top of the dunes.
Drive back to camp for dinner and to overnight.
Day 3 - Wahiba Sands/Muscat
You will depart the camp in the early morning to reach Muscat (2-half hour at drive), Oman's capital.
First you will visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a magnificent piece of modern architectural of the Sultanate.
Then, you will visit the Muttrah Souq (market place), 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.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
The afternoon will begin with discovering the National Museum of Oman dedicated to the history of the Sultanate. You will then board your vehicle to drive through the old city to Al Alam Palace where you will take a photo stop. This monument is an architectural marvel, for both the design and location between the twin forts of Jalali and Mirani.
You will then be transferred to the port, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotels:
Overlooking a beautiful landscape of Jebel Akdhar's green mountains, at 1 hour from Nizwa, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is one of the world's highest luxury resorts. Settled into a breathtaking natural environment, the resort combines sophisticated design with local authenticity. Its spacious rooms (60 m²) offer an amazing view and all the comfort of the Anantara service. The canyon view platform, infinity pool, the refinement of its restaurants, and the exceptional spa make it an unforgettable place to escape.
Desert Nights Camp is the perfect address for an immersive desert experience and the only luxury desert camp in Oman. At two hours from Muscat, you will enjoy Bedouin hospitality while immersing yourself in the endless dunes of the Wahiba Sands. Surrounded by the desert, relax yourself into a Deluxe tent fully equipped with a large living room, a bedroom and a bathroom with shower and a terrace with views. The restaurant will introduce you to the flavours of Omani cuisine.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotels:
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
PO Box 110, Postal Code 621
Sultanate of Oman
Phone : +968 2521 8111
Desert Nights Camp
P.O. Box : 2031 P.C. 112
Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman
Phone : + 968 25586184
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed.
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 : 1.450 €
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration of the sandy dunes of Fujairah region, a unique adventure experience that will give you the real feeling of a ride in the desert.
Along the way, you will pass through an area of rugged rocks and gleaming reddish sand dunes en route to Fossil Rock, where 80-million-year-old fossils are embedded in the ancient rock. You will also see Camel Rock, a curious formation protruding from the desert sand and shaped like the head of a camel.
Then, enjoy an exciting sand-dune ride over the tall, undulating dunes before a stop to relax and have some refreshment.
Afterward, re-board your 4X4 and enjoy the scenic drive back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It narrates the history 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 meters. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai.
You will then return to the pier.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Ahmedia Heritage Guest House, located in the historical centre of Dubai.
This guest house is a 2-storey villa, built in traditional Arabian style. It is the perfect location to appreciate how Dubai once was and learn about life during the early years of the city. There are no gleaming towers here, but an intimate and elegant house.
Dubai doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its many culinary experiences, which mirror all the various cultures that have made up the city. This tour invites you to dive into a whole world of flavours and you will see unveiled some secrets of Emirati cuisine from a local chef.
Upon arrival at Ahmedia Guest House, you will be welcomed with an Arabic coffee and dates. Your guide will help you exchange with the Chef. He will explain the ingredients used in Emirati cuisine. Next, it will be your turn to try your hand at cooking, using the provided ingredients and following the Chef’s instructions. You will learn some new culinary skills and enjoy a high-quality lunch, which will be expertly prepared by your own hand and overseen by a local Chef. The lunch includes non-alcoholic beverages.
After your lunch, you will once again have an opportunity to discuss with the Chef, and finally re-board your coach and head back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden sailing 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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your coach for a 1-hour drive to Al Thakira.
Upon arriving, you will amazed by the large expanse of natural greenery, which stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. This area of dense vegetation has its own unique ecosystem, which is notable for attracting resident and migratory bird life, including flamingos and herons.
You will receive a safety briefing before parting on your kayak adventure in Purple Island - a Qatari natural wonder. You will have 1 hour to paddle through the calm water of the channels, along the lush green mangrove, and may admire the endemic flora and fauna, which includes migratory birds, fish, crabs or even tiny jumping fish.
After your exploration from the sea, you will enjoy a guided walk in the mangrove forests along the beach.
At the end of the visit, you will reboard your coach and head back to your ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle for an adventure through the beautiful Nature Reserve that occupies more than half of Sir Bani Yas Island, recently awarded a label as a Sustainable Tourism Destination.
This island is the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates and is home to 10,000 free-roaming animals, a bird sanctuary and millions of trees and plants.
In 1977 following in the vision of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sir Bani Yas Island was established as a protected area, where hunting is strictly forbidden, and is has since become the largest Arabian wildlife reserve.
Your 1-hour tour includes numerous photo-stops, and you will be accompanied by an expert guide, who will help you to look for Arabian oryx, gazelles and giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs, and will teach you about the fragile ecosystem as well.
After enjoying your island tour, you will drive back to the ship.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
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 wold are welcome to witness the 82 onion-top 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.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of three days between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah to discover the Bedouins culture with its traditions and its natural landscapes. Take part to authentic experiences in the Al Marmoum Desert and in a pearl farm.
Day 1 – Dubai/Ras Al Khaimah
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will leave the pier to discover the traditional city of merchants and modern Dubai. You will be driven towards the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque and the old part of the city with impressive palaces of the ruling family of Dubai. Followed by the visit of Jumeirah Mosque drive towards the famous souks of Dubai. Firstly you will visit the Spice Market Finally, you will visit the huge gold souk, which offers exquisite gold jewellery at prices lower than anywhere else in the world.
Then you will discover and cross the Creek with a typical boat Abra and you will visit at the spice market. Finally, you will visit the huge gold souk, which offers exquisite gold jewellery at prices lower than anywhere else in the world.
After the city tour, you will visit Crossroads of Civilizations Museum. This private museum in the Shindagha Historic District provides a fascinating glimpse of Dubai's historic role as a trading link between East and West. On display are hundreds of artefacts from the Ubaids, Greeks, Romans, Babylonians and other civilizations that passed through the region. Highlights include a 7500-year-old bull-shaped vase and a 16th-century Kaaba curtain, as well as a first edition of the 1590 book that first mentions 'Dubai'. Other galleries display swords, daggers and other historical weaponry used across the region.
After the lunch served in a panoramic restaurant, you will then be transferred to your hotel. After about a 1-hour drive, you will reach The Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert - Ras Al Khaimah 5*.
Check-in in your room.
In the early evening, you will be transported via buggy to the stargazing platform in the centre of the nature reserve. Upon arrival you will enjoy refreshments followed by an introductory stargazing session. Following this, you will be lead safely to the sand dunes to discover the nocturnal creatures of the nature reserve before returning to the hotel.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 2 - Ras Al Khaimah/Al Marmoum Desert
You will depart the hotel in the morning to discover a pearl farm and its activities.
You will reach Al Rams, a sleepy village hamlet on the northern tip of Ras Al Khaimah. Nestled upon a small sliver of land, wedged between the sea and the mountains, Al Rams is renowned for its fishing activity. You will learn how some Emiratis dedicated their lives to collect thousands of seashells in the hopes of finding a pearl! You will discover why this thriving ecosystem is responsible for some of the world’s finest pearls.
Your “pearl experience” will begin on board an authentic “Dhow”. Followed by enjoying the tour of mangroves and surrounding you will arrive at Pontoon (Floating Pearls Farm house). You will visit the Pearl Farm, and you will attend an oyster opening demonstration and followed by this witness Pearl Diving Tool and Techniques. Followed by experience, Lunch will be at the Upper deck of the Pontoon prepared by Local Emirati from the village.
Followed by the Lunch, you will reach your hotel from where you will be transferred at Al Marmoom Desert. You will continue your exploration by visiting an authentic Bedouin village and learn more about its traditions. Take a step back in time and experience Dubai as it was in the 1950s on an adventure in the Dubai desert with a professional Conservation Guide. Enjoy a fascinating wildlife drive in the 1950’s vintage Land Rovers.
Witness a spectacular falcon show led by a professional falconer and watch these magnificent birds in full flight.
Next you will receive a traditional welcoming at an authentic Bedouin village settled in a desert oasis. Discover the rich culture and traditions of Dubai’s heritage with live demonstrations of Arabic coffee and break-making, henna-painting, camel rides, and traditional performances. Watch the preparation of a typical Bedouin dinner at live cooking stations and enjoy a series of local dishes under the stars.
Then, full of unique memories, you will return to your hotel.
Day 3 - Ras Al Khaimah/Dubai
After breakfast and check-out, you will be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight.
Your hotel:
Located in the Ras Al Khaimah desert, about 1-hour drive from Dubai, the 5-star Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert is an oasis of luxury and serenity. Its architecture combines Bedouin style and modern elegance. Each pool villa features full modern equipment and deck overlooking the desert. To relax, you will enjoy the Spa experience, the Moorish lounge or open-sky Moon Bar. And many outdoor activities in Al Wadi Nature Reserve will offer a Bedouin adventure.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert - Ras Al Khaimah
Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Telephone number: + 971 72067777
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed.
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 : 1.650 €
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Dubai
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will depart the pier for a panoramic half day Dubai City Tour, the traditional city of merchants and modern Dubai. You will be driven towards the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque and the old part of the city with impressive palaces of the ruling family of Dubai. You will continue to the old Al-Bastakia area of Dubai, where you will be able to admire the old houses with their characteristic wind towers. Then you will discover and cross the Creek with a typical boat Abra.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. 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 : 50 €