Guest of Honour 
Music 
Guest Speaker 
Excursions included 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Musical Odyssey in the Middle East
Dubai - Muscat
Dates:
11/23/2024
to
12/3/2024
days
nights on board
In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guest Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up.
“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 a 11-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, chosen with care by PONANT. During this cruise, visit the surprising Ithra Cultural Centre in Dammam, discover the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq Waqif in Doha, or set off on a short hike through the magnificent Wadi Shab canyon in Oman. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
In this region of the world, ancient cities rub shoulders with the futuristic towns designed and shaped by the greatest contemporary architects. Abu Dhabi with its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and its new Louvre Museum; Dubai and its skyscrapers that are among the tallest in the world; Doha and its bay offering a panorama of its fascinating skyline; each location offers a breath-taking experience. You will discover the capital of Bahrain, Manama, which while less famous 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.
You will have the opportunity to explore 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.
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 Sour, 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 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 an incredible poetry.
Ref : EG231124
Your itinerary
A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guest Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up. Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
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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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*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
Maurizio Baglini
Maurizio Baglini, visionary pianist with a taste for musical challenges, has an intense international concert career as soloist and chamber musician. Winner of the World Music Piano Master of Monte Carlo at the age of 24, he regularly performs at the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, Teatro alla Scala of Milan, Teatro San Carlo of Naples, Salle Gaveau of Paris, Kennedy Center of Washington and he is guest of prestigious festivals like La Roque d’Anthéron, Yokohama Piano Festival, Australian Chamber Music Festival, International piano festival of Bergamo and Brescia. His wide record production for Decca/Universal includes music by Liszt, Brahms, Schubert, Scarlatti, Mussorgsky and Schumann, of whom he is recording the complete piano works.
He has created the innovative Web Piano project, through the collaboration with the visual artist Giuseppe Andrea L'Abbate.
Founder and artistic director of the Amiata Piano Festival, he is artistic consultant of Teatro Verdi of Pordenone.
He is the dedicatee of Tre Quadri, Concerto for piano and orchestra by Francesco Filidei, which he performed with the Rai NSO conducted by Tito Ceccherini in a world premiere streamed on Rai Cultura, Rai Radio3, EuroRadio and broadcasted on Rai5 in November 2020. In September 2021 Baglini and Ceccherini performed Tre Quadri, once again with the Rai NSO, as a world premiere, this time with an audience, at Teatro alla Scala of Milan for the Milano Musica Festival.
In 2022 he performed at the Ravenna Festival opening night with Daniel Harding and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra.
In 2019 he was nominated Honorary Member of the Aiarp, the Italian Association of Piano Tuners and Repairers.
He plays a Fazioli grand piano.
Languages spoken: Italian, French and English
Photo credit: Davide Cerati
Anna Goryachova
Anna Goryachova studied at the Conservatorium of her hometown St. Petersburg with Galina Kiselyova as well as in Rome with Renata Scotto and Romualdo Savastano. She started her career with appearances at the St. Petersburg Chamber Opera. Anna made her European debut in 2011 in Antwerp, where she successfully performed the role of Melibea in Rossini’s Il Viaggio à Reims.
In 2012-2017, she is a soloist of the Zurich Opera, where she was heard in Strauss’ Salome, Rossini’s La Scala di Seta and Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Händel’s Rinaldo, Vivaldi’s La Verità in Cimento, Haydn’s Orlando Paladino, Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Etvös’ Drei Schwestern, and also appeared as Yen-Er in the world creation of Christian Jost Rote Laterne conducted by Alain Altinoglu.
Anna Goryachova has been acclaimed at the finest opera houses in Europe, including Royal Opera House Covent Garden, Wiener Staatsoper, Staatsoper Berlin, Opéra National in Paris, Teatro Real in Madrid, Dutch National Opera in Amsterdam, Norwegian National Opera in Oslo, Royal Opera in Copenhagen as well as Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro, Arena di Verona, and Bregenzer Festspiele.
She performs with world famous conductors such as Daniel Barenboim, Antonio Pappano, Alberto Zedda, Mariss Jansons, Enrique Mazzola, Alain Altinoglu, Sebastian Weigle, Fabio Luisi, Michele Mariotti, Daniele Rustioni, Jean-Christophe Spinosi, Michele Mariotti, Nello Santi, Ottavio Dantone, Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Dmitri Jurowski.
Languages spoken: English, Russian, Italian
Photo credit: R. Ruis
Adrien La Marca
Hailed by The Financial Times as « a truly pure talent » and described by Le Monde as « a new viola hero », Adrien La Marca’s playing is characterised by a depth of expression, sense of individuality and technical mastery, alongside a charismatic stage presence and ability to create an immediate emotional connection with his audience.
La Marca makes his debuts with Orchestre National de France, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio-France, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Hong-Kong Sinfonietta, Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse, Les Siècles. Artist in residency with Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liège, he performs different repertoires during the season.
Winner of French Victoires de la Musique in 2014 in the category Revelation, La Marca performed since then in the prestigious venues such as Paris Philharmonie, London Wigmore Hall, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Berlin Konzerthaus, Vienna Musikverein, Auditorium du Louvre, Schloss Elmau, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, Théâtre de la Ville de Paris, Salle Gaveau.
He won numerous prizes in international competitions including William Primrose Competition, Lionel Tertis Competition and Johannes Brahms Competition.
La Marca plays a viola by Nicola Bergonzi made in Cremona in 1780, on generous loan from the BOUBO Music Foundation.
Languages spoken: French and English
Photo credit : Alexander Kharlamov
Raphaëlle Moreau
Appointed concertmaster of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester at the age of twenty-one, Raphaëlle Moreau has collaborated with conductors such as Herbert Blomstedt, Vladimir Jurowski, Jonathan Nott and Lorenzo Viotti and has performed at the Hamburg Elbphilharmonie, the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, the Musikverein in Vienna and the Felsenreitschule in Salzburg. She is regularly invited as guest concertmaster in various orchestras such as Gulbenkian Orchestra in Lisbon, Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse and Orchestre Symphonique de Bretagne.
She has been awarded the first Grand Prize of the Postacchini Competition and has performed as a soloist with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio-France, the Orchestre National de France and the Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne.
In the year 2020, Raphaëlle has been nominated as Rising Star at the french Victoires de la Musique Classique and took part in the Martha Argerich & Friends concert at the Philharmonie de Paris performing with Stephen Kovacevich and Gerard Caussé. She has also shared the stage with Renaud Capuçon in the Double Concerto by J.S. Bach accompanied by the Lausanne Soloists and premiered the Double Concerto for violin and cello by Philippe Hersant.
Being a passionate chamber musician, Raphaëlle regularly collaborates with artists such as Renaud Capuçon, Gautier Capuçon, Nicholas Angelich, David Kadouch, Celia Oneto-Bensaid, Alexandra Conunova and her three brothers Edgar, David and Jérémie.
Together with her three brothers Edgar, David and Jérémie, Raphaëlle has released an album with works by Korngold and Dvorak for the label Warner Classics/Erato.
Born in Paris, Raphaëlle Moreau began playing the violin at the age of four in the Suzuki system and later continued her studies with Pavel Vernikov and then Renaud Capuçon at the Haute Ecole de Musique de Lausanne.
Raphaëlle is a laureate of the Nicati-de-Luze Foundation, the Fondation l’Or du Rhin, the Fondation Banque Populaire and the Fondation de la Vocation.
Languages spoken: French and English
Photo credit: Jacky Azoulai
Astrig Siranossian
Winner of the First Prize and several times winner of the Special Prize of the Krzysztof Penderecki International Cello Competition, Astrig Siranossian performs as soloist with famous orchestras. A regular guest of Daniel Barenboim’s, her musical partners are no less than Martha Argerich, Simon Rattle, Yo-Yo Ma, Zubin Mehta, Emmanuel Pahud, Daniel Ottensamer…
She is regularly invited on international TV channels and radios and often receives the honor of the press and international medias.
In 2022, Astrig Siranossian celebrates cello and voice in her new album Duo Solo where two sound worlds and cultures meet.
For the Alpha Classics label, she recorded a Tribute to Nadia Boulanger, Dear Mademoiselle, with Nathanaël Gouin and Daniel Barenboïm at the piano, which received tributes from the international press.
Since 2016, Astrig Siranossian is leading the festival Les Musicades which takes place in her hometown in France. Les Musicades gather music, literature, and gastronomy.
In 2020 she created the charity project Spidak Sevane to bring education and material to children in Armenia.
Astrig Siranossian started music at the age of three. Five years later she was admitted to the CNR in Lyon, furthered her studies at the Lyon CNSM in Lyon, obtaining her diploma of higher studies with distinction. She completed her training in Switzerland at the Basel Conservatory in Ivan Monighetti’s class, passing her Concert Masters and Soloist Masters Degree with flying honors.
Astrig plays a 1676 Ruggieri cello, generously loaned by the Boubo Music Foundation in Binningen and the Sir Barbiroli Gagliano cello from 1756.
Language spoken : French
Photo credit : Bernard Martinez
Alain Duault
The novelist, poet, journalist, musicologist and radio and television presenter Alain Duault has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of classical music for more than 30 years. Considered to be one of the greatest opera specialists in France he is now President of the Prix Pelléas jury, and has been made an Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.
Alain Duault studied literature, philosophy and psycho-analysis in Paris, then musicology and piano. His first TV appearance was as a guest of Bernard Pivot for his book of poems, Colorature. This led to a number of radio programmes dedicated to classical music, notably on RTL, the radio station where Alain Duault would be “Mr Classical Music” for 22 years, before joining Radio Classique with daily slots until 2018. A role that he also took on for the France 3 television channel, presenting a number of exceptional programmes (masterclasses with Ruggero Raimondi in the Salle Gaveau, Musiques en fête at the Chorégies d’Orange festival…).
In 1999, he conceived and presented Intégrale Chopin (225 works, 60 pianists), broadcast on France 3. Then in 2001, he wrote and performed an ambitious and very popular show, Verdi, une passion, un destin (with Jean Piat and 250 musicians). In the wake of this success, he wrote and performed two other shows: Victor Hugo, la légende d’un siècle in 2002 and Rencontre avec George Sand (with Marie-Christine Barrault) in 2004 and 2005.
Alain Duault also puts his writing skills to the service of classical music. The author of a number of books, including Dans la peau de Maria Callas, (Le Passeur Éditeur, 2014, pocket edition, 2017), Dictionnaire amoureux illustré de l’Opéra (Plon Gründ, 2016), Ce léger rien des choses qui ont fui, poetry (Gallimard, 2017), he also writes editorials for Classica.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Laurent Rouvrais @Radio Classique
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Alain Duault
The novelist, poet, journalist, musicologist and radio and television presenter Alain Duault has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of classical music for more than 30 years. Considered to be one of the greatest opera specialists in France he is now President of the Prix Pelléas jury, and has been made an Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.
Alain Duault studied literature, philosophy and psycho-analysis in Paris, then musicology and piano. His first TV appearance was as a guest of Bernard Pivot for his book of poems, Colorature. This led to a number of radio programmes dedicated to classical music, notably on RTL, the radio station where Alain Duault would be “Mr Classical Music” for 22 years, before joining Radio Classique with daily slots until 2018. A role that he also took on for the France 3 television channel, presenting a number of exceptional programmes (masterclasses with Ruggero Raimondi in the Salle Gaveau, Musiques en fête at the Chorégies d’Orange festival…).
In 1999, he conceived and presented Intégrale Chopin (225 works, 60 pianists), broadcast on France 3. Then in 2001, he wrote and performed an ambitious and very popular show, Verdi, une passion, un destin (with Jean Piat and 250 musicians). In the wake of this success, he wrote and performed two other shows: Victor Hugo, la légende d’un siècle in 2002 and Rencontre avec George Sand (with Marie-Christine Barrault) in 2004 and 2005.
Alain Duault also puts his writing skills to the service of classical music. The author of a number of books, including Dans la peau de Maria Callas, (Le Passeur Éditeur, 2014, pocket edition, 2017), Dictionnaire amoureux illustré de l’Opéra (Plon Gründ, 2016), Ce léger rien des choses qui ont fui, poetry (Gallimard, 2017), he also writes editorials for Classica.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Laurent Rouvrais @Radio Classique
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
Radio Classique
Every day RADIO CLASSIQUE attracts over a million listeners with a promise to celebrate the best works in the classical repertoire by top performers, and bring classical music into the hearts of the greatest number of people in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Radio Classique achieves this by employing well-known personalities with a passion for music, offering a varied play list from symphonies to film music, as well as interactive programmes and numerous live concert broadcasts.
It is these values which set Radio Classique apart, as an accessible, elegant radio station which is much appreciated by epicurean and discerning listeners ; values that are perfectly in tune with what PONANT’s musical cruises have to offer, under the artistic direction of Alain Duault. A truly unforgettable musical experience awaits passengers in the company of outstanding artists in an intimate and privileged setting.
From Mozart to Debussy via Delibes, Rimski-Korsakov, Rossini and Saint-Saëns, the Orient and all its mysteries have always inspired composers. While exploring the landscapes of Arabian Nights, we will share the joys of discovering works with multiple resonances performed by some of today’s best artists. They range from the great Italian pianist Maurizio Baglini to the young already-a-star violinist Raphaëlle Moreau, via Adrien La Marca “the viola’s new hero” as described by Le Monde, the charismatic cellist Astrig Siranossian and hot property Russian mezzo-soprano Anna Goryachova. Enchantments in all genres await the eyes and ears.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guest Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- A 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 the site of Al Hasa, the largest oasis in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- From Manama, 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.
- Sour, 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: a 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.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
November 23, 2024 - Dubai
Embarkation 11/23/2024 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 11/23/2024 at 6:00 PM
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 Khalifa, 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.
November 24, 2024 - At sea
Arrival 11/24/2024
Departure 11/24/2024
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.
November 25, 2024 - Manama
Arrival 11/25/2024 early morning
Departure 11/25/2024 late afternoon
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.
November 26, 2024 - Dammam
Arrival 11/26/2024 early morning
Departure 11/26/2024 early 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.
November 27, 2024 - Doha
Arrival 11/27/2024 early morning
Departure 11/27/2024 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.
November 28, 2024 November 29, 2024 - Abu Dhabi
Arrival 11/28/2024 midday
Departure 11/29/2024 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.
November 30, 2024 - Khasab
Arrival 11/30/2024 early morning
Departure 11/30/2024 early afternoon
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.
December 1, 2024 - Daymaniyat Islands
Arrival 12/1/2024 early morning
Departure 12/1/2024 mid 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 snorkelling. This rocky landscape is also the favourite spot of many birds, both endemic and migratory.
December 2, 2024 - Sur
Arrival 12/2/2024 early morning
Departure 12/2/2024 late afternoon
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.
December 3, 2024 - Muscat
Arrival 12/3/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 12/3/2024 at 8:00 AM
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.
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Manama, 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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Ithra Cultural centre
This tour provides guests with the opportunity to visit one of the most unique buildings in Saudi Arabia, the Ithra Cultural Centre, designed by a Norwegian firm and inaugurated by King Salman in 2017.
It is worth mentioning that Ithra has won five local and international awards, including the 2021 Cultural Institutes Award in the private sector track by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture. Ithra was also recognized with three prestigious accolades from MarCom, one of the largest and most respected creative competitions in the world. Among 6,000 entries, Ithra achieved platinum in the ‘Team Achievement’ and ‘Pro Bono’ categories, and gold in the ‘Social Content’ category for its efforts on World Book Day.
After a 30-minute drive you will arrive in Dhahran.
You will start your visit of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), which features immersive exhibitions by international artists, and learn more about Islamic history as well as how Saudi Arabia found its oil.
You will enter the lobby and visit the Library, the section covering the discovery of oil and many other exhibitions that change throughout the year.
There are coffee shops and restaurants where you may stop and enjoy a light refreshment during your tour.
Then, stop by the “I LOVE Khobar” sign on the Al Khobar waterfront and enjoy the fresh sea breeze before returning to the pier.
-
This tour involves 1.24 miles (2 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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Daymaniyat Nature Reserve
The Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is composed of nine islands and many submerged rocks. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will be charmed by its pristine landscapes, its beaches of white sand and its turquoise lagoons.
The coral reef is home to numerous species of fish, such as trevallies, parrotfish, red mullets, surgeonfishes, and many others.
This reserve is also a sanctuary for migratory birds.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.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.
-
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.
Included
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.
Included
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.
Decks
Music
Set sail on a musical journey! If you have a passion for classical instrumental music or opera, if you love Celtic melodies or jazz, treat yourself to a different and exclusive experience aboard a PONANT ship. On board or ashore, our guests of honour, including renowned artists, talented musicians and brilliant virtuosos, share their knowledge and their passion in an intimate and accessible manner during concerts or talks.
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.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
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.
-
This tour involves a half-mile (800 metres) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Manama, 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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Ithra Cultural centre
This tour provides guests with the opportunity to visit one of the most unique buildings in Saudi Arabia, the Ithra Cultural Centre, designed by a Norwegian firm and inaugurated by King Salman in 2017.
It is worth mentioning that Ithra has won five local and international awards, including the 2021 Cultural Institutes Award in the private sector track by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture. Ithra was also recognized with three prestigious accolades from MarCom, one of the largest and most respected creative competitions in the world. Among 6,000 entries, Ithra achieved platinum in the ‘Team Achievement’ and ‘Pro Bono’ categories, and gold in the ‘Social Content’ category for its efforts on World Book Day.
After a 30-minute drive you will arrive in Dhahran.
You will start your visit of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), which features immersive exhibitions by international artists, and learn more about Islamic history as well as how Saudi Arabia found its oil.
You will enter the lobby and visit the Library, the section covering the discovery of oil and many other exhibitions that change throughout the year.
There are coffee shops and restaurants where you may stop and enjoy a light refreshment during your tour.
Then, stop by the “I LOVE Khobar” sign on the Al Khobar waterfront and enjoy the fresh sea breeze before returning to the pier.
-
This tour involves 1.24 miles (2 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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
-
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.
Included
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Daymaniyat Nature Reserve
The Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is composed of nine islands and many submerged rocks. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will be charmed by its pristine landscapes, its beaches of white sand and its turquoise lagoons.
The coral reef is home to numerous species of fish, such as trevallies, parrotfish, red mullets, surgeonfishes, and many others.
This reserve is also a sanctuary for migratory birds.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.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.
Included
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.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.