Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
- Last staterooms
Cruising the Arabian Coast – with Smithsonian Journeys
Dubai - Muscat
Dates:
16/1/2025
to
24/1/2025
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
This exploration of the southern Persian Gulf and the cities that dot its shores begins in Dubai, a small coastal hamlet fewer than 100 years ago that is now a world class center of commerce and finance. It is home to Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, as well as to fabulous spice and gold markets.
Sail first to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates. Here you may discover two stunning symbols of Arab and Islamic pride: the Louvre Abu Dhabi with a collection of art spanning millennia and originating from all corners of the globe; and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, arguably the pinnacle of modern Islamic architecture.
A day on the island of Sir Bani Yas, once a barren desert, now transformed into a wildlife sanctuary for animals indigenous to the Gulf region and east Africa, is followed by a visit to Doha. The pride of Qatar and the site of the 2022 World Cup, Doha is where you will find the shopping oasis of Souq Waqif – the heart of the city where literally everything is for sale – and the I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Arts, constructed on its own island and home to the largest collection of Islamic art in the world.
Your ship will then drop anchor in Khasab, Oman, a sleepy fishing village nestled among the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, where you may explore these narrow inlets aboard local dhows, looking for the pods of dolphins that frequent these waters and admiring the majesty of the Hajar Mountains in the background.
Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, the final port of call before your voyage ends in Muscat, Oman, lies on the coast of the Gulf of Oman and serves as your gateway to the 16th-century Fujairah Fort and Museum and to Al Bidya Mosque, the second oldest mosque in the United Arab Emirates.
Ref : DM3145US - EG160125
Your itinerary
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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5/11/2025 to the 23/11/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
3/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
*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.
Discover all destinations
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
- Diptyque 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
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
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
- Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including Nasser Rabbat, a professor and author who specializes in Islamic art and architecture and Arab history, and Emily Teeter, a specialist in cultures of the ancient Middle East.
- An overnight in port in Dubai.
- Experience the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.
- Visit I. M. Pei's Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Explore the world-famous souks of Dubai and Doha.
- Sail the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula.
- Admire the iconic architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Ports of Call & Excursions
16 January 2025 17 January 2025 - Dubai
Embarkation 16/1/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 17/1/2025 at 10:00 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.
18 January 2025 - Abu Dhabi
Arrival 18/1/2025 early morning
Departure 18/1/2025 evening
The political capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi stands out thanks to its exceptional cultural offering. In the Saadiyat Island district, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Jean Nouvel as a museum town inspired by traditional Arab architecture, creates a dialogue between objects and works from civilisations from all over the world around the great universal questions. A little further, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts a sumptuous decor of marble, gold and glass. Abu Dhabi is also the gateway to the Al Ain oasis and its 150,000 date palms, a remarkable testimony to the settling of nomads in the region since Neolithic times, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
19 January 2025 - Sir Bani Yas
Arrival 19/1/2025 mid morning
Departure 19/1/2025 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.
20 January 2025 - Doha
Arrival 20/1/2025 early morning
Departure 20/1/2025 late 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.
21 January 2025 - At sea
Arrival 21/1/2025
Departure 21/1/2025
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.
22 January 2025 - Khasab
Arrival 22/1/2025 early morning
Departure 22/1/2025 late 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.
23 January 2025 - Fujairah
Arrival 23/1/2025 early morning
Departure 23/1/2025 early afternoon
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.
24 January 2025 - Muscat
Arrival 24/1/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 24/1/2025 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.
Dubai Highlights
From your ship, a short drive brings you to the neighborhood of Jumeirah, home to two of Dubai's architectural landmarks: the Jumeirah Mosque, dedicated by the Late Sheikh Rashid to build cross cultural understanding; and the emblematic Burj Al Arab, rising out of the surf and touted as 'the most luxurious hotel in the world'.
Further down the coast, visit Palm Jumeirah, a remarkable palm-tree-shaped archipelago of manmade islands boasting some of the most opulent residences in Dubai, before arriving at Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, where you will ascend to the observation deck on the 124th floor for incredible views over the city and the Persian Gulf.
Lunch will be served at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding, where you will enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine with your hosts and engage in a Q&A session covering everything you would like to know about Dubai and the UAE, their history, culture, and traditions.
Your afternoon begins with a stroll through the old part of Dubai, where traditional buildings line narrow lanes and where art and cultural exhibits abound. Then, proceed to the waterfront and take a water-taxi across Dubai Creek to spend the balance of the afternoon in the markets on the other side. The Spice Souq contains a myriad of fragrances and seasonings, and the air is filled with the aroma of cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, incense, and dried fruit. The Gold Souq, with its bustling atmosphere and traditional style of bargaining, makes for an exciting experience as you wander the narrow lanes of glittering displays. The sheer scale and variety offered will impress even the most jaded buyer.
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This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2 miles of walking over mostly flat terrain with some steps. You should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
High Tea at Emirates Palace
The Emirates Palace is known throughout the world as one of the most opulent hotels to be found anywhere. This excursion combines a private tour of the hotel's luxurious suites and public areas with high tea, served in the elegant Le Café.
This introduction to Emirati hospitality begins with a panoramic tour of Abu Dhabi's major landmarks, including the waterfront Corniche, affording spectacular views of the city skyline; Heritage Village, a recreation of a traditional desert community; Ferrari World, a motorsports theme park; and of course, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, arguably the pinnacle of modern Islamic architecture.
Upon arrival at the Emirates Palace, join a private guided tour that explores the hotel's palatial suites, most of them furnished in gold and marble, the glittering ballrooms, and some of its extensive facilities and amenities, which include internationally known restaurants and shops, two spas, a marina and private beach, acres of gardens, and two helicopter landing pads.
Next comes the highlight of the day, afternoon tea at Le Café, famous for its dessert cakes and for its coffees sprinkled with gold. Sample both of these treats and indulge yourself with a selection of gourmet finger sandwiches, lobster and caviar.
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This is an easy excursion in terms of walking. The most important note concerns the dress code at the hotel: "Smart casual," which means collared shirts, no jeans, sandals, or shorts, and modest attire for women.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Best of Abu Dhabi
This full-day excursion is designed to introduce you to three of the United Arab Emirates' proudest achievements of the 21st century —its Grand Mosque, Masdar City, and Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, named for the founder of the United Arab Emirates and opened in 2007, is among the largest mosques in the world, and certainly one of the most ornate. Sheikh Zayed's vision for his mosque was to embody what he considered Islam's central message of peace and tolerance towards people of all beliefs, and your guide will have much to say about the ideals that guided the architects. For many visitors, however, it is the sheer power of the architectural design that stays with them: an edifice of more than 1,000 bejeweled columns, 82 white marble domes, and a courtyard featuring what is probably the largest marble mosaic artwork in the world.
Masdar City, begun in 2008, is Abu Dhabi's version of a "city of the future," designed to integrate the newest developments in urban design for sustainability with traditional Arabic architectural motifs. It is home to one of the Middle East's largest clusters of high-performance buildings, which serve as a real-time laboratory to study how the city uses, conserves, and shares resources. The results of these studies are then incorporated into ongoing planning and construction.
After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Louvre Abu Dhabi, the cornerstone of UAE's plans to develop a world-class center of global culture including a National Museum, a Guggenheim Museum of contemporary art, and a performing arts center. The Louvre opened its doors in 2017 as the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula and has been a major attraction ever since. Founded with the aim of bringing Western and Eastern art together, its collection has grown steadily and now includes important works from every corner of the world.
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This moderate excursion involves a total of approximately a mile of walking over flat smooth surfaces with some steps. Dress should be casual but modest—collared shirts; no jeans, sandals, or shorts; and long sleeves with a long skirt, or trousers, for women.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
UAE's Nature Reserve
A barren desert island in the middle of the 20th century, Sir Bani Yas was transformed by the investment and vision of the founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, into a wildlife reserve for animals indigenous to the Gulf region and to East Africa.
Your expertly guided tour will be via luxury air-conditioned Land Cruisers as you drive around the property, learning about the conservation work being carried out and looking for the oryxes, gazelles, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and other species that roam freely here in an eco-system specially designed for them. Hunting is prohibited on Sir Bani Yas, and any development that is proposed must be approved as consistent with the maintenance of the fragile ecosystem.
Numerous stops will be made along the way so that you have the opportunity to capture the experience in photographs. And your guide will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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This is an easy excursion, conducted entirely by jeep. The guide, however, will not be available to help those with limited mobility, who should therefore be accompanied by someone who can assist them. Sunscreen and hats are highly recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Highlights of Doha & Dhow Cruise
Chosen as the site of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the unbelievably luxurious city of Doha is openly pursuing its ambition to become the most exciting city on the planet. This panoramic tour of the stunningly modern city includes several of its now iconic sites as well as a dhow cruise.
Board your motorcoach at the pier for a brief drive to Katara Cultural Village, a site dedicated to facilitating cultural exchange by hosting art exhibits, operas, musical performances, and festivals from around the world. The variety of architecture of the galleries and shops here is astonishing-ranging from a replica of a Roman amphitheater to a modern mosque designed by internationally renowned female engineer, Zainab Fadil Oglu. Continue on to The Pearl, an enormous real estate development built on artificial islands just off the Qatari coast. In addition to some of the most luxurious apartments in Doha, these 40-million-square feet of residential and commercial space are home to over 30 world-famous restaurants.
In the center of town, enjoy time browsing the stalls of Souq Waqif, the ancient heart of the city where literally everything is for sale, and strolling along Al Corniche, a promenade on the waterfront that is lined with new construction of all sorts, including the award-winning, I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Arts, home to the largest collection of Islamic arts in the world.
From a pier on the corniche, board a dhow for a two-hour cruise aboard this traditional wooden sailboat used throughout the Arab world. Enjoy views of the city skyline and relax as a refreshing breeze counters the desert heat.
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This is an easy to moderate excursion with walking over flat terrain for a total distance of approximately 1 mile. Protection from the sun will be very important.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Discover Doha
Your tour of the stunningly modern city of Doha begins with a panoramic drive along Al Corniche, Doha's famed waterfront promenade, where new construction of all sorts, ranging from residences, offices, and shopping malls to the I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Arts, gives you a sense of the energy that drives Doha's ambition to become the most exciting city on the planet.
At the Katara Cultural Village, you enter a site dedicated to facilitating cultural exchange by hosting art exhibits, operas, musical performances and festivals from around the world. The variety of architecture of the galleries and shops here is astonishing—ranging from a replica of a Roman amphitheater to a modern mosque designed by the internationally renowned engineer, Zainab Fadil Oglu. Your exploration of Katara Village is followed by a brief stop at The Pearl, an enormous real estate development built on artificial islands just off the Qatari coast. In addition to some of the most luxurious apartments in Doha, this 40-million-square feet of residential and commercial space is home to over 30 world-famous restaurants.
Your final visit is the National Museum of Qatar, established to "give voice to Qatar's rich heritage and culture," from the earliest times to the present day. The museum is housed in a magnificent building by French architect, M. Jean Nouvel, who designed the structure to evoke the shape of the local desert rose, while at the same time capturing the spirit of modernity and daring that has come to dominate Qatar.
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This tour involves a total of approximately 1.2 miles of walking over flat surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. There is no dress code imposed, but we suggest you wear conservative clothing (covering knees and shoulders).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Desert Experience
Although modern Qatar, like most of the Arabian Peninsula, is focused on the gleaming cities along the coast, the interior of the country remains what it has always been—a vast area of rolling sand dunes. This excursion invites you to leave the city behind and experience the unique beauty of the desert.
At the pier, meet your English-speaking driver and board a luxury 4-wheel-drive SUV for the 25-mile drive south to the edge of the desert, where you stop to deflate the tires before continuing. Drive through the desert, up and down the dunes—an experience that has been likened to a rollercoaster ride—and take in the ever-changing vistas. After an hour or so of this "dune bashing," you will reach Khor al-Adaid, more commonly known as the Inland Sea, a huge tidal bay that separates Qatar from Saudi Arabia and is connected to the Arabian Gulf by a narrow channel. Pause here for a chance to take photos and enjoy refreshments of coffee, tea, or soft drinks, before returning across the desert to Doha and your ship.
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This tour is designed for the experience of the desert; it is not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, and this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can accommodate 4 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Museum of Islamc Art, Education City, & Souq Waqif
This half-day excursion is designed to give a sense of the degree to which Qatar has devoted itself to the cause of education and cultural exchange through the establishment of institutions of teaching and research, all of which are supported and funded in part by the ruling Al Thani royal family.Drive to the outskirts of Doha and visit Education City, a project of the Qatar Foundation in partnership with leading educational institutions from around the world. The 5-square-mile complex hosts branch campuses of several international universities, as well as Qatari research centers, and aims to facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to global education. It is also the site of the main stadium for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Return to the southern end of the waterfront promenade of Doha and the Museum of Islamic Art, designed by architect I. M. Pei and opened in 2008. The museum's collections are among the most extensive in the world, including metalwork, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, textiles, coins, and glass gathered from three continents and representing more than 1,400 years of Islamic history. Explore the galleries according to your own interests, leaving time at the end of your visit for a brief stroll in the beautifully landscaped gardens of the museum's MIA Park, with views of the entire 4-mile length of Al Corniche.
Continue to the massive Souq Waqif, the ancient heart of the city where literally everything is for sale. Enjoy a guided tour of the souq with your guide before returning to the pier. Alternatively, stay and enjoy an evening in the souq on your own, returning to the ship at your leisure.
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This is a moderate excursion, where much of the walking is indoors and over flat and level surfaces. Protection from the sun is always important at these latitudes, and carrying a bottle of water is also recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Musandam's Mountains and High Desert
This excursion offers a panoramic tour of the interior of the Musandam Peninsula, a landscape of barren plateaus and mountain peaks with spectacular views across the peninsula and overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and drive toward Jebel Harim ("the Mountain of Women"), Musandam's highest peak at 6,850 feet. Along the way, you will pass through the Bedouin village of Sayh (3,610 feet), a peaceful village that offers views of Musandam's inland valley. And when you reach Jebel Harim's summit, you will enjoy a bird's eye view of the entire peninsula.
Before returning to Khasab and the ship, stop at Khawr Najd, a natural lagoon at the head of a fjord with breathtaking views from your vantage on the road overlooking the lagoon and the ocean beyond.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be quite bumpy, so the experience is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle accommodates four. The tour is limited to a total of 40.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cruising Musandam's Fjords
The Musandam Peninsula, which is governed by Oman despite being separated from the rest of the country by about 60 miles of coastline, commands a strategic position on the Strait of Hormuz that controls passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. But it is also an area of exceptional natural beauty, and that aspect of the region is the focus of this excursion.
Your guide will meet you at the pier to escort you to a waiting dhow. The workhorse of choice throughout the Indian Ocean, dhows are used for virtually every sort of waterborne activity imaginable, from fishing and transport to sightseeing.
Your cruise will take you through some of Musandam's majestic fjords, which have earned the peninsula recognition as "the Norway of Arabia." Enjoy the contrast of turquoise waters with white limestone cliffs, as you pass by small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter some of the dolphins that populate the fjords.
Your dhow will anchor near Telegraph Island, so-named for the repeater station erected here by the British in 1864. You will be able to swim off the boat's bow, or you may choose simply to sit back with a tea or soft drink while admiring the views of the Hajjar mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship, and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be able to embark and disembark the dhow from the ladder without assistance. Snorkel equipment is not provided but guests may bring their own if they choose.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Fujairah's Coastal Plain
Fujairah, the easternmost of the seven United Arab Emirates, is important for its fishing and agricultural—and also because it provides the UAE with a bustling port on the Indian Ocean, allowing direct access to the world economy without the need to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Outside of the capital city, however, Fujairah is largely non-commercial, known for its beaches and for the lush green expanses of the farms and orchards on its fertile coastal plain. Your panoramic tour of the region begins with a brief stop at the 300-year-old Fujairah Castle, situated on a hill overlooking the entire city, before continuing into the countryside to visit the oasis at Bithna and the 18th-century stone and mud-brick Al-Bithna Fort that guards the nearby mountain pass. Enjoy spectacular views of the fort, the mountains in the background, and the lush palm orchards that surround it.
Returning to the city, spend some time in the Fujairah Museum, where exhibits display the results of recent excavations, including ancient weapons, traditional costumes, and other artifacts. Additional exhibits illustrate local customs, both past and present.
No visit to Fujairah is complete without experiencing the Friday Market, a colorful roadside market featuring an abundance of souvenirs, clay pots, and carpets for sale. Despite its name, the market is open seven days a week from morning to night. Soak in the local atmosphere and engage with the vendors by trying out your bargaining skills.
The final stop before returning to the ship is at Al Bidiyah Mosque, one of the oldest in the Emirates.
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This tour involves about half a mile of walking on flat ground with some steps. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Local sensitivities require conservative dress: no bare shoulders, shorts, or skirts above the knee for women; no open toe sandals, jeans, t-shirts, or shorts for men. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dune Ride to Fossil Rock and Camel Rock
About 80 million years ago the desert that covers much of the interior of Fujairah and neighboring Sharjah was covered by ocean and supported a teeming marine life ranging from sea urchins to corals. Today, this area is a stunningly beautiful expanse of seemingly endless dunes of reddish sand.
Your excursion begins with a drive aboard 4X4 off-road vehicles into the heart of this desert. Here you will enjoy an exhilarating ride across the undulating dunes, falling and rising with the contours of the sand, each peak revealing a new landscape. You will encounter Fossil Rock, named for the profusion of marine fossils embedded in its ancient sediment that provide the evidence that this was once a tropical seabed. And you will see Camel Rock, a curious formation protruding from the sand and shaped by time and wind like the head of a camel.
You will stop for a snack of light refreshments before returning to the pier.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The dune ride can be rough and bumpy, so the experience is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle accommodates up to six.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including Nasser Rabbat, a professor and author who specializes in Islamic art and architecture and Arab history, and Emily Teeter, a specialist in cultures of the ancient Middle East.
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Dubai to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bougainville, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Sightseeing from Muscat including the Nizwa Fort, Nizwa Souq, and Birkat Al Mouz village; lunch in a local restaurant; a hotel day room (Sheraton Oman Hotel or similar); and dinner at the end of the cruise to accommodate evening flights home
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship or hotel to the airport in Muscat at the end of the cruise on the day of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
- Program is subject to change without notice
Special Guest Speaker
On our departures in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, we are joined by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who will provide an insightful English-language lecture series that enhances your experience with valuable context and new perspectives. From enriching talks to casual conversations on board, their in-depth knowledge will bring you deeper into the history, culture, and natural world of your destination.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
DISCOVERING SHARJAH FROM DUBAI (1 NIGHT)
In 1998 UNESCO recognized Sharjah as "the Cultural Capital of the Arab World." This two-day program introduces you to the rich collections of art, architecture, and cultural heritage that this Emirate has made its mission to preserve and promote.
Day 1 – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Arrive at Dubai's International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the Raffles Dubai. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk to welcome you and to offer suggestions for dining and independent exploration. Join fellow travelers this evening for a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel. Dinner is on your own.
Day 2 – Dubai | Sharjah | Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel, join a full day excursion to Sharjah, the most important port in the Persian Gulf during the first half of the 19th century and now a vibrant and colorful city.
Enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Dubai and the city center en route to Mleiha Archeological Centre, an exhibition in the desert of Sharjah based around the history and archaeology of the village of Mleiha and the surrounding terrain. Designed with the local environment in mind, Mleiha stands in the center of a larger eco-tourism development focused on local wildlife and desert existence. Visit archaeological sites and view discoveries dating back to the Neolithic period and 3,000-year-old Pre-Islamic sites where Greek coins were discovered, buried in the desert sand.
Return to Sharjah's city center and stop for a local lunch. Then, take a guided tour of the "Heart of Sharjah," a restoration project in the oldest part of the city, focused on recovering and celebrating Sharjah's heritage. Afterwards, transfer to the pier in Dubai to embark your ship.
Your hotel:
The Raffles Dubai is a distinctive pyramid, centrally located just steps from beaches. Adjoining the Wafi Mall, one of the largest shopping complexes in the world, the hotel allows prime access to Dubai’s shopping scene. There are half a dozen restaurants on the property, representing cuisines from around the world. The hotel also features a salon, a spa and fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Your program includes:
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1-night at the Raffles Dubai (or similar) including breakfast.
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Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day.
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Transfer and luggage handling to the pier on embarkation day.
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Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1.
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Breakfast and lunch on Day 2.
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Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
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Local English-speaking guide
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Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
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Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
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Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
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It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
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Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel advisor for further details.
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The official currency is the UAE Dirham. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
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For excursions, guests are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
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Only large hotels and large restaurants are licensed to allow their customers to consume wines, beers, or spirits.
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This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
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Program is offered on a space available basis.
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Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel Contact Information:
Raffles Dubai
Wafi – Sheikh Rashid Rd
Dubai, 121000 United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 324 8888
Total : AU$1,380
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Dubai Highlights
From your ship, a short drive brings you to the neighborhood of Jumeirah, home to two of Dubai's architectural landmarks: the Jumeirah Mosque, dedicated by the Late Sheikh Rashid to build cross cultural understanding; and the emblematic Burj Al Arab, rising out of the surf and touted as 'the most luxurious hotel in the world'.
Further down the coast, visit Palm Jumeirah, a remarkable palm-tree-shaped archipelago of manmade islands boasting some of the most opulent residences in Dubai, before arriving at Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, where you will ascend to the observation deck on the 124th floor for incredible views over the city and the Persian Gulf.
Lunch will be served at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding, where you will enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine with your hosts and engage in a Q&A session covering everything you would like to know about Dubai and the UAE, their history, culture, and traditions.
Your afternoon begins with a stroll through the old part of Dubai, where traditional buildings line narrow lanes and where art and cultural exhibits abound. Then, proceed to the waterfront and take a water-taxi across Dubai Creek to spend the balance of the afternoon in the markets on the other side. The Spice Souq contains a myriad of fragrances and seasonings, and the air is filled with the aroma of cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, incense, and dried fruit. The Gold Souq, with its bustling atmosphere and traditional style of bargaining, makes for an exciting experience as you wander the narrow lanes of glittering displays. The sheer scale and variety offered will impress even the most jaded buyer.
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This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2 miles of walking over mostly flat terrain with some steps. You should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
High Tea at Emirates Palace
The Emirates Palace is known throughout the world as one of the most opulent hotels to be found anywhere. This excursion combines a private tour of the hotel's luxurious suites and public areas with high tea, served in the elegant Le Café.
This introduction to Emirati hospitality begins with a panoramic tour of Abu Dhabi's major landmarks, including the waterfront Corniche, affording spectacular views of the city skyline; Heritage Village, a recreation of a traditional desert community; Ferrari World, a motorsports theme park; and of course, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, arguably the pinnacle of modern Islamic architecture.
Upon arrival at the Emirates Palace, join a private guided tour that explores the hotel's palatial suites, most of them furnished in gold and marble, the glittering ballrooms, and some of its extensive facilities and amenities, which include internationally known restaurants and shops, two spas, a marina and private beach, acres of gardens, and two helicopter landing pads.
Next comes the highlight of the day, afternoon tea at Le Café, famous for its dessert cakes and for its coffees sprinkled with gold. Sample both of these treats and indulge yourself with a selection of gourmet finger sandwiches, lobster and caviar.
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This is an easy excursion in terms of walking. The most important note concerns the dress code at the hotel: "Smart casual," which means collared shirts, no jeans, sandals, or shorts, and modest attire for women.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Best of Abu Dhabi
This full-day excursion is designed to introduce you to three of the United Arab Emirates' proudest achievements of the 21st century —its Grand Mosque, Masdar City, and Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, named for the founder of the United Arab Emirates and opened in 2007, is among the largest mosques in the world, and certainly one of the most ornate. Sheikh Zayed's vision for his mosque was to embody what he considered Islam's central message of peace and tolerance towards people of all beliefs, and your guide will have much to say about the ideals that guided the architects. For many visitors, however, it is the sheer power of the architectural design that stays with them: an edifice of more than 1,000 bejeweled columns, 82 white marble domes, and a courtyard featuring what is probably the largest marble mosaic artwork in the world.
Masdar City, begun in 2008, is Abu Dhabi's version of a "city of the future," designed to integrate the newest developments in urban design for sustainability with traditional Arabic architectural motifs. It is home to one of the Middle East's largest clusters of high-performance buildings, which serve as a real-time laboratory to study how the city uses, conserves, and shares resources. The results of these studies are then incorporated into ongoing planning and construction.
After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Louvre Abu Dhabi, the cornerstone of UAE's plans to develop a world-class center of global culture including a National Museum, a Guggenheim Museum of contemporary art, and a performing arts center. The Louvre opened its doors in 2017 as the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula and has been a major attraction ever since. Founded with the aim of bringing Western and Eastern art together, its collection has grown steadily and now includes important works from every corner of the world.
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This moderate excursion involves a total of approximately a mile of walking over flat smooth surfaces with some steps. Dress should be casual but modest—collared shirts; no jeans, sandals, or shorts; and long sleeves with a long skirt, or trousers, for women.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
UAE's Nature Reserve
A barren desert island in the middle of the 20th century, Sir Bani Yas was transformed by the investment and vision of the founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, into a wildlife reserve for animals indigenous to the Gulf region and to East Africa.
Your expertly guided tour will be via luxury air-conditioned Land Cruisers as you drive around the property, learning about the conservation work being carried out and looking for the oryxes, gazelles, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and other species that roam freely here in an eco-system specially designed for them. Hunting is prohibited on Sir Bani Yas, and any development that is proposed must be approved as consistent with the maintenance of the fragile ecosystem.
Numerous stops will be made along the way so that you have the opportunity to capture the experience in photographs. And your guide will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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This is an easy excursion, conducted entirely by jeep. The guide, however, will not be available to help those with limited mobility, who should therefore be accompanied by someone who can assist them. Sunscreen and hats are highly recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Highlights of Doha & Dhow Cruise
Chosen as the site of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the unbelievably luxurious city of Doha is openly pursuing its ambition to become the most exciting city on the planet. This panoramic tour of the stunningly modern city includes several of its now iconic sites as well as a dhow cruise.
Board your motorcoach at the pier for a brief drive to Katara Cultural Village, a site dedicated to facilitating cultural exchange by hosting art exhibits, operas, musical performances, and festivals from around the world. The variety of architecture of the galleries and shops here is astonishing-ranging from a replica of a Roman amphitheater to a modern mosque designed by internationally renowned female engineer, Zainab Fadil Oglu. Continue on to The Pearl, an enormous real estate development built on artificial islands just off the Qatari coast. In addition to some of the most luxurious apartments in Doha, these 40-million-square feet of residential and commercial space are home to over 30 world-famous restaurants.
In the center of town, enjoy time browsing the stalls of Souq Waqif, the ancient heart of the city where literally everything is for sale, and strolling along Al Corniche, a promenade on the waterfront that is lined with new construction of all sorts, including the award-winning, I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Arts, home to the largest collection of Islamic arts in the world.
From a pier on the corniche, board a dhow for a two-hour cruise aboard this traditional wooden sailboat used throughout the Arab world. Enjoy views of the city skyline and relax as a refreshing breeze counters the desert heat.
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This is an easy to moderate excursion with walking over flat terrain for a total distance of approximately 1 mile. Protection from the sun will be very important.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Discover Doha
Your tour of the stunningly modern city of Doha begins with a panoramic drive along Al Corniche, Doha's famed waterfront promenade, where new construction of all sorts, ranging from residences, offices, and shopping malls to the I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Arts, gives you a sense of the energy that drives Doha's ambition to become the most exciting city on the planet.
At the Katara Cultural Village, you enter a site dedicated to facilitating cultural exchange by hosting art exhibits, operas, musical performances and festivals from around the world. The variety of architecture of the galleries and shops here is astonishing—ranging from a replica of a Roman amphitheater to a modern mosque designed by the internationally renowned engineer, Zainab Fadil Oglu. Your exploration of Katara Village is followed by a brief stop at The Pearl, an enormous real estate development built on artificial islands just off the Qatari coast. In addition to some of the most luxurious apartments in Doha, this 40-million-square feet of residential and commercial space is home to over 30 world-famous restaurants.
Your final visit is the National Museum of Qatar, established to "give voice to Qatar's rich heritage and culture," from the earliest times to the present day. The museum is housed in a magnificent building by French architect, M. Jean Nouvel, who designed the structure to evoke the shape of the local desert rose, while at the same time capturing the spirit of modernity and daring that has come to dominate Qatar.
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This tour involves a total of approximately 1.2 miles of walking over flat surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. There is no dress code imposed, but we suggest you wear conservative clothing (covering knees and shoulders).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Desert Experience
Although modern Qatar, like most of the Arabian Peninsula, is focused on the gleaming cities along the coast, the interior of the country remains what it has always been—a vast area of rolling sand dunes. This excursion invites you to leave the city behind and experience the unique beauty of the desert.
At the pier, meet your English-speaking driver and board a luxury 4-wheel-drive SUV for the 25-mile drive south to the edge of the desert, where you stop to deflate the tires before continuing. Drive through the desert, up and down the dunes—an experience that has been likened to a rollercoaster ride—and take in the ever-changing vistas. After an hour or so of this "dune bashing," you will reach Khor al-Adaid, more commonly known as the Inland Sea, a huge tidal bay that separates Qatar from Saudi Arabia and is connected to the Arabian Gulf by a narrow channel. Pause here for a chance to take photos and enjoy refreshments of coffee, tea, or soft drinks, before returning across the desert to Doha and your ship.
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This tour is designed for the experience of the desert; it is not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, and this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can accommodate 4 participants.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Museum of Islamc Art, Education City, & Souq Waqif
This half-day excursion is designed to give a sense of the degree to which Qatar has devoted itself to the cause of education and cultural exchange through the establishment of institutions of teaching and research, all of which are supported and funded in part by the ruling Al Thani royal family.Drive to the outskirts of Doha and visit Education City, a project of the Qatar Foundation in partnership with leading educational institutions from around the world. The 5-square-mile complex hosts branch campuses of several international universities, as well as Qatari research centers, and aims to facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to global education. It is also the site of the main stadium for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Return to the southern end of the waterfront promenade of Doha and the Museum of Islamic Art, designed by architect I. M. Pei and opened in 2008. The museum's collections are among the most extensive in the world, including metalwork, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, textiles, coins, and glass gathered from three continents and representing more than 1,400 years of Islamic history. Explore the galleries according to your own interests, leaving time at the end of your visit for a brief stroll in the beautifully landscaped gardens of the museum's MIA Park, with views of the entire 4-mile length of Al Corniche.
Continue to the massive Souq Waqif, the ancient heart of the city where literally everything is for sale. Enjoy a guided tour of the souq with your guide before returning to the pier. Alternatively, stay and enjoy an evening in the souq on your own, returning to the ship at your leisure.
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This is a moderate excursion, where much of the walking is indoors and over flat and level surfaces. Protection from the sun is always important at these latitudes, and carrying a bottle of water is also recommended.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Musandam's Mountains and High Desert
This excursion offers a panoramic tour of the interior of the Musandam Peninsula, a landscape of barren plateaus and mountain peaks with spectacular views across the peninsula and overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and drive toward Jebel Harim ("the Mountain of Women"), Musandam's highest peak at 6,850 feet. Along the way, you will pass through the Bedouin village of Sayh (3,610 feet), a peaceful village that offers views of Musandam's inland valley. And when you reach Jebel Harim's summit, you will enjoy a bird's eye view of the entire peninsula.
Before returning to Khasab and the ship, stop at Khawr Najd, a natural lagoon at the head of a fjord with breathtaking views from your vantage on the road overlooking the lagoon and the ocean beyond.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be quite bumpy, so the experience is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle accommodates four. The tour is limited to a total of 40.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cruising Musandam's Fjords
The Musandam Peninsula, which is governed by Oman despite being separated from the rest of the country by about 60 miles of coastline, commands a strategic position on the Strait of Hormuz that controls passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. But it is also an area of exceptional natural beauty, and that aspect of the region is the focus of this excursion.
Your guide will meet you at the pier to escort you to a waiting dhow. The workhorse of choice throughout the Indian Ocean, dhows are used for virtually every sort of waterborne activity imaginable, from fishing and transport to sightseeing.
Your cruise will take you through some of Musandam's majestic fjords, which have earned the peninsula recognition as "the Norway of Arabia." Enjoy the contrast of turquoise waters with white limestone cliffs, as you pass by small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter some of the dolphins that populate the fjords.
Your dhow will anchor near Telegraph Island, so-named for the repeater station erected here by the British in 1864. You will be able to swim off the boat's bow, or you may choose simply to sit back with a tea or soft drink while admiring the views of the Hajjar mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship, and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be able to embark and disembark the dhow from the ladder without assistance. Snorkel equipment is not provided but guests may bring their own if they choose.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Fujairah's Coastal Plain
Fujairah, the easternmost of the seven United Arab Emirates, is important for its fishing and agricultural—and also because it provides the UAE with a bustling port on the Indian Ocean, allowing direct access to the world economy without the need to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Outside of the capital city, however, Fujairah is largely non-commercial, known for its beaches and for the lush green expanses of the farms and orchards on its fertile coastal plain. Your panoramic tour of the region begins with a brief stop at the 300-year-old Fujairah Castle, situated on a hill overlooking the entire city, before continuing into the countryside to visit the oasis at Bithna and the 18th-century stone and mud-brick Al-Bithna Fort that guards the nearby mountain pass. Enjoy spectacular views of the fort, the mountains in the background, and the lush palm orchards that surround it.
Returning to the city, spend some time in the Fujairah Museum, where exhibits display the results of recent excavations, including ancient weapons, traditional costumes, and other artifacts. Additional exhibits illustrate local customs, both past and present.
No visit to Fujairah is complete without experiencing the Friday Market, a colorful roadside market featuring an abundance of souvenirs, clay pots, and carpets for sale. Despite its name, the market is open seven days a week from morning to night. Soak in the local atmosphere and engage with the vendors by trying out your bargaining skills.
The final stop before returning to the ship is at Al Bidiyah Mosque, one of the oldest in the Emirates.
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This tour involves about half a mile of walking on flat ground with some steps. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Local sensitivities require conservative dress: no bare shoulders, shorts, or skirts above the knee for women; no open toe sandals, jeans, t-shirts, or shorts for men. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dune Ride to Fossil Rock and Camel Rock
About 80 million years ago the desert that covers much of the interior of Fujairah and neighboring Sharjah was covered by ocean and supported a teeming marine life ranging from sea urchins to corals. Today, this area is a stunningly beautiful expanse of seemingly endless dunes of reddish sand.
Your excursion begins with a drive aboard 4X4 off-road vehicles into the heart of this desert. Here you will enjoy an exhilarating ride across the undulating dunes, falling and rising with the contours of the sand, each peak revealing a new landscape. You will encounter Fossil Rock, named for the profusion of marine fossils embedded in its ancient sediment that provide the evidence that this was once a tropical seabed. And you will see Camel Rock, a curious formation protruding from the sand and shaped by time and wind like the head of a camel.
You will stop for a snack of light refreshments before returning to the pier.
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This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The dune ride can be rough and bumpy, so the experience is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle accommodates up to six.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
OMAN: MOUNTAIN RETREAT & DESERT OASIS (2 NIGHTS)
Enjoy three unforgettable days surrounded by breathtaking scenery, from the magical desert of Wahiba Sands to the Nizwa mountains. Through exploration of oases, fortresses, canyons, and dunes, this program puts you in touch with the nature, culture, and traditions of Oman.
Day 1 – Muscat | Wahiba Sands
After breakfast aboard, disembark and drive through the desert, stopping en route to stretch your legs and visit Al Mudhaireb, one of Oman’s oldest villages and once a stop on the ancient Muscat-to-Sur caravan route. Take in the ruins of watchtowers and mudbrick fortifications before continuing your journey.
Next, stop for coffee or tea at a Bedouin home and chat with the Bedouin family who lives there before continuing on to Wahiba Sands Desert Nights Camp.
After lunch at the camp and check-in, relax or set off on a guided walk through the desert. This evening, explore Wahiba's "sand sea" of undulating orange dunes, some as high as 400 feet, and find the perfect perch from which to watch the sun set over the desert, before returning to camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 2 – Wahiba Sands | Nizwa| Jebel Akhdar
After breakfast, your excursion into the desert begins with a drive to Nizwa, once the capital of Oman and today one of the country's most popular tourist attractions because of its historical architecture, especially its imposing fort. Built in the 17th century to defend the route to the interior, the fort and its enormous round tower dominate the entire area. From the fort, continue to the Nizwa Souq, renowned for its intricately hand-carved Khanjar (ceremonial daggers) and exquisitely designed silver jewelry.
After lunch at the fort, begin your drive to Jebel Akhdar ("Green Mountain") about 60 miles inland, where you will check in to the Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort for the night. The mountain and its surrounding area are known for their pleasant climate year-round and for their stunning natural beauty. Dinner is at the hotel.
Day 3 – Jebel Akhdar | Muscat | Homeward
Depart this morning for the journey back to Muscat. Arriving in Muscat, your first visit is to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a magnificent piece of modern architecture that dominates the city's skyline. The ornately decorated mosque is large enough to accommodate as many as 20,000 worshipers and boasts the world's largest chandelier as well as the world's largest carpet. You will also discover the National Museum of Oman, dedicated to the history of the Sultanate, and the Royal Opera House.
After your tour, transfer to the Hormuz Grand Hotel (or similar) for dayrooms and dinner before your time in Oman comes to an end with transportation to Muscat airport for flights homeward.
Hotels:
Desert Nights Camp is the perfect spot for an immersive desert experience and the only luxury desert camp in Oman. You will enjoy Bedouin hospitality while immersing yourself in the endless dunes of the Wahiba Sands. Relax in a Deluxe tent fully equipped with a large living room, a bedroom, a bathroom with shower, and a terrace with views. The restaurant will introduce you to the flavors of Omani cuisine.
Overlooking the beautiful landscape of Jebel Akdhar's green mountains, Alila Al Akhdar Resort is one of the world's most luxurious. Nestled in a breathtaking natural environment, the resort combines sophisticated design with local authenticity. Its spacious rooms offer amazing views and all the comfort of 5-star service. The canyon view platform, the infinity pool, the refinement of the restaurants, and the exceptional spa make it an unforgettable place to stay.
Your program includes:
- 1-night accommodation in a Deluxe Villa at Desert Nights Camp (or similar) including breakfast
- 1-night accommodation in a Horizon View room at Alila Jabal Al Akhdar (or similar) including breakfast
- Dayroom at Hormuz Grand Hotel (or similar) at the end of the post-cruise program
- Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1
- Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
- Breakfast on Days 2 and 3
- Lunch on Days 1, 2, and 3
- Dinner on Days 1, 2, and 3
- Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guides
- Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
- Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
- Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
- It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
- Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
- The official currency is the Omani rial. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
- For excursions, guests are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee. For the visit to the Grand Mosque, women must cover their hair and neck.
- This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility as it requires plenty of walking over uneven surfaces.
This tour includes several long drives of 2+ hours in 4WD vehicles across mountain and desert terrain. - Only large hotels and large restaurants are licensed to allow their customers to consume wines, beers or spirits.
- This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
- Program is offered on a space available basis.
- Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
Desert Nights Camp
P.O. Box : 2031 P.C. 112
Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman
Phone : + 968 2558 6184
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Al Roose, Jabal Al Akhdar Al Jabal Al Akhdar OM, Postal Code 621
Sultanate of Oman
Phone : +968 2534 4200
Total : AU$3,200
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.