Guest of Honour 
Media 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
Treasures of the Arabian Gulf
Muscat - Doha
Dates:
8/12/2023
to
15/12/2023
days
nights on board
In partnership with PARIS MATCH, with featured guest Lydie Solomon, international pianist and guest star of the "Rencontres Paris Match".
In the Persian Gulf, cities spring up on the horizon like mirages in the huge and arid Arabian Desert. The contrasts between territories here are as dramatic as the turquoise sea that washes up on the golden rocky coastline. Set sail aboard Le Bougainville for an 8-day cruise, taking in prodigious metropolises, former trading cities and a natural environment that has been shaped by the stunning sun of the desert.
The Sultanate of Oman is as discreet as its Emirati neighbours are bold. The sea maintains a special place in the kingdom of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor. The fishermen here perpetuate millennial traditions while the shipyards are still in operation. Between the sea and the desert, you will sail through the carved fjords of Musandam from Khasab and, leaving from Sur, you will experience the enchantment procured by the shade and cool of a wadi - lush oases planted with palm trees. On the Daymaniyat Islands, you can dive and snorkel in an exceptional natural sanctuary where turtles come to nest. In the capital, Muscat, the fragrances of the Orient and of incense will intoxicate you, the sparkling colours of the markets will captivate you, and the vibrant bustle of the souk will enchant you. The Near East evokes its incredible poetry.
There are countless words to describe the Emirati cities: extravagant, modern and luxurious are just some of them. These masterpieces of futuristic architecture will immerse you in a fantastic and surprising universe. Dubai is awe-inspiring with its skyscrapers almost touching the stars, including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, or its artificial islands in the form of a palm tree. As for the remarkable Abu Dhabi, it has chosen to focus on culture, which can be discovered in its splendid Louvre Museum or by visiting its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, straight out the Arabian Nights.
Ref : EG081223
Your itinerary
In partnership with PARIS MATCH, with featured guest Lydie Solomon, international pianist and guest star of the "Rencontres Paris Match". A cruise discovering the United Arab Emirates and Oman, with futuristic...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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.
You may also like...
You may also like...
LE SOLÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE BORÉAL
21/8/2024 to the 28/8/2024
- New
LE LYRIAL
- New
LE LYRIAL
8/9/2024 to the 19/9/2024
*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
Lydie Solomon
Recognised as a child prodigy, Lydie Solomon played at 2 years old by ear ‘Ode to Joy' by Beethoven. At 5, she was admitted at the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris-Alfred Cortot. She was then admitted at the CNSM de Paris, from which she was awarded a “Premier Prix” with the highest honours.
Lydie Solomon is one of the most exceptionally gifted virtuosos in the world. The media nicknames her "The feminine Lang Lang".
Her albums are moving evocations of the greatest composers. Her compositions unveil all the richness of the piano. The French TV show "Prodige" is a tribute to her talent. Lydie Solomon is also an actress: she acts in movies and TV dramas such as "Profilage".
Either in solo or with a symphonic orchestra, either in famous theatres or in open-air stadiums, Lydie Solomon always dazzles her audiences with her charisma and her sense of melody.
She is invited by Paris Match to shed her artistical ligt on the topical files which will be presented by the Director of Lagardère's editorial diversification Philippe Legrand, also journalist, writer and winner of the "Prix de l'année".
Music will add notes to the famous Paris Match slogan : "The weight of words, the shock of the pictures".
Languages spoken : French, Korean, English and Spanish.
Photo credit : All Right Reserved (ARR)
Philippe Legrand
Philippe Legrand is a journalist, author, radio and Tv speaker for the last thirty years. On Europe 1 radio, he is in charge of the broadcast L'Entretien Une date Une histoire. With France 3 TV, Face Caméra is shown in front of 6 millions of telespectators. He has published 14 books and received Le Prix du Livre de l'Année 2022 for his book J'avais dix ans à Bergen-Belsen. His book on Mère Teresa has reached more than two millions of lectors and inspired the British movie on the Mother of Calcutta. He is the Director of Editorial Diversification of Paris Match, the first French newsmagazine. He received on 2021, the title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French Minister of the Culture. For the last ten years, he is a co-speaker for the Paris Match cruise's in partnership with Ponant.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Paris Match/E1
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Lydie Solomon
Recognised as a child prodigy, Lydie Solomon played at 2 years old by ear ‘Ode to Joy' by Beethoven. At 5, she was admitted at the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris-Alfred Cortot. She was then admitted at the CNSM de Paris, from which she was awarded a “Premier Prix” with the highest honours.
Lydie Solomon is one of the most exceptionally gifted virtuosos in the world. The media nicknames her "The feminine Lang Lang".
Her albums are moving evocations of the greatest composers. Her compositions unveil all the richness of the piano. The French TV show "Prodige" is a tribute to her talent. Lydie Solomon is also an actress: she acts in movies and TV dramas such as "Profilage".
Either in solo or with a symphonic orchestra, either in famous theatres or in open-air stadiums, Lydie Solomon always dazzles her audiences with her charisma and her sense of melody.
She is invited by Paris Match to shed her artistical ligt on the topical files which will be presented by the Director of Lagardère's editorial diversification Philippe Legrand, also journalist, writer and winner of the "Prix de l'année".
Music will add notes to the famous Paris Match slogan : "The weight of words, the shock of the pictures".
Languages spoken : French, Korean, English and Spanish.
Photo credit : All Right Reserved (ARR)
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
Paris Match
For the last five years, Paris Match has been embarking on magnificent human adventures on the seven seas aboard the PONANT ships. There was the Arctic with the photographers Philip Plisson and Francis Latreille; China with the writer, media commentator and filmmaker Philippe Labro; South America with the astronaut Patrick Baudry; Indonesia with Jean-Marie Rouart from the Académie française…
Taking the form of “encounters and conferences”, these moments of discussion with a personality, led by Philippe Legrand*, are always an opportunity to travel through history and linger over new episodes.
Famous for its slogan "le poids des mots, le choc des photos” [the weight of the words, the impact of photos], Paris Match is France’s biggest selling news magazine, as well as being present in 120 countries, and occupies a special position in the media world. Its archives tell more than 60 years of history and reveal that very special link with celebrities that has been its strength and its identity.
A number of its editions are considered to be references that collectors hold on to preciously. From the assassination of John F. Kennedy to man walking on the moon, via icons, anonymous talents, or essential testimony, the major events of the century are recounted in its pages.
* Philippe Legrand is a journalist, author, radio and television presenter, director of communication and editorial diversification. He joined Paris Match in 1999.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with PARIS MATCH, with featured guest Lydie Solomon, international pianist and guest star of the "Rencontres Paris Match".
- A cruise discovering the United Arab Emirates and Oman, with futuristic architecture, former trading cities and natural wonders.
- Discovery of the treasures of Islamic culture, between tradition and modernity.
- Sur, a traditional fishing port, famous for its shipyard where the Omani perpetuate ancestral methods, and the possibility of exploring a wadi, an oasis in the very heart of the desert.
- PONANT exclusive: an all-new port of call on the Daymaniyat Islands, a marine reserve renowned for its beautiful scenery and for its abundant marine life.
- The visit of the 'fjords of Arabia' - also called the Musandam fjords - between canyons, oases and dune deserts.
- An overnight stay at Abu Dhabi to enjoy the treasures of what has become the cultural capital of the Emirates, with its magnificent Louvre Museum and its magical Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
- Before your cruise: from Muscat, possibility of visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the Nizwa Fort.
Ports of Call & Excursions
8 December 2023 - Muscat
Embarkation 8/12/2023 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 8/12/2023 at 6:00 pm
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.
9 December 2023 - Sur
Arrival 9/12/2023 early morning
Departure 9/12/2023 early evening
Built on either side of a lagoon, Sur is a city and seaport in the north-east of the Sultanate of Oman, on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Connected to the sea by a channel, the port was very active for a long time, having regular dealings with Africa and India since the 6th century. Sur is renowned for being the only Omani city to have retained its traditional boatyards, where dhows (wooden sailing ships) are hand-crafted. The city’s charm stems from its immaculate white houses dotting the seafront and from its fort erected on a hill along the road to Muscat.
10 December 2023 - Daymaniyat Islands
Arrival 10/12/2023 early morning
Departure 10/12/2023 late afternoon
Set atop the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands have been a nature reserve since the 1980s. Some forty kilometres (25 miles) off the coast from Muscat, the Omani capital, their craggy coastlines form natural pools home to an incredible biodiversity. The different types of coral reefs that dot this ecosystem, the turtles that nest there, and the numerous species of fish make this an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. This rocky landscape is also the favourite spot of many birds, both endemic and migratory.
11 December 2023 - Khasab
Arrival 11/12/2023 midday
Departure 11/12/2023 evening
Located in the country’s north, on the Musandam Peninsula, Khasab is a city in the Sultanate of Oman. In the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, this small port built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and surrounded by a chain of rocky mountains was established at the mouth of Wadi Khasab. You will love its authentic scenery and particularly its fjords, which cut through the landscapes in a spectacular fashion and have earned it the moniker “Norway of Arabia”. In the city, Khasab Castle and its atypical architecture are well worth a visit to discover the history and culture of Oman.
12 December 2023 - Dubai
Arrival 12/12/2023 early morning
Departure 12/12/2023 late evening
Vertiginous, excessive, immoderate… Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, stands out for its architectural follies. Home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Kahlifa, with a total height of 828 metres, almost three times that of the Eiffel Tower, the city is also famous for the gigantic scale of the Palm Islands, its artificial islands in the form of a palm tree. You can explore more traditional districts not far away, with visits of the souks of Deira or the Gold Souk. Or perhaps you would prefer to discover Dubai Museum: located in an 18th-century fort, it tells the city’s history from Antiquity to the present day.
13 December 2023 14 December 2023 - Abu Dhabi
Arrival 13/12/2023 early morning
Departure 14/12/2023 early 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.
15 December 2023 - Doha
Arrival 15/12/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 15/12/2023 at 7:00 am
On the banks of the Persian Gulf, discover Doha, the capital of Qatar. Rising out of the desert, the city has managed to maintain its traditions in spite of a frantic race for modernity. The cliff bordering Doha Bay has magnificent views over the city centre’s enormous constructions. The silhouette of the Museum of Islamic Art rises up near the quays, where the region’s typical sailboats, known as dhows, are docked. This “fortress”, designed by Ming Pei, the architect of the Louvre pyramid, is home to the finest collections of Islamic art in the world. Not far, the lively district of Souq Waqif and its colourful stalls are also an unmissable visit.
Sur city tour
Sitting on the coast, Sur was an ancient trading hub with Eastern Africa and the rest of the world, even prior to the arrival of the Portuguese to Oman in the 16th century. Its prime location at the entrance to the Gulf of Oman has allowed Sur, since the 6th century, to monitor boat traffic in the north of the Indian Ocean and has made it well known as a destination point for sailors. Sur hosted many shipyards and became famous for its wooden ships, called dhow.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to the Sur Lighthouse. During a photo stop, you will be able to capture the view of the Ayjah Bay and admire the beautiful architecture of this three-storey tower.
You will then visit one of the few remaining traditional dhow factories. There, dhows are still built by hand, and you will likely see the craftsmen at work. Traditionally, the boats were built without nails.
You will continue to the Sur Maritime open-air museum where you can enjoy a photo stop near the historical dhow Fatah Al Khair, one of the last ocean-going passenger dhows in Oman, built in Sur.
Finally, you will proceed to Sunaysilah Fort. This 17th century fort is one of the oldest defensive buildings, which has played a pivotal role in the history of Oman, protecting Sur’s illustrious overseas trade.
You will then return to the port.
-
This tour involves 300 metres of walking on flat ground with some steps to negotiate at the fort. The visit of the lighthouse is an outdoor visit only. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for about 1-hour. You will be amazed by the beauty of the canyon, which is home to crystal-clear blue water pools.
After a picnic lunch, take the same path back to the local boat.
You will then return to the port by coach. A short stop for a refreshment will be made en route.
-
This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 2.5 mi (4,25 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and your swimsuit under your clothes; bring along water shoes and a towel from the ship. Sun protection is also crucial. A picnic lunch is included with your tour. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €185
According to availability, price per passenger.
Short walk in Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for around 30 minutes and have some free time to enjoy the scenery and take a few photos.
You will then take the same path back to the local boat.
You will reboard your coach. You will make a stop en route to the port.
-
This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 1.5 mi (2,5 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The natural pools cannot be seen on this excursion, so there is no swimming. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Musandam fjords dhow cruise
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden boat used in the past by merchants and fishermen.
After boarding your traditional Omani dhow on the pier, the cruise will take you toward Musandam’s longest fjord. Often referred to as the “Norway of the Arabia”, the calm, turquoise waters contrast with the creamy white limestone cliffs. Along the way, you will pass small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter dolphins.
The dhow will anchor in the vicinity of Telegraph Island, allowing you to go for a swim or just sit back and enjoy soft drinks, tea or coffee while admiring the views of mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
After the tour, leisurely cruise back to Khasab.
-
We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must embarked and disembarked from the ladder without assistance. The snorkel equipment is not provided. The dhows can welcome 35 guests or 140 guests, depending on their size and have toilet room inside. The dhows are motorized.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Jebel Harim mountains by 4WD
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration.
Your panoramic journey will allow you to discover the barren interior and the mountains of Musandam, which are speckled with fossils dating back several million years.
You will drive to Jebel Harim, which means the Mountain of Women and stands at 6850 ft (2,087 metres), it is the highest peak in Musandam. On the way, you will pass the Bedouin village of Sayh situated at 1,100 metres (3,610 ft) above sea level. From the plateau of this calm and peaceful village, you can admire the beauty of Musandam’s inland valley. By reaching the summit of the Jebel Harim, you will be able to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire peninsula.
The next stop of your tour will be at Khawr Najd, a natural creek overlooking the Indian Ocean. This is the only fjord accessible by vehicle in Musandam and offers a wonderful view at the top of the road pass.
Finally, you will drive back to Khasab.
- This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Museum of the Future
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Museum of the Future.
Located in the Financial District of Dubai, the Museum of the Future is an exhibition space for innovative and futuristic ideologies, services, and products. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, it is designed as an asymmetric torus clad in steel and glass. It has been recognised by National Geographic as one of 14 most beautiful museums in the world. Architect Shaun Killa wanted the structure to represent Dubai’s vision of the future.
From the small outdoor terrace, you can get the best view of the museum's architecture. You will then head for the exit. Take your place in your coach and return to the port.
-
This tour involves little walking, on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will follow a set itinerary inside the Museum of Future, as guided tours are not permitted. Cette excursion est limitée à 40 personnes. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Mleiha archaeological site & Heart of Sharjah
This tour will provide a rare opportunity to learn about what life was like in this region years ago.
You will leave the pier for a one-hour and 15-minute ride to discover the history of Mleiha. First, you will visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which contains a wide variety of ancient artefacts and testifies to life in the area at different times.
You will then visit archaeological sites from the Neolithic period, where stone tools used by early man were discovered. You will also visit pre-Islamic sites which are only 3,000 years old and where coins from the Greek civilization were discovered buried in the sands of Mleiha.
After lunch, your tour will continue to the heritage-rich area of Sharjah, also known as the Heart of Sharjah. You will experience a traditional Emirati style and be guided around the area by a Emirati guide. This will be your opportunity to develop a greater appreciation of Emirati culture, customs and beliefs by speaking directly with locals.
Explore the Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn more about the Emirati Bedouin lifestyle, architecture, and their art and musical instruments. After this art- and heritage-rich experience, you will be guided through some old souks.
You will then return to your coach for your trip back to the ship.
-
This tour involves less than 1.5 km (one mile) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that jeans, t-shirts and shorts are not permitted. No alcoholic drinks are included during the meal. The visit of the centre and archaeological sites of Mleiha is guided by an English speaking guide from Mleiha. This tour is not available on Fridays.
Total : €240
According to availability, price per passenger.
Structural Marvels of Dubaï at sunset
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It will tell the story behind the famous structures and how a desert city evolved into a city of skyscrapers.
The tour includes outside views of Atlantis the Palm Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Cayan Tower and a photo stop at Burj Al Arab. Your drive will take you to Burj Khalifa, which is currently credited to be the world’s tallest building at a dizzying height of just over 828 metres. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai at sunset. Then, you will have time at leisure to explore Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre.
You will then return to the pier.
-
This tour involves approximatively 2 hours of panoramic tour in the coach and less than one mile (1.3 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and take your sunglasses. (Admission to other Dubai Mall attractions, such as the aquarium and underwater zoo are not included).
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Shindagha Museum with spice souq
Step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Al Fahidi district, one of the oldest traditional Emirati neighbourhoods.
Your first stop on this tour will be the Al Shindagha Museum. Set along the historic waters of Dubai Creek, this museum tells the proud story of the nation’s past and reverent traditions. The Creek Museum visit will provide insight into what it was like for Emiratis to raise a family by the waterways, and how maritime trade affected their livelihoods. The museum’s 'Dubai Creek: Birth of a City' exhibition is a state-of-the-art multimedia experience that guides visitors through the dramatic development of the area over centuries. After the Creek Museum visit, you will have some free time to visit other ‘houses’ in the museum complex on your own. We encourage you to visit house 22, the Culture of the Sea pavilion, where an immersive VR experience will show you what life was like for Dubai's pearl divers as they dived beneath the ocean. You can also choose to visit the former Al Maktoum Residence.
Later, walk to the abra station to cross the creek in a typical ‘abra’ boat and stop at the aromatic Spice Souk. To round off the tour, visit Dubai's huge gold souk, a fabulous market where precious metals are sold. Here, you can find exquisite gold jewellery at the best prices in the world.
You will then board your coach to make your way back to the pier.
-
This tour involves walking for 1.7 km (one mile) on flat ground with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. After the Creek Museum visit, you will follow your own itinerary inside the Al Shindagha Museum.On Fridays, this tour can only take place after 4.00 pm. Each 'abra' can accomodate 15 persons. This is not a private crossing.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sheikh Zayed mosque
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with a capacity of 40,000 worshippers.
You will learn all about how the personal dream of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, came to life, and how it became the third most popular tourist attraction in the world.
The building itself is a combination of architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations, like Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan or Egypt. Tourists and celebrants from all around the world are welcome to admire the 82 onion domes, the reflective pools, and the iconic prayer hall that houses the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
After your visit, you will reboard your coach to return to the pier.
-
This tour involves 0.9 miles (1.5 km) of walking on flat surface with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The dress code needs to be followed very strictly: women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long-sleeve top (no tight clothing), and mustn’t have a low neckline; men shouldn’t wear shorts at all, but rather long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This tour can’t be operated Friday morning.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
-
The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Qsar Al Watan & observation deck
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Qasr Al Watan, the United Arab Emirates presidential palace.
You will visit this unique landmark in the country offering the world first-of-its-kind insight into the Arab heritage and the governing principles that shaped the history of the United Arab Emirates and its vision to the future. The palace offers you a unique opportunity to marvel at majestic hallways, explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped the nation.
After the visit, proceed to the Observation Deck at 300 in the Conrad Etihad Towers. Located on level 74, it is the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi. Soak up uninterrupted, bird’s-eye views 300 metres above the UAE capital and capture impressive photos of the city skyline, corniche and the Arabian Gulf.
-
This tour involves little walking on flat grounds, with some steps. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Qsar Al Watan is a working Palace that hosts official ceremonies which justifies closures to visitors without prior notice. The Observation Deck may be closed if any private events are confirmed on short notice. Hotel Conrad Etihad Towers have only 2 elevators with access to the Observation Deck, and hence you can expect a short waiting period when going up or coming down. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ain
From the pier, board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ain (with a comfort stop en route).
Al Ain is situated amidst a verdant terrain dotted with abundant groundwater springs. Known as the “Garden City of the Gulf”, the oasis and cultural sites of Al Ain have been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, so far only, one in the United Arab Emirates.
Upon arrival, you will visit Al Jahili Fort, one of the largest forts in the UAE. It was built in the 1890s on orders from Zayed The First as the home to members of the Al Nahyan ruling family. Al Jahili Fort has been a cultural the focal point of activities associated with philosophy and heritage of Abu Dhabi.
Next, proceed towards Al Ain Palace Museum. The museum showcases the everyday life in a ruler's fort when the late Sheikh Zayed and his family resided in the palace prior to 1966 and its transformation after the discovery of petroleum. The Bedouin style architecture dates back to 1937 and was converted into a museum in 1998 as a main cultural and tourist attraction.
Continue your tour to Al Ain Oasis (al Falaj) and admire the thousands date palms that have grown along the irrigation system that has been set up using both wells and “falajs”. These water channels have been used for centuries in the Arabic peninsula. First, you will take a golf cart around the farms inside the oasis, and then you will have free time to walk inside the Al Ain Oasis and along the falaj system.
After lunch served in a local restaurant, you will proceed to the Animal Market, which sells camel meat and milk, along with sheep, cows, goats and poultry. See the bustle of the Camel market.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the approximately 2-hour return drive to the pier.
-
This tour involves 1.25 miles (2 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps at the lunch venue. The golf carts are limited in number and can each accommodate up to 10 persons. Smoking is not allowed in the oasis. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (open toe sandals for men, jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. This tour is limited to 28 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
On the Bedouin trails
Experience a slice of everyday Emirati life on a trip to a traditional farmhouse from Abu Dhabi, outside the city, which is an hour-long drive from Abu Dhabi pier.
Be welcomed by the friendly locals over coffee and dates, and chat about their lives, asking as many questions as you wish. Learn about Arabic coffee, dates and the importance of animals as you chat and discover the ancient Bedouin Emirati culture and life with a stroll around the farm to see where the animals are kept and to feed them.
You can also try tasting camel milk and see how a falcon, one of the world’s fastest birds, is trained to hunt.
Hear tales about age-old Bedouin culture and finish with a traditional Emirati meal.
Take part in a traditional dance with the locals while you listen to Emirati songs.
Bid adieu to the friends you met during this tour and drive back to the pier.
-
This tour involves a little walking. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). We recommend that you protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €165
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
-
The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Masdar City & 24 carat gold coffee
This tour will give you the opportunity to visit the futuristic city of Abu Dhabi - Masdar City and to taste a Coffee garnished with edible gold flakes.
With the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable eco-city, Masdar is leading the way by developing a “greenprint” for how cities can accommodate rapid urbanisation and dramatically reduce energy, water and waste. The city combines ancient Arabic architectural techniques with modern technology and is built around a huge central Arabic wind tunnel that channels a cooling breeze through the streets and alleys, making it comfortable to stroll around even during high summer temperatures. Masdar also harnesses the power of the sun, using clean energy created onsite from rooftop solar panels and one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the Middle East. Cars are banned within the city. It is a really unique experience travelling into the centre of the development in the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pods – small unmanned electric cars. In each electric car, 4 guest can be accommodated and 3 to 4 electric cars will be provided to explore the city.
Once you finish the Masdar city tour, it will be time for a cup of coffee. Proceed to Emirates Palace to taste palace Cappuccino, a superior blend of aromatic coffee sprinkled with real 24-carat gold flakes to give you a taste of royalty, making it unlike anything you have ever tried before. This is the epitome of indulgence in the Palace.
Following a royal experience, head back to the pier.
-
This tour involves little walking. From the entrance to Masdar City, guests will be transferred by electric car. Masdar City will provide only 4 - 5 electric cars and only 4 Guest can be accommodated at one time. The entire visit of Masdar City will not be conducted with the car due to limited availability. The duration of the transfer is only 4 Minutes. The wait time from one group to the next will be around 8 Minutes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shorts and sleeveless clothing are not permitted for men and women at Emirates Palace. This tour is limited to 60 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €125
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Media
Discuss and debate geopolitics, societal changes and the major challenges of the future with editors, journalists and columnists from major news outlets. On board, Paris Match, Le Figaro, L’Express or Le Point, undisputed references when it comes to quality news and information, offer in-depth analyses of the shifts occurring in our society. Partnerships with GEO and Point de Vue cater to our guests who are passionate about photography, geography and history.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
RELAX AND OVERVIEW OF MUSCAT (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Muscat
Meet at Muscat Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for the PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent). A VIP service will allow you to fast track all formalities at the airport to ensure a smooth arrival.
You will be transferred to the hotel Kempinski Muscat 5*.
Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (2.00 pm).
The rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Muscat
After breakfast and check-out, you will meet your guide and depart your hotel for a panoramic tour of the main sites of Muscat, the Oman's capital.
First drive until the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque for a photo stop. Admire a magnificent piece of modern architecture of the Sultanate which can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.
Proceed to the national Opera of Muscat, the symbol of the sultanate and a masterpiece of Islamic art reflecting a unique contemporary Omani architecture.
Enjoy some free time at Muttrah Souq (marketplace), which is probably the oldest in Oman and replete with charm and choice. Here, you will be left on your own to wander around the narrow lanes, admire the goods on sale and enjoy the thrill of discovery.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will make a photo stop at Al Alam Palace, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Hitham Bin Tariq the ruler of Oman. The palace is located between the twin forts Mirani and Jalali. These two 16th century forts were formerly used as defence fortresses and were constructed by the Portuguese during the colonial period.
Therefore, you will discover the National Museum of Oman, dedicated to the history of the Sultanate.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Muscat to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
In the heart of the new Muscat, in the district of Al Mouj, the Kempinski Hotel Muscat 5* is ideally located within 5 km from Muscat Airport and 13 km from Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Immerge yourself in a world of luxury combining oriental and contemporary atmosphere. Enjoy the infinity pool facing the sea, taste the delicious cuisine of the restaurants and relax yourself in your spacious rooms. Your hotel Kempinski Muscat 5* offers the perfect getaway to discover the Omani capital.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
-
1-night accommodation in Deluxe Resort view at Kempisnki Muscat 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (3.00pm).
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink and 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
-
A VIP service at Muscat airport upon your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
-
Dinner on day 1.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
Official hotel check-in time is 3.00 pm. Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in, you may arrive at any time on the check in date.
-
During visits, passengers are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
Contact of your hotel:
Kempinski Muscat
335 Street 6, Muscat
138 Oman
Telephone number: 00 968 24 985000
Duration and order of the visits may varie. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$1,280
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
TALES OF THE ARABIAN NIGHTS (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Muscat
Meet at Muscat Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for the PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent). A VIP service will allow you to fast track all formalities at the airport to ensure a smooth arrival.
You will be transferred to the hotel Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5*.
Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (2.00 pm).
The rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
Optional activity – Dinner with a local Omani
Start your immersion in the Omanis culture by sharing a typical diner with a local Omani.
Meals are an important part of the Omani culture and represent a moment of conviviality. You will have the opportunity to visit your host’s house, taste a homemade meal and learn more about the Omani lifestyle.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Muscat/Nizwa/Jabal Akhdar
After breakfast and check-out, board your 4-wheel-drive vehicle for a 30-minute ride to visit the Grand Mosque of Sultan Quaboos, a magnificent piece of modern architecture of the Sultanate.
Continue with a 1-hour drive to explore Nizwa and its fortress. Nizwa was once the capital in the 6th and 7th century AD. Today, it remains the most popular tourist attraction, with its historical buildings and imposing fort. Nizwa Fort, with its enormous round tower, was built in the 17th century to defend the route to the interior. The fort dominates the entire area, with the town having grown around the edifice. Access to the top is only given by means of a narrow, twisting staircase barred by heavy wooden doors, studded with metal. From the top of the tower, one can get a bird's eye view of the city of Nizwa. At the end of the visit, you will proceed to the Nizwa Souq, which is renowned for its intricately hand carved Khanjar and ornately designed silver jewellery.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Depart Nizwa and make your way to Jabal Akhdar. Make an en-route stop at Birkat Al Mouz, a traditional old village featuring thousand-year-old architecture and a beautiful view.
After a 2-hour drive, arrive at your hotel, Alila Jabal Akhdar 5*.
Check-in and spend the afternoon at leisure.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 – Jabal Akhdar
Breakfast at the hotel.
Then, meet your guide and drive a few minutes in the mountains to reach one of the several small villages.
Start an easy 1-hour walk between villages with your guide and discover the history of the mountains, the way of life of the locals and enjoy the smell of the roses.
Return to the hotel.
Take lunch at the hotel.
Spend the afternoon at leisure. Several activities are available at the hotel, the full schedule of which is to be confirmed upon arrival. Your guide will be available all afternoon, should you have any questions.
Day 4 – Jabal Akhdar/Ibra/Wahiba Sands
After breakfast and checking-out, board your 4WD vehicle for a 2.5-hour drive to Ibra. Explore the ruins of Al Manzifat and travel back in time with your guide throughout this short walk through what is left of one of the oldest villages in Oman.
Board your 4WD vehicle and proceed with a one-hour drive to Wadi Bani Khalid, which stands out like an oasis in the desert, with clear green natural spring water pools.
A private lunch will be served in the Wadi for you to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
After spending some time in Wadi, you will continue your drive to Wahiba Sands, which stands out in stark contrast to Wadi Bani Khalid. The 'Wahiba Sands', often described as a perfect example of a Sand Sea, consists of large ranges of orange sand dunes running from north to south, some reaching a height of about 100 m. You will drive along the undulating sand dunes and experience the thrills of dune driving.
Arrive at Magic Camp, a luxury camp privately set up for you in the desert.
Check in and the rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
Enjoy a welcome drink over the dunes at sunset or take a walk around the camp.
Dinner will be served at the camp.
After dinner, enjoy a unique moment stargazing in the clear sky with an astronomer.
Overnight.
Day 5 - Wahiba Sands/Muscat
After breakfast and checking-out, drive for 2 hours to reach Muscat.
Enjoy some free time at Muttrah Souq (marketplace), which is probably the oldest in Oman and replete with charm and choice. Here, you will be left on your own to wander around the narrow lanes, admire the goods on sale and enjoy the thrill of discovery.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will discover the National Museum of Oman, dedicated to the history of the Sultanate.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Muscat to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotels:
The Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5* is a veritable palace located between the sea and the mountains. This hotel is an emblematic and historic site, having been built by Sultan Qaboos himself in 1985. It has many gardens, five swimming pools, a spa, six restaurants, tennis courts, and is located on the sea with a private beach. You will enjoy the calm and serenity to be found in this perfect place, which is adored by the Omani.
The Hotel Alila Jabal Akhdar 5* is located on the Jabal Akhdar mountain, at an altitude of 2,000 metres (6,560 feet). This luxury and eco-friendly boutique hotel lies within the heart of a wild and pristine environment and offers a unique breathtaking panorama. You will be enchanted by its minimalistic style and its local influences and will enjoy its swimming pool, spa, library and, quite simply, its relaxing setting.
The Magic Camp 4* proposes a glamping experience in the very heart of the Wahiba Sands desert. This eco-friendly camp with only 10 tents offers a real one-night interlude enabling you to reconnect with nature. You will stay in an individual tent and have a second private tent with bathroom and chemical toilets. Each tent has electric sockets with USB charging, comfortable beds with real mattress, quilts and pillows. A sitting area (or Majilis) adorned with Berber carpets and a lantern is available for you, as well as an installation on top of the dunes where you can enjoy the sunset seated in your armchair.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
-
1-night accommodation in a Deluxe Pool View room at the Ritz Carlton Al Bustan 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included. Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in (3.00pm).
-
2-nights accommodation in a Horizon View room at the Alila Jabal Akhdar 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
1-night accommodation in a Deluxe tent at the Magic Camp 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea). Alcohol is not included and not available at the dinner at the Omani house, at lunch in Wadi Bani Khalid and at dinner at the Magic Camp.
-
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
-
VIP service at Muscat airport upon your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
-
Lunch and dinner on day 1.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Visa, if necessary.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
This programme includes walking on uneven ground and daily bumpy rides in a 4WD vehicle, therefore it is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
-
Official hotel check-in time is 3.00 pm. Early check-in is included for all arrivals before the official check-in, you may arrive at any time on the check in date.
-
During visits, passengers are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee. For the visit of Grand Mosque, women must cover their hair and neck.
-
Swimming is allowed at Wadi Bani Khaled. Please note that the ground is muddy and slippery and that a full coverage swimsuit or piece of clothing is mandatory.
-
Your Alila 5* hotel in Jabal Akhdar is located at an altitude of 2,000 metres; we recommend your bring a warm outfit for the evening.
-
Your Magic Camp 4* offers a unique experience in the Omani desert. You will sleep in a 4* tent that will conform with what a regular hotel may offer. However, please note that the bathroom is located under a private and separate tent with dry toilets, you may shower with warm water stored in a large bucket. We recommend you bring a warm outfit as nights can be chilly in the desert.
Contact of your hotel:
Ritz Carlton Al Bustan
P. O Box 1998, PC 114, Muttrah
Telephone: 968 24764921
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Jabal Al Akhdar Al Jabal Al Akhdar OM, 621, Nizwa
Telephone: 968-25344200
Magic Camp
Wahiba Sands
The duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$5,630
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Sur city tour
Sitting on the coast, Sur was an ancient trading hub with Eastern Africa and the rest of the world, even prior to the arrival of the Portuguese to Oman in the 16th century. Its prime location at the entrance to the Gulf of Oman has allowed Sur, since the 6th century, to monitor boat traffic in the north of the Indian Ocean and has made it well known as a destination point for sailors. Sur hosted many shipyards and became famous for its wooden ships, called dhow.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to the Sur Lighthouse. During a photo stop, you will be able to capture the view of the Ayjah Bay and admire the beautiful architecture of this three-storey tower.
You will then visit one of the few remaining traditional dhow factories. There, dhows are still built by hand, and you will likely see the craftsmen at work. Traditionally, the boats were built without nails.
You will continue to the Sur Maritime open-air museum where you can enjoy a photo stop near the historical dhow Fatah Al Khair, one of the last ocean-going passenger dhows in Oman, built in Sur.
Finally, you will proceed to Sunaysilah Fort. This 17th century fort is one of the oldest defensive buildings, which has played a pivotal role in the history of Oman, protecting Sur’s illustrious overseas trade.
You will then return to the port.
-
This tour involves 300 metres of walking on flat ground with some steps to negotiate at the fort. The visit of the lighthouse is an outdoor visit only. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for about 1-hour. You will be amazed by the beauty of the canyon, which is home to crystal-clear blue water pools.
After a picnic lunch, take the same path back to the local boat.
You will then return to the port by coach. A short stop for a refreshment will be made en route.
-
This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 2.5 mi (4,25 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and your swimsuit under your clothes; bring along water shoes and a towel from the ship. Sun protection is also crucial. A picnic lunch is included with your tour. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €185
According to availability, price per passenger.
Short walk in Wadi Shab
From the pier, board your coach for a 90-minute drive to Wadi Shab.
Wadi Shab is a narrow canyon. Here, fresh water from the mountain tops meets briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity that sets it apart from other wadis in the Sultanate.
Upon your arrival at Wadi Shab, you will board a local boat for a five-minute transfer to reach the other bank, where you will begin your visit of Wadi Shab.
You will walk through the wadi for around 30 minutes and have some free time to enjoy the scenery and take a few photos.
You will then take the same path back to the local boat.
You will reboard your coach. You will make a stop en route to the port.
-
This tour is mainly done on foot and involves approximately 1.5 mi (2,5 km) of walking on uneven terrain with sand and slippery rocks. Participants should be in good physical condition and have a level of fitness which allows them to walk the aforementioned distance. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. We recommend you wear walking shoes and sun protection. The natural pools cannot be seen on this excursion, so there is no swimming. This activity is weather dependent and may be cancelled for safety reasons without prior notice. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Musandam fjords dhow cruise
From the pier, meet your guide and walk a short distance to your dhow, the traditional wooden boat used in the past by merchants and fishermen.
After boarding your traditional Omani dhow on the pier, the cruise will take you toward Musandam’s longest fjord. Often referred to as the “Norway of the Arabia”, the calm, turquoise waters contrast with the creamy white limestone cliffs. Along the way, you will pass small fishing villages and perhaps even encounter dolphins.
The dhow will anchor in the vicinity of Telegraph Island, allowing you to go for a swim or just sit back and enjoy soft drinks, tea or coffee while admiring the views of mountains rising in the distance to heights over 2,000 feet.
After the tour, leisurely cruise back to Khasab.
-
We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must embarked and disembarked from the ladder without assistance. The snorkel equipment is not provided. The dhows can welcome 35 guests or 140 guests, depending on their size and have toilet room inside. The dhows are motorized.
Total : €65
According to availability, price per passenger.
Jebel Harim mountains by 4WD
From the pier, board your four-wheel-drive vehicle and start your exploration.
Your panoramic journey will allow you to discover the barren interior and the mountains of Musandam, which are speckled with fossils dating back several million years.
You will drive to Jebel Harim, which means the Mountain of Women and stands at 6850 ft (2,087 metres), it is the highest peak in Musandam. On the way, you will pass the Bedouin village of Sayh situated at 1,100 metres (3,610 ft) above sea level. From the plateau of this calm and peaceful village, you can admire the beauty of Musandam’s inland valley. By reaching the summit of the Jebel Harim, you will be able to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire peninsula.
The next stop of your tour will be at Khawr Najd, a natural creek overlooking the Indian Ocean. This is the only fjord accessible by vehicle in Musandam and offers a wonderful view at the top of the road pass.
Finally, you will drive back to Khasab.
- This is a panoramic tour and not a guided tour. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The terrain can be bumpy, this tour is not recommended for guests suffering from neck or back problems. Each vehicle can welcome 4 participants. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Museum of the Future
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to the Museum of the Future.
Located in the Financial District of Dubai, the Museum of the Future is an exhibition space for innovative and futuristic ideologies, services, and products. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, it is designed as an asymmetric torus clad in steel and glass. It has been recognised by National Geographic as one of 14 most beautiful museums in the world. Architect Shaun Killa wanted the structure to represent Dubai’s vision of the future.
From the small outdoor terrace, you can get the best view of the museum's architecture. You will then head for the exit. Take your place in your coach and return to the port.
-
This tour involves little walking, on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. You will follow a set itinerary inside the Museum of Future, as guided tours are not permitted. Cette excursion est limitée à 40 personnes. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Mleiha archaeological site & Heart of Sharjah
This tour will provide a rare opportunity to learn about what life was like in this region years ago.
You will leave the pier for a one-hour and 15-minute ride to discover the history of Mleiha. First, you will visit the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which contains a wide variety of ancient artefacts and testifies to life in the area at different times.
You will then visit archaeological sites from the Neolithic period, where stone tools used by early man were discovered. You will also visit pre-Islamic sites which are only 3,000 years old and where coins from the Greek civilization were discovered buried in the sands of Mleiha.
After lunch, your tour will continue to the heritage-rich area of Sharjah, also known as the Heart of Sharjah. You will experience a traditional Emirati style and be guided around the area by a Emirati guide. This will be your opportunity to develop a greater appreciation of Emirati culture, customs and beliefs by speaking directly with locals.
Explore the Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn more about the Emirati Bedouin lifestyle, architecture, and their art and musical instruments. After this art- and heritage-rich experience, you will be guided through some old souks.
You will then return to your coach for your trip back to the ship.
-
This tour involves less than 1.5 km (one mile) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that jeans, t-shirts and shorts are not permitted. No alcoholic drinks are included during the meal. The visit of the centre and archaeological sites of Mleiha is guided by an English speaking guide from Mleiha. This tour is not available on Fridays.
Total : €240
According to availability, price per passenger.
Structural Marvels of Dubaï at sunset
This tour will give you a brief insight into the famous architectural wonders of Dubai. It will tell the story behind the famous structures and how a desert city evolved into a city of skyscrapers.
The tour includes outside views of Atlantis the Palm Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Cayan Tower and a photo stop at Burj Al Arab. Your drive will take you to Burj Khalifa, which is currently credited to be the world’s tallest building at a dizzying height of just over 828 metres. The observation deck on the 124th floor will give you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai at sunset. Then, you will have time at leisure to explore Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre.
You will then return to the pier.
-
This tour involves approximatively 2 hours of panoramic tour in the coach and less than one mile (1.3 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and take your sunglasses. (Admission to other Dubai Mall attractions, such as the aquarium and underwater zoo are not included).
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Shindagha Museum with spice souq
Step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Al Fahidi district, one of the oldest traditional Emirati neighbourhoods.
Your first stop on this tour will be the Al Shindagha Museum. Set along the historic waters of Dubai Creek, this museum tells the proud story of the nation’s past and reverent traditions. The Creek Museum visit will provide insight into what it was like for Emiratis to raise a family by the waterways, and how maritime trade affected their livelihoods. The museum’s 'Dubai Creek: Birth of a City' exhibition is a state-of-the-art multimedia experience that guides visitors through the dramatic development of the area over centuries. After the Creek Museum visit, you will have some free time to visit other ‘houses’ in the museum complex on your own. We encourage you to visit house 22, the Culture of the Sea pavilion, where an immersive VR experience will show you what life was like for Dubai's pearl divers as they dived beneath the ocean. You can also choose to visit the former Al Maktoum Residence.
Later, walk to the abra station to cross the creek in a typical ‘abra’ boat and stop at the aromatic Spice Souk. To round off the tour, visit Dubai's huge gold souk, a fabulous market where precious metals are sold. Here, you can find exquisite gold jewellery at the best prices in the world.
You will then board your coach to make your way back to the pier.
-
This tour involves walking for 1.7 km (one mile) on flat ground with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. After the Creek Museum visit, you will follow your own itinerary inside the Al Shindagha Museum.On Fridays, this tour can only take place after 4.00 pm. Each 'abra' can accomodate 15 persons. This is not a private crossing.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sheikh Zayed mosque
From the pier, board your coach for a 30-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with a capacity of 40,000 worshippers.
You will learn all about how the personal dream of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, came to life, and how it became the third most popular tourist attraction in the world.
The building itself is a combination of architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations, like Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan or Egypt. Tourists and celebrants from all around the world are welcome to admire the 82 onion domes, the reflective pools, and the iconic prayer hall that houses the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, both meticulously handmade.
After your visit, you will reboard your coach to return to the pier.
-
This tour involves 0.9 miles (1.5 km) of walking on flat surface with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. The dress code needs to be followed very strictly: women should have scarves covering their hair, a long dress and a long-sleeve top (no tight clothing), and mustn’t have a low neckline; men shouldn’t wear shorts at all, but rather long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This tour can’t be operated Friday morning.
Total : €75
According to availability, price per passenger.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
From the pier, board your coach for a short drive to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula.
Located on the new built Saadiyat Island (literally “Island of Happiness”), this museum opened in 2017, with the ambition to display the works of historical, cultural and sociological significance from ancient times to the contemporary era.
This masterpiece building was designed by the French architect M. Jean Nouvel and has been inspired by cultural elements of the UAE. A falaj-inspired water system runs through the museum, under a dome of 180 meters of diameter of galleries, leaving the impression of a floating structure. The web-patterned roof allows the sun to filter through, resulting in an enchanting play of light of 7 850 “stars”.
The permanent gallery showcases art on loan from different French museums, including the musée du Louvre, the Centre Georges Pompidou or the musée d’Orsay in Paris. Art from the Middle East will also be shown within the museum, in order to set up a dialogue between people, and Eastern and Western art.
After your visit, you will enjoy some free time. You will then return to the ship.
-
The visit to the Louvre takes a maximum of 60 minutes. You will find sofas to sit on inside the museum if necessary. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. The museum is closed on Mondays. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Qsar Al Watan & observation deck
From the pier, board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Qasr Al Watan, the United Arab Emirates presidential palace.
You will visit this unique landmark in the country offering the world first-of-its-kind insight into the Arab heritage and the governing principles that shaped the history of the United Arab Emirates and its vision to the future. The palace offers you a unique opportunity to marvel at majestic hallways, explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped the nation.
After the visit, proceed to the Observation Deck at 300 in the Conrad Etihad Towers. Located on level 74, it is the highest vantage point in Abu Dhabi. Soak up uninterrupted, bird’s-eye views 300 metres above the UAE capital and capture impressive photos of the city skyline, corniche and the Arabian Gulf.
-
This tour involves little walking on flat grounds, with some steps. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Qsar Al Watan is a working Palace that hosts official ceremonies which justifies closures to visitors without prior notice. The Observation Deck may be closed if any private events are confirmed on short notice. Hotel Conrad Etihad Towers have only 2 elevators with access to the Observation Deck, and hence you can expect a short waiting period when going up or coming down. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €95
According to availability, price per passenger.
Al Ain
From the pier, board your coach for a 2-hour drive to Al Ain (with a comfort stop en route).
Al Ain is situated amidst a verdant terrain dotted with abundant groundwater springs. Known as the “Garden City of the Gulf”, the oasis and cultural sites of Al Ain have been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, so far only, one in the United Arab Emirates.
Upon arrival, you will visit Al Jahili Fort, one of the largest forts in the UAE. It was built in the 1890s on orders from Zayed The First as the home to members of the Al Nahyan ruling family. Al Jahili Fort has been a cultural the focal point of activities associated with philosophy and heritage of Abu Dhabi.
Next, proceed towards Al Ain Palace Museum. The museum showcases the everyday life in a ruler's fort when the late Sheikh Zayed and his family resided in the palace prior to 1966 and its transformation after the discovery of petroleum. The Bedouin style architecture dates back to 1937 and was converted into a museum in 1998 as a main cultural and tourist attraction.
Continue your tour to Al Ain Oasis (al Falaj) and admire the thousands date palms that have grown along the irrigation system that has been set up using both wells and “falajs”. These water channels have been used for centuries in the Arabic peninsula. First, you will take a golf cart around the farms inside the oasis, and then you will have free time to walk inside the Al Ain Oasis and along the falaj system.
After lunch served in a local restaurant, you will proceed to the Animal Market, which sells camel meat and milk, along with sheep, cows, goats and poultry. See the bustle of the Camel market.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the approximately 2-hour return drive to the pier.
-
This tour involves 1.25 miles (2 km) of walking on flat surfaces with some steps at the lunch venue. The golf carts are limited in number and can each accommodate up to 10 persons. Smoking is not allowed in the oasis. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (open toe sandals for men, jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. This tour is limited to 28 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
On the Bedouin trails
Experience a slice of everyday Emirati life on a trip to a traditional farmhouse from Abu Dhabi, outside the city, which is an hour-long drive from Abu Dhabi pier.
Be welcomed by the friendly locals over coffee and dates, and chat about their lives, asking as many questions as you wish. Learn about Arabic coffee, dates and the importance of animals as you chat and discover the ancient Bedouin Emirati culture and life with a stroll around the farm to see where the animals are kept and to feed them.
You can also try tasting camel milk and see how a falcon, one of the world’s fastest birds, is trained to hunt.
Hear tales about age-old Bedouin culture and finish with a traditional Emirati meal.
Take part in a traditional dance with the locals while you listen to Emirati songs.
Bid adieu to the friends you met during this tour and drive back to the pier.
-
This tour involves a little walking. We suggest you wear conventional clothing (jeans, t-shirts or shorts are not permitted). We recommend that you protect yourself from the sun. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €165
According to availability, price per passenger.
Masdar City & 24 carat gold coffee
This tour will give you the opportunity to visit the futuristic city of Abu Dhabi - Masdar City and to taste a Coffee garnished with edible gold flakes.
With the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable eco-city, Masdar is leading the way by developing a “greenprint” for how cities can accommodate rapid urbanisation and dramatically reduce energy, water and waste. The city combines ancient Arabic architectural techniques with modern technology and is built around a huge central Arabic wind tunnel that channels a cooling breeze through the streets and alleys, making it comfortable to stroll around even during high summer temperatures. Masdar also harnesses the power of the sun, using clean energy created onsite from rooftop solar panels and one of the largest photovoltaic installations in the Middle East. Cars are banned within the city. It is a really unique experience travelling into the centre of the development in the Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pods – small unmanned electric cars. In each electric car, 4 guest can be accommodated and 3 to 4 electric cars will be provided to explore the city.
Once you finish the Masdar city tour, it will be time for a cup of coffee. Proceed to Emirates Palace to taste palace Cappuccino, a superior blend of aromatic coffee sprinkled with real 24-carat gold flakes to give you a taste of royalty, making it unlike anything you have ever tried before. This is the epitome of indulgence in the Palace.
Following a royal experience, head back to the pier.
-
This tour involves little walking. From the entrance to Masdar City, guests will be transferred by electric car. Masdar City will provide only 4 - 5 electric cars and only 4 Guest can be accommodated at one time. The entire visit of Masdar City will not be conducted with the car due to limited availability. The duration of the transfer is only 4 Minutes. The wait time from one group to the next will be around 8 Minutes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shorts and sleeveless clothing are not permitted for men and women at Emirates Palace. This tour is limited to 60 participants. Pre-booking is required to participate in this tour.
Total : €125
According to availability, price per passenger.
OVERVIEW OF DOHA AND TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Doha
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Your first stop will be at the Souq Waqif. You will stroll down the bustling alleys of the Souq Waqif for an authentic taste of traditional commerce, architecture and culture. The maze of small shops offer an array of Middle Eastern merchandise, from spices and seasonal delicacies, such as fresh dates and nuts, to perfumes, ornate jewellery, clothing and handicrafts.
Next, start your panoramic drive of Doha via la Corniche. This long promenade stretches over four miles along the half-moon bay of Doha.
Your next stop will be made at the Katara Cultural Village. The entire Katara complex is built in a fusion of oriental architectural and retro-romantic style, different from most of Doha’s new cultural buildings elsewhere in the city. This centre houses an opera, libraries, an amphitheatre, art galleries and other academic facilities, as well as green areas.
Last stop at the Pearl, pride (or at least one of) of the city for a photo stop. The most glamour addresses in Qatar are located on these man-made, integrated and sustainable islands of almost four million square metres of reclaimed land divided into 10 architecturally distinct and themed districts.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$180
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.