Muscat, Oman - Middle East Cruises

Relax and watch the world go by on a traditional dhow cruise.

Do something out of the ordinary with a unique opportunity to experience cruising on a traditional dhow through the glorious scenery of Muscat.

These amazing crafts were used to sail the sea routes between Oman, India and Iran. Oman’s connection with the sea stretches back many centuries when Omani sailors, using mast and sail, pioneered sea routes to the cities of the ancient world. Favourable factors were Oman's position at the crossroads of shipping routes which linked the Arabian Gulf to India, the Red Sea and East Africa and their knowledge of shipbuilding.

Board your traditional wooden dhow and cruise along the Muscat coastline taking in the fantastic sights at leisure and with plenty of time to capture that special photograph opportunity that other modes of transport do not offer.

Take in the scenery of rugged mountains and cliffs as you are served dates, Kawah (Arabic coffee) and assorted soft drinks on this memorable excursion.

Note: There are five to ten steps to negotiate when boarding the dhows, as well as a walk of approximately 984 feet through the floating marina walkway. The dhows have a covered inside area and an open viewing area. Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. Space on this excursion is limited, therefore early booking is recommended. This excursion is subject to weather conditions and as there is limited shaded area onboard the dhows, a hat and sunscreen are recommended.

A chance to get away to the beautiful Oman Dive Centre Beach to swim, soak up the sun and relax.

Sun, sea and sand await at the Oman Dive Centre Beach, unwind on the beach or take a refreshing dip, during three hours at the seaside.

A refreshment of a soft drink will be offered to you during your stay and a local escort will be present during the excursion.

Sun beds and umbrellas are available at the beach and there are toilet facilities in the dive centre. Guests are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen.

Note: Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. Before you book this excursion you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that may offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

An introduction to Oman’s capital with its mix of medieval, traditional and modern architecture.

A wonderful opportunity to get to know the highlights of this diverse and unusual capital with its
amazing combination of traditional customs and new developments.

Your excursion includes a visit to the stunning Grand Mosque, which covers an area of over one million square feet and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.

Drive into the capital for a stop in front of the Sultan's Palace, flanked by the Portuguese forts, Jalali and Mirani. Next, visit the magnificent Bait Al Zubair Museum, which highlights the history of the country and its people. Exhibits consist of many fascinating artefacts including traditional costumes, jewellery, handicrafts and weapons.

For an authentic shopping experience, visit the Muttrah Souk where the stalls sell the traditional Omani items such as Dallah (bronze coffee pots), exotic spices and frankincense.

Note: This excursion involves approximately one hour of walking over mostly paved areas. In accordance with local customs, whilst visiting the Grand Mosque, women must wear modest clothing that covers the body. Arms and legs must be covered to wrists and ankles and a scarf must cover the head, including all hair. Gentlemen are advised to wear modest clothing befitting the sanctity of the Mosque. Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. Please note that the itinerary of this excursion may be reversed and may arrive back at the ship earlier dependant on traffic conditions.

Meet the Bedouin people and see the wild camels of the Wahiba Desert on this exciting adventure.

This exciting excursion is for adventurous explorers, who wish to sample the thrill of driving through breathtaking desert scenery and meet the people of Bedouin on their own territory.

Your four wheel drive vehicle takes you through the fascinating and spectacular Hajar Mountains; the terrain is rugged and is a whole world away from the modern landscape of Muscat.

Get ready for the ride of your life as you enter The Wahiba Desert, where you will put the four wheel drive vehicles through their paces on an exciting dune drive. Crossing rolling sand dunes as far as the eye can see, you may be lucky enough to spot a herd of camels.

Make a stop to meet Bedouin families who have made their homes in these harsh desert conditions and gain an insight into their way of life. Luncheon will be served at a desert camp with hand washing and toilet facilities.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate. This tour is weather dependent as heavy rain can lead to flooding in the Wadis. The drive to enter the Wahiba Desert takes around two hours and is on tarred road and the tyres will need to be deflated and then inflated again for the dune drive part of the tour.

This delightful excursion encompasses spectacular views, tranquil hot springs and a relaxing buffet luncheon at a resort.

Heading for Nakhl, drive along Oman’s expressway and along the scenic coastal road. On the way, a stop will be made at the tranquil and picturesque Thowarah Hot Springs, charmingly set near a lush oasis framed by the majestic mountains.

Perched on a 200-foot-high hilltop, Nakhl Fort has commanding and spectacular views of the entire oasis and date plantation surrounding it. This pre-Islamic fortress used to be the stronghold of the Bhani Kharous tribe during the medieval era. Visit the ladies sitting room and the wali’s barzas and majli’s (the ruler’s court and tent where he met his citizens). You will also have an opportunity to visit the old prison and split-level terraces and courtyards as you gain a unique insight into times gone by.

Enjoy a buffet luncheon at a resort hotel before heading back to Muscat for a photograph stop at the exquisite Grand Mosque in Muscat.

Note: The tour involves walking over rough and inclined ground with some steps. In accordance with local customs, please wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. The itinerary order on this excursion may vary and does not include any bathing in the springs.

Enjoy the thrill of a speedboat ride and the chance to spot dolphins.

Embark your speedboat at a local marina and head out to sea in search of dolphins in their natural habitat; these lively, intelligent and fascinating creatures can be spotted swimming in the warm waters off the coast.

Experience the excitement of the sea air and wind rushing past as you give chase on the speedboat to catch sightings of dolphins; then feel the adrenaline as you get closer, charged with sensation you are about to see these mammals out in the wild as nature intended.

Although sightings are not guaranteed, the experienced boatmen are in constant contact with each other and will notify other boatmen of sightings – so there is a good chance of encountering the dolphins at close hand. Many species of dolphin are spotted in the area, including common dolphins, spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins; if you are very lucky you may even see sperm and hump back whales.

Mineral water and soft drinks will be served during your boat ride.

Note: There are several steps and a walk of approximately 900 feet through the floating marina to board the boats. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 12 may not participate. The boats have awnings for shade. Sightings of dolphins or whales cannot be guaranteed. Space is limited, therefore early booking is recommended. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

A tour to appreciate Nizwa, the historical capital of Oman; step back in time to a pre-Islamic fortress.

Your scenic drive will take you through the Hajar Mountains en route to Nizwa, one of the largest cities in Oman and the capital of the interior region. Nizwa has a wealth of cultural and ancient landmarks; the most prominent is Nizwa Fort built over a period of 12 years.

The Fort is located in the city centre, where you may explore and learn of its interesting history. The Fort is surrounded by ancient traditional souks where locals trade and where you can see fabulous collections of gold and silver in the various shops.

Nizwa is a sight to behold being set in an oasis enclosed by a series of mountains, including Al Jabal Al Akhdar, the famous green mountain.

A buffet luncheon will be served at a local hotel and includes refreshments of water or a soft drink. Your tour is rounded off with a photograph stop at the impressive Grand Mosque in Muscat on your return journey.

Note: The tour involves walking over rough and inclined ground with some steps. The drive to Nizwa is approximately 2½ hours. In accordance with local customs, please wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Guests are requested not to take photographs of the local people without prior permission. The itinerary of this excursion may be reversed.