Muscat
Muscat 12/03/2024
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.
|
12/03/2024 |
12/03/2024 |
Sur
Sur 12/04/2024
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.
|
12/04/2024 |
12/04/2024 |
Dimaniyat Islands
Dimaniyat Islands 12/05/2024
Set atop the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands have been a nature reserve since the 1980s. Some forty kilometres (25 miles) off the coast from Muscat, the Omani capital, their craggy coastlines form natural pools home to an incredible biodiversity. The different types of coral reefs that dot this ecosystem, the turtles that nest there, and the numerous species of fish make this an ideal destination for snorkelling. This rocky landscape is also the favourite spot of many birds, both endemic and migratory.
|
12/05/2024 |
12/05/2024 |
Khasab
Khasab 12/06/2024
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.
|
12/06/2024 |
12/06/2024 |
Dubai
Dubai 12/07/2024
Vertiginous, excessive, immoderate… Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, stands out for its architectural follies. Home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, with a total height of 828 metres, almost three times that of the Eiffel Tower, the city is also famous for the gigantic scale of the Palm Islands, its artificial islands in the form of a palm tree. You can explore more traditional districts not far away, with visits of the souks of Deira or the Gold Souk. Or perhaps you would prefer to discover Dubai Museum: located in an 18th-century fort, it tells the city’s history from Antiquity to the present day.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View
Description
Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Photo opportunities at Jumeirah Mosque, and a drive past the famous flag at Union House
• VIP Tickets to The View observation deck at the top of Nakheel Mall
• Photo opportunities with Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame
• An Abra ride across the Dubai Creek, exploring the Gold and Spice Souqs, and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• A visit to Souk Madinat and plenty of photo opportunities with Burj al Arab and the canals of the Madinat
• A ride on the Dubai Monorail, from the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm
• A photo stop on the bridge of Ain Dubai, with views across Jumeirah Beach Residence
• A visit to the Dubai Mall, the Middle East’s biggest mall and one of the largest in the world
• A photo stop in front of the Burj Khalifa as part of the visit to the Dubai Mall
• Leisure time at the Dubai Mall, or transfer back to the hotel
• Admission to At The Top Burj Khalifa, including the SKY Lounge at Level 148
Duration
10 to 12 hours
-
Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private)
Description
Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your balance on a camel or a sand board and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer.
Inclusions
• Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar)
• Dune drive
• Sunset stop
• Modern Bedouin-style camp
• Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting
• Arabian Adventures fire and dance show
• BBQ dinner
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Option to add an adult beverage package (House or
Premium beverages)
• Guests on a sunset stop can enjoy Aperol Spritz refreshments as an optional extra
Duration
6 Hours - Late afternoon until early evening (estimated departure at 3:00 pm with estimated return at 9:00 pm)
-
Authentic Dubai Food Tour
Description
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit!
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Enjoy a juice and get introduced to local spices at the Spice Souk
• Enjoy delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant
• Experience Mandi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, at Robou Al Yemen Mandi Restaurant
• Finish the tour with Arabic sweets and desserts while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Creek, at City Creek Restaurant
Duration
4 hours
Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00 am and 4:30 in the evenings. During Ramadan the tour will operate from 6pm to 10pm.
|
12/07/2024 |
12/07/2024 |
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi 12/08/2024
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.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Private Abu Dhabi City Tour - Fully day 10 - 12 hours
Get ready to explore the rich culture and world-renowned landmarks of Abu Dhabi during this full-day city tour of the incredible capital of the UAE. This is your chance to learn about the fascinating heritage of the country as well as experience all the iconic sights that make Abu Dhabi
the cultural hub we know today.
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Drive through Yas Island
• Ticket to Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Scenic Abu Dhabi Corniche drive
• Admission to Emirates Palace and gold dust coffee
• Entry to Observation at Conrad at Etihad Towers with light snack (F&B
is limited to one piece of cake (selection of the day) and tea or coffee
• Admission to Qasr al Watan – (or Qasr al Hosn in case of
Presidential Events)
• Picturesque drive in Al Bateen
• Visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
|
12/08/2024 |
12/08/2024 |
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi 12/09/2024
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.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Private Abu Dhabi City Tour - Fully day 10 - 12 hours
Get ready to explore the rich culture and world-renowned landmarks of Abu Dhabi during this full-day city tour of the incredible capital of the UAE. This is your chance to learn about the fascinating heritage of the country as well as experience all the iconic sights that make Abu Dhabi
the cultural hub we know today.
Inclusions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Drive through Yas Island
• Ticket to Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Scenic Abu Dhabi Corniche drive
• Admission to Emirates Palace and gold dust coffee
• Entry to Observation at Conrad at Etihad Towers with light snack (F&B
is limited to one piece of cake (selection of the day) and tea or coffee
• Admission to Qasr al Watan – (or Qasr al Hosn in case of
Presidential Events)
• Picturesque drive in Al Bateen
• Visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
|
12/09/2024 |
12/09/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 12/10/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
|
12/10/2024 |
12/10/2024 |
Dammam
Dammam 12/11/2024
On the Saudi shores of the Persian Gulf, Dammam reveals its winding coastline, home to fine-sand beaches and pleasant seafront. The capital of the Eastern Province of Ash-Sharqiyah boasts a prime position along the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf. Edged with rows of palm trees facing the sea, this modern city is also the gateway to the beautiful Al-Ahsa Oasis. Take an optional excursion into the world’s largest oasis to see verdant gardens planted with countless palm trees, a sophisticated irrigation system, and archaeological sites attesting to human presence since the Neolithic period. The extraordinary landscape is listed as World Heritage by UNESCO.
|
12/11/2024 |
12/11/2024 |
Manama (Al Manama)
Manama (Al Manama) 12/12/2024
At the crossroads of trade routes since ancient times, Manama, the capital of Bahrain, still bears traces of what were, for centuries, the pillars of the economy in the Persian Gulf: pearl harvesting, and the construction of traditional sailing vessels called dhows. But the major draw of this small island in Bahrain is undeniably the vestiges of human presence dating back nearly 5,000 years. The ancient harbour and capital of Dilmun, Qal'at al-Bahrain, is, along with the Dilmun Burial Mounds scattered across the island, an essential relic of this Mesopotamian civilisation. Both are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Ancient colonisations would come later, by the Assyrians, the Achaemenids, the Macedonians, then the Arabs in the Middle Ages, before the more contemporary invasions by the Portuguese, the Persians and the Ottomans. This tumultuous history now gives this small territory rich influences.
|
12/12/2024 |
12/12/2024 |
Doha
Doha 12/13/2024
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.
|
12/13/2024 |
12/13/2024 |
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
