Middle East Cruises

Travel to the astonishing hidden city of Petra, Jordan, looming like a mirage that melts into the red sandstone hills of the desert. Dating back to 7,000 B, Petra was the capital of a flourishing civilisation that stretched from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. Aqaba offers internationally renowned diving and the richest marine life in the entire Red Sea.

Whether you're a museum wanderer, an avid shopper or a beach goer, Doha has something for you. Doha is a city on the rise and has been for many years. There's always new architecture to marvel at and new sights to see. From beautiful mosques to waterside parks, there so much to feast your eyes on-and so many restaurants to feast in. Stop by the National Museum of Qatar to see not just marvels inside, but an intricately designed modern building.

Fujairah’s pristine mountains and stunning beaches are calling, awaiting your arrival to this perfect venue for relaxation and adventures alike. Witness moving religious ceremonies at the 15th-century Al-Bidyah Mosque, the oldest in the UAE, and the massive Fujairah Fort. Dip into the Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains​ or dive alongside native sea turtles. You’ll enjoy every moment of your time in the country’s only capital city on the eastern coast.

It might be one of the smallest countries in Asia, but Bahrain is packed with things to do. If you're keen to learn about the island nation's past, a visit to the Bahrain National Museum in the capital Manama is essential. Its intriguing exhibits are housed in an equally fascinating postmodern building, which seems to draw the water of the Persian Gulf right up to its windows.

In this low-rise gem, wedged between Arabian Gulf and scenic mountains, your first impression will be of the Sultanate of Oman's beautiful main palace. Three forts Mutrah, Jalali and Mirani stand guard at the entrance of Muscat. Once ashore witness lavish palaces, Zawawi Mosque, its pink marble crowned by a gilded dome, and Muttrah Souq, a jumble of crafts and clothing perfumed with spices and frankincense.

Salalah is the largest city in the Sultanate of Oman and is the birthplace of the Sultan Qaboos bin Said. As well as its lush green pastures, Salalah is renowned for its stunning collection of beaches, which feel almost Caribbean with their coconut trees and relaxed vibe. Try Al Mughsail Beach, a quiet and wild stretch of sand, full of caves and blowholes. For a taste of Salalah’s history, head to the Museum of the Frankinscence Land. The on-site museum documents the history of the port as well as the area’s settlement since 2000 BC. It not only demonstrates the maritime strength of Oman, but also the modern rejuvenation of Salalah as a commercial and leisure port. 186 miles of walkways and beautiful lights at night ensure this is an unforgettable visit. Visit one of the many markets and bazaars. Al-Husn Souq is one of the best, and where the local Dhofari people come to shop. Take your pick from cotton headdresses, jewellery and heady incense. If you find yourself peckish in Salalah, there are plenty of places to pick up some traditional Omani cuisine. The city has a large expatriate community of people from India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The majority of the population in Salalah is Muslim, and Arabic is the official language spoken here.

Step off your ship and onto an island oasis. Although it's actually the crest of a salt dome created millions of years ago, Sir Bani Yas has been transformed over the past four decades. Half of the 34 square-mile surface area is now covered by the Arabian Wildlife Park, a nature reserve home to lush vegetation and 13,000 animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula.

Experience Oman’s desert magic and coastal beauty. Ride the dunes of Wahiba Sands, swim in turquoise wadis, and see the glowing Bimmah Sinkhole. Visit turtle sanctuaries, stroll Sur’s corniche and dhow yards, then unwind on pristine beaches where turtles and rays glide through the Arabian Sea.