Cruise Description

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 Dumont-d’Urville for an 9-day cruise, taking in prodigious metropolises, former trading cities and a natural environment that has been shaped by the stunning sun of the desert.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, set off to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi in the city of the same name, appreciate a Musandam fjords dhow cruise from Khasab, or discover the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq Waqif in Doha. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

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 and its skyscrapers that are among the tallest in the world; Abu Dhabi, with its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and its new Louvre Museum; Doha and its bay offering a panorama of its fascinating skyline: they all offer a singular and breath-taking experience.