Embark on an exploration of the senses when you journey to the Arabian Peninsula, home to a rich and ancient history, futuristic skyscrapers, vivid blue waters & streets laden with aromatic spice stalls on this 13-night Arabian Fly, Stay & Cruise holiday.
Discover the iconic city of Dubai with its inspiring skyline, glitzy shops and scores of fantastic restaurants. From the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Kahlifa, take in remarkable views as far as the eye can see, shop till you drop at the world’s largest mall and be treated to an exhilarating Desert Safari experience.
It’s then time to embark on MSC Lirica for your 7-night cruise around the magnificent Persian Gulf. Your days at sea offer plenty of time to relax and enjoy the excellent onboard facilities in between visiting some of the most famous locations in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar.
Upgrades are available upon request at an additional cost. Ask one of our Travel Experts when enquiring for more information.
Depart Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Dubai. On arrival you'll be met by your transfer and taken to your hotel.
The morning is yours at leisure. In the afternoon set off an a half-day tour; impressive architecture and a glimpse of historic Dubai are the highlights of this tour. See the Palm Jumeirah before continuing on to Jumeirah beach and the Burj Al Arab. Wander along Dubai Creek and visit a Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
This evening go off-road for an exhilarating experience in the beautiful Arabian Desert. Watch the full glory of a sunset over the dunes, and then relax in comfort at a desert campsite. Ride a camel, smoke aromatic shisha from a water pipe, sand surf, and take a picture in traditional Arabian dress. For the grand finale, take in a sumptuous 3-course feast, accompanied by entertainment from a belly dancer and the soft tones of Arabian folk music under a peaceful moonlit sky.
With an overnight stop in Dubai you have more time to see this great city! Shop till you drop at Dubai mall, see the fountains or head to Jumeirah Beach for the day.
Today you bid farewell to Dubai as you make your way to capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi!
Dotted with stunning architecture, fishing villages, adventure parks, skyrises, jaw-dropping hotels, global restaurants and woven together with traditional Emirati traditions, Abu Dhabi should not be overlooked in the shadow of its glitzier neighbor Dubai.
Sitting in the Persian Gulf this tiny desert island is home to beautiful flora and fauna. Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the largest natural islands in Abu Dhabi and is one of the eight islands collectively known as Desert Islands. Its a nature based destination with wildlife, archaeological sites and adventure activities.
Due to its strategic location, beautiful mountains capes and fjord-like craggy inlets, Khasab is well-known for its outdoor activities (including sensational dolphin tours). Be sure to try a dhow boat cruise and witness the beautiful Oman Fjords.
Muscat is situated on the Gulf of Oman and is a enormously important Arabic city that is quickly becoming one of the regions hot spots. Surrounded by the domineering Al Hajar Mountains, Muscat is a hive of contemporary and traditional culture and design that make for some amazing places to experience.
Today you can further explore Muscat with ample time to visit the sites, like the fish market, the Portuguese fort and, above all, Muttrah’s Souq.
This country, with a thousand-year-old culture, is also called “the kingdom of the two seas”, because its waters border with those of Qatar to the south and Saudi Arabia to the west. Must see places here include the Qalat al Bahrain Fort and Manama City
In the historical centre of Doha you will find a suq where everything – from camels to gold – can be exchanged, and the Al Khoot fortress, dating back to the end of the nineteenth century and now converted into a museum. The city is preparing to host the 2022 World Cup, enhancing its already awesome skyline with new super modern skyscrapers.
Known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and a lively nightlife scene there really is an endless array of activities to do and sights to see on your last day in Dubai. Why not visit the Al Fahidi neighborhood for a glimpse into what Dubai life was like before the Emirates were formed. If food is more your thing, be sure not to miss the Dubai Spice Souk. Haggling is expected and welcome at this massive open-air spice market where vendors peddle saffron, Persian dried limes, barberries, and Middle Eastern spice mixes.
Today marks the end of your amazing journey as you disembark your ship in the morning and make your way to the airport for your flight back to Australia.