Muscat, Oman
Muscat is one of the Middle East’s oldest cities and can be traced back to the second century AD. Despite being a relatively small city, it is the capital and largest in Oman.
Situated on the hot north east coast and comprising three towns, the city is characterised by its understated regional architecture of low-storey white-washed buildings. Muscat is surprisingly green, with tree-lined streets and large public parks.
Its wealth, like the majority of the country, comes from trading, and among its exports are mother of pearl, frankincense and fish, all of which you will find in the famed souks of old Muscat.
Below are examples of excursions that have previously been offered from this port of call. A fully detailed programme of the included and optional tours available during your cruise will be sent shortly before your departure.
Mystical Muscat
Travel through the exclusive residential area of Shati Al Qurum to the Grand Mosque. This vast mosque was commissioned by his Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to be a spiritual and architectural tribute to Islamic heritage.
Next you drive along the beautiful coast through the pretty fishing village of Sidab to the old city of Muscat. Here you can see the attractive gold and blue oriental style Al Alam Palace, the residence of Sultan Qaboos.
The palace overlooks Muscat bay and is positioned in the middle of two medieval fortresses built by the Portuguese. You then continue to Bait Al Zubair, a private museum featuring Omani jewellery, clothes, weaponry and paintings.
Finally you visit the mystical Muttrah souk, where you can enjoy the scents of Arabian spices and perfumes and perhaps purchase traditional silver jewellery, copper handicrafts, leather goods or handmade Omani costumes.
Included excursion
Duration: 4 hours
Nouvelle Nakht
Drive past Oman’s airport and along the Batinah coast to Seeb. Here you visit the fish market and watch the fishermen bringing in their catch.
You can wander along the beach and through Seeb’s souq where Omanis buy their vegetables, fruit and clothing. Next you drive to Nakhl Fort, perched 200 feet high on a hill with spectacular views of the surrounding area.
This fascinating Islamic fortress was a stronghold of the Bani Kharous tribe in the medieval times, and you can explore the ladies sitting room, prison, split-level terraces and courtyards.
Later you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the tranquil Nakhl springs, a picturesque oasis where warm springs are framed by mountains. You drive back to the ship passing through the village of Nakhl.
Included excursion
Duration: 5 hours
Wadi Bashing
This off-the-beaten-track excursion takes you through rugged, mountainous landscapes and past wadi pools on an adventure activity known locally as wadi bashing.
You travel by 4x4 vehicle to Quriyat Fish Market for your first stop, where you can watch the fishermen bringing ashore their early morning catch before travelling to Fins Beach.
On clear days the coastal drive will sometimes reward you with shark sightings or you may spot gazelles sprinting across the landscape. This beautiful drive follows the coast passing beaches and tidal pools until you reach picturesque Fins Beach.
Here the white sand stretches between two cliffs and the calm water is ideal for swimming. After an included picnic lunch you continue to Wadi Dayqah via Wadi Abreen and Mazara village, enjoying breathtaking views of a canyon as you go.
Upon reaching Wadi Dayqah, a beautiful spot surrounded by steep cliffs, you can take a dip in the refreshing wadi pools. From here you travel back to the port via Hail Al Ghaf, a fertile area many mango and palm trees thrive.
Optional excursion
Duration: 7 hours