Africa, North Africa
Star Collector: Persian Gulf & Arabian Seas Cruise
Take a deep dive into the Persian Gulf on this 18-day itinerary, visiting five out of six of the world’s richest countries and getting to know their similarities and differences. Visit dazzling and dynamic cities like Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah with their futuristic architecture and cultural treasures. With two overnight stays you can take in Abu Dhabi’s Louvre and Doha’s sandcastle-shaped Museum of Islamic Art. Get to know the many faces of the UAE from Ras Al Khama’s locked-in-time pearling village to Sir Bani Yas island where oryx and other endangered Arabian wildlife live. Discover the friendly and relaxed atmosphere of Bahrain and Oman, favorites with expats. Marvel at natural wonders from Oman’s magnificent fjords to Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO site of Al Ahsa, the largest oasis in the world. Follow the historic Trail of Frankincense, walk scenic seaside corniches, become a fan of shawarma. And search for superlatives to describe a host of extraordinary accomplishments – the world’s tallest building, the world’s tallest fountain, the world’s largest manmade archipelago.
• Find the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in Abu Dhabi, overnighting there
• Pack light with complimentary daily laundry service
• Dammam is the gateway to UNESCO site Al Ahsa, with its intricate cave system
• Overnight in Doha and shop the extravagant malls and narrow alleys of the oldest souk in Qatar
• See traditional dhow boats in the fjords of Oman
• In Manama, visit the archaeological site of Qal'at al-Bahrain
• The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque of Muscat is the largest mosque in Oman
• Have your camera ready for wildlife shots at the Sir Bani Yas safari then get ready for a feast at Windstar's Signature Beach Party
Highlights
• Find the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in Abu Dhabi, overnighting there
• Pack light with complimentary daily laundry service
• Dammam is the gateway to UNESCO site Al Ahsa, with its intricate cave system
• Overnight in Doha and shop the extravagant malls and narrow alleys of the oldest souk in Qatar
• See traditional dhow boats in the fjords of Oman
• In Manama, visit the archaeological site of Qal'at al-Bahrain
• The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque of Muscat is the largest mosque in Oman
• Have your camera ready for wildlife shots at the Sir Bani Yas safari then get ready for a feast at Windstar's Signature Beach Party
In Dubai, sports run the gamut from camel races in the desert to an indoor ski mountain. Architecture spans Bedouin tents and Arabian wind towers to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Archipelagos miraculously appear in the image of palm trees and planets. It’s a lot to take in. By all means, add some extra days here to get your head around this amazing city that seems to be all things to all people.
Sir Bani Yas Island is famous for its ancient archaeological sites, geological features and man-made attractions, dominated by the Arabian Wildlife Park, a savannah-like reserve for over 16,000 animals including roaming giraffes, cheetahs and gazelles. See flocks of flamingos on the white-sand beaches and the ruins of an ancient Christian monastery. They operate the region’s first wind turbine and work to protect their delicate ecosystem.
The sparkling city of Doha boasts gleaming skyscrapers and mosques with intricate carvings, extravagant shopping malls and a 4-mile Corniche. Lose yourself in narrow alleyways of the oldest souk in Qatar amidst the raucous noise of bartering. Find the Museum of Islamic Art, resembling a giant sandcastle and appreciate the beauty of the sea and coastline.
This modern metropolis is known for its airy waterfronts, sandy beaches, and as a popular destination for arts, sports and entertainment. Also heralded for international cuisines and a striking contrast of historic and modern architecture. It is also the gateway to Al Ahsa, a UNESCO site that is one of the world’s largest natural oases and an intricate cave system.
Manama is best known as a trade, financial, and commercial center; and the seat of numerous banks. The lovely skyline is decorated with modern glass and steel spires. Manama has a thriving nightlife with popular bars and clubs and although an Islamic country, alcohol is legal there. A visit to the famous Bab el-Bahrain Souk will yield narrow stalls with a wide variety of perfumes, spices and gold.
The capital of the United Arab Emirates sits off the mainland on an island in the Persian Gulf and connects to the mainland by a short bridge. It is one of the nation’s two most prosperous emirates because of its rich oil fields, both onshore and in the Persian Gulf discovered in 1958, and one of the world’s highest per capita incomes. Among the many sites to see are Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Museum, Emirates Palace, The Corniche and Yaz Mall.
The most northerly of the seven Emirates, Ras Al Khamah (RAK City) is known for its slower pace, rich culture and beautiful beaches. Through the centuries RAK City was an important trading post known for magnificent pearls. Sites to see here include the National Museum with a comprehensive collection of local artifacts and the Al Jazirah Al Hamra, an intact traditional pearling village abandoned in the mid-20th century.
Fujairah is known for sparkling, uncrowded beaches, considered one of the best places for SCUBA diving. The nearby Hajar Mountains Wadis offer scenic hiking. Sites to see include the Al-Bidyah Mosque, Fujairah Fort, Bithnah Fort and Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Please note: Wear flat, closed-toe shoes and sunscreen and bring a shawl, cardigan or light jacket to cover up due to differences in temperature/ climate, and local currency. Guests are required to bring the original passport for this tour as it crosses the border between UAE and Oman, which will require some time.
In a land steeped with history, Muscat, Oman’s port capital, is a mix of upscale shopping malls, modern high-rises and 16th century Al Jalali and Mirani, Portuguese forts. The city has numerous mosques including modern, marble-clad Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its 164 foot (50m) dome and prodigious Persian carpet, and that can accommodate 20,000 people. Wander the lively fish market and busy Mutrah Souk. There are plenty of soft sand beaches leading to pristine Gulf of Oman water full of fish and turtles.
Jeddah is considered the commercial center of Saudi Arabia with a vibrant blend of modernity and history. Enjoy the modern landmarks of the city, stroll along the waterfront corniche, admire the world’s tallest fountain and walk the streets of Al Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Hijazi-style old town.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Book now |
Cabin. From
$3,999 USD pp
Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
Interactive TV
Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
Safe
Direct Dial Phone
L'Occitane Bath Amenities
Fresh Fruit
Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
|
Book now |
Cabin. From
$3,999 USD pp
Queen Size Bed with Luxurious Linens
Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers
Interactive TV
Fully Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator
Safe
Direct Dial Phone
L'Occitane Bath Amenities
Fresh Fruit
Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets
Wi-Fi Internet Access(various plans available for purchase)
Mirrored closet with ample drawer space
Granite vanity with magnifying mirror and chair
Vessel Type: Small Ship
Length: 522 ft (159 meters)
Passenger Capacity: 312
Built / Refurbished: 1988 / 2007
Star Breeze, Star Legend & Star Pride are large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach.
These all-suite yacht completed renovation as part of the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative to provide more of what our guests love. New public areas, including two new dining venues, a new spa, infinity pool, and fitness area. The yachts also boast all new bathrooms in every suite and a new category of Star suites, featuring a new layout. With ocean views and at least 277 square feet of comfort, Star Breeze, Star Legend & Star Pride are the perfect yachts to watch glaciers and fjords drift by from the serenity of your suite.
Carrying only 312 guests, Star Breeze, Star Legend & Star Pride still tuck into small ports like Sanary-sur-Mer and Wrangell or narrow waterways like the Corinth Canal and Keil Canal.
Inclusions
• Ocean transportation
• Stateroom or suite accommodations
• All meals and entertainment on board the ship
Exclusions
• Items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, transfers prior to or after cruise (dis)embarkation, or optional programs or activities
• Shore excursions, and additional conveniences or conveyances not specified in the itinerary
Small Ship Cruise
18 Days from
$3,999 USD pp
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