Middle East Cruises

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Luxury Middle East Cruises

Borne from lost civilisations and religions, the ancient past of the Middle East is the lifeblood that flows throughout its modern-day exterior. Luxury Middle East Cruises take you on a sensory journey among remarkable destinations where you’ll uncover so much more than what first greets the eye. Sail to countries such as Istanbul, Turkey, Jordan, Oman and the United Arab Emirates and explore their unique charms.

The Middle East has a colourful spectrum where historic sites rub shoulders with contemporary bustling metropolises. There’s no doubt that days of old have shaped the traditions and culture to create the most wondrous and heterogenous region.

Take Dubai for example with its futuristic-style buildings such as the Burj Khalifa, which dominates the skyline, and compare it to the ornately carved tombs and temples of ancient Egypt. The contrast is immense yet beguiling at the same time. But wherever you visit on a Middle East cruise, there’s no denying its undying energy and mysterious mood.

Dubai

There really isn’t any other city in the world comparable to Dubai. Its sky-scraping architecture and ultra-modern technology must be seen to be believed. Its barren deserts and Bedouin camps offer a stark contrast to the glitzy shopping malls and frenzied nightlife. But that’s what makes Dubai so special: its innate ability to cross boundaries and break the rules.

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Luxor

With the River Nile running through this Egyptian city and ancient wonders at its heart, Luxor has a rousing alchemy that never fails to impress. When you visit sites such as the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple and the Colossi of Memnon, you’ll strip back its many layers and uncover tales of pharaohs and Egyptian art.

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Jerusalem

The old city of Jerusalem is a spiritual haven where each religion each has its own quarter. The cultures and traditions of Muslims, Christians, Jews and Armenians are thrown into a giant melting pot to make up the city’s diverse landscape. It has many bragging rights aside from being one of the oldest cities in the world.

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Istanbul

Located at the end of the Silk Road, Istanbul has an incredible verve that has drawn travellers here for centuries. The locals have an infectious joie de vivre and this Turkish city’s diversity is expressed in its heritage and modern-day culture. The top sites to explore include The Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.

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Jordan

Blessed with UNESCO World Heritage Sites and shape-shifting landscapes, Jordan abounds in ancient wonders. From the archaeological city of Petra to the otherworldly, red rock desert of Wadi Rum, it’s easy to see why Jordan is a popular cruise destination.

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Oman

This understated Arab country isn’t always top of travellers’ must-see destinations, however, it possesses some top-drawer sites that can’t be missed. Along with its profound history, its castles, mosques and architecture pose a bit of a threat to some of the more popular Arabian countries.

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Top 10 Things to do in the Middle East

Seaplane tour of Dubai
Visit the city of Petra
Snorkelling in the Red Sea
Visit a desert Bedouin
Tour Luxor and Valley of the Kings
Panoramic tour of Tel Aviv and Jaffa
Explore Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
Dolphin watching at Muscat
Abu Dhabi city highlights tour with the Grand Mosque
Discover the Pyramids of Cairo

Nature and wildlife

As well as boasting endemic wildlife, the Middle East is home to several endangered species. From the Arabian Tahr native to Oman and the distinguished Egyptian vulture to the Arabian Oryx and Syrian Brown Bear, you’ll find wonderful animals throughout the region.

Culture

Being the birthplace of many religions, the Middle East has a rich culture that has emerged from Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Although the religions and people differ from country to country, much of the Middle Eastern culture is connected. The dress, food and music have many similarities that set them apart from other world cultures.

Best Time to Visit the Middle East on a Cruise

Between December and March, the temperatures are milder in the Middle East but there is still plenty of sunshine. It’s recommended that you avoid the intense heat of the summer months from May to September.

Top Middle East Cruise Lines

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