PONANT will again partner with Smithsonian Journeys in 2023 for a series of 21 co-branded sailings. Each voyage will be led by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts — specialists such as art historians, solar astrophysicists and experts in North African international relations — who will offer onboard lectures and guided discussions.
© PONANT, Nicolas Matheus
One of the highlighted voyages is a nine-day itinerary along the Arabian coast, scheduled for Jan. 6–14, 2023. The cruise calls at major Gulf ports including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi. Among the Smithsonian experts on this sailing is Karl Eikenberry, former U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, who will lead conversations on contemporary Middle East affairs.
© PONANT, Nicolas Matheus
The voyage begins in Dubai, where passengers can explore iconic attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, the traditional souks and the Dubai Museum. The second stop is Sir Bani Yas Island, a protected wildlife reserve known for oryx, cheetahs and gazelles. In Doha, guests can wander the lively Souq Waqif and visit the Museum of Islamic Art, among other cultural sites.
Abu Dhabi, the fourth port, offers visits to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. From there the ship sails to Khasab, a fishing village on the Musandam Peninsula, famed for its fjord-like khors; travelers can explore the narrow inlets aboard traditional dhow boats. Continuing south along Oman’s eastern shore, the itinerary includes Fujairah, where highlights include Al Bidiyah Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the United Arab Emirates, and the imposing Fujairah Fort.
The cruise concludes in Muscat, Oman, a city noted for its mountain-front houses, coastal forts and traditional mud-brick architecture, providing a scenic and culturally rich finale to the voyage.
Learn more about the Cruising the Arabian Coast – with Smithsonian Journeys itinerary on the PONANT website.