Emerald Cruises has confirmed plans to operate a series of week-long superyacht voyages in the Middle East in January 2023. Partnering with Qatar Tourism, Emerald Cruises will deploy Emerald Azzurra on a number of sailings from Doha.
Emerald Azzurra will operate two 8-day itineraries – the Gems of the Arabian Peninsula and the Delights of the Arabian Gulf. According to Emerald Cruises’ website, the sailings will operate between late-December 2022 and mid-January 2023.
The new Gulf program has resulted in a number of Red Sea voyages being cancelled, LATTE can reveal, with those impacted guests offered alternative dates and voyages – including the new Middle East itineraries – by the cruise line.
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The Gems of the Arabian Peninsula itinerary has four departures – two operating from the brand new Grand Cruise Terminal in Doha to Dubai (on 20 December 2022 and 3 January 2023), and two reverse sailings (on 27 December 2022 and 10 January 2023). Port calls across the Gulf include Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Khasab, Oman; Fujairah, United Arab Emirates; Zighy Bay, Oman. Prices start at $4,639 per person twin share.
The Delights of the Arabian Gulf itinerary has one departure from Doha scheduled for 17 January 2023, ending in Muscat. This voyage skips Zighy Bay and instead calls at Sur, Oman and is priced from $5,494 per person twin share.
In Doha, pre- and post-cruise three-day packages will be available for guests to explore the city’s sites.
Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “In line with the national strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, we are expanding our tourism value proposition and are excited to welcome travellers from around the world to experience the best of Qatari hospitality both on sea and land. The new itineraries launching with Emerald Cruises are another step towards achieving this vision.”
“Qatar has an incredible range of hotels, restaurants, activities and cultural landmarks which can be enjoyed pre- and post- the cruise, allowing guests the freedom to explore Qatar at their leisure. We welcome travellers from around the world to experience our beautiful country and the best of the Middle East, all in one easily accessible place.”
Rob Voss, Chief Operating Officer of Scenic Group, which includes Emerald Cruises, adds: “We are delighted to be taking our new superyacht… to Qatar’s vibrant city of Doha next winter. In partnership with Qatar Tourism our guests will experience first-hand and in luxury yachting style the immersive beauty and hospitality The Gulf region and specifically Qatar has to offer. It will be magical.”
See emeraldcruises.com.au/qatar
Lead image: Doha skyline | Credit: Chris Clark/Unsplash