Arabian Odyssey: Mid Cruise Journey (CMB- MCT) Single Occupancy
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Port
Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$7400
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
6 Days/ 5 Nights
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (D)
Begin your journey with a transfer from the pier to the Colombo airport. Board your Business class flight from Colombo to Abu Dhabi. At Abu Dhabi International Airport, a representative will warmly welcome you. Transfer to your hotel for check-in and a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Today, we explore the past and present of Abu Dhabi. The first stop is the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque. As you step inside, the sheer scale of the place envelops you. The mosque is a symphony of marble, intricate carvings, and delicate chandeliers. It could accommodate 40,000 worshippers, and its main prayer hall could hold up to 9,000—a testament to devotion and architectural prowess.
But this tour was not just about grandeur; it’s about understanding the soul of Abu Dhabi. Next, you’ll venture to the Heritage Village. Here, time seemed to slow down. You can wander through narrow lanes, glimpsing traditional Bedouin life—the simplicity, the resilience, the stories etched into weathered walls.
Lunch will be served at Emirates Place, where culinary artistry awaits. Savor not just the food but the essence of Abu Dhabi—a melting pot of cultures, a bridge between ancient and modern.
Continue to Qasr Al Watan, the Palace of the Nation. Its walls whisper of diplomacy, governance, and the dreams of a united land. The library housed volumes that chronicled the Emirates’ journey—a treasure trove of knowledge guarded by time-worn shelves.
And then, like explorers chasing the sun, you arrive at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Its floating dome, a delicate lattice of light, filtered the sun’s rays. Inside, art from across the globe converged—Eastern and Western masterpieces coexisting, transcending borders. The museum is more than a building; it is a dialogue between civilizations.
Return to your hotel. Dinner awaits—a feast of flavors. Enjoy your dinner and stay in the hotel and spend the evening at Leisure
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Check out of your hotel and head to Al Ain. In the early morning, gather in the hotel lobby, bags packed and ready to meet your guide. Your guide, a seasoned storyteller. Today we will journey to Al Ain—a place where time dances between ancient springs and modern echoes.
Al Ain, once a vital stop on the caravan trail, held secrets etched into its golden sands. A midway pause at a petrol station offers a restroom break and a chance to refuel. Next, head to Al Jahili Fort—a sentinel guarding precious palm groves. Erected in 1891, it had witnessed the ebb and flow of tribes, the whispers of peace, and the echoes of governance. The former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, it stood as a testament to resilience.
Lunch awaits at Ayla Bawadi Hotel. But the true magic lay ahead—the Zayed Palace Museum. Within its walls, the former UAE President’s legacy unfolded—an art gallery, majlis rooms for visitors, and a replica grand court tent—a link to Bedouin heritage. Next, step into the oasis—an enchanting world of palm trees and whispers. Here, an ancient irrigation system, the “falaj,” flowed—a lifeline woven by hands long gone.
As the sun dipped low, your group will check into Rotana Hotel Al Ain where dinner awaits.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
Check-Out of your hotel and journey to Oman. A guide will meet you in the lobby of Al Ain Hotel at 07:45am. After clearing both the check post at border and completing the visa / immigration formalities, we continue our drive to Nizwa. (Visas need to be obtained by guests prior to embarkation and guests should consult their travel agent if they need assistance. Seabourn does not provide visas)
On arrival, the new Souq complex beckoned—an architectural marvel where spices mingle with silver. Every Friday, cattle sellers auctioned their livestock, and the air buzzed with life.
Next, we drive to hotel for check-in and lunch. After Lunch, we drive to visit the Nizwa Fort. The 17th century round tower fort nearby is Oman’s most impressive tower. Built on a solid base of rock, the huge tower was designed to withstand the vibrations of 24 cannons. From the top, a superb panoramic view gives visitors a bird’s eye view all around Nizwa and the surrounding plains – a sure delight for all avid photographers.
Then, board the Classic Car to have a tour of the old Nizwa lanes, allowing you to learn about history and heritage, carrying you between the fragrant past and the originality of the present. Bringing you back to the past in a beautiful modern style, through a fun and entertaining and environmentally friendly way.
Then, depart to Jebel Akhdar (2000 mts above sea level) the green jewel of the Al Hajar mountain ranges, a truly unique spot in the Arabian Peninsula via short visit of Birkat Al Mauz. Birkat Al Mauz roughly translates as ‘Banana Pool’, an appropriate name as a drive through the village plantation will reveal. See the active falaj (irrigation channel), some interesting old buildings that are in the process of being saved from ruin, and a thick plantation of date palms that invite a quiet stroll.
On arrival, check-in at Anantara Jabel Akdhar Hotel and be prepared for a 3-Course Set Dinner at Bella Vista Restaurant.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll walk through the mountain villages of Al Aqr, Al Qyn, and Ash Shirayjah. This famous Village Walk hiking trail if you go during the months of March or April you will see and smell roses in full bloom along the whole trail. The trail is an in and out trail that weave through five villages. Here we will walk through three of the villages and go off trail a bit. Just keep in mind that while the walk is manageable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, there are some steep and rugged sections along the tracks.
After the hike, return to the hotel and prepare for lunch. After a leisurely afternoon enjoying the hotel facilities, you’ll be treated to a delightful 3-course dinner at Bella Vista Restaurant.
Day 6 (B)
Enjoy your early breakfast and be ready to proceed with the check-out formalities from the hotel. The drive from the hotel to Muscat will start at 7:30am.
Upon arriving in Muscat, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a magnificent architectural wonder. This mosque, one of the largest in the world, can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. Inside, you’ll be captivated by beautiful artwork, intricate chandeliers, and a stunning one-piece carpet that covers the entire prayer hall. When visiting the Grand Mosque, it’s essential to dress conservatively. Avoid revealing or transparent clothing. Cover yourself from head to toe. Ladies must wear a scarf to cover your head.
After your visit to the Mosque, we’ll head to the Royal Opera House for an enchanting house tour. You’ll explore the main foyer with its elegant grand staircase and wander through the stunning theatre. And if you peek from the balconies, you’ll catch a glimpse of the stage. Our knowledgeable Opera House guide will accompany you on this captivating and short tour.
Later, we’ll head to Muttrah Souq, one of Oman’s oldest markets. As you wander through its narrow alleys, the air will be infused with the mystic scent of sandalwood. This bustling souq is not only a place to shop for souvenirs but also an opportunity to connect with local people. Get ready for an authentic Omani experience!
Next, we’ll head to the National Museum of Oman. Established by Royal Decree on Muharram 16, 1435 AH (corresponding to November 20, 2013), this museum is a significant project dedicated to preserving Oman’s rich heritage. It houses both material and non-material collectibles that showcase the nation’s history, culture, and arts—from the earliest human settlements to the present day.
From the National Museum, we’ll take a leisurely walk to the magnificent Al Alam Palace, the official residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, the ruler of Oman. This architectural marvel stands proudly between the twin Portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali. While we’ll only have a brief photo stop from outside, the palace’s grandeur and location are sure to leave a lasting impression. Later, we’ll drive to Muscat port, where you’ll join the Seabourn Encore for your next adventure.
Cancellation Policy:
60 Days prior to arrival in the excursion port. This excursion is non-refundable within 60 days of arrival into the excursion port. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour. This will include if a guest cancels their voyage within 60 days of arrival into the excursion port.
Ramadan Restrictions (Approx. Between 1st to 31st March 2025)
Please note that during the month of Ramadan from Sunrise to Sunset, there are restrictions on eating, smoking, drinking, etc in Public for anyone including tourist. Muslims observe Fasting during this Holy Month. In Nizwa alcoholic beverage will be served only at one outlet (Bella Vista Restaurant) of the Anantara hotel, so we have arranged the dinner for both nights at this restaurant. Visiting times of some venues may change or may have restricted access during the month of Ramadan.
Notes:
For mosque visits, modest attire covering the entire body except hands and feet is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered,