Minarets To Mandalas

Known as the shining jewel of Qatar, Doha sits on the east coast lapped by the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. It is an ancient city in the midst of a modern renaissance as evidenced by stunning new buildings, resorts, shopping malls, and sporting venues emerging from the desert landscape like a futuristic oasis. Ships will dock at Doha Port.

Top Things to Do in Doha:

• sail Doha Bay in a traditional dhow
• shop at the Souq Waqif market
• visit the Museum of Islamic Arts
• venture to Khor Al Adaid, the inland sea
  

The lure of Dubai is irresistible, from its glittering mega-skyscrapers to its traditional Islamic roots. Dubai’s most iconic sights include the 160-story Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, and the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a luxury resort which happens to be shaped like a boat’s sail.

Dubai is all about luxe shopping, high-end boutiques, unique souqs (markets) and cultural institutions like the Dubai Museum. While you’re stopped on a Dubai cruise, you’re meant to live it up on unforgettable excursions like a helicopter tour of the city or a camel ride at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Mumbai, the vibrant heart of India, offers an exhilarating blend of culture, history, and modernity. A stroll along Marine Drive presents a scenic view of the Arabian Sea, perfect for a leisurely morning. The iconic Gateway of India, a majestic archway built during the British Raj, is a must-visit for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

For a taste of Mumbai's rich history and diverse culture, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, showcases exquisite art and antiquities from India. The bustling Crawford Market, filled with local spices, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs, offers a glimpse into the daily life of Mumbaikars. This bustling city promises a memorable experience with its unique blend of sights, sounds, and flavours.

Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is a densely populated island city known for its vibrant mosques and colorful buildings. Key attractions include the Islamic Centre, with its striking golden dome and the nearby Maldives National Museum, housed in a former sultan's palace and showcasing regional artifacts.

For those stepping off a cruise in the late morning, a walk around this compact city reveals local life and architectural gems within a short span. The bustling local fish market offers a unique slice of Maldivian culture, where the day’s fresh catch is an everyday spectacle. Nearby, the artificial beach provides a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the ocean view.

Galle, a city on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, offers a fascinating glimpse into a colonial past mixed with local Sri Lankan heritage.

The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. It encloses historic buildings, museums, charming cafes, and boutiques, making it a lively hub for tourists and locals alike.

Beyond the fort walls, Galle's natural beauty is equally captivating, with stunning beaches like Unawatuna nearby, offering golden sands and clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Explore the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka's southern coast, including whale watching and visiting sea turtle hatcheries.

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The island's west coast is lined with a series of beaches each offering unique experiences, from the bustling Patong Beach known for its lively bars and nightclubs to the more serene Kata and Karon Beaches. Old Phuket Town, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, offers a glimpse into the island's history, providing a stark contrast to the modern tourist spots.

For those seeking a cultural experience, the Wat Chalong temple and the Big Buddha—a massive white marble statue—are essential visits, offering spiritual insights as well as panoramic views of the island. Phuket’s natural landscapes also include lush rainforests and world-class diving sites.

Langkawi is known for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, earning it the title of the first UNESCO Geopark in Southeast Asia.

Explore the mangrove forests, limestone cliffs, and hidden caves of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, home to diverse wildlife like eagles, macaques, and even playful dolphins.

Langkawi is also home to one of the world's longest free-span and curved bridges, the SkyBridge. Suspended 100 meters above the ground, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding rainforest and Andaman Sea.

Ships will dock at Porto Malai, also known as the Star Cruise Jetty. Located near Kuah town, it serves as the gateway to the tropical paradise of Langkawi.

Cruise into the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in Penang's bustling port. With easy access to the heart of George Town, it's a perfect starting point for exploring Penang. Wander through the UNESCO-listed streets of George Town, with over 1,700 historic buildings. See the iconic Street Art scattered across the city, and search for the perfect souvenir at one of many traditional bazaars and street markets.

Try local delicacies such as Penang Laksa and Char Kway Teow at hawker stalls, or head out to Penang's Upper Hill Station to ride the funicular railway toward spectacular views of the region. Further afield, explore the lush Penang National Park, or get adventurous with canopy walks and jungle trekking.

Malaysia’s dynamic capital is a melting pot of skyscrapers, Islamic architecture and British Colonial buildings offering a futuristic cityscape with an enduring nod to yesteryear. Home to some of Asia’s most opulent shopping malls, Kuala Lumpur’s skyline is dominated by the famous Petronas and Menara Kuala Lumpur Towers. Ships will dock in Port Klang.

Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur:

• explore the Batu Caves
• tour the Royal Selangor Factory
• shop at the Central Market
• visit the Petronas Towers for city views

Port Klang, Malaysia's busiest port, serves as a gateway to the vibrant capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, it plays a crucial role in the country’s trade and logistics. Despite its industrial importance, the area around Port Klang offers interesting attractions and activities for visitors.

Nearby, Pulau Ketam, also known as Crab Island, is a quaint fishing village accessible by ferry. The island features traditional stilt houses, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere. Additionally, Port Klang is close to Klang town centre, where visitors can explore historical sites such as the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery and the bustling Little India district. With its mix of industrial significance and local charm, Port Klang provides a unique insight into Malaysia’s coastal life.

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.