Day 1 — Dubai, U.A.E.

Arrive in Dubai and settle into your ship. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (D)

Day 2 — Dubai

Set out on a guided tour of this exciting, boundary-pushing city. Discover its more traditional heart as you meander amid aromatic sacks of cardamom, incense, and saffron at the spice souk. Then immerse yourself in the gold souk, where every stall glitters with gold jewelry and precious stones. Zip forward into the future at the the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, reaching more than a half-mile into the air. At the Dubai Museum, housed within a historic fort that is one of the oldest buildings in the city, trace the evolution of Dubai from a center of the pearl trade to a thriving international city. Then delve deeper into Emirati culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding, and sit down to a Bedouin-style lunch. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Doha, Qatar

Dynamic Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a burgeoning center of culture and style, with striking high-rises at its center and traditional souks threaded throughout its streets. Follow the Corniche to some of the city’s main sites, including the Pearl and its marina, and the mecca of architecture and culture known as Katara village. Then sail a traditional dhow at sunset, taking in mesmerizing views of mosques and skyscrapers.  Or visit the exquisite exhibition at the Museum of Islamic Art, which was designed by IM Pei. Stop for lunch in the bustling Souk Waqif, built on the site of an ancient marketplace, and continue to Education City, a center of academia and innovation, filled with green spaces and stunning buildings. If you wish, venture back into the Souk Waqif this evening to soak up the local ambiance and visit souks that feature falcons, gold, spices, and handicrafts. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Doha, Qatar / At Sea

Dynamic Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a burgeoning center of culture and style, with striking high-rises at its center and traditional souks threaded throughout its streets. Follow the Corniche to some of the city’s main sites. Visit the mecca of architecture and culture known as Katara village and see the glamorous residences of the Pearl-Qatar, built on an artificial island. Then delve into the colorful bustle of Souk Waqif, set on the site of an ancient marketplace, and learn about Qatari history and cultural heritage at the new National Museum, designed by Jean Nouvel to resemble a desert rose.

Alternatively, embark on a thrilling “dune-bashing” adventure into the desert south of Doha, riding in a luxurious 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Follow the sands as they rise and fall and take in views of the turquoise Inland Sea, one of the only salt-water bodies in the world with desert sand dunes directly at its edge. Stop at a traditional tent for refreshments before returning to Doha. During a relaxing afternoon sailing the Persian Gulf toward Abu Dhabi, take advantage of the ship’s superb amenities. (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

Sail along the coast to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the U.A.E. Set out to discover the city, stopping at the Emirates Palace for high tea and a private tour of the bedrooms and ballrooms. See other city landmarks such as Ferrari World, the Grand Mosque, and the Corniche.

Or learn about the history and governance of the U.A.E. on a visit to the presidential palace of Qasr Al Watan, a newly constructed building that showcases traditional Emirati craftsmanship. Continue to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a joint effort between France and the U.A.E opened in 2017. Browse a riveting exhibition of art from all over the world, grouped so that the viewer can see what Arabian or Chinese artists were creating at the time of Michelangelo or Picasso. The building itself is a work of art, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize-winner Jean Nouvel on an island in a lagoon. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and take in stunning views of this architectural marvel, admiring its 82 marble domes and hundreds of gem-encrusted columns. (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Khasab, Oman

Oman’s remote Musandam Peninsula is a place of deep fjords, craggy peaks, with fishing villages perched on the shore. Arrive in the lively town of Khasab, and set out to explore the peninsula in a traditional sailing dhow. Glide into narrow fjords, on the lookout for dolphins, and take in views of the spectacularly rugged coast. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Fujairah, U.A.E.

The commercial hub of Fujairah is home to a trove of important historic sites. Visit Fujairah Fort, the oldest and largest castle in all of the Emirates, and learn about its colorful history. Examine archaeological finds in the museum, and head to the oasis of Al Bithna to see its mud and stone mosque. Gather for a festive farewell reception and dinner on board this evening. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Depart from Muscat, Oman

After breakfast, disembark in Muscat. With a local guide, stroll through the immense Sultan Qaboos Mosque and discover the technical ingenuity of the magnificent Royal Opera House.  Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then check in to dayrooms and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.  After dinner, transfer to the airport for your evening flight home. (B,L,D)