Desert Days – Dubai to Abu Dhabi (4-nights)

Deposit only £250pp

Set sail on a 4 night cruise that will take you from the opulent metropolis of Dubai to the unforgettable grandeur of Adu Dhabi. Explore the forts and fjords of Khasab, before taking a safari to observe some of Arabia's dazzling and varied wildlife on Sir Bani Yas Island.

Prices Available

24th February 2025

£479

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Departure Date: 24th February 2025
Total Nights: 4 Nights
Cruise: Celestyal Journey
Package Type: Cruise Only

From

£319 *pp

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Celestyal Cruises

Greek line Celestyal offers the chance to sail around a selection of islands in a handful of days, staying in port longer at popular destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini.

Celestyal's two ships also call at less-visited places including the island of Milos, the Turkish port of Kusadasi - close to the ancient ruins of Ephesus - and Greece's second-biggest city, Thessaloniki, which has a rich Roman and Jewish heritage.

1260

Passengers

500

Crew

1994

Launched

2023

Last refit

55451t

Tonnage

219m

Length

30m

Width

20kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

Overview

More dates available

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Dubai

Rising from the sands of the Arabian desert, Dubai emerged as a bustling trading hub, tracing its origins back to the ancient Bedouin tribes who thrived in its harsh terrain. Over the centuries, this once modest fishing village transformed into a glittering metropolis, propelled by the discovery of oil and visionary leadership. Today, Dubai stands as a testament to human ingenuity and ambition, boasting iconic skyscrapers, man-made islands, and world-class infrastructure. Its evolution into a global powerhouse has captivated the world, showcasing the limitless possibilities that arise when determination meets innovation in the heart of the desert.

Day 2

Dubai

Day 3

Khasab

<p>See Khasab’s jutting fjords, and the dolphins playing in the emerald waters, and it’s forgivable to think you’ve stumbled across a surreal Norway. The burning sun and scorched earth, serve as a constant reminder that you're a long way from Europe, however - although the Portuguese roots mean there's a colonial tint to the city. Sitting on the Northern coast of Oman, reaching across towards Iran, this is an isolated and fascinating destination to explore. The remote location, and limited infrastructure here, until recent times, means Khasab has been left to live life at its own pace, and the city sings to its own song sheet. Even now you can see a blind eye being turned to the smugglers who whisk electronics across the Gulf to Iran, in small speed boats.</p>

Day 4

Sir Bani Yas Island

Although Sir Bani Yas may not top the usual tourist lists, it holds a fascinating position as a historical crossroads of trade. Fun fact: it was once the monastic retreat of Bani Yas tribe, the founding tribe of the United Arab Emirates. Despite its quieter acclaim, the island is a treasure trove of archeological sites and remnants from its days as a trade hub with civilizations across the seas. Its secluded location belies the wealth of exploration it offers, from wildlife reserves to ancient ruins, making it a quietly compelling destination.

Day 5

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's history is a tapestry woven with tales of resilience and transformation. Once a humble fishing village, it evolved into a vibrant cosmopolitan center fueled by the discovery of oil in the 20th century. The visionary leadership of the ruling Al Nahyan family spearheaded its metamorphosis into a modern metropolis, marked by iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the futuristic skyline of Yas Island. Today, Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to the UAE's journey from desert sands to global prominence, blending tradition with innovation to create a dynamic and progressive cityscape.