A voyage from Muscat to Mumbai aboard the MS Island Sky. 12th to 28th November 2015

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Jordan May
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1 Oman & Beyond A voyage from Muscat to Mumbai aboard the MS Island Sky 12th to 28th November 2015 L au n OFFEch SA R VE 500 PER P E RS ON

Manama Dubai Sharjah Musandam Peninsula Khor Fakkan Doha Sir Baniyas UAE Abu Dhabi Muscat OMAN Sur Mandvi Okha Diu INDIA ARABIAN SEA Mumbai Join us aboard the MS Island Sky in the warm waters of the

Here within a relatively small region, the diverse natures of the people, customs and the landscapes they inhabit make for an enthralling experience as we venture through the mosaic of lands bordered

2 Manama Dubai Sharjah Musandam Peninsula Khor Fakkan Doha Sir Baniyas UAE Abu Dhabi Muscat OMAN Sur Mandvi Okha Diu INDIA ARABIAN SEA Mumbai Join us aboard the MS Island Sky in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and explore a corner of the world that has fascinated travellers for centuries. If ever an area was made for winter cruising, it is the Gulf. Here within a relatively small region, the diverse natures of the people, customs and the landscapes they inhabit make for an enthralling experience as we venture through the mosaic of lands bordered by vast deserts, through green wadis and pass in the shadow of spectacular mountains. The contrast of old and new is staggering from the ancient villages and souks of the old towns to the magnificent cities of glass and steel which include some of the world s most impressive buildings. Mutrah Corniche, Muscat Bahla Fort For those looking for something a little different, this trip offers a wonderful opportunity to explore in some depth an area which has been thankfully mostly neglected by the tourism world. Changes are afoot in the region though and now is the perfect time to visit the Gulf and experience the best of the old and new worlds. Although you will find a few cruise vessels which visit the Gulf, they are generally on a re-positioning cruise and only visit a handful of places. No one else offers such a diverse and rewarding cruise to these endlessly fascinating antique lands. Our unique cruise offers a comprehensive look at an area richly influenced by its ancient history and recent wealth and we have planned the itinerary in great detail combining visits to old Mosques, archaeological sites, timeless forts and citadels with modern city centres. After our exploration of the Arabian Peninsula we enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we head for Indian shores, our journey mirroring countless past voyages of Arab dhows that have sailed from all points of Arabia to India, trading spices, materials and all manner of luxurious and exotic goods. We explore some fascinating places in the state of Gujarat, places which are off the well trodden tourist path and difficult to explore independently including the Okha Marine National Park, the boat building town of Mandvi and the former Portuguese island of Diu from where you can choose to visit the Gir National Park with its diverse wildlife. All this will be achieved with great ease aboard the MS Island Sky, an ideal vessel for serious exploration. With just 100 or so like-minded souls we are able to explore in a way that is impossible from aboard a large cruise vessel. Joining you onboard will be guest speakers who will add much to your experience and knowledge of the region. The Itinerary Day 1 London / Manchester to Muscat. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Island Sky. Moor overnight. Day 2 Muscat, Oman. Muscat became the capital of Oman in 1793 and the focus of Oman s great seafaring empire of the 18th and 19th centuries. The sea has always been at the centre of Muscat s identity and the historic ports of Old Muscat and Mutrah constitute a major part of the city. Today you have the choice of excursions and can either spend the morning exploring the city including the Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souk and the fascinating Bait al Zubair Museum which is situated in a converted townhouse and exhibits Omani Heritage with photos and traditional handicrafts and furniture. We also pass the Sultans Palace Al Alam which is flanked by two 16th century Portuguese forts. Those choosing this option will return to the vessel for lunch and have the afternoon at leisure to relax onboard or explore independently. Alternatively you can join the full day excursion inland through fascinating scenery to see some of the most impressive forts in Oman. We will start in the Sultanate of Nizwa, Oman s ancient capital where we find the 17th century fort which has a unique 40 metre tall round tower. We will continue to Jabrin Castle built in 1675 as a centre of learning for astrology, medicine and Islamic Law before continuing to Bahla. Bahla is renowned for being one of the most comprehensive walled cities in the world and part of these battlements include the impressive 12th century fort. We will return to Muscat for dinner onboard before sailing at midnight. Day 3 At sea. Enjoy a day at sea to relax. Maybe join a lecture or enjoy time on deck as we sail along the coastline. Day 4 Sharjah, UAE. Sharjah is renowned for its elegant mosques and museums and tagged as the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates. During a morning excursion we will pass by the University of Sharjah before exploring the Museum of Islamic Civilisation. Here in a converted souk we will explore 1400 years of Islamic art and artefacts with ceramics, armour, woodwork and jewellery on display. Meanwhile the galleries display different aspects of the Five Pillars of Islam. We will return to the MS Island Sky via the Blue Souk. This afternoon is free to either relax onboard or return to Sharjah where you may wish to visit the Maritime or Archaeological Museums, the souks or walk in the Heritage Area with its historic buildings. Day 5 Sir Baniyas, UAE. This island was originally Sheikh Zayed s private retreat but his love of animals inspired him to turn it into a nature reserve and great conservation efforts have been made to bring many native species back from the

Arabian Oryx Spices, Old Souq Intricately Carved Gateways Musandam Peninsula brink of extinction.

Rarities include the Indian blackbuck and Arabian Oryx, one of the world s most endangered animals.

Our morning tour includes the Bahrain National Museum which houses archaeological finds from ancient Dilmun, the Al Fatih Mosque which is the largest in the country and able to hold 7000 worshippers

Return to the MS Island Sky for lunch and this afternoon is at leisure to explore independently.

Once a busy pearl fishing village, Doha is now one of the most important oil and petroleum trade centres in the region.

We will see the Museum of Islamic Art which holds the largest collection of Islamic Art in the world plus textiles, enamel works and glass before continuing to the atmospheric Souq Waqif.

3 Arabian Oryx Spices, Old Souq Intricately Carved Gateways Musandam Peninsula brink of extinction. Today 60% of the island is protected and home to 25 indigenous and introduced species such as gazelles, Barbary sheep, ostriches and cheetahs. Rarities include the Indian blackbuck and Arabian Oryx, one of the world s most endangered animals. We will have the morning to explore before returning to the ship for lunch and an afternoon cruising. Day 6 Manama, Bahrain. We have a day to explore Bahrain Island. Our morning tour includes the Bahrain National Museum which houses archaeological finds from ancient Dilmun, the Al Fatih Mosque which is the largest in the country and able to hold 7000 worshippers and if time permits Bahrain Fort which was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese as part of their defences along the Gulf. Return to the MS Island Sky for lunch and this afternoon is at leisure to explore independently. Maybe visit the Beit Al-Quran with its collection of Qurans, manuscripts and woodcarvings or shop for locally sourced pearls. Day 7 Doha, Qatar. Today we will explore the capital city of Qatar. Once a busy pearl fishing village, Doha is now one of the most important oil and petroleum trade centres in the region. On a morning tour we will discover how this rapidly changing city is successfully blending the old with the new. We will see the Museum of Islamic Art which holds the largest collection of Islamic Art in the world plus textiles, enamel works and glass before continuing to the atmospheric Souq Waqif. A souq has been on the site for centuries but after falling into disrepair was redeveloped to resemble a 19th century Souq and continues to be the place to buy local handicrafts, spices and perfumes. After lunch onboard there will be some free time to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the Falcon Souq or Doha Fort. Day 8 Abu Dhabi, UAE. Arrive this morning in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Choose from a morning tour where we will discover the remarkable Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. With 80 marble domes held aloft with 1000 pillars and punctuated by four 107 metre high minarets, this snow white mosque is an impressive site. We continue to the Equestrian Club, the first breeding centre for pure Arabian horses and home to the stable of the royal family. Return to the vessel for lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to explore further. Alternatively join a full day excursion to the Oasis city of Al Ain. The birthplace of Sheikh Zayed has markets, forts, museums and a famous date palm oasis. We will see the Al Ain Palace Museum which was Sheikh Zayed s residence from 1937 to 1966, explore the courtyards and see the rooms where he received guests. Also see the archaeological park, the ancient irrigation systems and walk in the water green oasis. We end at the chaotic camel market an immersion into traditional Arabic culture before returning to the MS Island Sky. Dubai Creek Day 9 Dubai, UAE. Today we arrive in bustling modern Dubai. However on a morning tour we will explore the historical districts with time in the Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood where we walk the labyrinthine lanes teeming with century old buildings built by textile and pearl merchants. Today the area is a haven for artists with small galleries and shops. We will then travel by local abra water taxi across the creek to Beira where we will explore the lanes of the spice and gold souqs selling everything from frankincense and chillies to all kinds of jewellery imaginable. After lunch onboard either choose to explore at your own pace, maybe visit Burj Khalifa or the Jumeirah Mosque. Alternatively join an optional journey into the Dubai desert. Using 4x4 vehicles we will drive across the dunes before enjoying the sunset and a bedouin style barbeque. Day 10 Musandam Peninsula, Oman. Awake this morning in Khasab, our base for our day in the beautiful Musandam Peninsula, often referred to as the Norway of Arabia. This is without doubt the most dramatic of all mountainous locations in the Gulf and a difficult region to visit other than by sea. Here, Bedouin boatmen will take us upon their dhow to explore the spectacular fjord like landscapes. We hope to see cormorants and terns that inhabit the cliffs and if we are lucky, dolphins will accompany us on the journey. Day 11 Khor Fakkan, UAE. We will drive north from the port of Khor Fakkan to see the Al Badiya Mosque. This modest structure dates back to 1446 and is believed to be the oldest mosque in the UAE. We will continue to Fujairah, the largest town on the east coast and a business and commercial hub. We will visit the museum containing archaeological finds from Bidya, Bithnah and Qidfa including vessels and arrowheads proving life has been here for over 3500 years. Meanwhile the 16th century fort is draped on a rocky outcrop overlooking Fujairah s old village. After an opportunity to explore the local fruit, fish and vegetable market we will return to the vessel for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at sea. Day 12 Sur, Oman. The port of Sur has been on seafarers maps for centuries, as both an important port and historic shipbuilding centre. Dhows built here traded and plundered the East African coastline and islands of the Indian

Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Burj Khalifa, Dubai Asiatic Lion, Gir N.P.

Today, it is a quiet and picturesque town with a charming shoreline and a peaceful air. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with hilltop watchtowers and a lagoon that stretches far inland.

Our tour will take us to a dhow yard where vessels are still made without a plan or blueprint, along the corniche and across the mouth of the lagoon to Al-Aija, a pretty village of low, whitewashed

4 Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Burj Khalifa, Dubai Asiatic Lion, Gir N.P. For those looking for something a little different, this trip offers a wonderful opportunity to explore an area which has been thankfully mostly neglected by the tourism world. Ocean. Today, it is a quiet and picturesque town with a charming shoreline and a peaceful air. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with hilltop watchtowers and a lagoon that stretches far inland. Small boat building yards dot the beach, and all along the coast fishermen land their catches of swordfish and tuna. Our tour will take us to a dhow yard where vessels are still made without a plan or blueprint, along the corniche and across the mouth of the lagoon to Al-Aija, a pretty village of low, whitewashed houses and ornate merchants houses. Day 13 At sea. A day at sea as we cross the Arabian Sea to the Indian coast. Attend a lecture or two in the lounge or relax on deck. Day 14 Okha, India. After a morning cruising we arrive in the Gujurati port of Okha at lunchtime. Once we have cleared immigration formalities we will sail into the 42 islands that comprise the Marine National Park, created in 1982 and the first of its kind in India. This wetland reserve is unique as half of the water is fresh and half saline and consequently it harbours a staggering variety of wildlife. Huge numbers of flamingos, pelicans and cranes winter here whilst the mangroves are breeding grounds for painted storks and kingfishers. Meanwhile in the water we will find corals reefs, (which due to the tides can be viewed without diving), giant crabs, turtles and Gangetic dolphins. Day 15 Mandvi. Overnight we sail the short distance across the Gulf of Kutch to Mandvi. Mandvi was once the major port of Gujurat and has a strong tradition of traditional ship building. From our anchorage we will go ashore and explore the many shipbuilding yards along the Rukmavati River where wooden ships are still built by hand. We will see the cratfsmen at work before continuing to the Vijay Vilas Palace, built in 1929 by the Maharao of Kutch as a summer retreat. We will have time to admire the architecture and views from the balconies over the surrounding area. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at sea. Day 16 Diu. Our final call in Gujurat is the former Portuguese island colony of Diu, the first landing point of the Parsis who fled from Persia. We have a choice of excursions today. The more active may choose to join the tour to Gir National Park, home to around 350 Asiatic Lions, the last remaining in India and also 200 panthers and leopards. With low hills and deciduous forests interspersed with areas of grassland, the national park also supports wild boar, chital, nilgai and four horned antelopes. We will spend the day on safari before returning to the vessel in the afternoon. Alternatively spend the day in Diu and enjoy a morning exploring the Portuguese fort, the three churches and the museum. We will have time to wander the maze of narrow winding streets ending at the small bazaar. After lunch onboard, perhaps enjoy some time on one of the local beaches or relax onboard. Day 17 Mumbai to London / Manchester. Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London or Manchester. Arrive this evening. Prices per person Based on double occupancy LAUNCH OFFER SAVE 500 PER PERSON Deck Suite Category Brochure Price Launch Price Magellan Standard Forwad Magellan Standard Columbus Superior Marco Polo Premium Marco Polo Corner Erikson Deluxe Balcony Explorer Owner s Balcony Magellan Standard for sole use Columbus Superior for sole use Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 16 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis with house wine and beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner onboard, onboard team including guest speaker, shore excursions, gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel Insurance, visas, optional excursions. NB. Ports subject to change. Weather conditions may affect itinerary. Please note that on days 14 to 16 the vessel will be at anchor and we will therefore use local boats or Zodiacs to go ashore. +44 (0)

public areas and spacious outside decks. The vessel was built in 1992 and underwent significant refurbishments in both 2010 and 2013.

5 MS Island Sky Our much loved MS Island Sky is one of our two flaghips and one of the finest small ships in the world. With a maximum passenger capacity of only 114, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks. The vessel was built in 1992 and underwent significant refurbishments in both 2010 and Corner Suite Your Cabin/Suite Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views with suites on the Erikson and Explorer decks featuring private balconies. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD/ CD player and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted Molton Brown toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be. Your Space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge on the Columbus Deck featuring a selection of seating options from individual armchairs and sofas to side cushioned benches. Daily briefings given by the Cruise Director and talks from Guest Speakers take place in the lounge which is fitted with the highest standard of presentation equipment including multiple screens. In addition to the main Lounge on the Columbus Deck, there is also The Club, located on the Marco Polo Deck which features the main bar where the onboard pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The Club also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. Towards the aft of the ship on the Marco Polo Deck is the Library. Well stocked with reference books pertaining to the destinations the vessel is visiting and a selection of essential reads, you will not find yourself short of excellent literature onboard. A selection of games and two computers complete with internet access can also be found in the Library. The main dining room which can seat all guests at one sitting is located on the Magellan Deck and outside there is a rear Lido Deck located on the Erikson Deck, complete with deck tables and chairs where meals are served in warm weather under shade. Further to this on the top Explorer Deck there is an observation area complete with sun loungers ideal for sun bathing, relaxing with a book or catching up with fellow travellers. There is also a small hairdressers onboard with appointments made on request. Your Dining With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine onboard the MS Island Sky is of a consistent superior quality that befits such vessels. Where possible and when it meets their high standards, our accomplished chefs will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and enable the chefs onboard to exhibit their exotic culinary skills and bring a local touch to the varied menus, emphasising the international expertise of the chefs onboard. Afternoon tea and pre-dinner canapes take place every day in

Coffee Station Staff Cabin Staff Cabin Lounge Restaurant Superior Suite Superior Suite either the comfort of the Lounge or out on the Lido Deck when the weather is favourable.

Whether that be joining a table of four to six other like minded passengers outside on the Lido Deck in the evening sunshine or whether you prefer to enjoy meals in the à la carte restaurant.

Lunch and dinner are an à la carte five course affair, with the menu reflecting the daily catch or local delicacies.

You can select a ship carrying in excess of 3000 passengers with impersonal service or join us aboard the MS Island Sky where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the

Instead, onboard the MS Island Sky, the atmosphere is warm and convivial and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which you can learn more about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient

6 Coffee Station Staff Cabin Staff Cabin Lounge Restaurant Superior Suite Superior Suite either the comfort of the Lounge or out on the Lido Deck when the weather is favourable. In keeping with the informal atmosphere onboard, when dining you are able to choose your seating arrangements at your leisure. Whether that be joining a table of four to six other like minded passengers outside on the Lido Deck in the evening sunshine or whether you prefer to enjoy meals in the à la carte restaurant. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order on request. Lunch and dinner are an à la carte five course affair, with the menu reflecting the daily catch or local delicacies. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with both meals. Life Onboard When choosing your next voyage the choice of vessels is astounding. You can select a ship carrying in excess of 3000 passengers with impersonal service or join us aboard the MS Island Sky where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. Instead, onboard the MS Island Sky, the atmosphere is warm and convivial and more akin to a private yacht or country hotel in which you can learn more about the wonders of nature, culture and ancient civilisations in the company of like-minded people. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, Guest Speakers and informative port briefings from our Expedition Leader or Cruise Director and of course good food, all contribute to make any voyage aboard this wonderful vessel a memorable and joyful experience. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of an exceedingly comfortable ship. For your Comfort, Safety & Security The MS Island Sky is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilizers to minimise the ship s motion. During your voyage you will have the opportunity to visit the Captain and Officers on the Bridge to check the vessel s progress by charts and learn more about your journey. Onboard you will also find a clinic and doctor and a lift that serves all decks. Deck Plan Explorer Deck Erikson Deck Marco Polo Deck Library Columbus Deck Magellan Deck Lido Deck Restaurant The Club Lounge Buffet Galley (Forward) (For ward ) Standard Suite Suites s Superior Suite Suites s Pantry Public bathrooms Hair dresser & Beauty Center Hotel manager s office Cruise Cruise Director office Entrance Hall Reception Purser s Office Explorer Deck Erikson Deck Marco Polo Deck Columbus Deck Magellan Deck Owner s Balcony Suites Owner s Balcony Suites 602 Deluxe Balcony Suites Deluxe Balcony Suites Premium Suite s Deluxe Corner Balcony Suites s Owners Balcony Suite s Chief Engineer Officer Hospital (forward) Radio Chart room room Captain Bridge Doctor Officer s Quarters Open Deck Corner Suite Corner Suite Deluxe Balcony Suites Single Suites Corner Suites Owner s Balcony Suites 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) info@noble-caledonia.co.uk Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Nizwa Fort. NC_CC_003_050214_K

A cruise along the Arabian Peninsula aboard the MS Island Sky 18th to 30th November 2016

SPEC IA OFFE L Rsave up t o 1000 PER PERS ON a r a bi a n od y s se y A cruise along the Arabian Peninsula aboard the MS Island Sky 18th to 30th November 2016 Grand Mosque of Muscat, Oman Come with us