Silversea Luxury Cruises À MUSCAT

While Muscat offers numerous cultural attractions, the rugged coastline and sparkling waters are equally appealing. During this water-oriented outing, spend approximately two hours looking for wild dolphins and other marine life, with an hour to snorkel.

Leaving the port, a 20-minute drive brings you to the Marina Bander Al Rowdha where the boat stands ready for boarding. Head out to sea in search of dolphins known to frequent this area. Watching their playful antics is a thrilling experience. If lucky, you may catch a glimpse one of the many species of whales that can be found a short distance from Muscat's rugged coast.

Next, cruise to Bander Khiran where the boat drops anchor at a spot known for its colourful coral beds inhabited by large varieties of exotic fish. From the boat, enjoy easy access into the water to swim and snorkel amidst this wonderful sea world.

Then, relax on the return cruise to the marina, where the coach is ready to take you back to Port Qaboos and the ship.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of activity if guests plan to snorkel; guests must be able to swim in water too deep to stand. The snorkelling activity is optional and guests not wishing to participate remain on the boat. A minimal amount of walking is required for approximately 273 yards (250 metres); however, all guests must be able to manoeuvre in and out of the boat. Swimming/snorkelling is done from the back of the boat. This tour operates in motorised boats, carrying 10-12 guests each. It does not include 'swimming with the dolphins' and sighting of dolphins or other marine life cannot be guaranteed. Beach attire is acceptable; wear your swimsuit under a cover-up. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a towel from the ship. Operation of the tour is dependent on favourable weather and sea conditions; it is not suitable for anyone prone to seasickness. Snorkelling equipment is provided, including fins.

Visit one of Muscat's most impressive sites, the Grand Mosque, and discover the beauty of the Omani countryside on this full-day outing to Nakhl Fort.

Depart from the port and head directly to the Grand Mosque for a visit to this splendid house of worship.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Construction on the mosque complex began in early 1995 and was completed six years later. Inauguration followed in May 2001 by His Majesty the Sultan. The invested patronage of Sultan Qaboos plus his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the largest mosque in Oman, able to accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. Then, proceed with the drive past the airport and along the Batinah Coast.

Barkha Fish Market

Arriving at the small town of Barkha, stop for a brief walk through the fish market to see an interesting display of the freshly caught fish and seafood. There is time if you wish to take a stroll along the beach or check out the local souq with its general purpose products.

Nakhl Fort

After about an hour's journey inland, during which you can enjoy views of the scenic and rugged countryside, arrive at Nakhl Fort. The Omani forts are the country's most striking cultural landmarks and Nakhl Fort is no exception. The 350-year-old fort is set in a gorge, surrounded by a mountain enclave. In 1990, careful restoration was carried out using traditional building materials and period furnishings. The fort's massive walls rise atop a 200-foot (61.5 metre) hill, with spectacular views of the surrounding area. It offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time and obtain a glimpse into life of a bygone era. The rooms and terraces are located on different levels requiring climbing stairs.

Leaving the fort, proceed to the nearby Nakhl Springs, a tranquil oasis surrounded by green vegetation and framed by the majestic Jebel Mountains. ollowing a short stop here. depart for the Al Nahda Resort (or similar) where a buffet lunch of international specialties is served.

Afterwards, commence the approximate 70-minute return journey to Muscat and Port Qaboos.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking, with a flight of stairs to climb at the Nakhl Fort. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. The visit to the mosque requires both ladies and gentlemen to have their legs and ankles totally covered and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses. Ladies also need to bring a scarf to cover their head. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the mosque; bring socks for comfort. Any food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited at the Grand Mosque. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, Fridays and daily in the afternoon. An outside stop will be substituted at these times. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for any purchases.

Explore Muscat at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Muscat at your leisure during your half-day (3-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Muscat at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited up to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Muscat at your leisure during your half-day (3-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited up to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Get a first-hand introduction to Oman's capital, an exciting mix of medieval, traditional and modern architecture that lends Muscat an ambiance all of its own.

Meet your guide on the pier, board the coach and drive directly to the Grand Mosque.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Construction on the mosque complex began in early 1995 and was completed six years later. Inauguration followed in May 2001 by His Majesty the Sultan. The invested patronage of Sultan Qaboos plus his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the largest mosque in Oman, able to accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The whole interior is panelled with off-white and dark grey marble. The ceilings are inspired by those of Omani forts and a Swarovski crystal chandelier with gold-plated metalwork hangs down for a length of 46 feet (14 metres). Your visit to this splendid house of worship will be an impressive experience. Please note mosque can only be viewed from the inside in the morning and on days other than Fridays/religious holidays.

Re-join the coach and continue to the Kargeen Café for refreshments.

Muttrah Souq

This colourful market, boasting scores of traditional shops, is one of the most frequented spots in Muscat. During a stroll through the narrow alleys, experience the unique atmosphere and see many authentic items, including frankincense, exotic perfumes, gold and silver jewellery, handicrafts in copper and camel bone, Omani designer products, and antiques (items over 50 years olds cannot be exported). A visit here is a mind-boggling experience.

Then, heading toward the old town, visit one of Muscat's most outstanding museums.

Bait Al Zubair

This museum contains one of Oman's finest and most comprehensive collections of artefacts from all over the Sultanate. Built in 1914 by Sheikh Al Zubair bin Ali, it was opened as a museum in 1998 by his son Mohammed Al Zubair as an integral part of the city's heritage. The museum is an important showcase for traditional Omani crafts and culture. Displays include antique jewellery, costumes, domestic utensils, Omani weaponry and recreated urban and rural environments.

Old Town & Al Alam Royal Palace

Following your visit to the museum, the guide leads you on a walk through the winding streets of the old town. The main attraction is the Al Alam Royal Palace. Nestled between the Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts, the palace's fairy-tale façade of gold and blue pillars make it one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. As the official estate of Oman's ruler, no inside visit is possible. However, seen from the gate the view of the exterior is quite impressive and you are welcomed to take photos.

At the end of your walk, re-join the coach for your way back to Port Qaboos and the ship.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 546 Yards (500 metres) in the old town and approximately 15 steps at the Grand Mosque, museum and souq. It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests with limited mobility may need the assistance of their travel partner. The visit to the mosque requires both ladies and gentlemen to have their legs and ankles totally covered and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses. Ladies also need to bring a scarf to cover their head. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the mosque; bring socks for comfort. Any food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited at the Grand Mosque. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, Fridays and daily in the afternoon. An outside stop will be substituted at these times. Photography is not permitted inside Bait Al Zubair Museum. The tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for any purchases.

Get a first-hand introduction to Oman's capital, an exciting mix of medieval, traditional and modern architecture that lends Muscat an ambiance all of its own.

Meet your guide on the pier, board the coach and drive directly to the Grand Mosque.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Construction on the mosque complex began in early 1995 and was completed six years later. Inauguration followed in May 2001 by His Majesty the Sultan. The invested patronage of Sultan Qaboos plus his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the largest mosque in Oman, able to accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The whole interior is panelled with off-white and dark grey marble. The ceilings are inspired by those of Omani forts and a Swarovski crystal chandelier with gold-plated metalwork hangs down for a length of 46 feet (14 metres). Your visit to this splendid house of worship will be an impressive experience. Please note mosque can only be viewed from the inside in the morning and on days other than Fridays/religious holidays.

Muttrah Souq

This colourful market, boasting scores of traditional shops, is one of the most frequented spots in Muscat. During a stroll through the narrow alleys, experience the unique atmosphere and see many authentic items, including frankincense, exotic perfumes, gold and silver jewellery, handicrafts in copper and camel bone, Omani designer products, and antiques (items over 50 years olds cannot be exported). A visit here is a mind-boggling experience.

Then, heading toward the old town, visit one of Muscat's most outstanding museums.

Bait Al Zubair Museum

This museum contains one of Oman's finest and most comprehensive collections of artefacts from all over the Sultanate. Built in 1914 by Sheikh Al Zubair bin Ali, it was opened as a museum in 1998 by his son Mohammed Al Zubair as an integral part of the city's heritage. The museum is an important showcase for traditional Omani crafts and culture. Displays include antique jewellery, costumes, domestic utensils, Omani weaponry and recreated urban and rural environments.

Al Alam Royal Palace

Following your visit to the museum, the guide leads you on a walk through the winding streets of the old town. The main attraction is the Al Alam Royal Palace. Nestled between the Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts, the palace's fairy-tale façade of gold and blue pillars make it one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. As the official estate of Oman's ruler, no inside visit is possible. However, seen from the gate the view of the exterior is quite impressive and you are welcomed to take photos.

Kargeen Restaurant

Arabic restaurant called "Kargeen" an old Omani word meaning 'little wooden cottage.' A place hitch takes you back in to living Omani Culture. Built with wood and wrought iron adding to the decor, the building has been decorated with bright rugs. Enjoy your Arabic meal to conclude your exotic experience of Middle Eastern delights.

At the end of your lunch, re-join the coach for your way to the airport.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 546 Yards (500 metres) in the old town and approximately 15 steps at the Grand Mosque, museum and souq. It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests with limited mobility may need the assistance of their travel partner. The visit to the mosque requires both ladies and gentlemen to have their legs and ankles totally covered and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses. Ladies also need to bring a scarf to cover their head. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the mosque; bring socks for comfort. Any food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited at the Grand Mosque. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, Fridays and daily in the afternoon. An outside stop will be substituted at these times. Photography is not permitted inside Bait Al Zubair Museum. Please note Kargeen restaurant does not serve alcohol. The tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for any purchases.

Experience the waters around Muscat as the ancient mariners did on this half-day cruise aboard a traditional dhow.

The sight of the graceful sail of the dhow is synonymous with being in an exotic and far away land. For thousands of years Omanis have plied a sea-trading thoroughfare on trusty Dhows, their travels stretching north to Mesopotamia, east to India, and southwest to Africa.

From the pier, a 20-minute drive brings you to the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and your awaiting dhow. The 'Lubna' provides interior and exterior seating. Indoors, overlooking the sea is an Arabic style saloon with stained glass windows and outside is 'majlis' or Arabic-style floor seating, all surrounded in traditional Omani ambience. The voyage is a carefully selected route along old Muscat, taking in scenes of Omani history from Portuguese architecture at the cornice to the modern wonders of the Al Alam Palace.

During the cruise, fresh dates, Omani coffee, and assorted soft drinks are offered. After the two-hour journey return to the marina where you are transferred back to the port to re-join the ship.

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (250 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 5-6 steps throughout the tour. Care must be taken on the narrow wooden stairs to board the dhow and when embarking/disembarking the boats; guests must be agile and have good balance to participate. This tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. While the coaches will be air-conditioned, there is no artificial cooling on the boats. The operation of this tour is subject to weather and sea conditions. Those who suffer from motion sickness should take precautions in advance. The dhow operates under power; sail may be utilised. There are facilities on board the dhow. We recommend you wear sun protection. Do not take photographs of individuals without their permission. Women in particular do not like being photographed. It is forbidden to take pictures of military facilities, borders and airports. Observe 'NO PHOTOGRAPHY' signs. Space is limited; we suggest you pre-reserve in advance to avoid any disappointment.