Middle East Cruises in focus

There are three major cruise lines that have decided to base ships in the Gulf this winter. Costa Cruises and Royal Caribbean International already had ships in the region, and now MSC Cruises will be home-porting the Lirica in Abu Dhabi and Dubai , offering fly-cruises on an alternating seven night itinerary. The winter programme starts on Sunday 30th October, through to 4th March 2012, alternating with cruises from Dubai with Friday departures starting on 28th October. Ports of call include:

Muscat in Oman – a famous seaport since the time of the Roman empire

Bahrain – renowned for pearls, pottery and the International Motor Racing Circuit

Al Fujairah – an historic old town, a prehistoric oasis and so me glorious beaches

Dubai – shopping, dhow trips, desert dunes or the natural spa of Hatta

Abu Dhabi –Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Emirates Palace and so me of the best shopping in the world.

MSC Lirica carries 2,069 passengers in 780 cabins and is Italian in styling and cuisine. The 713 seater Broadway theatre produces so phisticated shows and there are four restaurants to choose from. British guests needn’t feel left out: the Lord Nel so n Pub aims to offer an atmosphere that will feel familiar and fun.