8/12/2019 Cruise Itinerary - From Petra to Oman - Autumn Cruises 2014

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7/7/2014 Cruise Itinerary - From Petra to Oman - Autumn Cruises 2014

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Embark Minerva in the Egyptian port of Sharm-El-Sheikh, renowned for its coral reefs, which you can

view from a glass-bottomed boat. From the Sinai Peninsula Minerva sails to the Jordanian port of

Aqaba. From here you can visit the

Nabataean capital city of rose-red Petra, once at the crossroads of trade between Arabia, Egypt and

Syria-Phoenicia. Walk down through the narrow Siq to admire the Treasury carved into the rock face,

and tomb and temple architecture from successive cultures up to the medieval period. Or enjoy an

exhilarating jeep drive through the desert landscape of Wadi Rum and thrill to landscapes that so

inspired Lawrence of Arabia.

As Minerva spends a leisurely three days cruising south in the Red Sea, relax on the Promenade Deck

with a good book and enjoy the winter sunshine. Listen to your Guest Speakers as they reveal more

about the sites to be visited in the days ahead and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers in

Minervas congenial bars and lounges. Arrive at the ancient Red Sea trading port of Massawa in

Eritrea, where tourism is very much in its infancy. Wander through the old town where the faded

elegance of the buildings harks back to more prosperous times. Arabic influence is revealed in the

towns coral buildings and decorative doorways, while the Red Sea Museum offers further insights into

the countrys recent struggle for independence.

After a day at sea, Minerva arrives in the littlevisited port of Djibouti. Explore this East African towns

lively blend of colonial French and Arab influences, visit the local camel market or take a full day

excursion out to see the salt flats at Lake Assal. This evening enjoy an exuberant display of local

dancing.

Spend two leisurely days at sea, perhaps attending one of our on board workshops, as Minerva sails to

Oman. Spend an afternoon exploring Salalah, once at the centre of the ancient frankincense trade and

known today as Arabias Perfume City. Visit the museum in the Salalah Cultural Centre and drive out

into the foothills to the small mosque known

as Jobs Tomb, an important pilgrimage site overlooking the coast. Alternatively, explore the remains of

the ancient port of city of Sumhuram, where archaeologists are working to uncover more about thealleged site of the palace of the Queen of Sheba.

As Minerva cruises the Arabian Sea, soak up the winter sunshine before arriving in Muscat, the capital

city of Oman and your final port of call. Enjoy a guided tour of the city, viewing the famous twin forts,

the Sultans Palace and the magnificent Grand Mosque or, on a boat safari, look out for the dolphins

that live and breed in Omani waters. Another option is to visit restored Nakhl fort, built to protect

trade routes from Nizwa to the coast.

Itineraries and timings may be subject to change.