In the Wake of the Dhows - A Passage from Mumbai to Doha

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16 days from

£9995.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • Mumbai Discovery: Explore the vibrant city of Mumbai, a melting pot of cultures and history. Visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Mahatma Gandhi's former residence, and the unique open-air Indian laundry at Dhobi Ghat.
  • Gujarat's Coastal Charms: Explore the former Portuguese colony of Diu with its tranquil streets and coastal fort. Then, visit Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, or embark on a birdwatching adventure at Gosabara Wetlands Bird Sanctuary.
  • Omani Odyssey: Discover the rich maritime history of Sur, visit a traditional dhow yard, explore the Wahiba Sands desert with its impressive sand dunes, and experience the cultural heritage of Muscat, including the Grand Mosque and the Bait al Zubair Museum.
  • Musandam Peninsula Adventure: Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the Musandam Peninsula, often referred to as the 'Norway of Arabia,' and explore isolated villages in this breathtaking region. Enjoy the picturesque fjords and nature at its most stunning.

Highlights

  • Mumbai Discovery: Explore the vibrant city of Mumbai, a melting pot of cultures and history. Visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Mahatma Gandhi's former residence, and the unique open-air Indian laundry at Dhobi Ghat.
  • Gujarat's Coastal Charms: Explore the former Portuguese colony of Diu with its tranquil streets and coastal fort. Then, visit Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, or embark on a birdwatching adventure at Gosabara Wetlands Bird Sanctuary.
  • Omani Odyssey: Discover the rich maritime history of Sur, visit a traditional dhow yard, explore the Wahiba Sands desert with its impressive sand dunes, and experience the cultural heritage of Muscat, including the Grand Mosque and the Bait al Zubair Museum.
  • Musandam Peninsula Adventure: Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the Musandam Peninsula, often referred to as the 'Norway of Arabia,' and explore isolated villages in this breathtaking region. Enjoy the picturesque fjords and nature at its most stunning.
Capacity: 114, Type: Luxury Small Ship Cruise

For those looking for something a little different, our voyage from Mumbai to Doha offers a wonderful opportunity to escape to warmer climes and explore in some depth a region which has fascinated travellers for centuries and some places that have thankfully been mostly neglected by the tourism world.

Our journey begins with an overnight stay in the vibrant city of Mumbai followed by time exploring some fascinating places in the state of Gujarat, places which are off the well-trodden tourist path and difficult to explore independently including Porbandar from where you can choose to visit the Gir National Park with its diverse wildlife and the former Portuguese island of Diu. Leaving India, we spend two relaxing days at sea as we head for the Arabian Gulf, our journey mirroring countless past voyages of Arab dhows that have sailed between all points of India and Arabia, trading spices, materials and all manner of luxurious and exotic goods.

Experiences during our voyage are many and varied and we will explore impressive forts, grand palaces, bustling bazaars, remote villages and desert landscapes combined with the modern metropolises of Dubai and Doha. All this will be achieved with great ease aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, an ideal vessel for serious exploration. With just over 100 or so like-minded travellers we are able to explore in a way that is impossible from aboard a large cruise vessel.

  • Mumbai Discovery: Explore the vibrant city of Mumbai, a melting pot of cultures and history. Visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Mahatma Gandhi's former residence, and the unique open-air Indian laundry at Dhobi Ghat.
  • Gujarat's Coastal Charms: Explore the former Portuguese colony of Diu with its tranquil streets and coastal fort. Then, visit Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, or embark on a birdwatching adventure at Gosabara Wetlands Bird Sanctuary.
  • Omani Odyssey: Discover the rich maritime history of Sur, visit a traditional dhow yard, explore the Wahiba Sands desert with its impressive sand dunes, and experience the cultural heritage of Muscat, including the Grand Mosque and the Bait al Zubair Museum.
  • Musandam Peninsula Adventure: Cruise through the dramatic landscapes of the Musandam Peninsula, often referred to as the 'Norway of Arabia,' and explore isolated villages in this breathtaking region. Enjoy the picturesque fjords and nature at its most stunning.
01 March, 2025 to 16 March, 2025 on Hebridean Sky
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite
£ 13795 GBP pp
 Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Mawson Deck Corner Suite
£ 10995 GBP pp
 Mawson Deck Corner Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
£ 12295 GBP pp
 Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
£ 9995 GBP pp
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
£ 12795 GBP pp
 Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Sole
£ 10395 GBP pp
 Byrd Deck Superior Sole
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Suite
£ 10395 GBP pp
 Byrd Deck Superior Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
£ 9995 GBP pp
 Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Mawson Deck Premium Suite
£ 10595 GBP pp
 Mawson Deck Premium Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 London to Mumbai, India.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Mumbai.
Arrive and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is free to relax before we meet for dinner.
Day 3 Mumbai.
Mumbai is a cluster of seven islands which were first home to the ‘Koli’ fisherman who still occupy parts of the city shoreline today. First ceded to Portuguese, the British Government took possession of the islands in 1665 before leasing them to the English East India Company who founded the port and saw the city grow in size and importance. This morning we explore the city and see the prominent landmarks visiting the Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi and Dhobi Ghat where we can observe the vast open air Indian laundry. After lunch we transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky and sail this evening.
Day 4 Diu.
Arrive this morning in Gujarat and the former Portuguese island colony of Diu which was the first landing point of the Parsis who fled from Persia. The island was an important trading post from the 14th to 16th centuries when the Ottoman Turks controlled the shipping routes in the Arabian Sea and before being ceded to the Portuguese. Diu was a Portuguese colony from 1531 to 1961 and is now part of the Union Territories. The relaxed atmosphere and tranquil streets reflect its colonial history and contrasts with other Indian towns. Enjoy a morning exploring the impressive coastal Portuguese fort, the Baroque church of St Paul and the colourful morning market. After lunch on board maybe return out to one of the local beaches or wander the quiet streets of Diu old town. Alternatively, for those wishing to visit Gir National Park, an optional overnight excursion will depart from the vessel today.
Day 5 Porbandar.
Continuing our exploration of Gujarat we arrive in Porbandar which was a thriving port during the Mughal period before being taken by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Today it is better known as the birthplace of Mahatma Ghandi in 1869. On a morning tour we will discover Kirti Mandir, the family house where Ghandi was born and enjoy a tuk-tuk ride to visit the Hindu temple dedicated to Sudama, a friend of Lord Krishna. Alternatively, the keen birders can enjoy time at the Gosabara Wetlands Bird Sanctuary on the city’s outskirts which offers a breathtaking view of large flocks of flamingos, Dalmatian and demoiselle pelicans, cranes, pintails and various other duck varieties. Gosabara has recorded 225 different varieties of birds, a large number of them migrating during the winter months and attracted to the flooded marshlands in the region.
Days 6 & 7 At Sea.
Spend a leisurely two days at sea.
Day 8 Sur & Wahiba Sands, 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 Ocean. Today, it is a quiet and picturesque town with a peaceful air. Our tour will take us to a dhow yard where vessels are still made without a plan or blueprint as well as the fish market and the impressive restored Sineslah Fort where you can enjoy views over the town and coastline. The afternoon is free to explore further at your own pace or join a 4x4 jeep tour to the Wahiba Sands desert where we can view the impressive sand dunes.
Day 9 Muscat.
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. A morning city tour of Muscat will include the imposing Grand Mosque and the fascinating Bait al Zubair Museum situated in a converted townhouse which exhibits Omani Heritage with photos and traditional handicrafts and furniture. We also pass the Sultan’s Palace ‘Al Alam’. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure, perhaps stroll along the corniche or visit the Mutrah Souk.
Day 10 Nizwa.
Today on a full day excursion we will drive inland through fascinating scenery to see one of the most impressive forts in Oman starting at 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. After exploring one of the oldest souqs in the country we will take lunch in a nearby restaurant before we return to Muscat and sail this evening.
Days 11 Kumzar.
Spend the morning cruising to the isolated village of Kumzar located in the far north of Oman and only accessible by boat. This region of Oman is so isolated that the inhabitants speak their own language, ‘Kumzari’ which has influences of Arabic, Farsi, English, Hindi and Portuguese. Take the chance to swim from the beach or take a walk in the village and meet the locals. Sail over dinner to Khasab where we moor overnight.
Day 12 Musandam Peninsula.
From our berth in Khasab, we discover 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 arid, fjord-like landscapes. We hope to see cormorants and terns whilst if we are lucky dolphins may accompany us on the journey. We will visit Telegraph Island, where the British laid the first cable in the region in 1864 before anchoring off Seebi Island.
Day 13 Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Arriving into the ultramodern city of Dubai we will visit the historical districts spending time in the Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood where we walk the labyrinthine lanes lined 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 take a local abra water taxi across the creek to Beira where we will explore the lanes of the spice and gold souqs. The afternoon is free to explore further.
Day 14 Abu Dhabi & Al Ain.
Arriving into Abu Dhabi we have a choice of excursions today. A morning city tour will drive along the waterfront promenade before we arrive at the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one the largest in the world, with capacity to accommodate an astonishing 30,000 worshippers. Afterwards continue to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and walk through twelve galleries curated masterfully in partnership with the Louvre in Paris. Returning to the ship for lunch, the afternoon will be at leisure to explore further independently. Alternatively take a full day excursion to the oasis city of Al Ain, the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed with its 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 discover 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.
Day 15 Doha, Qatar.
Arriving over breakfast we discover Doha, the capital of Qatar. After driving along the corniche, we visit the National Museum of Qatar, designed in the shape of a desert rose and dedicated to bringing alive the story of Qatar and its people. At the heart of the museum lies the Sheikh Abdulla Bin Jassem Palace. We will continue to the charming fishing village of Al Wakrah and the atmospheric Souq Wakrah where the traditional architecture, old clay structures, stables and mosque all tell a unique story about Qatar’s history and here we will enjoy some traditional Arabic sweets and freshly brewed tea at a seafront café. The afternoon and evening is at leisure.
Day 16 Doha to London.
Disembark and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. Arrive this afternoon.
Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Re…

Hebridean Sky

Length 90 metres
Built/refurbished 1992/2016

Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Representative. Hebridean Sky is the perfect blend of luxury and adventurous exploration. Is it a luxury ship? An adventure ship? It’s both! The vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016.

ONBOARD DINING

Great expeditions require great food! We are pleased to offer daily changing breakfast, lunch and dinner menus with an emphasis on providing well balanced and nutritional cuisine. Our team of international chefs has boat loads of creativity and you are sure to experience a variety of interesting dishes throughout your voyage. The restaurant is located on Deck 2 and our service team looks forward to providing a memorable dining experience.

IMPECCABLE SMALL-SHIP AMENITIES

Returning from excursions, passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a gracious space for relaxation, surrounded by panoramic windows. Other Sea Explorer features include:

  • Library with Internet access
  • Lounge with audiovisual facilities
  • Dining room
  • Wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi
  • Exercise room
  • Medical facilities with available doctor
  • Elevator serving all passenger decks
  • Swimming/zodiac platform
All Voyages Include:

Up to Two Pre-Voyage Hotel Nights
Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner
Certified Emergency MD and Clinic
World Class Cuisine
Live Entertainment
Complimentary Coffee/Tea station
Voyage Photographer
Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
Complimentary Expedition Jacket

Please note deck plan may vary.

Cabin layout for Hebridean Sky
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship

16 days from £9995.0

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