Qatar Cruises

Qatar, a small yet captivating nation on the Arabian Peninsula, is celebrated for its stunning skyline, rich history, and vibrant culture. The capital city, Doha, boasts a blend of modern architecture and traditional souqs, captivating visitors with its charm. With breathtaking views along the waterfront, fascinating museums, and cultural heritage sites, a cruise to Qatar offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this Middle Eastern gem. Fun fact: Qatar is host to the world’s first and only 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab! A cruise allows you to explore not only the flourishing capital but also stunning landscapes and sites across the entire region.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Qatar

• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 7 offering itineraries that include Qatar. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seascape are popular choices, known for their lively atmosphere, family-friendly amenities, and superior entertainment options. The MSC Virtuosa features an extensive array of dining venues, ensuring a culinary adventure at sea. Departures are most frequent from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing great access for cruisers eager to explore Qatar’s captivating beauty.
• Princess Cruises boasts a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 focusing on itineraries that include Qatar. The Enchanted Princess and Grand Princess are particularly noted for their luxurious offerings and a wide range of onboard activities. Both ships provide unique dining experiences and immersive entertainment options, such as themed nights. These cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, making it convenient for guests to step into a culturally enriching journey.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises features a fleet size of 29, with 4 that travel to Qatar. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas offer exhilarating activities such as surf simulators and rock climbing walls while still maintaining a family-friendly environment. These ships provide a diverse selection of entertainment and culinary options. Departures most commonly occur from San Juan or Miami, allowing for smooth embarkation into the spice-filled atmosphere of Qatar.
• Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 ships that focus on itineraries including Qatar. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam are notable for their cultural enrichment programs and culinary excellence. Guests can immerse themselves in cooking classes and wine tasting during their cruise. Departures typically take place from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, ensuring accessible routes to discover the wonders of Qatar.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 3 offering itineraries that feature Qatar. The Britannia and Arvia offer a relaxed cruising atmosphere and engaging onboard experiences that include live music and themed dinners. Departures commonly happen from Southampton or Barbados, providing a wonderful starting point for an unforgettable exploration of Qatar and the surrounding regions.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for Qatar

• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, with both offering itineraries that include Qatar. The EXPLORA I and II are celebrated for their luxurious experience, focus on wellness, and fine dining options that reflect local flavours. Departures typically occur from Miami or San Juan, ensuring a smooth and elegant transition into your enriching trip to the region.
• Oceania Cruises consists of 8 ships, with 6 that visit Qatar. The Nautica and Riviera are particularly known for their culinary excellence and sophisticated onboard atmosphere. These ships provide a refined cruising experience, allowing guests to savour local and international cuisines. Departures commonly take place from Miami or Rome, facilitating a lovely entry into your adventure.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on the extraordinary experience of visiting Qatar. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are designed for immersive local experiences, offering late-night port stays that allow you to explore the nightlife. Departures typically occur from Miami or Barbados, seamlessly connecting you with the beauty of the region.
• Seabourn has a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 focusing on itineraries to Qatar. The Seabourn Ovation is known for its impeccable service and all-inclusive luxury offerings, ensuring guests have every comfort catered to while aboard. Departures most frequently happen from Barcelona or Cairo, which provides an elegant start to your journey through this unique destination.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 that offer itineraries featuring Qatar. The Balmoral and Bolette are loved for their warm hospitality and personalized cruising experience. Departures typically take place from Southampton or Liverpool, making it easy for UK travelers to connect with a delightful journey in the Middle East.

Top Harbours to Explore in Qatar

• Doha – The capital city is a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition, offering stunning architecture, luxury shopping, and rich cultural experiences. Visit the iconic Museum of Islamic Art, explore the bustling Souq Waqif for unique souvenirs, or take a leisurely stroll along the Doha Corniche for breathtaking views. Dining options abound, from traditional Qatari dishes to international cuisine.
• Al Wakrah – This charming coastal town features a traditional Qatari dhow harbour and a rich history that can be seen in its architecture. Explore the Al Wakrah Museum or relax at the beautiful beaches. The seaside promenade is perfect for strolling and offers a variety of restaurants where visitors can indulge in freshly caught seafood.
• Katara Cultural Village – A must-see for culture enthusiasts, Katara is an arts and cultural hub featuring theaters, galleries, and exhibition spaces. Wander through the beautifully designed spaces, and if you’re there during the evening, enjoy local performances and workshops. Be sure to try some delicious Arabic sweets at local cafés!
• The Pearl-Qatar – A luxurious man-made island, The Pearl-Qatar is known for its beautiful waterfront, charming boutiques, and vibrant dining scene. Explore the stunning marina area or enjoy a meal in one of the many international restaurants, featuring everything from Italian dining to upscale sushi bars.
• Umm Salal Mohammed – This area is rich in history, showcasing the traditional Qatari way of life. Explore the Al-Jeeri Fort, an impressive historical site, or take a short excursion to visit the nearby camel farms to learn about the island’s longstanding relationship with these incredible animals.

When to Cruise to Qatar

Qatar enjoys a desert climate, making it an attractive destination during certain seasons. From January to March, temperatures are mild and pleasant, averaging between 18°C and 25°C, perfect for exploring the region. Spring (April to June) can get warmer, with temperatures climbing to 25°C to 35°C, but offers extensive opportunities for local festivities. The summer months (July to September) can be extremely hot, averaging around 35°C, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. Autumn (October to December) brings milder temperatures around 20°C to 30°C, providing perfect conditions for sightseeing and enjoying the stunning beaches.

Costs of Cruising to Qatar

A typical one-week cruise to Qatar generally costs between £800 and £1,500, varying based on the cruise line and the accommodations chosen. Luxury cruises can start at around £3,000 with prices increasing for premium services. While in Qatar, you can expect to pay around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks typically range from £3 to £10, allowing you to experience local and international culinary delights throughout your stay.

With its stunning architecture, rich cultural experiences, and warm hospitality, Qatar is an enticing destination waiting to be explored. Now is a great time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an unforgettable journey through this captivating region!