When your port of call is the Arabian Gulf country of Qatar’s major port city, Doha, shore excursions will wow you with the variety of experiences offered. From your cruise to Doha, you can choose from an extraordinary day at an island beach, a desert adventure of a lifetime, or the opportunity to tour a museum dedicated to Islamic art, designed by the iconic architect I.M. Pei.
Capture the spirit and culture of Qatar on Doha shore excursions that take you to shop, dine, and people-watch at the Souq Waqif, a traditional marketplace. Wander through the passageways, alone or with a guide, and find everything from daily necessities to diamonds. The souq, or “standing market” in Doha, has been a tradition for centuries, dating back to the time when nomadic Bedouin tribes came to trade wool and animals. At bazaar stands and tiny shops, bargain for souvenirs, exotic spices, and perfume, then enjoy the scene at a table in one of the many cafes and restaurants. To continue this culturally rich experience, travel to the oldest area of Doha, the Msheireb, to visit the four heritage houses that make up the Msheireb Museum.
On a one-of-a-kind Doha cruise excursion, you’ll experience the thrill of coasting over high and wide sand dunes in the Qatari desert in a luxury 4x4 vehicle. The ride becomes even more enchanting as the Khor Al Adaid comes into view. This inland sea area, which can only be reached by travel through the desert, is a UNESCO-recognized reserve that forms a natural border with Saudi Arabia. Your desert excursion continues as you reach a luxurious Bedouin tent camp to pause for refreshments.
To swim in the sparkling blue waters of the West Bay, book Doha shore excursions that will have you hopping aboard a dhow (traditional wooden boat) bound for Al Safliya Island. View the Doha skyline as you bask in Bedouin hospitality and motor through Dhow Harbor to the island. Bring your own equipment for snorkeling, or swim, sunbathe, and simply relish the day. On the return trip to Doha, you can shower and change, then enjoy soft drinks and snacks.
Spend time wandering through the amazing collection of Islamic art and objects at the Museum of Islamic Art that’s just as spectacular from the outside as it is in the inside. The building’s limestone exterior captures hourly changes in light and shade, and the interior houses art, textiles, ceramics, glasswork, and much more, covering a 1,400-year period of Islamic culture.
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