Discover Qatar, the destination management subsidiary of Qatar Airways has launched its first expedition cruise series — Whale Sharks of Qatar, which will offer well-travelled individuals the opportunity to observe the largest gathering of whale sharks in Al Shaheen marine zone within the Arabian Gulf, which lies 80 km off the northern coast of Qatar.
In addition to observing the whale sharks, guests can snorkel amidst coral reefs, explore mangroves and glide through the turquoise waters of Khor Al Adaid channel. A team of expert guides, marine biologists, naturalists, and ornithologists will be present onboard to lead guests.
Discover Qatar offers an eight-night, nine-day expedition cruise package onboard a luxury expedition ship on a full-board basis. Elegant accommodation, sight-seeing, and exploration adventures form a part of this experience.
Customers can also extend their travel to a ten-night, 11-day package, including three nights stay in Doha, visit key attractions, and indulge in a delightful culinary sojourn.
Qatar Airways Group chief executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said:
“Qatar is a unique setting for expedition cruises and I am hugely excited to launch our first product in this area to show off our country’s beauty to the world.
“Qatar, with its abundance of rugged, untouched nature, surrounded by crystal waters and a unique biodiverse ecosystem, offers exciting adventures that allow visitors to connect with nature and visit areas of Qatar that are only accessible by the sea.
“Also, our guests will have the unparalleled opportunity to observe the biggest gathering of the world’s largest fish – the whale sharks.”
Discover Qatar has partnered with PONANT, a leading luxury expedition cruising label, to offer this cruise series. Guests will travel onboard ‘Le Champlain’, one of PONANT’s new explorer-class cruise ships.
This ship features 92 luxurious staterooms and suites equipped with high-end amenities, a 24-hour butler service, two restaurants, and a spa. An infinity pool and a multi-sensory futuristic underwater lounge with large observation windows below the waterline are some other highlights. A hydraulic platform will ease disembarking and embarking when guests participate in expeditions.
Cruise season will start in April 2021 and will run seven consecutive weekly departures. Prices start from US$ 5,295/₹390,668 per person.
