Doha: Hundreds of tourists disembarked at Doha Port, arriving on three regional cruise ships to explore the Gulf throughout the week.
They received a warm welcome with Arabic coffee, a traditional Ardha performance, and photo opportunities with a falcon. They also participated in organised tours of key landmarks before returning to their ships. The ships included the Seabourn Sojourn, on its maiden voyage to Qatar, the MS Island Sky, the first to dock in Qatar as part of Cruise Arabia Alliance, and the MS Europe 2.
“We are excited to be calling in the dynamic city of Doha for the first time,” said John Delaney, Senior Vice-President, Global Marketing and Sales, Seabourn. “It is a world-class destination with a wonderful blend of historic and cultural sites combined with a beautiful, modern landscape.” Qatar has ramped up efforts to expand its cruise tourism sector. Next month, Qatar Tourism Authority hosts the Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum, where cruise line executives, government representatives and industry stakeholders from the ports, tourism, immigration and security departments will discuss the future of cruising in the Gulf.
The Peninsula
