Discover the beauty and history of the Arabian Gulf with a seven-nights voyage on board Royal Caribbean’s 'Vision of the Seas', which will depart from Dubai this December and sail to Khasab, Muscat and Abu Dhabi in several cruises until the end of March 2017.
 
Enjoy a safari experience on the golden sands trying Henna painting, shisha and Arabic dance under Dubai’s clear starry sky, or experience a change of pace from the modern metropolis in Khasab, where traditional boats bob sleepily and the hubbub from local souks washes across the water. Venture out to sea on a traditional dhow to meet pods of playful dolphins with unique views of the land.

Passengers may also journey inland to bask in the shade of the city’s palm groves, before discovering local history at the famous forts and castles. In ‘The Walled City’, Muscat, find a heady mixture of Arabian antiquity and 21st century thinking, from incense-laced souks and the Old Town, to the city’s cultural treasures such as the opulent Royal Opera House, Sultan’s Palace and Grand Mosque.

Before returning to Dubai the ship will stop in Abu Dhabi where the guests will be impressed with lavish sights such as Emirates Palace, and the awesome Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – the largest in the UAE. The equally enthralling Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, where a little slice of desert life from days-gone-by lives on, is another taste of the emirate that shouldn’t be missed.

The adventure, doesn’t stop there, as the ship offers many features to keep passengers amused - they can try their hand rock climbing, stay fit with the upper-deck jogging track, and have some fun in the video-game arcade.

For those that prefer a holiday that’s a little less adrenaline filled, rest assured that “Vision of the Seas” offers relaxation in droves, too. Sit back and soak up the sunshine at one of two pools or inside the adults-only solarium with serene whirlpools. Get pampered at the advanced Vitality Spa with its fitness centre and extensive treatment rooms – the largest collection at sea. Or just sit back and relax at the Concierge Club or the Diamond Lounge.

Take a stroll around the duty-free shopping area stopping in one of the many dining rooms with complimentary multi-course dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner – not to mention plenty of cafes and frozen treats. The ultimate dining experience doesn’t end there, with many signature restaurants such as Royal Caribbean's steakhouse, Chops Grille, Izumi Asian-fusion cuisine with a la carte sushi selections, and Giovanni's Table Italian restaurant.

Children are treated to amazing experiences during the day, with the renowned Adventure Ocean Youth Program, Royal Babies and Royal Tots that offers little ones, aged three to 11 an entertaining line-up of activities and games throughout the duration of their stay.

As the sun sets, the ship comes alive, and the Entertainment Place is the beating heart of the ship after dark.  Setting the stage for entertainment ensembles, “Vision of the Sea”s pulls back the curtain on Broadway’s hit musical “Grease” in the spectacular Royal Theatre.

Following a day of exploring the Arabian Gulf, its exotic cuisine and interesting cultures, there is nothing better than returning to the comfort of a private stateroom. “Vision of the Seas” features 1,024 beautifully appointed staterooms that offer luxurious and comfortable accommodation, many with spectacular sea views, in four main categories that suit every taste.

Sailing dates from Dubai:

December: 12 - 19, 19 - 26, 26 - January 2 .
January: 2 -  9, 9 -16, 16 - 23, 23 -30, 30 – February 6.
February: 6 - 13, 13- 20, 20- 27, 27- March 6.
March: 6 - 13, 13 - 20, 20 - 27, 27- April 3. - TradeArabia News Service