If you have an inkling of an interest in the Arabian Gulf, then Vision of the Seas is your chance to discover the region’s beauty and history. Well, just in case I am losing you, Vision of the Seas is a cruise ship. Not just any ship but a Vision-Class cruise ship that belongs to Royal Caribbean.

Now that we are on the same page, here’s why it is a big deal. The Arabian Gulf is rich in history on both land and sea. And the best way to experience and indulge in all this beauty and history is onboard a cruise ship, and Vision of the Seas seems to be a good choice so far.

You will need at least 8 days to accomplish your indulgence of the Arabian Gulf on land and sea. And the Vision of the Seas offers a seven-night voyage which departs from Dubai, sailing to Khasab, Muscat and Abu Dhabi in several cruises.

Vision of the Seas Safari Experience

While on your seven-night Arabian Gulf voyage, you will be able to enjoy a desert safari like no other on the golden sands. If you have never been on a desert safari, you should have it on your bucket list because it’s just amazing for lack of a better word.

While on this Arabian Gulf safari, you can try henna painting, shisha and some Arabic belly dance. All this is experienced under a clear starry Dubai sky. On the other hand, if you yearn for a change of pace from the modern metropolis, you can jump off in Khasab (a city in Oman).

Here the traditional boats bob sleepily and the hubbub from local souks washes across the water. Take this opportunity to venture out to sea on a traditional dhow and meet pods of playful dolphins with unique views of the Arabian Gulf.

Inland the Arabian Gulf

If you are one of the lucky ones sailing on-board Vision of the Seas, you can also journey inland Oman and bask in the shade of Muscat’s palm groves. Afterwards you can try to discover the local history at the famous forts and castles.

Inside The Walled City aka Muscat, you will find a stimulating 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.

But if you are thinking that it’s time to head back to Dubai – the port of call, then you will get a little surprise. The Vision of the Seas will make a stop in Abu Dhabi where, if you have never been there before, you will be impressed. Lavish sights such as Emirates Palace and the awesome Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – the largest in the UAE – will leave you asking for more. There’s the equally enthralling Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, where a little slice of desert life from days gone by lives on. And this should not be missed at whatever cost.

Inside the Vision of the Seas

Although enthralling and breath-taking, the voyage adventure does not end with the beauty of the Arabian Gulf. The ship offers many features to keep you and those around you amused. You can try your hand at rock climbing, stay fit with jogging on the upper-deck, and have some fun in the video-game arcade.

The Vision of the Seas voyage is your perfect holiday if you are one of those people (like me) who prefer a holiday that’s a little less adrenaline filled. Sometimes a little (or a lot) of relaxation is good for the medulla oblongata.

You can start by sitting back and soaking up the sunshine at one of the Vision of the Seas two pools. And if you want to really let go, you can head inside the adults-only solarium with serene whirlpools. Pampering is also part of the voyage, and you can experience this at the advanced VitalitySM Spa with its fitness centre and extensive treatment rooms.

Another option is simply whiling away your time at the Concierge Club or the Diamond Lounge. You can even lie down and watch a movie at the outdoor movie screen that sits poolside.

Shopping and Dining on Board

The Vision of the Seas has a duty-free shopping area as well as many dining rooms. They have 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. There are a number of 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.

If you have brought your mini-yous on the voyage to experience the beauty of the Arabian Gulf, then they are also in luck. They will be 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 eleven an entertaining line-up of activities and games throughout the duration of their stay.

Sunset Overlooking the Arabian Gulf

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 Seas pulls back the curtain on Broadway’s hit musical “Grease” in the spectacular Royal Theater.

Following a day of exploring the beauty and history of the Arabian Gulf, its exotic cuisine and interesting cultures, there is nothing better than returning to the comfort of your private stateroom.

Vision of the Seas features 1,024 beautifully appointed staterooms that offer luxurious and comfortable accommodation. Many of those have spectacular sea views, in four main categories that suit every taste.

All on Board

It’s time to take a leap of faith and jump on board the magnificent Vision of the Seas before all the slots are filled. Here you’ll find everything you’ve ever wanted from a cruise holiday, as well as more than you’d ever imagined possible.

You’ll leave with beautiful Arabian Gulf stories to tell, adventures shared, and travel that is both inspiring and surprising.

The Vision of the Seas cruises will officially start in December 2016 until the end of March 2017. For all of you who know the winters down here, this is the perfect time for the great outdoors making the cruise a perfect holiday. Call it simply an Arabian Gulf Winter Voyage.

xoxo