Emerald Cruises to sail from Qatar in 2023
Superyacht Emerald Azzurra will offer seven-night itineraries from a new cruise terminal in Doha, plus pre- and post-cruise tours
Emerald Cruises has joined forces with Qatar Tourism to launch a new sailing from Doha in January 2023.
Superyacht Emerald Azzurra will offer seven-night, eight-day itineraries from Doha, with stops at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Khasab, Oman; Fujairah, UAE; Zighy Bay, Oman; and Dubai; and vice versa.
Three-day pre- and post-cruise tours are available to allow guests to explore Qatar’s must-see attractions. Highlights include visits to Souq Waqif, where holidaymakers can buy souvenirs and spices; and trips to the National Museum of Qatar, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, in the style of a desert rose. Visitors can also take a trip into the desert and enjoy a visit the Inland Sea, before enjoying dune bashing and a camel ride.
The news comes as building work continues on the new Grand Cruise Terminal in central Doha, near the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif. The terminal will have the capacity to host two megaships and will offer various attractions, including an aquarium and art gallery.
Chief operating officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “In line with the national strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, we are expanding our tourism value proposition and are excited to welcome travellers from around the world to experience the best of Qatari hospitality both on sea and land. The new itineraries launching with Emerald Cruises are another step towards achieving this vision.
“Qatar has an incredible range of hotels, restaurants, activities and cultural landmarks which can be enjoyed pre- and post-cruise, allowing guests the freedom to explore Qatar at their leisure. We welcome travellers from around the world to experience our beautiful country and the best of the Middle East, all in one easily accessible place.”
Rob Voss, COO, Scenic Group, which includes Emerald Cruises, added: “We are delighted to be taking our new superyacht, Emerald Azzurra to Qatar’s vibrant city of Doha next winter. In partnership with Qatar Tourism our guests will experience first-hand and in luxury yachting style the immersive beauty and hospitality The Gulf region and specifically Qatar has to offer. It will be magical.”
The 110m-long Emerald Azzurra can accommodate 100 guests and is home to a Sky Bar, observation deck and lounge, wellness area, an infinity pool and a marina platform which hosts several marina toys, including sea bobs and paddle boards.
CLIA announces 2022 conference dates
This year’s flagship event takes place in Southampton in May and includes three ship visits and a gala dinner
CLIA UK & Ireland has announced that its 2022 conference will be held from May 20-22 in Southampton.
Now in its 14th year, the conference is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in the UK, and will include a trade fair, daily conference sessions and a gala dinner.
The first day of the conference will offer agents the chance to visit MSC Virtuosa, followed by the trade fair. The second day comprises a visit to P&O Cruises’ Iona, with an evening gala dinner. The final day will be held onboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas.
Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “With the positive cruise momentum continuing, we’re delighted to be able to offer the trade the opportunity to gain the insight and knowledge that will help further support their sales. We have three fabulous ships available to visit, which will further inspire and inform delegates.”
He added: “We can’t wait to welcome partners from across the trade once again, as our flagship event makes a welcome return.”
Details of venues, the theme and speakers will be announced in due course. The event is open to CLIA member travel agents, with registration – including an early bird rate – available via cruising.org.