Mumbai to Haifa

Mumbai, the vibrant heart of India, offers an exhilarating blend of culture, history, and modernity. A stroll along Marine Drive presents a scenic view of the Arabian Sea, perfect for a leisurely morning. The iconic Gateway of India, a majestic archway built during the British Raj, is a must-visit for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

For a taste of Mumbai's rich history and diverse culture, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, showcases exquisite art and antiquities from India. The bustling Crawford Market, filled with local spices, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs, offers a glimpse into the daily life of Mumbaikars. This bustling city promises a memorable experience with its unique blend of sights, sounds, and flavours.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Salalah, Oman's second-largest city, is a refreshing oasis of greenery in the midst of the Arabian desert, thanks to its unique khareef or monsoon season. This city, situated in the Dhofar region, transforms into a lush, verdant paradise from June to September, attracting visitors with its cooler climate, misty landscapes, and seasonal waterfalls.

Beyond the natural beauty, Salalah is steeped in history and culture, with the Al Baleed Archaeological Site and the Museum of the Frankincense Land offering insights into the region's rich past and its role in the frankincense trade. The city's beaches, such as Al Mughsail, provide stunning views of the Arabian Sea, complete with natural blowholes and dramatic cliffs, making it a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Luxor, often hailed as the world’s greatest open-air museum, stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power during the 16th–11th centuries B.C. This city is a treasure trove of historical architecture, with the majestic Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings offering a window into ancient Egypt’s grandeur. Luxor Temple, illuminated beautifully at night, provides a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the Nile.

Visitors can explore the West Bank’s mortuary temples and tombs, where the art and hieroglyphs remain as vivid as when they were first created. A hot air balloon ride at dawn offers an unforgettable view of the landscape, revealing the full extent of Luxor’s historical sites set against the Nile’s winding path.

Safaga's port is situated about 53 kms (approximately 33 miles) south of Hurghada, a popular seaside destination known for its coral reefs and aquatic sports. While Safaga itself is more industrial in nature, it does offer a few local attractions such as black sand dunes and therapeutic mineral springs but you're best to explore beyond the port. Luxor is located approximately 220 kms (about 137 miles) from Safaga and the journey can take around 3 to 4 hours by road, but the sight of Luxor's ancient wonders are worth the effort.

Petra, Jordan's crown jewel, is an archaeological wonder carved directly into vibrant red, white, pink, and sandstone cliffs. This ancient city, once the thriving capital of the Nabataean kingdom, is renowned for its stunning rock-cut architecture and advanced water conduit system. The most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), greets visitors with its intricate façade and towering columns, creating a breathtaking sight as you emerge from the narrow Siq gorge.

Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city provides access to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site city of Petra, located about 129 kilometers (80 miles) away and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, located approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles) away. If time is tight in you can explore the Aqaba Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. History buffs will appreciate the Aqaba Fort, a 16th-century Mamluk castle, and the adjacent archaeological museum housing artifacts from the region.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Enjoy the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the Suez Canal, the engineering marvel that connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

As you transit the 101 mile expanse, admire the desert views occasionally interrupted by little villages, with domed mosques and minarets towering into the sky.

The passage requires no locks, as both bodies of water are at about the same level. Not wide enough to allow 2-way passage, 3 convoys are scheduled to transit the canal on a typical day, two southbound and one northbound.

Begin your exploration in the Old City, where the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock stand as powerful symbols of the world's major religions. The maze-like alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture create an atmosphere rich in history and spirituality.

Beyond the Old City, discover the vibrant cultural life of modern Jerusalem. The bustling Mahane Yehuda Market, with its array of spices, fresh produce, and local delicacies, is a sensory delight. For a more relaxed experience, visit the serene Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and the beautifully landscaped Israel Museum, home to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.

Ashdod is the largest port in Israel and the gateway to the Holy Land. Located about 64 kilometers (40 miles) away, approximately a 1-hour drive.

If you're looking to explore Ashdod itself, start at the Ashdod Yam Fortress, an ancient site with panoramic views of the sea. The Corinne Mamane Museum of Philistine Culture provides a fascinating look into the region's ancient inhabitants .For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the city's pristine beaches or visit the bustling Ashdod Marina, filled with cafes and restaurants. The Ad Halom Park, a beautiful green space, is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss the Eye of the Sun, an impressive sculpture and a popular spot for photos.

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Carmel, Haifa is a popular gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Tel-Aviv and the Jordan River. Haifa is also home to the exquisite Bahá'í Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring terraced gardens and panoramic views. Explore the vibrant German Colony, renowned for its historic Templar buildings and trendy cafes. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Haifa Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary Israeli and international works.