Cruise of Egypt (Pyramids & Valley of Kings/Luxor)
Jordan (Petra/Wadi Rum)
Israel, Oman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi
November 17th- December 4th, 2024
With Optional Two night Pre Cruise in Tel Aviv Israel
including a most unique opportunity to Float in the Dead Sea
And take the cable car to the top of Mt. Masada
The Great Pyramids The Temple of Karnak in the Valley of the Kings
The awe inspiring Treasury Building of Petra built into the rocks
Join us for a most unique cruise and pre cruise opportunity.
We will enjoy two nights in Tel Aviv Israel with a full day excursion taking us to enjoy the one of a kind experience of floating in the Dead Sea, followed by a cable car ride to the top of Mount Masada.
Our cruise then begins in Haifa, just outside of Tel Aviv. Our cruise will visit the amazing sites of
- THE HOLY CITY OF JERUSALEM
- PETRA, in Jordan (With its amazing Treasury Building Carved into the mountains and also Made Famous by the climactic scene of the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
- WADI RUM – The amazing desert in Jordan, with its towering sand dunes, cliffs and other-wordly landscapes, featured in several movies including most famously the film Lawrence of Arabia
- Luxor and Karnak Temples in the spectacular Valley of the Kings of Egypt (from the port of Safaga Egypt)
- The Great Pyramids of Egypt (from Port Said, Egypt)
- A morning in the marvel that is the Suez Canal
- A day and night to explore the city of excesses and riches - DUBAI
- A day to explore its sister city – ABU DHABI
TRIP ITINERARY:
Sunday November 17th, 2024 – Arrive in Tel Aviv Israel on your own flight arrangement or take discounted flights from Norwegian Cruise Line.
Transfer to our hotel on your own arrangement or ask us to book a private transfer for you.
This evening we will have a group orientation at our hotel
Monday November 18th 2024 – Today we will enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to Float in the Dead Sea. The salt waters of the Dead Sea are therapeutic, with healing powers of minor ailments in your body and also enable you to simply float effortlessly with no need for any buoyancy devices.
Also today, we will visit Mount Masada, and take its scenic cable car to the top. The top of Masada is historical as it was the final resistance point of the Israelites before they were besieged by the Romans and was featured as such in the film The Ten Commandments.
The rest of the day/night is at leisure to explore beautiful and cosmopolitan Tel Aviv, its beaches, its shops, cafes and nightlife.
Considered one of the Middle East’s most picturesque cities, Tel-Aviv offers incredible sights everywhere you turn. Peruse the boutiques on Masada Street or go to the artists' village of Ein Hod for hand-blown glass and crafts or just enjoy the beauty of the cafes along the beach, or the nightlife of Tel Aviv.
If you wish to explore further, visit the nearby Bahai Gardens in Haifa, the largest hanging gardens in the world.
Tuesday November 19th, 2024 - Today we will be transferred to our ship to board our cruise of Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The Norwegian Sky holds only 2004 passengers, so you will always have ease of getting around and enjoying its amenities without crowds or long lines.
Enjoy the pools, multiple Jacuzzis and ample space on the sun deck.
When the sun goes down, head up to the top of the ship to the all-new Pinnacle Lounge & Sushi Bar for fresh sushi rolls, signature cocktails and gorgeous sunset views. Swing by the new, high-energy Bliss Ultra Lounge to show off your dance moves. Craving a Venti with an extra shot and double whip to keep you going all day? Well, now we have a full-service Starbucks® on board! So, come join the celebration and get to know the all-new, Norwegian Sky.
With so many bars and lounges to discover, finding your favorite may take a few days. Grab a cocktail or coffee inside the Atrium Café & Bar. Dance until the wee hours at Bliss Ultra Lounge, a fully equipped disco and bar. Or catch the game and a cold one at our sports bar. Whether you’re looking to meet up with friends or make new ones, there’s always an opportunity to mix it up.
Recently refurbished just last year in 2022, the Norwegian Sky has all the latest and greatest to make your time onboard the most fun it can be.
Wed, Nov. 20th Jerusalem (Port of Ashdod) 6AM-9PM
The most popular optional shore excursion in this port is a shore excursion to visit the holy cities of Jerusalem Bethlehem
A Day In Jerusalem And Bethlehem
Your tour begins with a beautiful scenic drive from Ashdod into the Judean Hills. As you ascend into these hauntingly stark hills, your coach will be traveling along the same route used for centuries to reach Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, is famous for its timeless beauty and was once considered the center of the world. As you navigate your way through this amazing city, you will pass Israel's most notable landmarks, such as the Hebrew University, home to 2005 Nobel Prize winner Professor Emeritus Robert J. Aumann, the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book, the Knesset (Israel's Parliament) and the State Supreme High Court. After an interesting overview of the city, you'll proceed toward the Mount of Olives where time will be allowed to take photos from this highly favorable vantage point that provides an unparalleled and breathtaking panorama of the walled Old City.
Following an unforgettable morning, you will be treated to a relaxing lunch at a local hotel before it's time to continue your exploration of this fascinating destination with a walking tour of the historical Old City. Entering via the Jaffa Gate, your walk will take you past the most sacred sites in religious history. As you make your way along a route that flanks the colorful bazaar, you'll observe the Christian Quarter, which rests beside a part of the famous Via Dolorosa, believed by many to be the route Jesus followed as he carried his cross to Calvary. Amongst the sites you will view is the golden-topped Dome of the Rock. With its stunning blue and gold ceramic tiles, this amazing shrine is considered the third holiest site in Islam. You will also view the famous Western Wall, the holiest site in the Jewish world because it is believed to have been closest to where the Holy Ark once stood. A visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher is also included. Perched on the hill known as Golgotha, the Church marks the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection.
Rejoining your coach, you'll leave the city behind and make your way through the Judean Hills to the edge of the desert, where the legendary town of Bethlehem is found. Your time here includes a visit to Manger Square and the renowned Church of the Nativity. This extraordinary church is built over a grotto that is believed to be the location of Jesus' birth. Due to time constraints and very long lines to enter the actual grotto, doing so is usually not a possibility. After what will be an undoubtedly memorable visit, you'll re-board your coach and enjoy a leisurely drive back to the ship.
Or, if you prefer, enjoy a shore excursion visiting just Jerusalem or just Bethlehem.
Thursday November 21st 6:30am -9pm
Port Said, Egypt (GATEWAY TO VISITING THE GREAT PYRAMIDS)
Founded in 1859 during the construction of the Suez Canal, Port Said has been linked to the famous waterway since its earliest days. Considered a vibrant global city, Port Said’s greater metropolitan area spans across the Asia side of the canal.
Only one other city in the world, Istanbul, can claim the distinction of encompassing two continents. Spend the day enjoying the historic sites and delicious cuisine of Port Said or journey to the larger, more bustling city of Cairo on a guided tour. Or travel through the seemingly endless desert to see Egypt’s world-famous Great Pyramids. Whatever you choose to do, get ready to take a walk on the historic side!
The excursion to visit the Great Pyramids is another Once in a Lifetime experience that you will always remember and be in awe of your visit.
Tonight, we will arrive at the magnificent Suez Canal at approx.. 11pm.
We will be slowly cruising through this man made wonder of the world all night and all tomorrow morning, exiting it at approx. 1:30pm
The sight of the canal at night is impressive and the sight of the cruise ships passing through it in the morning is a completely different experience, so we suggest going onto one of the outer decks of the ship to view it both by day and night.
The Suez Canal is an artificial sea-level waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Isthmus of Suez and dividing Africa and Asia. The 193.30 km long canal is a popular trade route between Europe and Asia.
Friday November 22nd SUEZ CANAL UNTIL 1:30PM THEN FUN DAY AT SEA
If you missed it last night, you can see it this morning, as we sail through the Suez Canal all morning.
Enjoy a free afternoon to relax and savor the sun, the pools, the Jacuzzis as well as onboard activities such as our own group trivia team themed game this afternoon.
Saturday November 23rd -- Sunday November 24th SAFAGA EGYPT
GATEWAY TO THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS & THE TEMPLES OF LUXOR AND KARNAK
Two Full Days 6am Sat – 7pm Sun.
Enjoy two full days to savor excursions in this incredible region filled with so much history.
Our first day here, you may wish to enjoy a shore excursion from NCL to visit two more man made wonders, the Iconic Temples of Luxor and Karnak in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings.
Stand in awe at the amazing temples of Karnak and Luxor, and admire the collections housed at the Luxor Museum. During your drive to Luxor, enjoy scenic vistas provided by the vast expanses of desert and barren mountains.
Walk amidst ancient history at the Temple of Karnak. Visit both the Karnak and Luxor Temples on one shore excursion sponsored by our cruise line.
The entrance to the Temple of Luxor
Or, if you prefer, enjoy an excursion taking you snorkeling in the Red Sea, one of the most beautiful places in the world for viewing the colorful creatures in the sea, plus an off road adventure in the East Arabian Desert.
We will be here for two full days, so you can do both of these stunning excursions if you wish, or on the second day, Take advantage of this opportunity to relax and enjoy time on a sandy Red Sea beach. A short drive will bring you to the private beach of the Sheraton Soma Bay to swim in the clear turquoise waters of the Red Sea.
Monday November 25th - AQABA JORDAN 7am – 5pm
GATEWAY TO THE WONDERS OF PETRA AND WADI RUM
The awe inspiring Treasury Building at Petra
Explore a shore excursion to visit ancient Petra, which was a bustling metropolis until an earthquake left it in ruins. Your shore excursion will visit its most famous structure, the façade of the ancient Treasury building, carved right into the mountain’s red rock face, as well as, visiting tombs, and enjoying lunch before returning to our ship in Aqaba.
Petra was also made famous in the climactic scene of the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Or
Enjoy a shore excursion featuring the other famous site of this region, Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum , known also as the Valley of the Moon,is a valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan, about 60 km (37 mi) to the east of the city of Aqaba. With an area of 720 km2 (280 sq mi) it is the largest wadi (river valley) in Jordan.[1]
Several prehistoric civilizations left petroglyphs, rock inscriptions and ruins in Wadi Rum. Today it is a tourist attraction, offering guided tours. The Wadi Rum Protected Area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011. It was featured as setting in the film Lawrence of Arabia, as well as the films, Alladin, Dune, the Martian and Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker (as the desert planet Paasana)
If you wish to experience the vast awe inspiring Wadi Rum, our cruise line offers an excursion to do so:
Wadi Rum Off-Road Adventure
Explore Wadi Rum's vast, desert landscape. Off-road vehicles take you through cliffs and unique mountains. Meet Bedouin tribes and savor tea in a camp.
Off Road Jeep Safari in the Wadi Rum Desert
The "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" rock formation in Wadi Rum
Calligraphy artwork carved in the Wadi Rum desert
The Wadi Rum Visitor Center
The Deep Red colors of the sand with the backdrop of mountains in Wadi Rum
OR IF YOU WISH, COMBINE BOTH INTO A FULL DAY EXCURSION VISITING PETRA AND WADI RUM, FROM THE CRUISE LINE
Tuesday Nov. 26th - Saturday Nov. 30th
Time to Relax poolside with a cold drink, take a dip in the pool, sit back and relax in the Jacuzzis and enjoy the many onboard amenities of our floating resort.
There will also be onboard talks with guest speakers, fun and games including trivia contests for our group, ping pong tourneys, shuffleboard, corn hole games, mini golf and more.
You may also enjoy the onboard gym/fitness center, and fitness classes, jogging track, art auctions, bingo, the casino and much more.
Of course, this also means a day to enjoy THANKSGIVING (Thursday Nov. 28th) with us on our floating resort.
If you like football, enjoy the best of the NFL on the TVs in the casino or in your own stateroom cabin onboard.
Sunday December 1st Muscat Oman 7am -2pm
Monday December 2nd Abu Dhabi 12:30PM – 8PM
One of the most popular excursions here is
Al Khatami Desert by Off-Road Vehicle
Explore Abu Dhabi on this exhilarating half-day, off-road desert adventure in the Al Khatim Desert. You’ll traverse the sand dunes that rise to imposing heights of up to 934 feet, the world's tallest.
Tues. Dec. 3rd, - Wed. Dec. 4, 2024 DUBAI U.A.E.
Tuesday 6AM – Wed. 6am (Disembark – Cruise Ends)
Dubai is the land of excess, superlatives and wealth. Here you will find the world’s tallest skyscraper, the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, the world’s largest shopping mall, the world’s only Indoor Ski Slopes (Inside the shopping mall) and much much more to amaze you.
Popular shore excursions here are:
Dubai’s View from the Top & Dubai Mall
Enjoy the thrilling 360-degree view of Dubai’s Skyline from the observation deck of the tallest building in the world and free time at Dubai Mall, offering the world’s finest shopping experience, dining and entertainment. Drive along Sheikh Zayed Road, the most famous street in Dubai, to reach the Burj Al Khalifa building, credited as being the world’s tallest building at a dizzying height of just over 828 meters (2716 feet).
At The Top, an observation deck on the 124th floor, offers you a fascinating 360-degree view of Dubai. The journey up begins in the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall and as you ascend, you are entertained by a multi-media presentation of the exotic history of Dubai and the marvel of Burj Khalifa.
Enjoy approximately 2 hours of leisure time at Dubai Mall, the region's leading shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destination. Dubai Mall has revolutionized the shopping experience with its more than 1,200 stores amidst several world-class attractions that range from adventure sports to an aquarium and underwater zoo.
Shop till you drop or simply browse. Visit the aquarium or try ice-skating. Have a simple snack or a sumptuous meal at one of its more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Whatever you decide to do on your free time, your Dubai Mall experience will be memorable.
New Wonders of Dubai
Discover some of Dubai’s modern wonders on a scenic drive with photo stops at some of the city highlights and time at leisure at Souk Al Bahar. Stop to snap some memorable pictures of the opulent Burj Al Arab Hotel, the only 7-star hotel in the world. Drive to the Palm Jumeirah, a magnificent man-made archipelago of islands in the shape of a palm tree. The impressive Atlantis Hotel also provides an excellent opportunity to take some breath-taking photos. Another stop on your tour is the beautiful Dubai Marina, projected to become the largest man-made marina in the world. Enjoy a scenic drive through Dubai’s swanky neighborhoods of Emirates Hills and The Springs.
Sheikh Zayed Road takes you to the modern Souk Al Bahar where you’ll have some free time to spend in the bazaar. The souk features over 100 shops in an eclectic retail mix that includes restaurants, cafés and lounges that flank the souk’s extensive waterfront promenade. Literally meaning “The Market of the Sailor”, Souk Al Bahar derives its name both from its traditional souk architecture – natural stone corridors, high archways and subdued lighting – as well as its unique seaside location on an island in Lake Burj.
Discover Dubai - Old & New
Introduce yourself to the historic sites and the vibrant cosmopolitan life of Dubai, often referred to as the Golden City. Explore modern Dubai, where the old fort and ancient houses stand in stark contrast to the uniquely designed high-rise steel and glass buildings. It’s difficult to believe that barely 30 years ago, this gleaming metropolis was a little more than a desert-strewn wilderness, where nomadic tribes roamed the sands and a cluster of settlers crowded around the banks of Dubai Creek.
A drive through the city gives you great photo opportunities. The dazzling hotel Burj Al Arab, designed to resemble a billowing sail and dominating the Dubai coastline, is one. The Jumeirah Mosque, an impressive example of Islamic architecture, is another photo opportunity. Head to the Al Bastakiya district, with its narrow lanes and tall wind-towers, built to catch a breeze and naturally cool the houses during the summer heat. This maze of limestone and coral dwellings built by Iranian merchants, offers a glimpse of old Dubai. Get acquainted with the history of Dubai, its current development and deeply rooted heritage, when you visit the Dubai Museum. Located in the 200-year-old Fort Fahidi, the museum offers a collection of monuments, artifacts and audio visual media that exposes Dubai’s past and present.
Stop at Dubai’s waterfront, reflecting the city’s vibrant personality. Here, you’ll board an Abra (water taxi) for a short ride across The Creek, where you’ll find the Spice and Gold Souks. Both are perfect places for a glimpse at local activities. Take in the aromas of exotic spices, sharpen your bargaining skills and be enticed by the glittering displays of gold jewelry.
PRICING FOR THIS TRIP
OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT PRE CRUISE IN TEL AVIV ISRAEL
INCLUDES
2 NIGHTS HOTEL IN TEL AVIV
FULL DAY TOUR VISITIING MASADA AND THE DEAD SEA
Group transport from the hotel to the ship
$549 PER PERSON BASED ON TWO PEOPLE PER ROOM
OR $749 BASED ON SINGLE OCCUPANCY
CRUISE NOV. 19 - DEC. 4, 2024 RATES
OCEAN VIEW CABINS
ONLY $2499 PER PERSON PLUS TAX OF $489 PER PERSON
(BASED ON 2 PEOPLE PER CABIN – WE CAN ASSIGN YOU A ROOMMATE OF THE SAME GENDER IF YOU DON’T HAVE A FRIEND TO TRAVEL WITH YOU.)
OCEAN VIEW WITH PRIVATE BALCONY CABIN
$3999 PER PERSON PLUS TAX OF $489 PER PERSON
A DEPOSIT OF $250 PER PERSON IS REQUIRED TO BOOK YOUR SPACE, IN EITHER A SINGLE OCCUPANCY OR A CABIN WITH YOUR OWN ROOMMATE
OR A DEPOSIT OF $500 IS REQUIRED IF REQUESTING A ROOMMATE BE ASSIGNED TO YOU .
ALL BALANCE PAYMENTS ARE DUE JUNE 1ST, 2024
CANCEL POLICY FOR THIS TRIP.
IF TRAVELING SINGLE OCCUPANCY OR WITH A FRIEND AS YOUR ROOMMATE, YOU CAN CANCEL WITHOUT ANY PENALTY UNTIL MAY 15th, 2024.
IF YOU REQUEST A ROOMMATE BE ASSIGNED TO YOU, THEN YOU HAVE UNTIL EITHER 5 MONTHS AFTER MAKING YOUR DEPOSIT OR MONDAY FEB. 12TH 2024, (WHICHEVER IS SOONER) TO CANCEL WITHOUT ANY PENALTY.
TRAVEL INSURANCE IS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CRUISE LINE UPON REQUEST. WE CAN GET YOU PRICING UPON YOUR REQUESTING IT.
