Going on a Doha Cruise for the First Time? Here's What You Need to Know

Starting from the capital of Qatar, Doha Cruise trips have recently become a sensation among tourists. As the host country for FIFA World Cup 2022, Qatar received attention from the entire world. It has since attracted enormous tourist attention – making it a favourite location for cruise trips.

Located just beside the Persian Gulf, the city of Doha has always been an important port in the region. Last year, the country inaugurated the brand new Grand Terminal, which further magnifies its popularity as a significant port for Cruise travel.

Get the most out of the Doha cruise trip with these tips and tricks

Here is everything you need to know to make a memorable first cruise trip.

Benefits of a cruise trip from Doha

A cruise trip from Doha comes with a full package of fun and excitement. The trips offer exclusive perks to the tourists and not to mention the experience of luxury. Let the staff pamper you while you explore majestic scenic views. 

Following are the exclusive experiences waiting for you onboard –   

• Exotic View: Away from the bustling cities, Doha cruise rides offer you a chance to be a peaceful observer of local culture and heritage. Right from the middle of the ocean to the heart of the city, the cruise lets you experience the authentic beauty of the sea. Especially the twinkling light of the cities during the night is a joy to behold.
• Explore the complete Middle East: The cruise trips from Doha are usually week-long. During this period, you are exposed to the diverse culture of the entire Middle East. Sailing through the ports of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, and other port cities offers a confluence of the ancient and modern. Except for the ultra-modern Dubai, the cruise takes you along to explore the rich cultural heritage brimming within the modern metropolis.    
• Fun for children as well: For a child, a historic monument or an exotic market holds little interest and it is justified as well. But what if they can indulge in their own activity? A cruise offers exactly the same. Our cruise lines are equipped with special entertaining activities for the entire family, both adults, and children alike. So that your fussy kids can have something to do while you can relax knowing they are safe and secure.

Activities on Doha Cruise Trip

A cruise trip basically means going overboard on indulgence and luxuries. For a period of 7-8 days, the cruise is going to be your home. The only difference is this moving home packs all the pleasures of a hotel, resort, spa, and amusement park in a ship. Look out for these activities and make the best out of your trip –

• Amusement: Cruise companies offer so many activities that doing everything is virtually impossible. Stay calm and sign up for activities according to your time and preference. Make the most of your time. Do everything or nothing at all and just relax on your floating resort.
• Spa: When it comes to relaxation, a spa is the best place for you to relieve some of that bottled-up stress. But other guests will be thinking the same as well so keep an eye out for it. The best trick is to pre-book your spa appointments onboard. If the particular cruise line does not offer that, make sure to make a reservation as soon as you board the vessel.  
• Dining: After all those activities and games, it is time to get a good meal for your dinner. Choose from a wide category of restaurants and cuisines offered onboard. From daily comfort food to indulgent luxury, you can find virtually everything on a modern cruise. Opt for Chef's specialty or stick to more familiar alternatives. Most often, Doha cruise ships are equipped to offer you your own personalised dish. Check with your cruise line to know the kinds of flexibility they offer.

Shore excursions

Apart from all the facilities you can get on a cruise line, you also can avail yourself of ground excursion tours in the landing ports. Doha is by far the most happening landing port with so many activities to experience. The Doha port is now turned into a dedicated Cruise port with various nearby tourist attractions. Following are some popular tourist destinations near Doha port –

• Museum of Islamic Art: The museum is famous for preserving some pre-Islamic manuscripts of the Persian Empire. The architecture of the museum itself is a wonderful example of the avant-garde. The museum is designed by architect I.M. Pei who is known for designing the glass pyramid outside the Louvre Museum, in France.  
• Souq Waqif: Souq Waqif is known for its mediaeval architecture. The site has everything it takes to spend an entire day. From exotic spice markets to indigenous jewellery shops, it is a shopper's paradise. After a tiring day of exploring the rich, vibrant artworks of Souq Waqif, recover your energy with delectable Persian cuisine. Pay a visit to Parisa and tantalise your taste buds before you can resume your Doha cruise trip. 
• National Museum of Qatar: If you have an interest in learning about Qatar's rich heritage, the National Museum is your place. With its 11 galleries, this museum takes you through the exotic history of the country leading to the present day as well as to the future of this country. In presenting its story, the museum uses both audio and visual mediums. In a first of its kind, it also uses aromas to enrich the storytelling experience.

Also Check: Top Excursions and Shore Activities in Doha

Things to remember

So, all things figured out, it’s finally time to go for your Doha Cruise trip. But wait, there are certain things you need to remember to have a great experience in the foreign country as well as onboard the cruise line.

• Book F&B packages: It is always a good idea to book package deals in advance. Rather than opting for one or two services, go for a package to get extra benefits. Booking packages in advance will save you money and time. Many of the cruise lines have special offers which may include promotions on beverage packages and specialty dining. Others offer a discount if these packages are booked any time prior to sailing.
• Respect the local culture: Amid all its modernity, Qatar preserves its centuries-old traditional culture. So, as the saying goes, when in Rome dress like Romans! Maintain respectful behaviour with locals and follow guidelines from authorities when in a port. Drinking in public places is considered a serious offence in Qatar. So does a public display of affection. Keep your drinks and affections reserved for designated spaces and you will be just fine. 
• Declare your preferences: Since the staff at the cruise line will be responsible for your nutrition for the next few days, it is a good idea to let them know about your likes and dislikes regarding food. If you may have any allergies or strict aversion to a dish, embarkation is the appropriate time for you to discuss it with the staff.

Tick off your checklist

This is the final step before you embark on your exotic Doha cruise journey. Keep a track of the following information to have a safe and comfortable trip –

• Passport and visa: It is almost a no-brainer but ensure that your passport and visa are in order before the journey. Keep a note of the tenure of the Visa and plan your trips accordingly. 
• Pack light: Packing too much is a serious issue when it comes to cruise travel. Keep in mind the climate you will be travelling in. Based on that light linen and cotton are what you should go for. It will help you through the heat. 
• Sunscreen: With all its splendour, you must remember that Qatar is located in the middle of a desert. Consider the heat a given aspect of your vacation and please carry good sunscreen to prevent any nasty sunburn. 
• Embassy contact details: When going out to foreign lands, you should always stay in touch with your embassy. Especially before venturing out into international waters inform the local embassy about your tour plans and give them your itinerary. 
• Deal with your mobile: Soon as you venture out into the ocean, your telecom service provider is unlikely to cover you. Plan ahead of your trip and determine if you want to get a roaming pack. Most cruise lines these days offer onboard Wi-Fi service, so check with your cruise line beforehand.

So, you are all prepared for your first cruise experience. There are ample reasons to be thrilled about it. After all, a Doha cruise trip offers you an affordable and easily accessible opportunity to explore the Middle East in all its grandeur. In all excitement, make sure to pack all necessary documents and ensure to make an itinerary so you don’t roam off your schedule.

Happy travels!