On our VASCO DA GAMA, which was named Ship of the Year in April 2023, you can travel to your personal places of longing all over the world. Whether you are dreaming of the North Cape, the Mediterranean or even a trip around the world: You will indulge in pure cruise feeling on a comparatively small ship with a manageable number of guests of maximum 1,000 passengers. Enjoy the family atmosphere on board our charming ocean-going vessel VASCO DA GAMA and indulge in culinary delights in our five restaurants. Our attentive, German-speaking service staff will serve you top-class drinks in the seven bars and cafés on board, which have been furnished with great attention to detail. The heated swimming pool on the Lido Deck can be used all year round, regardless of the weather, thanks to the flexible sliding glass roof. Our on-board program is rounded off by first-class entertainment with on-board shows, varied live music and lectures on local history.
The diversity of the Orient and Asia combined
39 days | Heraklion • Cyprus • Safaga • Oman land program (5 nights in Salalah) • Dubai • India • Sri Lanka • Malaysia • SingaporeWhy this trip?
- The my choice fare already includes the flight package from/to FRA and €1,000 on-board credit per person.
- Travel safely and comfortably by plane from Safaga in Egypt to Oman.
- Spend five nights in a 5-star hotel in the Salalah region and explore the land of frankincense in depth as part of our overland program.
- After your return on board, the VASCO DA GAMA sets course for the United Arab Emirates: let yourself be enchanted by the fascinating mixture of tradition and modernity!
- You have the opportunity to see the most famous proof of love in the world with your own eyes: the mausoleum of the Taj Mahal
- Off to the mangrove jungle in Malaysia, where wild monkeys live and mysterious caves can be discovered
Itinerary
Heraklion (Crete)
In Heraklion, go back in time three thousand years on a visit to the Palace of Knossos and explore the legend of the Minotaur. Crete's gorgeous sandy beaches and azure waters also invite you to take a dip!
Embarkation 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Day 2
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Limassol (Cyprus)
Cypriots think of wine first when they think of Limassol, and of course you can visit the wineries in the area and taste fine wines there. The medieval center around the shopping streets Makarious III and Agiou Andreou invites you to stroll. Be sure to stop by the old market hall. At the old port of Limassol and the Limassol Marina you can marvel at elegant yachts. A visit to the Royal Tombs of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, should not be missed during a visit to the island.
Day 4
Look forward to a varied time out at sea!
Day passage Suez Canal
Morning passage through the Suez Canal
.Hurghada (Egypt)
Das Traumreiseziel für Badenixen, Taucher und Kulturinteressierte. Natürlich denkt man bei Hurghada zuerst an das Rote Meer und die unzähligen Wassersportmöglichkeiten. Entdecken auch Sie die Küste mit den vorgelagerten Korallenriffen, die zum Tauchen und Schnorcheln einladen. Ebenso sehenswert ist aber auch das Hurghada Aquarium mit eigenem Regenwald und über 100 Tierarten, das Hurghada Museum mit einer Vielzahl an Ausstellungsstücken aus der ägyptischen Geschichte oder aber die Sand Ciy Hurghada. Hier können Sie über 60 Sandskulpturen und Reliefs bewundern.
Safaga (Luxor, Egypt)
Safaga has something to offer for everyone. Follow the falcon god Horus into the Valley of the Kings on an excursion to neighboring Luxor and visit the amazing Temple of the Dead of Hatshepsut, which will transport you to the realm of Osiris. Alternatively, the enchanting coral reefs at Soma Bay offer a true paradise for lovers of the underwater world.
Your included overland program to Oman starts today. After the transfer to Hurghada Airport, you will fly to Salalah. Look forward to wonderful days in the "Land of Frankincense". We have included two half-day excursions in the tour price so that you don't miss out on any highlights. You also have the opportunity to take part in optional excursions.
In order to ensure that all guests have an unforgettable experience in Oman, the excursion groups are kept as small as possible. The timing of the excursions on the individual days can therefore vary for the groups. All guests have at least one day in Salalah at their disposal for individual discoveries. The following days show an exemplary itinerary
On a half-day excursion (included in the tour price), you will immerse yourself in the fascinating city of Salalah. A tour of the Sultan Qabus Mosque is part of the program, as is a visit to the "Museum of the Land of Frankincense". Afterwards, you will have free time in the Al Balid Archaeological Park, where the museum is located. Now that you know so much about frankincense, it's high time to buy some - and what better place to do so than the souk in Salalah? So immerse yourself in the colorful hustle and bustle and discover the perfect souvenir - whether for yourself or your loved ones at home.
We start the half-day excursion Taqah & Dhofar (included in the tour price) with a visit to the old fishing village of Taqah. Of course, a visit to Taqah Castle, the former official residence of the "Wali" (governor) of the region, is a must. The tour continues to the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam (Khor Rohri). This was an important port on the coast of Dhofar and one of the most important trading towns for frankincense. It is believed to have been the hub for the shipment of the precious commodity. Consequently, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your next stop is Ayn Razat, a natural water source at the foot of the Qara Mountains, where you can marvel at the traditional Dhofari irrigation system. Finally, you will visit a plantation where you will enjoy delicacies such as coconuts and other exotic fruits.
Your half-day excursion Mughsail and Blow Holes (bookable on board) starts with a visit to Mughsail beach, where white sand meets the deep blue of the ocean. At high tide, the waves break through the natural blow holes at the other end of the beach. Continue along the Hair-pin-bend road with its breathtaking cliffs on either side. Here you will also have the opportunity to see the historic frankincense trees growing in their natural habitat deep down in the valleys in the dry and rugged landscape. Finally, there is a photo stop at the Shanfari Mosque. It is named after its builder, a well-off businessman. The architecture of the building is so impressive that a stop is a must when visiting Salalah.
Your first stop on the full-day jeep excursion into the desert (bookable on board) is the "Wadi Dawka" (UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is also known as the "Frankincense Wadi" and is home to the largest collection of naturally grown frankincense trees in the region. Your guide will explain the process of frankincense extraction and its use in the past and in the modern world. From here, the journey takes you to the "Lost City of Ubar" (UNESCO World Heritage Site). This legendary ancient kingdom is said to have existed here in the Rub Al Khali desert, in one of the most inhospitable places on earth. According to the myth, the desert swallowed up Ubar. In the truest sense of the word, it sank without a trace and became the legendary "Atlantis of the sand". This once-buried city, which was discovered by satellite, gives you an impression of the valuable work carried out by a team of researchers led by Sir Ranulph Fiennes in 1992. Continue to the Empty Quarter to experience the "largest sand desert in the world" and enjoy the sunset from the top of the sand dunes. After sunset, drive to the local desert camp for a simple dinner (no alcohol in camp) and return to your hotel in the evening.
Please note: As this excursion takes place off-road by jeep, it is not suitable for guests with mobility restrictions or back problems.
Salalah (Oman)
Salalah forms an almost tropical oasis on the Arabian Peninsula. Besides steep cliffs and beaches like in the Caribbean, the lush vegetation shines, lined with numerous orchards. A visit to the historic district with the Al-Husn Palace, the birthplace of Sultan Qaboos, who is still very revered today, should not be missed during a visit to Salalah.
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel and with many unforgettable impressions, it's back on board the VASCO DA GAMA.
Day 14
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Muscat (Oman)
Walk along the promenade to the famous souk of Matrah and put your haggling skills to the test. Marvel at the ostentatiously designed capital of Oman, where the country's wealth is readily on display. From the gilded bus stop to the colossal royal palace, Muscat will leave you in awe.
Fujairah (United Arab Emirates)
Wer auf der Suche nach dem unverfälschten Zauber der Arabischen Emirate ist, muss Fudschaira besuchen. Hier ist vieles noch ursprünglicher als in den glitzernden Metropolen Dubai oder Abu Dhabi. Bummeln Sie entlang der wunderschönen Corniche, lernen Sie Wissenwertes über die Geschichte des Emirats am Golf von Oman im "Heritage Village" oder entdecken Sie das Umland. Es locken Oasen wie Wadi al-Wurayah, wo ein Wasserfall in einen natürlichen Pool mündet. Oder aber Sie genießen ein Bad in den heißen Quellen von Ain al-Madhab.
Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)
Abu Dhabi ist das größte der Vereinigten Arabischen Emirate und stellt einen perfekten Mix aus Tradition und Moderne dar. Bis in die 1960er Jahre war Abu Dhabi eine kleine Siedlung mit simplen Bauten; die Einwohner waren meist Perlentaucher und Dattelbauern. Diese Idylle wurde abgelöst durch Bauten wie Emirates Palace und Qasr al Watan. Bei Letztgenanntem handelt es sich um den Präsidentenpalast, ein imposanter Bau voller Glitzer und Gold. Besuchen Sie auch die Scheich Zayed Moschee, das größte sakrale Bauwerk mit 82 weißen Kuppeln.
Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
Dubai, capital of the emirate of the same name and the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, will captivate you with ultra-modern architecture. The Burj Khalifa, the world-famous 830-meter skyscraper, dominates the skyline. But also the Dubai Fountain, whose water jets show a choreography accompanied by music, or the artificial islands off the coast make the city unique. Shopping lovers are spoiled for choice thanks to the numerous malls.
Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
Dubai, capital of the emirate of the same name and the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, will captivate you with ultra-modern architecture. The Burj Khalifa, the world-famous 830-meter skyscraper, dominates the skyline. But also the Dubai Fountain, whose water jets show a choreography accompanied by music, or the artificial islands off the coast make the city unique. Shopping lovers are spoiled for choice thanks to the numerous malls.
Kashab (Oman)
The idyllic fishing village of Kashab is known for its enchanting fjord landscape. Board a traditional dhow and embark on a discovery tour through the turquoise waters of the fjords. With a little luck, your trip will be accompanied by dolphins.
Day 21
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Day 22
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Mumbai (India)
Plunge into the chaos of Mumbai, the metropolis of millions, and discover lively markets, magnificent palaces and enchanting parks. The former Bombay is the largest city in India and also its financial center. At the port of Mumbai, the famous stone archway of the Gateway of India, built by the British colonial government in 1924, awaits you. On the nearby island of Elephanta you will find ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. In addition, the city is known as the center of the Indian Bollywood film industry
Mumbai (India)
Plunge into the chaos of Mumbai, the metropolis of millions, and discover lively markets, magnificent palaces and enchanting parks. The former Bombay is the largest city in India and also its financial center. At the port of Mumbai, the famous stone archway of the Gateway of India, built by the British colonial government in 1924, awaits you. On the nearby island of Elephanta you will find ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. In addition, the city is known as the center of the Indian Bollywood film industry
Goa (India)
An Indian island experience awaits you in Goa. Colorful buildings with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, history, local cuisine and spices make up the place. And of course, you'll keep coming across traces left here by the man who gave our ship its name, the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama.
Day 26
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Kochi (Indien)
Chinesische Fischernetze schmücken die Uferpromenade von Kochi, das Indo-Portugiesische Museum und auch die Kathedrale Santa Cruz spiegeln die unterschiedlichsten Einflüsse wieder. Vor allem jedoch sollten die Gewürze in der als "Königin des Arabischen Meeres" bekannten Stadt probiert werden.
Day 28
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
Picturesque colonial buildings, centuries-old temples and traditional markets - that's Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka! Discover Colombo by tuk tuk and enjoy the island's former namesake, Ceylon tea.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
Picturesque colonial buildings, centuries-old temples and traditional markets - that's Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka! Discover Colombo by tuk tuk and enjoy the island's former namesake, Ceylon tea.
Trincomalee (Sri Lanka)
Trincomalee welcomes with golden beaches, distinctive underwater worlds and whale watching. Majestic, colorful temples and the Pigeon Island National Park also create unforgettable memories.
Day 32
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Day 33
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Day 34
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Day 35
Look forward to a varied time out at sea.
Langkawi (Malaysia)
The "Jewel of Kedah" invites you to an adventure with turquoise waters, thundering waterfalls and valleys where mangrove forests along with their wild inhabitants await you. The whole thing can also be viewed from a lofty height - from the Sybridge - look forward to impressive views.
George Town (Penang, Malaysia)
Located on the island of Penang, George Town awaits you with its originality. The historical quarters in colonial style with their numerous stores and delicacies invite you to take a walk. Also pay a visit to the glittering temples and places of worship, take the cable car to Penang Hill and visit the Orang Utans.
Port Kelang (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
From Port Kelang we head to Kuala Lumpur, the multifaceted metropolis and capital of Malaysia. The Petronas Towers stand out among the other skyscrapers and colonial architecture and markets bring the city to life.
Singapore
Look forward to the probably most beautiful skyline in Asia - Singapore. Visit the "City of Lions" and discover, for example, the "Gardens by the Bay", the "Marina Bay Sands" with its spectacular light show or immerse yourself in the diverse cuisine of the city-state - either in the restaurants or more authentic at the countless markets.
Disembarkation until 09:00.
Services
- Flights from/to Frankfurt
- On-board credit of 1000 euros per person
- Cruise in the booked cabin category
- nicko cruises full board
- nicko cruises cruise management German-speaking
- German-speaking local tour guide during the excursions (this cannot be guaranteed in all destinations, in these cases English-speaking guide)
- English-speaking service on board
- Entertainment programme and lectures on the countries visited on board
- Loving, age-appropriate childcare and large children's area
- Convenient Whisper audio system for a variety of excursions
- Use of the fitness area, swimming pools, outdoor sports area and spa area with sauna
- Domestic flight Hurghada-Salalah
- 5 nights in a 5-star hotel in Salalah with All Inclusive
- 2 Excursions in Oman
- Travel documents
- Luggage service between landing stage and cabin for embarkation and disembarkation
- All port and passenger fees
The services provided during your trip
- Classic drinks package (for the duration of the cruise) with VASCO DA GAMA: €1,089 p. P.
- Premium drinks package (for the duration of the cruise) with VASCO DA GAMA: €1,749 p. P.
- Non-alcoholic drinks package for kids & teens (for the duration of the cruise) with VASCO DA GAMA: €462 p. P.
- Insurance
- Complete insurance
- Travel cancellation insurance
- Travel health insurance
Additional services
Your ship: VASCO DA GAMA
On our VASCO DA GAMA, which was named Ship of the Year in April 2023, you can travel to your personal places of longing all over the world. Whether you are dreaming of the North Cape, the Mediterranean or even a trip around the world: You will indulge in pure cruise feeling on a comparatively small ship with a manageable number of guests of maximum 1,000 passengers. Enjoy the family atmosphere on board our charming ocean-going vessel VASCO DA GAMA and indulge in culinary delights in our five restaurants. Our attentive, German-speaking service staff will serve you top-class drinks in the seven bars and cafés on board, which have been furnished with great attention to detail. The heated swimming pool on the Lido Deck can be used all year round, regardless of the weather, thanks to the flexible sliding glass roof. Our on-board program is rounded off by first-class entertainment with on-board shows, varied live music and lectures on local history.