28 Night Cruise sailing from Singapore to Muscat aboard Minerva.

Cruise Description:
The lingering images of former colonial empires, the sights and sounds of rural India and the scent of spices on the trade winds, inspire a relaxing cruise from Singapore, to the Indian subcontinent and on to the Middle East. Compare the colonial architecture of Singapore and Penang with the natural beauty of the island of Langkawi before cruising the Indian Ocean to the remote Andaman islands and Indian Chennai.

Three ports of call in Sri Lanka include Trincomalee, the ancient Muslim port of Galle and the relaxed charm of the island's capital, Colombo. Minerva cruises north along the Malabar Coast calling at Cochin in Kerala, India's most beautiful state, and Marmagao in Goa known for its Jesuit churches, whitewashed houses and exotic spice plantations before arriving in the vibrant city of Mumbai. Visit Elephanta Island, explore markets and temples then continue your cruise north to Porbandar, birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Conclude your Grand Voyage by sailing towards the Arabian Peninsula and the elegant Omani city of Muscat.

Highlights of this cruise:

Singapore, Singapore
East meets West in the vibrant port of Singapore. A city tour will introduce you to some of the most notable landmarks or explore the exotic Botanical Gardens. With the evening in port, why not enjoy a Singapore Sling at the legendary Raffles Hotel?

Penang
Penang was the British-based East India Company's first settlement on the Malay Peninsula. Explore the capital, Georgetown, a unique fusion of east and west. Admire impressive colonial architecture, the intricate details of a Chinese ancestral home or the vibrant life of the Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple.

Colombo
The former capital of Sri Lanka. Drive inland to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, or visit Kandy and the Buddhist Temple of the Tooth or the rich Botanical Gardens.

Kochi
Discover the riverine life of rural India by exploring its restful backwaters on an unforgettable river cruise or stroll through the lanes of the former Portuguese and Dutch colonial trading post of Kochi. An evening in port allows you to enjoy a display of the local Kathakali dance.

Mumbai
The city's elaborate Victorian Raj architecture reveals colonial treasures such as the Gateway of India and Victoria train station, whereas a visit to Elephanta Island will uncover a towering Shiva sculpture at the centre of a labyrinth of cave temples.

Fujairah
Fujairah, the only United Arab Emirate on the Gulf of Oman, boasts impressive mountainous scenery and palm fringed coasts. Explore the Haggar mountains or visit a heritage village showcasing the traditional way of life.

Muscat
Muscat has long been the arrival point into Oman for goods and people and is still a 'very elegant town with very fine houses', as observed by Portuguese admiral Alfonso de Alburqueque in the 16th century. Discover this pristine city on a guided tour viewing the Sultan Qaboos Palace and the famous twin forts guarding the city. Travel inland to explore traditional fish markets and visit Nakhl Fort at the foot of the Hajar Mountains.