Discover Qatar, a subsidiary of Qatar Airways, has partnered with Ponant to offer its first series of expedition cruises, which will offer passengers an "amazing experience" while traveling in luxury and comfort along the Qatar coast.
Designed for experienced and adventurous travelers, these cruises offer a unique opportunity to observe one of the largest gatherings of the world's largest fish—the whale shark—in the Al Shaheen marine area. Additional activities include snorkeling on coral reefs, exploring mangrove forests, and gliding through the turquoise waters of the Khor Al Adaid channel. A team of expert guides, marine biologists, naturalists, and ornithologists will lead passengers in identifying local wildlife and provide cultural insights into the areas explored, ensuring a memorable expedition experience.
The cruise season will begin in April 2021 and will offer seven consecutive weekly departures.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, SE Akbar al-Baker, said: "Qatar is a unique setting for this type of travel, so I am excited to launch our first expedition cruise to showcase the beauty of our country to the world.".
Discover Qatar offers guests an eight-night, nine-day expedition cruise package aboard Le Champlain, a luxurious expedition ship boasting innovative features, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology, with full board included. Guests also have the opportunity to extend their trip to a 10-night, 11-day package, including a three-night stay in Doha to explore the city's cultural heritage and traditions, visit key attractions and monuments, and enjoy the colorful shopping and culinary offerings in the vibrant alleyways of Souq Waqif.
Le Champlain brings elegance and class to the seas, offering 92 luxurious cabins and suites equipped with high-end amenities, 24-hour butler service, two restaurants, and a luxury spa. Passengers will also enjoy an infinity pool and a futuristic, multi-sensory underwater lounge with large observation windows below the waterline.
