Arabian Sea Cruise Guide

An Arabian Sea cruise will take you to spectacular scenery in the Middle East, where you’ll see the vibrant blue of the Indian Ocean alongside desert landscapes and coastline the color of terracotta. The Arabian Sea itself makes up the northwestern corner of the Indian Ocean and is situated between India to the east and Yemen and Oman to the west, and bordered to the north by Pakistan and Iran.

An Arabian Sea cruise will take you through this exotic area of the world in comfort and ease as you visit exciting cities and take off on shore excursions to some of the most mesmerizing scenery in the world.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to the Arabian Sea, you can discover the beauty of Asia on one of our luxury Asia cruises. Browse our luxury cruises to Asia below.

Cruises to Asia

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Highlights of an Arabian Sea Cruise

Desert landscapes and blissful beaches bordering turquoise tinged water await you in the countries bordering the Arabian Sea. You’ll also have the chance to visit unforgettable cities in India and the Middle East.

Oman Cities and Beaches

While in Muscat, you’ll be in a vibrant city bordering the Arabian Sea. You’ll get the chance to explore its top sights, beautiful architecture, as well as learn more about the culture of Oman. The city is also close to incredible beaches that are right by the warm, salty water of the Arabian Sea.

West Coast of India

The western coastline of India is completely bordered by the Arabian Sea, making our Dubai and India Cruises an exciting way to explore the sea since you’ll sail to or from Dubai and see the water views of the Arabian Sea before exploring ports of call in India like Mumbai, Goa, and Cochin.

Taj Mahal

If you have an overnight port of call in India, you’ll have time to journey to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the most impressive architectural wonders in the world. Marvel at its unique dome-shaped roof and gleaming white marble exterior as you gaze at the mausoleum from across the long river-fed pool in front of it.

Arabian Sea Cruise Ports

The ports of call located along the Arabian Sea that you can sail to on a cruise include Muscat, Oman; Goa, India; Cochin, India; and Mumbai, India. In addition your Arabian Sea cruise will stop in the United Arab Emirates and also may call at ports in Sri Lanka and Thailand. Arabian Sea and Suez Canal itineraries take you up through the Suez Canal waterway that runs through Egypt and into the Mediterranean Sea where you can explore European ports of call.

Arabian Sea Shore Excursions

Shore excursions are available during your Arabian Sea that can give you a day full of action-packed exploration or laidback relaxation. However you want to spend your day, you’ll be astounded by the sights and flavors you’ll experience during your time in port.

Desert Exploration

While in port in Muscat, Oman, you’ll be in a prime location to see some of the vast desert that is located just a short drive from the city of Muscat. A shore excursion that takes you into the desert on a dune drive is a safe and fun way to explore it.

Beach Break

If you’re excited about an Arabian Sea cruise, you’re likely also excited about getting the chance to swim in the Arabian Sea. You can do so on a beach break shore excursion that takes you to one of the region’s best beaches with serene lounge chairs lining the sea for you to relax on.

Food and Drink Tours

Learn what people who live along the Arabian Sea eat and drink on a shore excursion that focuses on cuisine or tea. High Tea can be found in both Goa and Muscat. You can also visit local markets to taste fresh produce and enjoy a private dinner featuring local cuisine on a Chef’s Market Discovery.

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Helpful Tips Before You Go

 

It’s important to plan out what you’ll pack carefully and thoughtfully. Many of the ports you’ll visit during an Arabian Sea cruise have traditionally strict dress rules for men and women, and women in particular will want to make sure to dress appropriately, which perhaps means more conservatively and covered up than you’re used to back home.

 
In addition, you’ll want to ensure that -- while staying appropriately covered -- you stay cool. The countries bordering the Arabian Sea often have hot temperatures and wearing loose-fitting clothing in breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and linen are key to feeling more comfortable.

 

When visiting Oman, be aware that the drinking customs are different there. Drinking in public is not allowed and it is a crime to be drunk in public, and even local residents need to get a special license in order to be able to drink at home. For tourists, there are hotels and restaurants that have an alcohol license where you can get a drink. Be sure you are purchasing alcohol from a licensed seller. 


When in India, don’t be surprised if you see people eating with their hands since it is customary not to use cutlery in many regions. Also, when dining in India, be aware that the cow is considered to be a sacred animal and eating beef is outlawed in many Indian states.