Muscat Cruise Port Tours
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In a region where passengers are typically greeted by towering skyscrapers and cold, modern architecture, Muscat’s scenic coast, with its historic buildings and far-off mountain ranges, offers travelers a taste of old-world Arabia. This conservative port is close to vast deserts, ornate mosques, traditional fishing villages and bustling open-air markets, making it a perfect stop for travelers looking to explore well-preserved tradition.
How to Get to Muscat
Free shuttles take travelers from berth to the port’s exit gate. Visitors can hire a taxi to town, or take the steep climb on foot. Old city center, which is closest to the waterfront, is easily walkable.
One Day in Muscat
Groups of travelers can hire a guide and a car for a reasonable rate and explore the desert or the mountains of Muscat on popular private safaris. Those traveling alone should stick closer to port, where there’s still plenty to do and it’s easier to stretch a dollar.
Start exploring the city at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is open to non-Muslims between 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The marble halls and beautifully kept gardens make it a regular stop for most tours. Next, visit Muttrah Corniche, near the harbor’s edge. This bustling promenade is a popular gathering place for locals and its lively cafes and tasty restaurants offer plenty of opportunity for people watching. Round out the day by heading inland to Nizwa, where ancient Portuguese forts offer tourists some of the best mountain views in Muscat.
How to Get to Muscat
Free shuttles take travelers from berth to the port’s exit gate. Visitors can hire a taxi to town, or take the steep climb on foot. Old city center, which is closest to the waterfront, is easily walkable.
One Day in Muscat
Groups of travelers can hire a guide and a car for a reasonable rate and explore the desert or the mountains of Muscat on popular private safaris. Those traveling alone should stick closer to port, where there’s still plenty to do and it’s easier to stretch a dollar.
Start exploring the city at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is open to non-Muslims between 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The marble halls and beautifully kept gardens make it a regular stop for most tours. Next, visit Muttrah Corniche, near the harbor’s edge. This bustling promenade is a popular gathering place for locals and its lively cafes and tasty restaurants offer plenty of opportunity for people watching. Round out the day by heading inland to Nizwa, where ancient Portuguese forts offer tourists some of the best mountain views in Muscat.
Port Information
Cruise ships dock in a mostly industrial area, so travelers must take free shuttles from the boat to exit gates. Arabic is the official language in Muscat and while tour guides typically speak English, most people working in Oman do not. The Omani rial is the accepted currency but some shops will take euros or dollars. Be aware--travelers typically lose out on the exchange.
Address: As Sultan Qaboos Port, Muscat, Oman
2 Tours & Activities to Experience
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$50.75 USD
Muscat Shore Excursion: Private City Highlights Tour
- While in port in Muscat, take in the signature sights of Oman’s delightful capital on this 4-hour private shore excursion. Traveling in your own private, air-conditioned minibus with a private guide, visit top Muscat attractions including the splendid Sultan Qaboos Mosque; the bustling fish market and colorful Muttrah souk, where the stall hawk spices, silver and traditional handicrafts. Stroll along Muttrah Corniche past old-time merchants’ houses; see the Portuguese forts at old Muscat harbor; and visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum to chart’s Oman’s rich heritage and history.
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From
$123.45 USD
Muscat Shore Excursion: Private Nizwa Day Trip
- When your ship arrives in Muscat, explore some of Oman’s most beautiful forts and old-world towns on this full-day private shore excursion. With personalized commentary from your guide, follow the rocky Hajar Mountains to the old town of Nizwa to visit picturesque Nizwa Fort. Browse Nizwa souk, and after free time for lunch, travel through time-warp villages to 17th-century Jabrin Fort, perched on a hilltop overlooking palms and mountains. Learn about its history as you view its famous murals, wooden doors and hidden rooms and return to Muscat port.
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