doha cruise ship world cup

A massive new cruise ship is set to function as a floating hotel for the Qatar World Cup, and rooms start at $220 a night. Take a look inside.

• MSC Cruises launched a new luxury liner ahead of the Qatar World Cup.
• The ship is expected to host more than 6,700 fans at the World Cup.
• A single night's stay on the docked ship during the World Cup starts at $220.

MSC Cruises just launched a new cruise liner called the MSC World Europa. The luxury cruise is currently moored in Doha, Qatar, and is expected to host thousands of fans during the World Cup in November.

Chantiers de l'Atlantique, one of the world's biggest shipyards, started construction on MSC World Europa in 2019. The ship was fully constructed and delivered to MSC Cruises in October, and it's scheduled for its maiden voyage around the Middle East in December.

MSC World Europa is slated to be used as a hotel for fans at the Qatar World Cup from November 19 to December 19.

MSC Cruises did not reply to Insider's requests for comment.

MSC Europa is the largest ship in the cruise line's fleet — it has a gross tonnage of 215,863. In comparison, the Titanic had a gross tonnage of 46,328, which is about four times less.

The MSC Poesia and MSC Opera, two other cruises in the fleet, are also currently docked in Doha to accommodate fans. MSC Cruises has a  fleet of 22 ships.

Source: MSC Cruises

The massive ship has 22 decks and 2,626 cabins, which means it can accommodate more than 6,700 guests at a time.

The ship is large enough to accommodate 2,138 crew members.

Sources:   MSC Cruises  

The ship is designed with a yacht club, which is an area exclusive to VIP guests.

The yacht club has 152 cabins and two suites, accounting for a fraction of the 2,626 cabins on board. Its amenities include a private pool and 24-hour butler service.

Booking up a yacht club cabin for the ship's nine-day maiden voyage start from $2,290.

Source: MSC Cruises, Clean Cruising

A nine-day cruise around Qatar and the United Arab Emirates costs around $1,070 for an entry-level interior cabin. The ship is expected to begin cruising after the World Cup in December.

There are four main room categories on board: interior, balcony, suite, and yacht club, cruise booking website Clean Cruising shows. The interior cabin does not have windows, a virtual tour shows.

During the duration of the World Cup, however, the ship will stay docked in Doha, and will be used as a floating hotel.

A night's stay at the docked MSC Europa is slated to start from $220 per person. Prices fluctuate according to which stage of the tournament is being held on the day of the accommodation. 

Sources: Clean Cruising , MSC Cruises, Associated Press

MSC Europa claims it's home to the world's longest dry slide in a ship, which spans 11 decks.

There are six pools and 14 whirlpool baths on board.

There's also a spa with thermal baths, in addition adults-only pools and water facilities made specifically for children.

There are 10 dining venues on board, including four main restaurants, three buffets, and six specialty restaurants.

Restaurants on board include a sushi bar, a tacos and cantina restaurant, and a steakhouse.

Sources: MSC Cruises

The ship also has 21 bars and lounges, as well as a casino.

In addition to the casino, there's a massive panoramic lounge that's slated to host dozens of music-themed experiences. The ship also has luxury boutiques, a water park, a sports complex with a bumper cars, and video arcades.

After MSC Europa's winter tour, it's expected to cruise in the Mediterranean.

The ship's summer tour is expected to begin on April 16. It's slated to cruise for eight days at a time, across six places in Europe: Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Messina, and Malta.

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Cruise Ships

Staying in a cruise ship during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will be a truly unique accommodation experience for football fans. It’s like having two vacations in one, with all the activities and benefits a luxury cruise liner brings, combined with prime location accommodation just minutes away from all the action. 

There will be two cruise ships available: the MSC Poesia and MSC World Europa.

Note: To book accommodation you will need a valid Ticket Application Number or a Hayya Voucher Code or a Hospitality Order Number.

Why choose this accommodation option?

Both ships will be permanently moored at Doha’s Grand Terminal, just 10 minutes by shuttle to the heart of Doha and the famous Souq Waqif and Museum of Islamic Art.

Both MSC Poesia and MSC World Europa offer a variety of cabin options, from traditional and ocean-view cabins to balcony cabins and luxurious suites.

Each cruise ship hotel offers multiple dining possibilities and an entertainment programme for all ages.

How much does this accommodation cost?

• Lowest: QAR640 (USD180) per unit per night (2 guests)
• Highest: QAR9,240 (USD2,589) per unit per night (2 guests)

How many guests can stay per unit?

• Smallest option: 1 Guest (1 Room)
• Largest option: 4 Guests (1 Room)

What star rating options are available?

• 4 star (MSC Poesia)
• 5 star (MSC World Europa)

What may be included with this accommodation?

• Unique, stylish vessel
• 3 swimming pools
• Spa and wellness centre
• Poolside cinema
• Tennis and basketball court
• 4 gourmet dining options
• 15 bars and event spaces
• 24/7 front desk
• 24/7 room service
• 24/7 security
• Conference centre
• Designated smoking area
• Dry cleaning
• Licence to serve alcohol
• Lift / elevator
• Salon / hairdresser
• Shops / boutiques
• Fitness centre/ gym
• Free WiFi available in public areas
• Children’s playroom
• Luggage storage
• Outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers or beach chairs
• Spa / sauna

MSC World Europa 

• Brand new, state-of-the-art vessel
• 6 swimming pools
• 14 whirlpool baths
• Balinese-style wellness centre and spa which features thermal baths
• Beauty salon
• Barber shop
• Fully equipped gym
• Shopping and retail outlets
• Longest dry-slide at sea (11 deck dry-slide)
• 13 eateries, including 6 fine dining options
• American steakhouse Butcher’s Cut
• Kaito Teppanyaki grill and sushi bar
• Latin American street food-inspired Hola! Tacos & Cantina
• Chef’s Garden Kitchen and traditional seafood grill La Pescaderia
• Masters of the Sea Pub
• The Elixir – Mixology Bar
• South Asian-style tea room
• Emporium coffee bar
• A widely stocked gin bar.
• A nightclub or theatre event space
• The kids club for younger guests

*Typical features vary and will be defined per property.

How to book this accommodation?

Use the Official FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Accommodation Platform to book your accommodation.

If you need a Guide on how to book accommodation click here.

The above information was taken from the Official FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Accommodation Platform on 09 August 2022. Some of the mentioned prices and accommodation options may no longer be available. Please use the Accommodation Platform to get the most up to date information available. 

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Qatar hires 3rd cruise ship as floating hotel for World Cup

FILE - In this Feb. 4 2016 photo the MSC Opera cruise ship passes the Malecon sea wall as it leaves the harbor in Havana, Cuba. A third cruise ship has been hired by Qatari World Cup organizers to operate as a fans’ hotel docked in Doha port. It will add much-needed rooms during the month-long tournament. Geneva-based MSC Cruises announced the agreement just six weeks before the World Cup starts for the 1,075-cabin MSC Opera. (AP Photo/Desmond Boylan, File)

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GENEVA (AP) — A third cruise ship was hired by World Cup organizers in Qatar on Monday to operate as a soccer fan hotel docked in Doha Port to add much-needed rooms for the tournament.

Geneva-based MSC Cruises announced the agreement only six weeks before the World Cup is scheduled to start on Nov. 20. The 1,075-cabin MSC Opera will be available from Nov. 19 to Dec. 19.

Prices for the Opera were listed Monday on MSC’s website starting from 470 Swiss francs ($470) per person per night during the group stage, with a minimum two-night stay.

Qatar does not have the hotel capacity for all teams, workers, volunteers and fans at the World Cup and is creating camping and cabin sites, hiring cruise ships, and encouraging fans to stay in neighboring countries and fly in for games.

MSC previously signed a deal with the Qatari government in 2019 to provide two ships with about 4,000 cabins as floating hotels to help house the expected 1.2 million international visitors.

The high-end flagship MSC World Europa is starting work at the World Cup after being built in France.

Prices on the cruise ships fall during the tournament when half the teams go home. During the round of 16 and quarterfinals, the cheapest rooms on MSC Opera cost 320 Swiss francs ($320), then 220 Swiss francs ($220) during the final week.

Basic rates include breakfast on board with an option to pay a 90 euro ($87) daily supplement for all meals.

Alcohol is expected to be available on board with MSC offering wine and draft beer.

Qatar is a Muslim-majority country that typically limits the consumption of alcohol to luxury hotels but has eased its rules for FIFA’s commercial partners, including the corporate hospitality provider at stadiums and World Cup sponsor AB InBev, the brewer of Budweiser.

The MSC Opera had its maiden voyage in 2004 and had an eventful sailing season three years ago.

In March 2019, passengers suspected of smuggling 18 kilograms (40 pounds) of cocaine hidden in bowls and packets of snacks were arrested when the ship docked at the Portuguese island of Madeira after sailing from the Caribbean.

Three months later, the Opera collided with a tourist boat and its dock in Venice, Italy.

Cruise ships were discussed ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as a potential solution to a shortage of hotel rooms in Rio de Janeiro. They were ultimately not hired by organizers, with only seven of the 64 games held in the city.

However, the United States basketball teams did stay on a cruise ship docked in Rio at the 2016 Olympics. A second ship was used as a hotel for Olympic stakeholders.

AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

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Qatar World Cup 2022 organisers add third cruise ship to accommodate fans

Room prices aboard the msc opera start with a two-night minimum stay of qr 1710 ($469) per person.

The 'MSC World Europa' cruise ship. Photo: MSC Cruises

A third cruise ship is being hired to accommodate the huge number of fans expected to descend on Qatar during the World Cup 2022 .

Two cruise ships, which are set to reach Doha Port on November 10 and 14, were originally scheduled to provide beds for some of the 1.5 million visitors expected to head to Doha for the tournament.

With the addition of the MSC Opera to the line-up it, more than a thousand extra cabins will open up, The Associated Press reported.

Earlier this week, World Cup organisers in Qatar announced that the rule dictating that only fans with a ticket to see a match would be allowed to enter the country was being modified.

Each ticket holder can now bring up to three people with them for the general experience.

The announcement of the third cruise ship was made by Geneva-based MSC Cruises on Monday, six weeks before the biggest football tournament in the world kicks off, with hosts taking on Ecuador on November 20 at Al Bayt Stadium.

The 1,075-cabin MSC Opera will be available from November 19 to December 19.

Prices for the Opera were posted on the MSC website on Monday, with a two-night minimum stay starting at QR 1710 ($469) per person per night during the group stage.

As half of the teams depart later in the tournament, the cost of staying on board the cruise ships decreases. The cheapest rooms on MSC Opera cost QR 1310 during the Round of 16 and quarter-finals, and QR 800 during the final week, AP reported.

Both cruise ships, with a combined capacity of 4,000 rooms, can accommodate up to 9,400 people. The cruise ship hotels will offer a variety of cabin options, from traditional and ocean-view cabins to balcony cabins and luxurious suites.

The flagship MSC World Europa will have its naming ceremony right before the World Cup begins in November.

Where are the World Cup teams staying during the tournament?

Qatar, Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel. Photo: The Torch Hospitality

The Destination Management Company of Qatar Airways

1 USD = 3.64 QAR

Floating Hotel Day Visit

Timing: 12:00 - 02:00 Duration: up to 16 hours Price: QAR 182 (USD 50)

Guests need to present a valid Hayya Card to be able to access Doha Port and also to access the ships.

MSC  Day Pass

Embark on the MSC World Europa or the MSC Poesia with exclusive day pass access. The day pass will allow you to board the ship for the day and enjoy all the facilities and attractions offered onboard. 

Important note:  There is no parking at the terminal. Visitors need to use public transportation, either taxis, Uber or the shuttle service linking Al Ghanim Transport Hub and the Cruise Ship Hotels. Private vehicles will not be allowed access to the terminal.  

MSC World Europa

From her sleek interior design and 13 dining venues to her thrilling entertainment offerings, the onboard experience on the MSC World Europa is like no other cruise ship. Relax in the scenic Panorama Lounge, experience the excitement of the futuristic Luna Park Arena, or lose yourself in the iconic Kinetic Dome.

Experience a world of cuisines with brand new concepts including Chef’s Garden Kitchen, the first hydroponic garden at sea; La Pescaderia, a Mediterranean fish restaurant; a new on-board microbrewery; and a Gin bar where you can learn mixology.

The ship also features some of our signature favorites, like our American-style steakhouse, Latin American street food inspired Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi bar, and our renowned buffets.

There’s something for everyone on board, from a large waterpark, to bumper cars and street performances. And with 7 swimming pools spread across the ship, including one with a sliding roof, there’s always space to relax by the water and pool deck.

For families with children, the award-winning MSC Kids Club features state-of-the-art facilities inside a dedicated area of the ship, with a range of kids’ clubs and tailor-made programs for every age group.  

Is an innovative cruise ship with elegant style that brings. traditional craftsmanship to creative designs.

Step aboard and you’ll enter a refined world of comfort, from the spectacular foyer waterfall to the Zen Garden, authentic Japanese Sushi bar and opulent MSC Aurea Spa wellness centre with steam room, sauna and divine massages to pamper body and mind, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

The ship offers all the resort amenities you could wish for, including 3 swimming pools, 4 whirlpools and a giant poolside cinema screen. Kids and teens are equally well served, with their own clubs and parties, a dedicated Stone Age and Dinosaur Play Area, stunning video games and even a DJ disco!

The gourmet cuisine on board brings you specialties from around the world, but retains its Mediterranean heart, rooted in the values of the Italian slow food movement. With MSC, every succulent dish is freshly prepared with care by our skilled chef’s from prime quality ingredients.

The varied lounge bars offer similarly refreshing originality and authenticity, from the Grappolo d’Oro wine-tasting bar to the Mojito cocktail bar and sumptuous design of the cigar room.

What to Expect

• Day access to MSC World Europa or MSC Poesia
• Access to all public facilities and attractions onboard 
• A variety of dining options
• There is no parking at the terminal. Visitors need to use public transportation, either taxis, uber or the shuttle service linking Al Ghanim Transport Hub and the Cruise Ship Hotels. Private vehicles will not be allowed access to the terminal.
• Day access pass
• Hayya card to be applied for independently
• Food and drinks payable onboard
• Anything else that is not expressly mentioned above in Inclusions

Access: Please note that you will need to present a valid Hayya Card to be able to access Doha Port and also to access the ships.

You will also need to present your booking confirmation to access the ships.

Location:  Doha Port Grand Cruise Terminal - Terminal 1 for MSC World Europa (currently sold out); Terminal 2 for MSC Poesia.

The nearest Metro Station is:  Souq Waqif ( Gold Line )

Important note:  There is no parking at the terminal. Visitors need to use public transportation, either taxis, uber or the shuttle service linking Al Ghanim Transport Hub and the Cruise Ship Hotels. Private vehicles will not be allowed access to the terminal.

*Rates mentioned are per person and subject to change.

• What areas can you access with the day pass? All the public areas accessible to all passengers. This means that visitors CANNOT visit technical spaces and areas that are restricted to the high paying passengers, such as the Yacht Club.
• What restaurants are available? All restaurants are available at a cost to the visitors, except Yacht Club and dependent availability; no pre-arrival reservations
• How does the access card work? Access card to be received at the daily visitor counter in the grand terminal. The card has to be scanned at the gangway, where the Security staff will verify the picture. It has to be scanned in and out.
• How can you pay for services on board? Visitors will need to register a credit / debit card during the check-in to activate this function of the access card. At most of the outlets this is the only accepted form of payment.
• Can you access the waterslides and pools? Yes 
• Can people get on and off throughout the day? No – once day guests disembarked they are checked out and cannot re-enter the vessel
• Child (above 3 years old to 17 years old)
• Cancellation Policy: Non-refundable
• Please note that by booking, you acknowledge and accept the boarding conditions

MSC Boarding Conditions:

These Boarding Conditions govern the relationship, responsibilities and liabilities as between, on the one side, the Client and/or each Visitor (as appropriate) named on the Booking Confirmation and, on the other side, the Carrier and are BINDING ON THESE PARTIES .

Each Visitor, or the Client on behalf of the Visitors has entered into a contract with the Discover Qatar or DQ for the purpose of the Visitors boarding one of the Vessels. All Visitors agree to all the terms and conditions of the Booking along with these Boarding Conditions. These Boarding Conditions are to be deemed as incorporated into the Booking and will apply whether or not there is any actual carriage during the period any of the Visitors are on board.

The Visitor must carefully read these Boarding Conditions (and the Client shall also be obliged to do so, and to ensure that all Visitors (or its parent/guardian in the case of a Minor) read and accept these Boarding Conditions before the Visitor or Client makes the Booking. These Boarding Conditions set out its rights, responsibilities and limitations towards the Carrier, its servants and/or agents. The Carrier’s liability is limited as set out in Clause ‎18.

1. CONSTRUCTION AND DEFINITIONS

BOOKING means a final and binding reservation, regulated by the terms and conditions entered into at the time of booking and these Boarding Conditions that a Visitor (or the Client on behalf of the Visitors) has entered into with DQ, for the purpose of booking day access as visitors to the Vessel.

BOOKING CONFIRMATION means the document issued as confirmation of the Booking, and issued by DQ in order for the Visitors to access the Vessel. 

CARRIER for the purpose of any obligation or responsibility attaching to the carrier under these Boarding Conditions, the Carrier means MSC Cruises SA, with registered Offices in Avenue Eugène Pittard 40, 1206 Geneva (Switzerland). However, the protections and defences which are provided for in these Boarding Conditions in favour of the Carrier, shall also apply to the owner and/or charterer whether bare boat/demise charter, the actual carrier, the time charterer, sub-charterer, manager or operator of the Vessel including SC. The term “Carrier” includes the Carriers, the carrying vessel, (“Cruise Ship”), its owner, charterer, manager, operator, any tenders or other means of transport provided by the Carrier to the Visitors.

CLIENT means (if applicable) any person or entity who has entered into a contract with DQ for the purpose of any Visitor boarding the Vessel. The Client confirms that it has full authority to enter into on behalf of and bind all Visitors named on the Booking Confirmation. All Visitors visiting the Vessel together will be deemed to have understood and agree with these Boarding Conditions and the conditions of the Booking.

DISABLED PERSON means any person whose mobility is reduced as a result of any physical disability (sensory or locomotor, permanent or temporary) intellectual or psychosocial disability or impairment, or any other cause of disability, as a result of age, and whose situation needs appropriate attention and adaption to that persons particular needs for the service made available to all Visitors.

DISCOVER QATAR or DQ means the agency managing the Bookings of day passes for Visitors.

LUGGAGE means any hand luggage or other personal items belonging to or carried by any Visitor, including articles worn by or carried on the persons of the Visitor.

MASTER means the Captain or person in charge of the carrying Vessel at any given point and commanding of the vessel.

MINOR means any Visitor under the age of 18 or under the legal age limit which is in force pursuant to the applicable law. For the specific purpose of serving or consuming alcohols in Qatar “MINOR” means a Visitor under the age of 21.

RECOGNISED ASSISTANCE DOG means any dog that has been trained to assist a Disabled Person by an organisation that is a member of Assistance Dogs International and/or the International Guide Dog Federation.

SC means the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.

TOURNAMENT means the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 TM

VESSEL means the vessel named in the relevant Booking or the substituted vessel owned, chartered, operated and/or controlled by the Carrier.

VISITOR(S) means any person that boards a Vessel for a limited period of time and is not accommodated overnight. All references to the "VISITOR" (singular) shall include the plural and vice versa. All Visitors visiting the Vessel together, including adults responsible for Minors, will be deemed to have understood and agree with these Boarding Conditions. For the purpose of this definition, Visitor include any Senior Officials (such as Government Personnel, FIFA representatives and relevant sponsors) boarding the vessel.

VOYAGE shall, for the purpose of these Boarding Conditions, mean any period during which the Visitors are on board the Vessel. 

2. VALIDITY, NON-TRANSFERABILITY AND AMENDMENT The Carrier agrees to transport and/or have on board the Visitors on the Voyage, stay on board or event to be held on named or substitute Vessels. Before boarding, the Visitors agrees to be bound by all its terms, conditions and limitations. All prior oral and/or written agreement is superseded by these conditions. These Boarding Conditions cannot be amended without written and signed consent from the Carrier or its authorised representative. The Booking Confirmation issued by DQ is valid only for the Visitors for whom it is issued, for the date and Vessel indicated or any substitute Vessel and is not transferable.  

3. DISEMBARKING A Visitor will not be entitled to stay on-board the Vessel overnight and will be required to disembark without delay in accordance with the date and duration as indicated on the Booking Confirmation.  

4. EXTRA CHARGES

4.1. Each Visitor shall pay in full all charges for goods and services incurred by the Carrier on his/her behalf, before the end of the Voyage in any currency in general use on-board at the time of payment.

4.2. Alcoholic beverages, cocktails, soft drinks, mineral water and any medical expenses, any independent contractor services or products, charges or taxes imposed by any government agency shall be extra charges, unless otherwise stated as included at the time of booking.  

5. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

5.1. All Visitors must present for inspection upon request the Booking Confirmation, a valid passport as well as any visa, entry or exit permit, any Qatari ID, Resident Permit or Fan ID. 5.2. Each Visitor (or, if a Minor, his/her parents or guardian) shall be liable to the Carrier, SC and/or DQ for any fines or penalties imposed on the Vessel or Carrier, SC and/or DQ by any authorities for that Visitor’s failure to observe or comply with local governmental laws or regulations, including requirements relating to immigration, customs or excise. 5.3. The Carrier, SC and/or DQ makes no representation and gives no warranties as to the correctness of any documentation that is checked.

6. SECURITY 6.1. Each Visitor shall present him/herself for boarding, according to the instructions provided by DQ and shall be available for any security inspections. 6.2. For security reasons and any requirements by law, each Visitor acknowledges and agrees that agents of the Carrier may search the Visitor, his/her Luggage. 6.3. The Carrier shall have the right to confiscate any articles carried or contained in any Luggage which the Carrier, in its sole discretion, considers dangerous or poses risk or inconvenience to the security of the Vessel or persons on board. 6.4. Each Visitor is prohibited from bringing on board any articles that can be used as a weapon, explosives, illegal or dangerous goods. 6.5. The Carrier reserves the right to search any cabin, berth or other part of the Vessel for security reasons at any time

7. FITNESS TO STAY ONBOARD

7.1. In order to ensure that the Carrier is able to host the Visitors safely and in accordance with applicable safety requirements established by international, EU or national law or in order to meet safety requirements established by competent authorities, including the vessel’s flag state, each Visitor warrants that his/her conduct or condition will not impair the safety of the Vessel or inconvenience other persons on-board.

7.2. If it appears to the Carrier, the Master or the Vessel's doctor that a Visitor is for any reason unfit to stay on board and/or likely to endanger safety, then the Carrier or the Master shall have the right to take any of the following courses: (i) to refuse to embark the Visitor; (ii) to disembark the Visitor; (iii) if the Vessel’s doctor considers it advisable, to administer first aid and administer any drug, medicine or other substance or to admit and/or confine the Visitor to a hospital or other similar institution ashore at the Visitor’s expense, provided that the ship’s doctor and/or Master considers that any such steps are necessary.

7.3. Unless provided under any applicable law, where a Visitor is refused embarkation as a result of safety and/or fitness to stay on board, the Carrier, SC or DQ   shall not be liable for any loss or expense occasioned to the Visitor thereby, nor shall the Visitor be entitled to any compensation from the Carrier, SC or DQ

7.4. Not all areas or equipment on the Vessel are suitable for access to Disabled Persons.

7.5. The Carrier reserves the right to refuse passage to anyone who has failed to notify it of their specific needs with regard to seating or services required from the Carrier or terminal operator, or their need to bring medical equipment, or to bring a Recognised Assistance Dog on board the Vessel, or of any other known disabilities, or who in the Carrier’s and/or Master’s opinion is unfit or unable to stay on board, or anyone whose condition may constitute a danger to themselves or others on-board on the grounds of safety.

7.6. Visitors who need assistance and/or have special requests or need special facilities or equipment with regard to seating or services required or their need to bring medical and mobility equipment, must notify DQ at the time of booking. This should include detailed information required to assist DQ in making available accessible transport to Disabled Persons. Wheelchair users must specify whether they operate a manual or powered wheelchair and inform DQ whether they require portside services at the time of booking. This is to ensure that the Visitors can safely embark, disembark and remain on board in accordance with all applicable safety requirements. The Carrier is not obliged to provide any assistance or meet special requests unless the Carrier has agreed to do so in writing. If the any Visitor cannot be carried safely and in accordance with applicable safety requirements then the Carrier can refuse to accept a Visitor or embarkation of a Disabled Person on the grounds of safety.

7.7. Wheelchair users must furnish their own standard size wheelchairs. The Vessel’s wheelchairs are available for emergency use only. Where the Carrier considers it strictly necessary for the safety of the Visitor it may require a Disabled Person to be accompanied by another person or a Recognised Assistance Dog who is capable of providing the assistance required by the Disabled Person. This requirement will be based entirely on the Carrier assessing the need of the Visitor on grounds of safety and may vary from Vessel to Vessel.

7.8. Where any mobility or other equipment is lost or damaged by the fault or neglect of the Carrier then it is the Carrier’s decision as to whether to repair or replace such equipment taking into account the reasonable requirements of the Visitor. All equipment must be capable of being carried safety and must be declared at the time Booking. The Carrier may decline to carry such equipment where it is not safe to do so or where it has not been notified in time to enable a risk assessment to be carried out.

7.9. Any Visitor who embarks, or allows any other Visitor for whom he or she is responsible to embark, when he/she or such other Visitor is suffering from any sickness, disease, injury or infirmity bodily or mental or to his/her or her knowledge has been exposed to any infection or contagious disease, or for any other reason is likely to impair the safety or reasonable comfort of other persons on-board, shall be responsible for any loss or expense incurred by the Carrier or the Master directly or indirectly in consequence of such sickness, disease, injury, infirmity, exposure or refusal of permission to land unless in the case of sickness, disease, injury, infirmity or exposure the same has been declared in writing to the Carrier or the Master before embarkation and the consent in writing of the Carrier or the Master to such embarkation has been obtained.

7.10. Although the Vessel is planned to be berthed at all times at the Cruise Terminal in Doha, conditions may arise when it will be necessary to anchor offshore rather than alongside. When this is the case, the Carrier will use a tender to take Visitors ashore. A tender is a small vessel and may not be suitable for persons with Disabilities or Reduced Mobility or balance problems. When using tenders, safety is the utmost priority and it is important that the Visitors are able to use the tender safely. Visitors may be required to descend to a platform or pontoon and into the tender. There may be steps both up and down and Visitors may need to navigate a gap between the platform and the tender (which can be approximately 1.5 ft).  Depending on weather, tide and sea conditions, there may be some movement, which could change throughout the course of the day. Visitors must be fit and mobile enough to access and disembark the tender. If Visitors have impaired mobility, or use a mobility aid such as a stick, then they must carefully consider their ability to embark the tender safely before making their way down to the platform. Visitors must take into consideration the use of steps, the possibility of a gap and height difference between the platform and the tender, and the potential sudden movement of the tender when making a decision. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters will not be carried by the crew to the tender. All Visitors must be independently mobile enough to use the tenders. Ultimately, carriage by tender may be refused by the Master or any of his officers if there is any doubt as to the safety of any Visitors.

7.11. All Visitors must take extra care when stepping on and off the tender. There will be crewmembers there to guide and steady Visitors as they embark and disembark but they cannot support, lift or carry Visitors. The same precautions apply when Visitors disembark the tender in the port.  

8. SMOKING POLICY

Smoking is not permitted in any food service areas (buffets and restaurants), the medical centres, child-care areas, corridors or elevator foyers, areas where Visitors are assembled in groups for safety exercises, disembarkation or tour departures, public toilets, or in bars close to areas where food is served.

8.1. Smoking in the cabins and on the cabin’s balconies is strictly prohibited. 8.2. The Carrier reserves the right to levy a fee should passengers be found smoking in non-designated area of the Vessel.  Repeatedly smoking in non- smoking areas can ultimately lead to early disembarkation and prosecution by the authorities. 8.3. Visitors shall be liable for any damage caused by smoking. 8.4. Smoking is only permitted in a dedicated outside area of each Vessel, indicated by signage, where ashtrays are provided. 8.5. Disposing of cigarette butts over the side of the Vessel is strictly prohibited.

9. CONDUCT OF VISITORS

9.1. The safety of the Vessel and all those on-board is of paramount important. Visitors must pay attention to and comply with all regulations and notices relating to the safety of the Vessel, her crew and Visitors, the terminal facilities and immigration requirements. 9.2. Visitors must at all times conduct themselves in a manner that respects the safety and privacy of other persons on-board. 9.3. Visitors must comply with any reasonable request made by any member of staff, the Master or his/her officers. 9.4. All Visitors must take care for their safety whilst walking on outside decks. Visitors and children must not run around the decks or other parts of the Vessel. 9.5. Visitors’ Luggage must not be left unaccompanied at any time, unless different and reasonable instructions are given by the staff. Unaccompanied Luggage may be removed and/or destroyed. 9.6. Visitors shall not bring on-board the Vessel any goods or articles of an inflammable or dangerous nature, nor any controlled or prohibited substance. Breach of these conditions and regulations shall render the Visitor strictly liable to the Carrier for any injury, loss, damage or expense and/or to indemnify the Carrier against any claim, final penalty arising from such breach. The Visitor may also be liable for statutory fines and/or penalties. 9.7. In order to ensure safety and security standards, it is strictly forbidden to bring food and beverage on-board the Vessels. In compliance with this requirement, during embarkation, checks may be carried out on Visitors’ Luggage. The items that are allowed are: personal hygiene products, cleansing products, lotions, fluid medications for therapeutic use, baby gear and baby food items, dietary items prescribed by a physician. 9.8. The Visitor will in any event be liable for any injury, loss or damage occasioned by their breach of any of the prohibitions in these Boarding Conditions and must indemnify the Carrier, SC and DQ against any claim in respect thereof.

10. ANIMALS/PETS 10.1. Animals and/or pets other than Recognised Assistance Dogs are not allowed on-board the Vessel under any circumstances without the Carrier’s permission in writing. Any such animals or pets brought on-board by a Visitor without permission will be taken into custody and arrangements will be made for the animal to be landed at the Visitor’s sole expense. 10.2. Whilst the Carrier and/or its servants and/or agents will take such care as is reasonable in all the circumstances in relation to the pet or animal, neither the Master nor Carrier nor any member of the Crew shall be liable to the Visitor in respect of any loss or injury or death to the pet or animal whilst in the Carrier’s possession/custody. 10.3. Recognised Assistance Dogs are subject to and must comply with national and EU Regulations and/or equivalent applicable legislations regarding health, inoculations, training and travel. It is the Visitor’s responsibility to have all necessary papers, to be made available for inspection on request, and check the position prior to the boarding.

​11. ALCOHOL 11.1. Alcoholic drinks, including wines, spirits, beer or other liqueurs are available for purchase on-board the Vessel at fixed prices. Visitors are not permitted to bring on-board any such drinks, whether for consumption in a cabin or otherwise. Alcoholic drinks in any form will not be sold to Minors. It is the responsibility of the individual Visitors and any accompanying adults to ensure such legal age limits are complied with. 11.2. The Carrier and/or its servants and/or agents may confiscate alcohol brought on-board by Visitors. 11.3. The Carrier and/or its servants and/or agents may refuse to serve a Visitor alcohol or further alcohol where in their reasonable opinion the Visitor is likely to be a danger and/or nuisance to himself/herself, other Visitors and/or the Vessel.

12.1. All the provisions of clause ‎7and the requirement of fitness to embark are applicable to all Visitors including Minors. 12.2. The Carrier does not accept unaccompanied Minors. Minors will not be allowed to embark unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian or other authorised person ( Adult Visitor ) who shall be identified on the Booking Confirmation. Adult Visitors embarking with a Minor shall be fully responsible for that Minor’s conduct and behaviour. Minors may not order or consume alcoholic beverages. 12.3. Minors on-board must be supervised by an Adult Visitor at all times and are welcome at the activities on-board provided that an Adult Visitor is present. Children cannot remain on-board if their Adult Visitor goes ashore. 12.4. The Adult Visitor shall be liable to the Carrier and shall reimburse it for loss, damage or delay sustained by the Carrier because of any act or omission of the Minor in their care. 12.5. Minors are subject to all the terms contained in the Boarding Conditions.

13. MEDICAL SERVICES/TREATMENT 13.1.Visitors are encouraged, where possible, to seek medical assistance from providers on shore. The Vessel’s doctor and medical personnel are not under the Master's or Carrier’s control for treating Visitors. 13.2. Medical facilities on-board may be limited. The Carrier, Master or doctor shall not be liable in any way for referring Visitors ashore for medical services or for the actual medical services rendered ashore. In the event that medical attendance of any kind or ambulance assistance, whether on shore, at sea or by air is required and is provided or ordered by the Carrier or the Master or the doctor, the concerned Visitor shall be liable for the full charge or cost thereof and shall indemnify the Carrier upon first demand of any costs incurred by the Carrier, its servants or agents. 13.3. The Vessel’s doctor is not a specialist and the Vessel’s hospital is not required to be, and is not equipped to the same standards as, a land-based hospital. The Vessel carries medical supplies and equipment as required by its flag state. Neither the Carrier nor the doctor shall be liable to any Visitor as a result of any inability to treat any medical condition as a result. 13.4. In the event of illness or accident, Visitors may have to be landed ashore by the Carrier and/or Master for medical treatment. The Carrier makes no representations regarding the quality of any medical treatment ashore to which any Visitor is referred. 13.5. In relation to medical equipment, which any Visitor intends to bring on board, it is the responsibility of the concerned Visitor to arrange delivery to the docks prior to check-in of all medical equipment. 13.6. The requirement for Visitors to notify to DQ at the time of booking if they need to bring their own medical equipment on-board is to ensure that the medical equipment can be carried and/or carried safely. 13.7. It is the concerned Visitor’s responsibility to ensure that all personal medical equipment is in good working order and for arranging enough equipment and supplies. The Vessel does not carry any replacement. 13.8. The concerned Visitor must be able to operate all own equipment. If there are any particular conditions requiring a personal care or supervision then such personal care or supervision must be arranged by that Visitor at his/her expense. The Vessel is unable to provide or arrange respite services, one to one personal care or supervision or any other form of carer for physical or psychiatric or other conditions.

14. OTHER INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS The Vessel carries on board service providers who operate as independent contractors. Their services and products are charged as extras. The Carrier is not responsible for their performance or products. These contractors may include: hairdresser, manicurist, masseuse, photographer, entertainer, fitness instructors, shopkeepers and others providing services. The limitations of liability referred to into these Boarding Conditions shall apply to all independent contractors. The Carrier shall not be responsible in any way for the conduct, products or services provided by such independent contract

15. VISITORS LUGGAGE AND PERSONAL PROPERTY

15.1. Visitors can embark with one piece of hand Luggage per person. 15.2. Prams and wheelchairs are allowed but must be kept with Visitors at all time and must not block any exits when in use around the Vessel. 15.3. Visitors Luggage and property shall include only personal belongings, and any commercial property shall be subject to an additional charge. Visitor bookings of a commercial nature, such as FIFA sponsors, shall, at the discretion of the SC and subject to Carrier’s agreement, not be subject to additional charges for the storage of commercial property. 15.4. The Carrier shall not be responsible for any fragile or perishable property carried by a Visitor. 15.5. No animals are permitted on board, except for Recognised Assistance Dogs licensed to a Visitor. The concerned Visitor shall have full responsibility for any Recognised Assistance Dogs. 15.6. If medical mobility or other equipment is required, this must be notified to DQ at the time of booking to enable the Carrier to assess whether such equipment can be carried safely. It is the concerned Visitor’s responsibility to ensure that such equipment is in good working order and that the Visitor can operate such equipment. 15.7. The Carrier shall have a lien upon and the right to sell by auction or otherwise, without notice to any Visitor, any Luggage in satisfaction of unpaid monies or of any other monies that may in any way have become due by any Visitor to the Carrier or to its servants, agents or representatives.

16. VISITORS LIABILITY FOR DAMAGE Visitors shall be liable for and shall reimburse the Carrier for any damage to the Vessel and/or its furnishings or equipment or any other property of the Carrier caused by any wilful or negligent act or omission by the Visitors or any person for whom the Visitors are responsible including, but not limited to, Minors accompanying the Visitors.  

17. FORCE MAJEURE & EVENTS BEYOND THE CARRIER'S CONTROL Except as provided by law, the Carrier shall not be liable for any loss, injury, damage, or inability to perform the Voyage arising from any Force Majeure circumstances such as, but not limited to: war, terrorism - actual or threatened - fire, natural disasters, acts of God, labour strikes, bankruptcy, failure of subcontractors to perform, or any other events beyond the Carrier's control and/or any events which are unusual and/or unforeseeable.

18. LIABILITY OF THE CARRIER

18.1. The liability (if any) of the Carrier for damages suffered as a result of death or personal injury to a Visitor, or loss or damage to Luggage shall be determined in accordance with the following Conventions whose limits apply including in any claims for loss of or damage to Luggage and or death and or personal injury and are hereby expressly incorporated into these Boarding Conditions: a. The International Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea 1974 (The Athens Convention 1974) or where applicable The Athens Convention 2002, or EU Regulation 392/2009 Concerning the Rights of Passengers when travelling by sea in the event of Accidents (EU Regulation 392/2009). b. The Athens Convention 2002 where ratified and applicable to the boarding contract shall apply where EU 392/2009 does not apply. c. For bookings where the Athens Convention 2002 does not apply and which are not made in the EU or the Vessel does not have an EU flag or and where the place of embarkation or disembarkation is not in the EU then the provisions of the Athens Convention 1974 and the limits therein shall apply and are hereby expressly incorporated into these Boarding Conditions. d. Copies of the Athens Convention 1974, 2002 and EU Regulation 392/2009 are available on request and can be downloaded from the Internet at www.imo.org and https://www.imo.org/en/About/Conventions/Pages/Athens-Convention-relating-to-the-Carriage-of-Passengers-and-their-Luggage-by-Sea-(PAL).aspx. e. A summary of EU Regulation 392/2009 can be found at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=URISERV:tr0018&from=EN    f. It is agreed that the Carrier shall at all times be deemed a ship owner for the purposes of the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976, whether as amended by the Protocol of 1996 or otherwise and as in force in any relevant jurisdiction from time to time, and so entitled to limit liability thereunder. g. If any provision of these Boarding Conditions is rendered null and void by the Athens Convention 1974, Athens Convention 2002, or EU Regulation 392/2009 or otherwise then any such invalidity shall be limited to the particular clause and not to the Boarding Conditions

18.2. The level of damages a Carrier may be liable to pay in relation to death and/or personal injury and or loss of or damage to Luggage is limited and shall in no circumstances whatsoever exceed the limits of liability set out under the Athens Convention 1974 or, where applicable, The Athens Convention 2002 or EU Regulation 392/2009. 18.2. The liability of the Carrier for death, personal injury or illness to a Visitor shall not exceed 46.666 Special Drawing Rights ("SDR") as provided and defined in the Athens Convention 1974 or, where applicable, the maximum sum of 400,000 SDR pursuant to EU Regulation 392/2009 or The Athens Convention 2002 and, where there is liability for war and terrorism under EU Regulation 392/2009 or The Athens Convention 2002, the maximum sum of 250,000 SDR. 18.3. Liability of the Carrier for loss of or damage to a Visitor’s Luggage shall not exceed 833 SDR per Visitor under the Athens Convention 1974 or 2,250 SDR where EU Regulation 392/2009 or Athens Convention 2002 applies. 18.4. It is agreed that such liability of the Carrier shall be subject to the applicable deductibles per passenger, such sum to be deducted from the loss or damage to Luggage. 18.5. The Visitors understand that the conversion rate of SDR's fluctuates daily and may be obtained from a bank or Internet. The value of an SDR can be calculated by visiting http://www.imf.org/external/np/fin/data/rms_five.aspx . 18.6. The Carrier shall not be liable for loss or damage to any valuables such as monies, negotiable securities, precious metal items, jewellery, art, cameras, computers, electronic equipment, or any other valuables unless they are deposited with the Carrier for safe-keeping, and a higher limit is agreed expressly and in writing at the time of deposit, and an extra charge is paid by the Visitors for declared value protection. Use of the Vessel’s safe is not a deposit with the Vessel. Where there is liability for loss of or damage to valuables deposited with the Vessel then such liability is limited to 1,200 SDR under the Athens Convention 1974 or 3,375 SDR where EU Regulation 392/2009 or Athens Convention 2002 applies. The Carrier and the Visitors agree not to demand any security from the other in connection with a claim of any kind. The Visitors waive the right to arrest the Vessel or to attach any other asset owned, chartered or operated by the Carrier. If the Vessel is arrested or attached, then the ship and the Carrier shall have the right to any limitation and all defences available herein. 18.7. In addition to the restrictions and exemptions from the liability provided in the Boarding Conditions, the Carrier shall have full benefit of any applicable laws providing for limitation and/or exoneration of liability (including without limitation, law and/or the laws of the Vessel’s flag in respect of/or the global limitation on damages recoverable from the Carrier). Nothing in these Boarding Conditions is intended to operate to limit or deprive the Carrier of any such statutory or otherwise limitation or exoneration or liability. The servant and/or agents of the Carrier shall have the full benefit of all such provisions relating to the limitation of liability.  18.8. If any action is brought against any company pertaining and/or connected to the Carrier, the owners or the disponent owners, the Master or crew or any servant, agent or independent contractor of MSC,  or against any person or entity having an interest in the relevant Vessel including but not limited to the operator of the Vessel, any of these persons or entities shall be entitled to avail themselves of all defences, limits of liability and indemnities that the Carrier is entitled to invoke under the Booking and under the provisions of law applicable including, but not limited to, the benefit of any defence to or limitation of liability.  Save as provided in this clause, no third party shall have the right to enforce or apply any term hereof and the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 is expressly excluded. The parties may vary the provisions of the Booking, or terminate it, without the consent of any third party who derives any right pursuant to its terms even if such variation or termination varies or terminates the rights of such third party. 18.9. Without prejudice to the provisions above, if any claim is brought against the Carrier in any jurisdiction where the applicable exemptions and limitations incorporated in these Boarding Conditions are held to be legally unenforceable then the Carrier shall not be liable for death, injury, illness, damage, delay or other loss or detriment to any person or property arising out of any cause of whatsoever nature which has not been shown to have been caused by the Carrier’s own negligence or fault. ​19. ANGUISH/DISTRESS No compensation is payable by the Carrier to any Visitor for any emotional stress, mental anguish and/or psychological injury of any kind save where legally recoverable against the Carrier as a result of any injury caused by an accident due to the fault or neglect of the Carrier.

20. APPLICABLE LAW These Boarding Conditions and any claims against of whatever nature (including claims for death and or personal injury) brought by or on behalf of or by heirs and or dependants of any Visitors shall be subject to English law.

21. JURISDICTION

21.1. Except as provided by law all claims of any nature related to these Boarding Conditions shall be brought in and be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the High Court of London. 21.2. Without prejudice to the sub clause above, the Carrier shall be entitled to commence proceedings against any Visitor in the place where that Visitor normally resides.  

22. NOTICES OF CLAIMS A. The Carrier shall be under no liability whatsoever in respect of any claim arising from an accident which was not reported by a Visitor to the Master or safety officer whilst on-board the Vessel. B. Notices of Claim for loss or damage to Luggage shall be given to the Carrier in writing before or at the time of disembarkation, or if not apparent, within fifteen (15) days from the date of disembarkation. Notices should be sent to MSC Cruises SA, c/o MSC Crociere S.p.A., Via A. Depretis, 31, 80133 Naples, Italy. C. Complaints under EU Regulation. 1177/2010 concerning accessibility, cancellation or delays must be made to the Carrier within two (2) months from the date the service was performed. The Carrier shall respond within 1 month to advise whether the complaint is substantiated, has been rejected or is still being considered. A final reply shall be provided within two (2) months. The Visitor shall provide such further information as may be required by the Carrier to deal with the Complaint. If the Visitor is not satisfied with the response then it may complain to the relevant enforcement body in the country of embarkation.

23. TIME LIMITS FOR FILING SUIT All claims against the Carrier or the Vessel for illness, emotional stress or personal injury to a Visitor or for loss or damage to Luggage shall be time barred after two (2) years from the date of final disembarkation or in the case of death, the date on which final disembarkation would have taken place as provided by Article 16 of the Athens Convention 1974 and or where applicable The Athens Convention 2002 or EU Regulation 392/2009. These time limits are applicable to Minors and persons under a disability.  

24. DATA PROTECTION Personal data relating to individual Visitors shall be collected, processed, stored and used securely and in accordance with relevant data protection laws. The Visitors consent to the collection, processing, storing and use of their personal data to enable the Carrier to perform its services to DQ during the Voyage and DQ to provide access to the Visitors. This may include providing the Visitors details to Governments, immigration, port state control, police, flag state and other competent authorities and or as may be required by law. In the case of emergencies, the Visitors consent to the Carrier providing personal data to shore side doctors, next of kin, the Carrier’s insurers and advisors and the Visitors medical insurers. Personal data shall only be kept for as long as is necessary or required by law.

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How to Directly Access Cruise Ship Hotels & Fan Villages from Doha Airports

Wait, there are Two Doha Airports?

That’s right! Ignorance may lead others to be surprised as well. Both are relatively close and only slightly alters routes in and out of Doha downtown.

Why are there 2 being used?

Well, the “old” airport is still in use today for non-commercial use, but with increased traffic for the month, both will be utilized to handle the demand.

Hamad International (commonly referred to as DOH)

• This has been the commercial hub for Doha travelers since 2014 when it replaced Doha International.
• Most of the traffic will be routed through Hamad International but there are some airline exceptions.
• It was recently voted World’s Best Airport.

Doha International (commonly referred to as DIA)

• Mainly used in non-World Cup 2022 times for Qatar’s royal family, air force and VIPs.
• For example: Jazeera Airways, Pegasus Airlines, flydubai, SalamAir

What Airlines Are Using Doha International (DIA)

As the list seems to have grown, the best link we have found is TimeOutDoha which also provides some valuable information on travel as well.

As noted above, Jazeera Airways, Pegasus Airlines, flydubai, SalamAir were the first reported but others have been added per that TimeOutDoha article.

Direct Airport (DOH & DIA) Access to Downtown Doha, Cruise Terminals + Fan Villages

First, know that both airports will have standard use of Public Bus Routes, taxis, Uber and Careem + car rentals. These are always an option for transportation.

Also, the metro line can be used for both in and out of downtown Doha; however, the stops differ slightly.

That said, both will have standard access to rental cars, public buses, taxis, Uber, Careerm.

Lastly, when we say “Cruise Ship Terminals”, this is would include MSC World Europa, MSC Poesia and the most recently announced accommodation option, MSC Opera.

SOURCE : We pulled this directly from Qatar 2022 Site and highly recommend browsing for latest updates!

Using Hamad International Airport (DOH)

🚇 metro to downtown.

• Station = Hamad International Airport

🚐 Direct Shuttles to Cruise Ships & Fan Villages

Note: This was updated Nov 09 as the information was updated from Qatar 2022 site.

Direct Shuttles will operate with a 24 hr service, operating every 15 minutes.

You can take a direct shuttle DOH to Downtown for:

• Cruise Terminals
• Barwa Madinatna
• Barwa Barahat Al Janoub

We did not see anything that said this not a return service from Downtown to DOH.

Using Doha International Airport (DIA)

The differences using DIA are:

• The metro from DIA to Downtown is the Gold Line
• There are NO DIRECT SHUTTLES to the Cruise Terminals or Villages

🚐 Direct Shuttles to Downtown

Direct Shuttles will operate with a 24 hr service, operating every 30 minutes.

This will ONLY be DIA to Downtown (Souq Waqif); as there is NOT a direct Shuttle Downtown to DIA.

Note: There is NOT a direct shuttle to Cruise Terminals or Villages from DIA.

Shuttle Service between Metro & Cruise Terminals / Fan Villages

Again, using the Qatar 2022 Port details , we found the below detail regarding Shuttle Service between Cruise Terminal and (some) Fan Villages. It is unclear if more Fan Villages Shuttle Service will be added but recommend checking Qatar 2022 site.

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2 thoughts on “ How to Directly Access Cruise Ship Hotels & Fan Villages from Doha Airports ”

• 2 comments

“Also, you must book your seat in advance via the Hayya App. (We’re assuming this will be obvious on how to do so in due time as at the time of writing, there’s no way to view this).”

I no longer see a reference to needing to book a seat in advance on your source site. Nor do I see a place in the Hayya app. Any info on if this changed?

Hi Laura! Yes, it looks like it did update and we updated the screenshot! Thanks for checking and alerting us!

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Alcohol, cruise ships, rainbow flags: what awaits fans at Qatar World Cup

With the tournament one year away we address key questions for supporters planning to travel to the finals

When will tickets go on sale?

Early in the new year. Prices are yet to be revealed but a Qatar 2022 spokesperson told the Guardian that tickets would be “affordable for all the family” and in line with recent World Cups. For those with money to burn, executive packages are already available. These start at $950 (£707) per person for a “match club” package, which includes a group stage ticket, “street food” dining, a gift and drinks including beer and wine – while the more extravagant “Pearl Lounge” experience, with fine dining, “mixologists, Champagne selection, sommeliers, and premium spirits” starts at $4,950 a head.

Can ordinary fans buy alcohol in the stadium?

A decision is yet to be made, although the expectation is that it is more likely than not. In Qatar the sale of alcohol is restricted to a few luxury hotels and is expensive at £10-£15 for beer or wine. However for the World Cup it will be easier to purchase and more affordable. During the 2019 Club World Cup, for instance, the Qataris experimented with a “wet fan zone”, with beer, wine and cider on sale for about £5 – a similar plan is likely to be in place for the 2022 World Cup.

How strict are authorities likely to be with boozy fans?

Under Qatari law it is an offence to be drunk in public. The hope from organisers is that fans will understand that they are in a conservative country and moderate their behaviour. The sight of England fans conducting an impromptu beer snake along Doha’s Corniche is unlikely to go down well. “This is ultimately a conservative but hospitable country,” says one insider. “So there has to be an understanding on both sides that people should come and have a good time, while also respecting the culture.”

How prepared are the Qataris for trouble?

With eight stadiums within a 50-mile radius and most fans staying in Doha, there is clearly the potential for trouble. However organisers insist they are rigorously prepared for all eventualities, having attended numerous major tournaments since 2011 to learn how supporters behave at major events. They have also had a partnership with Interpol called Project Stadia since 2012, which they believe will equip them to handle any trouble. “Everything has been done to make sure that it’s a safe experience for fans,” insists one insider.

Where will fans stay?

Organisers expect more than a million visitors during the 28-day event, but with only 30,000 hotel rooms in the country they are having to rely on other forms of accommodation. Under a deal with Accor the French company will provide staff to manage and operate more than 60,000 rooms in apartments and villas across Qatar. The idea is that fans will get what organisers call “quality accommodation at a fair price” – while Qatar will not be lumbered with thousands of hotel rooms they don’t need after the World Cup.

Will it be possible to stay on a cruise ship?

Yes. Organisers have hired two huge ships, with swimming pools and spas, which offer a combined capacity of 4,000 cabins. The expectation is that alcohol also will be available – although the supreme committee, responsible for delivery of the tournament, has nervously played down talk of “party ships” and “booze cruises”. Plans to allow fans to stay in luxury tents in the desert are also being worked on.

Will rainbow flags be allowed in stadiums?

Yes. Qatar has said it will comply with Fifa rules promoting tolerance and inclusion at matches, despite its strict anti-LGBTQ+ laws. As Fifa’s chief social responsibility and education officer, Joyce Cook, puts it: “I’m an openly gay woman in football, so this is personally something I’m close to. We will see a progressive change in all of those aspects, and rainbow flags, T-shirts will all be welcome in the stadium – that’s a given. They understand very well that is our stance.”

What about gay supporters?

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, with a 2004 law stipulating imprisonment between one and three years for sodomy between men. However the Qataris have repeatedly insisted that everyone will be welcome, regardless of nationality, gender and sexual orientation. They also stress that the country has a more conservative culture and fans will be asked to respect local norms – which frowns on public displays of affection.

Will it be safe for a gay man and his husband to visit?

Yes, according to Paul Amann, the founder of Liverpool fans’ group Kop Outs. Amann, who visited Qatar with his partner during the 2019 Club World Cup, said he was initially worried about going after being invited by organisers. However, what he found surprised him. “It’s got a very horrific law on the statute, don’t get me wrong,” he says. “But my husband and I walked around Doha’s Corniche, and went to the museum and visited the souk at night, we felt entirely safe. But we were respectful of the legal situation over there, which covers both heterosexuals, as well as LGBT+ people. We didn’t make public displays of affection. But then we rarely do in the UK.”

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Qatar World Cup: ‘Hotel’ cruise ships get ready to on-board football fans from opening day

Travel & tourism.

Three designated cruise ships will accommodate football fans - take a look at likely rates

Dubai: Finding it difficult to book a room in Dubai from November 20? Try the cruise ship.

It’s now less than a month before the all-eyes-on FIFA World Cup, and cruise ship ‘hotels’ are attracting football fans’ as an alt-accommodation. The lowest room rate on a cruise ship hotel in Doha during the tournament is ‘still’ around Dh640 per night, on board the MSC Poesia , according to listings by the World Cup accommodation agency. An estimated 1.2 million will descend on Doha for the matches, and their needs will outstrip the 31,000-room hotel capacity in the Qatar capital.

Organisers of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar have chartered at least three cruise ships to provide several thousand hotel rooms during the month-long event. The MSC Poesia  and MSC World Europa  will be permanently moored at Doha’s Grand Terminal, just 10 minutes by shuttle to the heart of Doha, Souq Waqif. (The naming ceremony for the flagship MSC World Europa  will take place on November 13 in Doha, officially inaugurating the city’s brand-new Grand Cruise Terminal.) Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman - Cruise division at MSC Group, said, “It is only fitting that this event marks the coming into service of the highly anticipated MSC World Europa , the first in our trailblazing ‘World Class’ ships. She introduces a new cruising platform that boasts future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies.” “The ship will become the biggest and most environmentally high-performing passenger ship to sail out of Doha and across the Middle East and welcome guests from around the world for the winter 2022-23 season.”

The MSC Opera , a 2004-built cruise ship with a capacity for 2,700 passengers, will also be moored at the Qatari capital’s Grand Terminal for 30 nights, from November 19 to December 19.

How much does a cabin cost?

Accommodation options onboard the MSC Poesia  are relatively affordable, priced Dh646 per night. However, there is a minimum stay of two days onboard this vessel, and most cabins are nearly sold out for November. The ship has a capacity of 2,500 passengers. Rates for stay during the games are running at about QR1,240 per night onboard MSC World Europa . The vessel has six swimming pools and 14 whirlpools, a gym, and multiple dining bar and entertainment options. It can hold 6,774 passengers. A junior suite, including single and two bunk beds, is priced QR5,080 a night. Guests can avail of a balcony suite on board the ship at QR2,280 for check-in on November 24 and check-out on November 25.

Close to the tournament phase from early- to mid-December, there is a minimum stay of two to four days for all suites onboard the MSC World Europa . Prices would then rise to QR4,320 for two nights on MSC Poesia and QR2,960 on MSC World Europa , depending on the dates. While booking options for the MSC Opera  are yet to go live on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 official hospitality website, the likely tariffs should be QR1,710 for a two-night minimum stay during the group stage. The ship will provide 1,750 passenger cabins for visitors to Doha from November 19 to December 19.

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MSC Opera to Become Hotel Ship for World Cup in Doha

• October 10, 2022

MSC Cruises today announced that the MSC Opera will become a cruise ship hotel between November 19 and December 19 for World Cup fans in Doha, Qatar.

Working in cooperation with Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, the the 1,075 passenger cabin ship will join the MSC World Europa and MSC Poesia during the same period. 

This new accommodation opportunity for football fans in Doha can be booked for a minimum of two nights either through the line or a travel agency, the company said.

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Out-of-control 700ft cruise ship crunches into dock at Turkish port

This is the moment a 700ft cruise ship crunched into a dock at a Turkish port after desperately trying to slow down. 

The Celestyal Journey cruise ship was making a routine arrival into the port in Kusadasi, Turkey last week when it hit the concrete pier with its bow bulb.

The crew miscalculated the speed and approached the pier too quickly, resulting in the collision, Cruise Hive reported.

Members of the vessel's 597-person crew reportedly lowered the anchor in a bid to slow the approach, but despite their efforts the ship still crashed into the pier.

The collision caused only minimal damage to the ship and pier. No injuries were reported onboard or on the shore.

The Celestyal Journey struck a pier at Kusadasi Cruise Port on Monday last week at 12pm local time while crew were trying to dock.

Passengers were still able to enjoy their day in Kusadasi, one of the most well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world, as planned, according to Cruise Hive. 

The port, which has eight berths for large ships, is the most popular cruise port in Turkey. Officials say the incident has not negatively impacted operations. 

Celestyal Cruises, which operates the vessel and two other ships, did not have to alter any routes following the incident.

The Celestyal Journey entered service in 1994 and initially sailed for Holland America Line as Ryndam. Celestyal Cruises acquired the cruise ship last year.

The cruise liner has 630 cabins, including 149 that feature balconies, and offers guests access to seven exclusive restaurants, and eight bars and lounges, Haber7.com reported. 

Celestyal Journey is currently sailing seven-night cruises in the Aegean Sea region until late October 2024. 

However, unlike a typical closed-loop route, the Celestyal Journey's round-trip sailings overlap, allowing guests to embark and debark in Kusadasi, as well as various cities in Greece.

Travellers can start their voyage in Heraklion, Crete Greece; Piraeus-Athens, Greece; or Thessaloniki, Greece. 

The ship's final journey in the Aegean Sea will embark on October 19 this year. It will be followed by a 14-day repositioning cruise from Athens to Doha, Qatar. 

Once it arrives in its new homeport in Doha, the Celestyal Journey will offer seven-night roundtrip sailings to the United Arab Emirates. 

MailOnline has approached Celestyal Cruises for comment. 

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Doha Port welcomes over 378,000 passengers, 73 vessels during 2023-24 cruise season

DOHA: Qatar's gateway to maritime tourism Doha Port has welcomed over 378,000 passengers on board73 vessels during the 2023-24 cruise season, Mwani Qatar said.

The figures marked a 38 percent increase in visitor numbers and a 33 percent increase in the number of ships compared to the 2022-23 cruise season.

The 2023-24 cruise season which began in October 2023 ran until April 2024 and was expected to welcome nearly 80 cruise calls and approximately 350,000 passengers, making it the country's biggest cruise season yet.

At the beginning of the season Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, said: "Cruise tourism is an important pillar through which Qatar will fulfil its national tourism strategy to become one of the world's leading destinations. Qatar's cruise sector has grown strongly in less than a decade, owing to Qatar Tourism's presence in international cruise and travel exhibitions, signed partnerships and agreements, investments in personnel and our collaboration with important public and private stakeholders in Qatar. We look forward to a new cruise season with visitors from around the world who will have the opportunity to experience Qatar's hospitality and diverse tourism offering."

CEO of Mwani Qatar, Capt Abdullah Mohammed Al Khanji, stated: "With the start of the new season, our focus continues on providing the best possible experience to passengers by improving cruise facilities and enhancing world-class services in the State of Qatar, in accordance with the Ministry of Transport's strategic plan aimed to make Qatar a preferred destination for cruise travellers in the region. In cooperation with stakeholders, we have established a pioneering infrastructure in the cruise ship sector to provide high-quality services in compliance with the highest global standards while also contributing to the necessary infrastructure to handle the large influx of cruise ship passengers."

Qatar has seen a steady increase in cruise ship arrivals and passenger numbers over the years. The 2022/23 cruise season concluded with a 151 percent increase in visitors compared to the previous season, with 54 cruise visits and 253,191 cruise visitors.

Cruise passengers arriving in Qatar through Doha Port are welcomed in a brand-new Grand Terminal that features state-of-the-art facilities. It can accommodate two megaships at a time and up to 12,000 people a day, ensuring seamless operations.

Upon exiting the terminal, passengers find themselves by the Mina District, an all-round destination where visitors can enjoy plenty of restaurant options, retail outlets, and a stunning promenade that makes the most of the city's iconic skyline.