Qatar launches expedition cruises highlighting whale sharks

The eight- and 10-night adventure cruises, from March 24 to May 7, sail aboard Ponant's 170-passenger Le Champlain.

Gentle giants

Whale sharks, sometimes called the gentle giants of the sea, are the largest shark and the largest of any fishes alive today, according to the World Wildlife Fund, which said their maximum size could be as large as 20 meters/65 feet.

Access to restricted marine zone

Qatar is home to one of the planet's largest aggregations of whale sharks. Each year, hundreds congregate in the Al Shaheen region, a restricted marine zone off the northeast coast, from April to September.

Discover Qatar said travelers will be among the first to see whale sharks in these restricted waters.

Blue Eye

The trips will take advantage of Le Champlain's Zodiacs to explore, as well as the ship's Blue Eye underwater viewing lounge.

The new series also highlights bird life, history and culture, including Qatar's booming arts scene.

Fares start at $5,295 per person.