7 Best Cruises and Boat Tours in Dubai

Taking a boat ride in the Dubai Marina is one of the most fun experiences you can do during your vacation. Are you up for it? I'll tell you all the options?
7 Best Cruises and Boat Tours in Dubai

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      Are you going to spend a few days in Dubai? It is one of the most amazing cities in the Middle East and there is so much to see during a trip to Dubai. You'll be spoilt for choice!

      However, one thing you can't miss is a cruise around Dubai Marina, a district built around an artificial canal with access to the sea, characterized by its lively atmosphere and full of modern skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and shopping centers.

      Seeing Dubai from the waters of the Persian Gulf will give you a whole new perspective on the city and allow you to get a complete view of it. It will be the perfect end to your vacation! Check out the coolest options below.

      1. Cruise through Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah by speedboat

      Sunset in Dubai Marina| ©Oiva Eskola
      Sunset in Dubai Marina| ©Oiva Eskola

      Dubai Marina is one of the best areas in the city for strolling, but it's also a great place to enjoy the beach and the warm waters of the Persian Gulf.

      A really fun way to explore Dubai Marina is :::link|text=by|element=pa-818::: taking a :::link|text=boat cruise that|element=pa-818::: shows you this district from a different perspective: from the water, on a 60- or 90-minute speedboat tour.

      The boat is designed so that the skipper can maneuver quickly on the water, allowing you to experience speed and adrenaline on board. It's super exciting!

      In addition, during the tour of Dubai Marina you can enjoy spectacular, uninterrupted views of many of the city's main tourist attractions, such as:

      • Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm (two luxury hotels)
      • Bluewaters Island
      • Jumeirah Beach
      • Several royal palaces
      • Dubai Lagoon

      There are also options that include a buffet dinner on board, so you can enjoy a unique evening on a luxurious boat under the city lights. You have to try it.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=818|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=818|field=price:::
      • Ideal for: seeing Dubai from a different perspective and enjoying an exciting experience on the water

      :::link|text=Book a dinner cruise around Dubai Marina|element=pa-818:::

      2. Dubai Marina cruise on a yacht with picnic on board

      Waiting to board the yacht in Dubai Marina| ©LafullPicture
      Waiting to board the yacht in Dubai Marina| ©LafullPicture

      This :::link|text=yacht cruise around Dubai Marina|element=pa-822::: is similar to the previous one, but instead of traveling by speedboat, you will do so aboard a beautiful yacht, ideal for enjoying the city's seascape in a more leisurely and peaceful way.

      From the deck, you can see some of Dubai's most important tourist attractions, such as:

      • Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm
      • Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Lagoon
      • The Ain Wheel and Bluewaters Island
      • Royal palaces and much more

      You will also enjoy a delicious picnic on board, which can be breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on the schedule you choose. All this in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

      This type of cruise usually lasts between 2 and 3 hours and is designed with an exclusive tourist focus. It is not intended for swimming or sunbathing, but rather for viewing the skyline from the sea in complete comfort. Therefore, a casual-elegant dress code is recommended.

      The groups are not very large, making it an excellent opportunity to meet new people who are also enjoying their vacation in Dubai.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=822|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=822|field=price:::
      • Ideal for: those looking for a more relaxed experience with a touch of luxury to see Dubai from the sea

      :::link|text=Book a yacht trip around Dubai Marina|element=pa-822:::

      3. Traditional dhow cruise with buffet dinner and show

      Dinner cruise in Dubai Marina| ©Raja1847
      Dinner cruise in Dubai Marina| ©Raja1847

      If you are planning to visit Dubai as a couple and want to enjoy a romantic and unique evening, don't hesitate to book a :::link|text=dhow cruise with dinner|element=pa-819::: in Dubai Marina. Seeing the city lit up at night from the water is one of the best experiences you'll have on your trip.

      During the tour, you'll see some of Dubai's most famous tourist attractions (such as Cayenne Tower, Bluewater Island, Jumeirah Beach, and Ain Wheel) under the stars, aboard a dhow, a traditional Arab boat that adds a very special touch to this experience.

      Enjoy the sea breeze while sipping a cold drink (you'll appreciate it after a hot day) and then sit back and enjoy a delicious buffet of international cuisine. Later, the atmosphere will liven up with music and dance shows, such as live concerts or tanoura dance performances.

      These types of dhow cruises around Dubai Marina usually last around 2 hours, which is more than enough time to savor a magical night on the water.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=819|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=819|field=price:::
      • Perfect for: couples who want to enjoy a romantic evening in a unique setting

      :::link|text=Book a traditional dhow cruise in Dubai|element=pa-819:::

      4. Go parasailing on a cruise around Dubai Marina

      Parasailing| ©Maria D
      Parasailing| ©Maria D

      If you're looking for a little adventure on your Dubai vacation, in addition to planning a trip to the Dubai desert for sandboarding or quad biking, you should also set aside some time for parasailing over the waters of the Persian Gulf. It's amazing!

      You'll be lifted up by a kind of parachute to a height of 150 meters while the boat speeds across the waves. From the sky, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai Marina with iconic sites such as Jumeirah Beach, Burj al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, and Ain Wheel in the background for approximately 15 minutes, which is how long parasailing lasts.

      So put on your safety gear and get ready for one of the coolest experiences of your trip. You'll board a speedboat specially designed for this type of activity, from which you'll be launched into the air while feeling the thrill of the wind, water, and adrenaline.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=820|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=820|field=price:::
      • Ideal for: those who want to add a dose of excitement and spectacular views to their trip

      :::link|text=Book a speedboat ride in Dubai|element=pa-820:::

      5. Luxury mega yacht cruise with dinner

      Dubai yacht| ©Luis Pérez Contreras
      Dubai yacht| ©Luis Pérez Contreras

      If glamour is your thing and you're coming to Dubai to treat yourself, of all the cruises available in Dubai Marina, you might be tempted by the one that takes you on :::link|text=a luxury mega yacht|element=pa-2457::: to tour the marina for around three hours.

      With stunning views of Dubai at night in the background, you'll enjoy a cruise designed for the most discerning tourists, without having to spend a fortune. From around $60, you can enjoy the yacht trip with a buffet dinner and soft drinks, but if you prefer, you can add unlimited drinks for around $30 more or a VIP dinner (with reserved seating and champagne) for around $130 per person.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=2457|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=2457|field=price:::
      • Recommended if... you are looking for a premium, hassle-free experience with all the amenities on board.

      :::link|text=Book a mega yacht cruise in Dubai|element=pa-2457:::

      6. Pirate boat ride in Dubai

      View of Dubai Marina| ©Gabby Canonizado
      View of Dubai Marina| ©Gabby Canonizado

      Looking for a fun and different experience in the city? Hop aboard this :::link|text=pirate ship on the Dubai Canal|element=pa-7490::: and enjoy a one-hour tour among skyscrapers, nature, and iconic architecture. This tour combines spectacular views of the city with the themed atmosphere of a pirate ship, ideal for those who want to experience Dubai from the water with a more original touch.

      During the trip, you can admire monuments such as the Burj Khalifa, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, and the Burj Al Arab hotel. All this while you leisurely cruise along the Dubai Canal, one of the country's most modern urban projects. You'll also see more natural areas such as the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, home to flamingos and other migratory birds.

      More information

      • Duration: :::product-alias|id=7490|field=duration:::
      • Price: :::product-alias|id=7490|field=price:::
      • Recommended if... you are looking for an original activity for the whole family, with hotel pickup included.

      :::link|text=Book your pirate boat trip in Dubai|element=pa-7490:::

      7. Private cruise around Dubai Marina

      Dubai Marina Cruise| ©Krzysztof Skóra
      Dubai Marina Cruise| ©Krzysztof Skóra

      If you want to enjoy an exclusive experience during your getaway and have a generous budget, I recommend taking a private cruise around Dubai Marina, where you can admire the wonderful views of the coast on a relaxing trip through the water aboard a luxury boat.

      During the tour, you'll see such iconic sites as Jumeirah Beach, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, Ain Wheel, several royal palaces, Bluewaters Island, and Dubai Lagoon, among other impressive landmarks. On board, you'll enjoy all the comfort and privacy that only a private tour can offer, with the option of tailoring the experience to your tastes.

      Private cruises usually last between 1 and 2 hours. During this time, you'll have the opportunity to take lots of photos of the seascape, relax in the sun on the deck and, in some cases, even enjoy a small party on board thanks to the music included in the tour.

      More information

      • Duration: between 1 and 2 hours
      • Price: varies depending on the boat and extra services
      • Recommended for: those seeking privacy, comfort, and unforgettable views with their partner, family, or friends

      What is the best time of day to take a cruise around Dubai Marina?

      Dubai Marina| ©Enrico Strocchi
      Dubai Marina| ©Enrico Strocchi

      Any time is a good time for a cruise around Dubai Marina, but sailing in the afternoon is particularly enjoyable because, as well as enjoying the sea, the views of the coast and the sunset, when you return to shore you can take a pleasant stroll around this beautiful district and stay for dinner at one of its fantastic restaurants.

      What's more, at dusk, the Dubai Marina is lit up with thousands of colorful lights, creating a spectacular scene that will make for some wonderful souvenir photos.

      :::link|text=Book a mega yacht cruise in Dubai|element=pa-2457:::

      How much does a cruise around Dubai Marina cost?

      Money in Euros| ©Pixabay
      Money in Euros| ©Pixabay

      You can take a cruise around Dubai Marinafrom $32. On websites such as Hellotickets, you can find a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

      The price of these tours varies depending on factors such as the type of boat, the size of the group, whether lunch or dinner is included on board, whether there are activities during the tour, and whether it is a private cruise or not, to name a few examples.

      :::link|text=Book a traditional dhow ride in Dubai|element=pa-819:::

      How long do cruises around Dubai Marina last?

      Dubai Cruise| ©Marianna S.
      Dubai Cruise| ©Marianna S.

      Depending on the option you choose, cruises around Dubai Marina can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours.

      :::link|text=Book a dinner cruise on Dubai Marina|element=pa-818:::

      Is it advisable to take a cruise around Dubai Marina with children?

      Dubai cruises| ©Michael Beyer
      Dubai cruises| ©Michael Beyer

      Of course! Not only is it a fun activity that will make kids feel like real sailors, but it's also a comfortable way for them to see the sights without getting too tired.

      And, of course, they'll love riding on a boat if they've never had the chance to do so before. It will be a memory they'll never forget!

      :::link|text=Book a speedboat ride in Dubai|element=pa-820:::

      Tips for taking a cruise around Dubai Marina

      View from the Dubai Marina cruise| ©Yogibaer2001
      View from the Dubai Marina cruise| ©Yogibaer2001

      One of the experiences you simply must enjoy during a trip to Dubai is a cruise around the Marina, but before you embark on this adventure, take a look at these tips to make the most of the activity.

      Before buying your tickets, remember to check what activities are included in the cruise and what the itinerary is to make sure it suits your plans.

      Cruises around Dubai Marina are very popular. To make sure you get a place on the day and at the time you want, it's best to book in advance.

      Be punctual when boarding. Arrive at the pier in good time and take the opportunity to stroll around Dubai Marina beforehand. Plan your day well because the boat won't wait for anyone. To arrive on time, check out the post How to get around Dubai, which will help you plan your trip there.

      If you are going on a special cruise around Dubai Marina (with dinner and live entertainment) , pay attention to the dress code for the event. These usually require smart casual attire, so avoid the "tourist look" as much as possible.

      :::link|text=Book a mega yacht cruise in Dubai|element=pa-2457:::

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • What will I see from a Dhow cruise?

        You'll pass by Dubai's landmarks such as the clock tower and Al Maktoum Bridge, while you relax and take a breather with the sunset over the city skyline as a backdrop.

      • Is dinner included on Dhow cruises?

        Most cruises include lunch or dinner, in the form of buffets or 4- or 5-course menus.

      • What is the etiquette on a dhow cruise?

        Men are required to wear long pants or Bermuda shorts and closed-toe shoes; sportswear is not permitted. Casual yet elegant attire is appropriate.

      Reviews from other travellers

      4.7
      · 16052 Reviews
    • J
      J.
      5
      (0 Reviews)
      I was surprised at how well it worked: synchronicity of water, light and music. Well done.
    • A
      A.
      4
      (0 Reviews)
      All very good, low stress, good atmosphere. Perhaps the public address system could have been better regulated.
    • T
      T.
      5
      (0 Reviews)
      Good to combine with dinner or a walk after sunset.
    • E
      E. O.
      5
      (0 Reviews)
      I would come back just to enjoy the ambience of the lake and the urban environment.
    • N
      N.
      4
      (0 Reviews)
      Good overall experience. If you're looking for peace and quiet, look for a side bench a bit away from the main crowd.