Excursion Traditional dhow cruise tour at Muscat

Experience the waters around Muscat as the ancient mariners did on this half-day cruise aboard a traditional dhow.

The sight of the graceful sail of the dhow is synonymous with being in an exotic and far away land. For thousands of years Omanis have plied a sea-trading thoroughfare on trusty Dhows, their travels stretching north to Mesopotamia, east to India, and southwest to Africa.

From the pier, a 20-minute drive brings you to the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and your awaiting dhow. The 'Lubna' (or similar) provides interior and exterior seating. Indoors, overlooking the sea is an Arabic style saloon with stained glass windows and outside is 'majlis' or Arabic-style floor seating, all surrounded in traditional Omani ambience. The voyage is a carefully selected route along old Muscat, taking in scenes of Omani history from Portuguese architecture at the cornice to the modern wonders of the Al Alam Palace.

If the time and weather allow, you will also able to enjoy some time to swim. You will access the water directly from the Dhow through a ladder.

During the cruise, fresh dates, Omani coffee, and assorted soft drinks are offered. After the two-hour cruise return to the marina and re-board your coach for a short drive to the Muttrah Souq where an approximately 30 min stop will be made before the short transfer back to the port to re-join the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Old Muscat, Dhow Boat Cruise, Muscat Landmarks, Corniche, Al Alam

Note

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (250 meters), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 5-6 steps throughout the tour.  Care must be taken on the narrow wooden stairs to board the dhow and when embarking/disembarking the boats; guests must be agile and have good balance to participate. This tour is not suitable for guests who utilize a wheelchair. While the coaches will be air-conditioned, there is no artificial cooling on the boats. The operation of this tour is subject to weather and sea conditions. Those who suffer from motion sickness should take precautions in advance. The dhow operates under power; sail may be utilized. There are facilities on board the dhow. We recommend you wear sun protection. Do not take photographs of individuals without their permission. Women do not like being photographed. It is forbidden to take pictures of military facilities, borders, and airports. Please observe 'NO PHOTOGRAPHY' signs. Guests may ccess the water directly from the Dhow through a 5 steps ladder.