A Dubai dhow cruise is increasingly becoming a must-do for all tourists visiting Dubai. It’s a fun way to explore the older side of Dubai, while also seeing the new side.
See also: Where to Stay in Dubai
Water bodies in Dubai
Incidentally, Dubai has no natural water bodies or oases. However, there is an artificial canal city in Dubai namely the Dubai Marina.
The Dubai Creek, the site of many enjoyable Dubai dhow cruises is a natural inlet. The Marina and Dubai Creek are the main locations where tourists experience dhow cruises.
What are dhows?
Dhow cruises usually center on traditional dhow vessels. They are an interesting way of enjoying a piece of Dubai’s ancient maritime heritage. They usually combine sumptuous buffet dinners and traditional Arabic heritage.
Choosing a dhow cruise
There are a number of companies that offer dhow cruise packages. Tourists and visitors should compare the companies to get the best rates (here’s one to consider). The packages are ideal for big groups and families.
In order to find the best dhow cruise in Dubai, tourists should choose between the Dubai Creek or Marina. The Marina has a more modern outlook and will be appealing to sightseeing tourists (here’s a Dubai Marina cruise). The Dubai Creek typifies Arabian simplicity of a bygone era.
The traditional dhow design is quite important for sightseeing tourists. A dhow with large deck windows will offer a breathtaking view of nighttime Dubai. There are traditional dhows with open air decks for an even better view. Tourists should identify companies that offer guided tours on their dhow cruises.
Dhow cruise entertainment
There are dhow cruises that cater to tourists who want to relax and have fun. Tourists have an option of booking the dhow for private functions and parties. There are dhow cruise companies offer private party packages. These packages usually include a DJ for hire and a diverse, mouthwatering international buffet. A bevy of beautiful and enticing belly dancers is a common feature in these parties. There are a variety of drinks and cocktails available for tourists on such dhow cruises.
Food on a dhow cruise
It is also important for tourists and families to keep their group size in perspective. The dhow cruise vessels usually handle a set number of passengers. This information can be obtained when making a booking prior to the dhow cruise. At this point, the tourist should also ensure that they can stomach what is on offer, so to speak. Put simply, in case one is a vegetarian, they should make adequate arrangements to ensure that the buffet offered on board caters to their preferences.
Family groups are bound to have an unforgettable experience on Dubai’s dhow cruises. There are a variety of cost effective packages available for families who want to enjoy a dhow cruise. The best choice should fall within their budget. This is usually a great chance to experience heartwarming Bedouin traditions and hospitality. The aroma of traditional Arabic coffee, locally known as “kahweh” and served on the dhow cruises, will forever remain imprinted on visitor’s memories.
Dubai Dhow cruises for couples
Couples in love are not left out of the exciting dhow cruises. The cruises offer the perfect setting for couples in love to take in the sights while romancing the night away. There are attractive offers, discounts, and deals available for couples out to enjoy a romantic dhow cruise in Dubai.
Major Attractions of a Dubai Dhow Cruise
If you book a dhow cruise while you are in Dubai, there are many added benefits that you receive apart from the lavish and sumptuous dinner on board.
A luxury dhow cruise is compulsory when you are in Dubai. It is an experience to treasure for your lifetime. There are many things to see with a totally different perspective from a dhow cruise.
Here’s what to expect:
Enjoy the magnificent view
The view of the ever vibrant skyline on a dhow cruise in Dubai is magnificent. Passing along the highest buildings in Dubai, brilliantly illuminated will be a pleasure to your eyes. The huge expanse of the sea touching the coastline makes a magnificent impact. The hue of the setting sun, the blue water splashing on the white sands before retreating in a white froth creates a beautiful cinematic effect in your mind.
You can also get transferred to the past once you pass the historical heritage village while passing the promenade. The contrast can be significantly seen when you reach the modern parts of the Marina. All these are a treat to the eyes with an experience enhanced with the sparkling fireworks.
Feel like a royal
As all the dhow cruise boats are built of wood, it gives the extra elegance in look as well as in the material. The royal touch in its finish, decoration and presentation will enable you to get the feeling of a royal life style. The quality of food along with the service is also of royal caliber. The berths and cabins, the crew, the hostess – everything is of royal stature. You are given five star attention on board. At the same time the entertainment on board is also one of a kind.
Novelty in the ambience
The entire ambience of having dinner in a dhow cruise of Dubai will be very calm but enjoyable. You can enjoy your dinner in your cabin or on the deck where it is spread in a buffet style. There are entertainments which are soothing to the eyes and ears too. The belly dance and the traditional folk dances will be enjoyable. There is no rush or hurry. The whole atmosphere is very soothing to anyone.
Experience of a lifetime
The experience you can have in a dhow cruise is exceptional. There are many things to enjoy in it. You can have juices and cold drinks to your heart’s content. The staff and the crew are all cordial in their behavior. The food is exquisite as it is cooked by the best chefs in the world. You just have to book the right dhow cruise to have the ultimate feeling in luxury.
These are some important tips to keep in mind when trying to find best dhow cruise in Dubai.