Buffet Dinner Cruise on New Dubai Canal

Exploring Dubai from the Water: A buffet dinner cruise on the New Dubai Canal offers a relaxing way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. This 3-hour cruise promises scenic views, a delicious buffet of local and international dishes, and the chance to see Dubai’s skyline illuminated at night.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the opportunity to see top landmarks like Burj Khalifa from a unique vantage point, the unlimited soft drinks included, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. On the flip side, travelers should note that alcoholic beverages are not included and must be purchased separately. This cruise is best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic evening with good food and a fantastic view—perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable night out.

Key Points

• Scenic Dubai Views: The cruise offers panoramic night views of Dubai’s glittering skyline.
• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free.
• Buffet of Local & International Dishes: A variety of tasty options to suit different palates.
• Unlimited Soft Drinks: Stay refreshed as you enjoy the sights.
• Limited Alcohol Options: Available to purchase, but not included.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Max 35 travelers ensures a more intimate experience.

An Overview of the Buffet Dinner Cruise on the New Dubai Canal

Dubai’s newest waterfront attraction — the Dubai Canal — has transformed the city’s skyline and added a new dimension to its sightseeing scene. This three-hour dinner cruise takes you along the canal, which is just a stone’s throw from iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. The cruise is operated by Flash Horizon Tourism, a reputable local provider, and offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and culinary delight.

This experience is designed to be both relaxing and visually impressive. You’ll board a traditional wooden dhow, a vessel that echoes Dubai’s maritime roots, and cruise through illuminated waters while enjoying a buffet dinner. The timing at 8:30 pm is perfect for catching Dubai’s cityscape lit up at night, and the hotel transfer adds to the ease of planning.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour’s standout feature is its comprehensive inclusion of transportation, dinner, and soft drinks. The pickup service means you won’t need to worry about hailing taxis or navigating public transportation — just relax and anticipate a comfortable transfer.

Once on board, you’ll be treated to a buffet dinner comprising both local and international dishes. Although the exact menu isn’t detailed, reviews suggest the food is generally considered “okay,” with some travelers mentioning the buffet includes delicious tapas-style options. The soft drinks are unlimited, making it easy to stay refreshed while taking in Dubai’s nighttime scenery.

The cruise is relatively intimate, with a maximum of 35 people. This smaller size encourages a more relaxed atmosphere and better views from your seat. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are available to purchase on board, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Dubai Water Canal

The journey begins with a gentle cruise along the Dubai Water Canal, which takes around two hours. As you glide beneath stunning bridges, including the new Dubai waterfall bridge, you’ll see Dubai’s skyline light up in a spectacular display. The canal’s proximity to key sights means you’ll get a front-row view of Dubai’s modern architecture and iconic skyscrapers, especially as night falls.

According to reviews, the views are the highlight. One traveler described the experience as “incredible images of the new buildings culminating in the Burj Khalifa,” emphasizing how the illuminated skyline creates a breathtaking backdrop.

What makes this stop special? It’s the opportunity to see Dubai’s cityscape from a peaceful waterway, away from the usual hustle, while enjoying a buffet dinner.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

The reviews paint a generally positive picture, with a 4.4/5 star rating from nine travelers. One reviewer, Dinu_S, called the experience “wonderful,” praising the cheerful atmosphere and the impressive views of downtown Dubai with the Burj Khalifa towering in the background. They also mentioned that the food was “OK,” which suggests that the buffet is decent, but perhaps not gourmet.

Another traveler, Myra_M, pointed out that the main attraction was the views of downtown Dubai. She recommended arriving early to secure a good seat, hinting that the limited space on the dhow means seating can be competitive during peak times. She also noted that the music was somewhat generic, and the driver’s driving style was “Fast & Furious,” which might be a concern for some.

Interestingly, a review from AnnTwinAM_V shared that the original tour was canceled last-minute, and they were instead moved to a Marina night tour. Despite the change, they described it as “fabulous” and appreciated seeing Dubai lit up at night, suggesting flexibility and alternative options are sometimes necessary but still worthwhile.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour starts at 8:30 pm, so plan to arrive early if you want to secure a good seat.
• The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or elsewhere.
• The cruise is suitable for most travelers, but be mindful that alcoholic drinks are extra if you wish to indulge.
• The maximum group size of 35 enhances the experience’s intimacy.
• Booking well in advance is recommended, with an average of 104 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.
• The cost of $110 per person includes everything except alcohol and gratuities, which are optional.

The Value for Your Money

At $110, this cruise offers a solid value considering the included hotel transfers, soft drinks, and scenic experience. While the buffet’s quality might vary, reviews suggest it provides a decent dining experience, and the ability to enjoy Dubai’s skyline from the water is priceless. The small group size and convenient pickup make this a hassle-free evening, especially for first-time visitors wanting to tick a memorable experience off their list.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This dinner cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic evening, small groups of friends wanting a relaxed night out, or even solo travelers who enjoy scenic, cultural experiences with good food. It’s also an excellent option for those who want to see Dubai’s landmarks illuminated at night without the hustle and bustle of daytime crowds.

Final thoughts

This Buffet Dinner Cruise on the New Dubai Canal strikes a wonderful balance between scenic beauty and convenience. It offers a relaxed way to enjoy Dubai’s iconic skyline, especially after a day of sightseeing. The included soft drinks, the intimate group size, and the scenic route make it a worthwhile activity for travelers wanting a memorable evening without breaking the bank.

While the buffet is described as “okay,” the real draw is the breathtaking views of Dubai’s illuminated skyscrapers, especially the Burj Khalifa. Just remember to arrive early, and consider bringing your camera to capture the city’s stunning nightscape.

This cruise provides a relaxing, beautiful, and reasonably priced way to enjoy Dubai from the water — a subtle yet enchanting highlight of any trip to this dazzling city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to enjoy the experience without logistics worries.

What time does the cruise start? The cruise begins at 8:30 pm, so plan to arrive a little earlier for the best seats.

Are alcoholic drinks included? No, alcoholic beverages are available to purchase on board, but they are not included in the ticket price.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, with about two hours spent cruising along Dubai Water Canal.

Is the experience suitable for families? Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it family-friendly, but be mindful of children’s comfort with boat rides and late start times.

What should I wear? Smart casual is suitable — think nice comfortable outfits. Since it’s an outdoor night cruise, bring a light jacket or layers in case of cooler weather.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

How crowded does it get? Seating can be competitive, so arriving early is advisable for those wanting the best vantage points.

Where is the meeting point? The tour starts at a location near public transportation, making it easy to access from various parts of Dubai.

This dinner cruise offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and culinary taste — perfect for those looking to unwind and soak in Dubai’s stunning night views. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a peaceful evening, it’s an experience worth considering for your Dubai itinerary.