New Year Celebration In Arabian Gulf in Creek with Midnight Cake

Ring in the new year with a touch of elegance and tradition aboard a Dubai Creek dhow cruise. While we haven’t personally experienced this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect from this unique celebration. This 3-hour cruise offers a blend of sightseeing, entertainment, and culinary delights that make it a popular choice for visitors wanting to make their New Year memorable in Dubai.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular view of Dubai’s fireworks from the deck, offering a front-row seat to one of the world’s most impressive displays. Second, the international buffet dinner promises a variety of flavors, catering to both veggie and non-veg lovers. Third, the live entertainment onboard adds a festive, lively vibe that elevates the evening.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point. This is a consideration for travelers staying outside the immediate area or those who prefer a seamless, all-in-one experience. Still, for many, the scenic cruise, combined with the fireworks and festivities, justifies the extra planning.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of sightseeing, celebration, and comfort. It suits families, couples, or groups eager for an authentic Dubai experience with a festive twist. Now, let’s explore the details that make this cruise an attractive option for ringing in 2024.

Key Points

• Spectacular Fireworks Views: Get a prime vantage point to watch Dubai’s famous New Year fireworks.
• All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy a multi-course international buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Live Entertainment: The onboard performers add energy and a celebratory mood.
• Flexible Deck Options: Access to both air-conditioned lower deck and open-air upper deck.
• Midnight Cake & Champagne: Celebrate with a special cake and fruit champagne toast at midnight.
• Ideal for Families and Couples: Suitable for a broad range of travelers seeking a festive experience.

The Experience Breakdown

Booking and Arrival

Booking your spot in advance at around $300 per person is a smart move. It guarantees a seat on this popular New Year event, especially since it caps at 100 guests. The tour starts late, at 10:30 pm, giving you ample time to get to the meeting point near the British Embassy, close to London Dairy. As reviews mention, the meeting point is straightforward to find, especially with the provided contact number (+97142087404) for assistance.

Arriving early means you can settle into the cruise, choose your preferred deck, and get a good spot for the fireworks. Since no hotel pickup is included, you’ll need your own transport—whether that’s a taxi, ride-share, or even a short walk if you’re nearby.

The Dhow Cruise Itself

The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, offering a leisurely cruise along Dubai Creek. The dhow, a traditional wooden boat turned celebration vessel, features both air-conditioned lower decks and open-air upper decks. This means you can choose between a comfortable, climate-controlled environment or an unobstructed view of the city skyline and fireworks.

The cruise travels en route Dubai Creek, providing scenic views of the city’s skyline, historic sites, and modern skyscrapers. This dual perspective—old Dubai on one side, new Dubai on the other—makes for a fascinating visual contrast.

Dining: International Gala Buffet

One of the highlights is the multi-course international buffet. The menu offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with plenty of choices to satisfy diverse palates. Think fresh salads, flavorful mains, and tempting desserts—perfect for a festive occasion. Unlimited soft drinks, tea, and coffee keep guests refreshed while they enjoy the entertainment.

The reviews note the satisfaction with the buffet, with one reviewer mentioning, “the cuisine was satisfying with lots of choices,” which signifies good variety and quality for the price point.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

Onboard, you’ll find live entertainment, which adds an energetic, celebratory vibe to the evening. While specifics aren’t detailed, the general consensus from reviews suggests the performers are engaging and contribute to a cheerful atmosphere. Expect music, possibly traditional performances, or contemporary acts—whatever keeps your entertained during the cruise.

En-Route Fireworks & Midnight Celebrations

The pièce de résistance is the fireworks display visible from the deck—arguably one of Dubai’s most anticipated New Year spectacles. Passengers get a front-row seat to this dazzling show, making the cruise a memorable vantage point.

As midnight approaches, the cruise features a special cake, which guests can enjoy as part of the celebration. Plus, a fruit champagne toast is served at the table, marking the arrival of the New Year with a touch of elegance and festivity.

End of the Tour

The cruise concludes back at the original meeting point after three hours of sightseeing, dining, and celebration. Since no return transportation is included, guests need to plan accordingly for their onward journey.

What Travelers Are Saying

Authentic reviews reveal a mix of satisfaction and memorable moments. One reviewer highlighted the “exceptional and unforgettable view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks,” emphasizing the spectacular visuals from the upper deck. They also appreciated the well-organized nature of the event, mentioning that “the organization with a team was perfect.”

Another reviewer, who has used Rayna Tours multiple times, praised the reliability and service quality of Mr. Sadique Logde, noting, “When the experience is repeated, I would like to recommend him to others too.” This indicates consistent service that many travelers value.

Some guests found the cruise ideal for families, with comfortable arrangements and plenty of space to enjoy the celebration without feeling cramped. The availability of both decks allows for personalized viewing and comfort levels.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Arrive early to find the meeting point easily and settle into your preferred deck.
• Arrange your own transportation since hotel pickup isn’t included.
• Wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing a jacket if you’re on the open-air deck, as it can get chilly at night.
• Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the fireworks from a prime spot.
• Book in advance to secure your place, as this event is popular and limited to 100 guests.
• Have a plan for after the cruise, especially if you’re staying outside central Dubai, as return transport isn’t part of the package.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise offers an elegant yet relaxed way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai. It’s perfect for families and couples who want a blend of sightseeing, good food, and an unforgettable fireworks display. The accessible decks accommodate those who prefer comfort or an open-air experience, while the live entertainment keeps the mood lively.

It’s especially appealing if you value spectacular city views and a festive atmosphere, without the hassle of navigating city streets during peak celebration times. However, travelers seeking included transportation or a more intimate, exclusive experience might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point near the British Embassy.

What time does the cruise start?
The experience begins at 10:30 pm and lasts approximately 3 hours.

Can I choose between the lower and upper decks?
Yes, access to both the fully air-conditioned lower deck and the open-air upper deck is included, depending on your preference.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. The buffet includes vegetarian dishes alongside non-veg options.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 3-hour cruise, international buffet dinner, unlimited soft drinks, tea and coffee, a fruit champagne toast, and the midnight cake.

What about fireworks viewing?
Guests get a prime view of Dubai’s famous New Year fireworks from the deck, making it a memorable sight.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature of the cruise and family-friendly reviews suggest it’s suitable for children, especially those who enjoy fireworks and live entertainment.

Will I have enough space for good fireworks viewing?
Yes, the upper deck provides an open-air vantage point ideal for watching the fireworks clearly.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, and bring a jacket if you plan to stay on the open deck during the fireworks display, as it can be cool at night.

Final Thoughts

This New Year’s Eve dhow cruise offers a charming, scenic, and festive way to welcome 2024 in Dubai. It combines the visual spectacle of fireworks with a relaxing cruise, lively entertainment, and a delicious buffet—all within a traditional yet elegant setting. While it requires some planning around transportation, the spectacle and atmosphere make it worthwhile for those looking to celebrate in style.

Ideal for families, couples, or groups who desire a hassle-free, memorable night with panoramic views and authentic Dubai charm. The limited number of guests ensures a cozy, intimate environment, making it a special way to start the new year.

If you’re after a celebration that balances sightseeing, delicious food, and fireworks, this cruise could be your perfect choice. Just remember to book early, arrive prepared, and enjoy the spectacular sights and sounds of Dubai’s New Year celebration.