Khasab Full Day Dhow Cruise With Enjoying Snorkeling, Lunch & Dolphin Watching

If you’re heading to Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, this full-day dhow cruise in Khasab offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and fun activities. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a memorable day on the water that’s well worth considering. From spotting playful dolphins to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, this trip balances adventure with relaxation.

What we love most? The friendly guides, the delicious buffet lunch, and the spectacular views of fjords and fishing villages. A potential downside? Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions might lead to cancellations. This experience suits families, solo travelers, and groups looking to explore Khasab’s natural beauty and cultural charm in one seamless package.

Key Points

• Authentic dhow experience: Enjoy a traditional boat that’s well maintained with modern amenities.
• Wildlife encounters: Dolphin sightings and snorkeling in clear waters are highlights.
• Cultural sights: Pass fishing villages accessible only by boat, like Seebi and Sham.
• Delicious onboard food: Buffet lunch, fresh fruits, Arabic coffee, and drinks are included.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easier.
• Group size: Limited to 25 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Khasab Dhow Cruise

The Traditional Dhow: Comfortable and Well-Equipped

This cruise uses a well-maintained traditional dhow, a type of wooden boat that’s been part of Oman’s maritime history for centuries. Despite its traditional roots, the vessel features necessary amenities such as restrooms, snorkeling equipment, towels, and life vests—key for a comfortable day at sea. Reviewers mention the boat’s size and comfort are ideal, with one noting it accommodates about 8 people, creating a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Starting the Day: Smooth Pickup and Early Departure

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am from a conveniently located meeting point in Khasab. Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics—no need to worry about transportation. The tour lasts around six hours, giving ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The group size maxes out at 25, providing a balanced atmosphere—small enough to feel personal but large enough for lively company.

The Itinerary: A Day of Scenic Highlights and Authentic Encounters

Oman Fjords and Spectacular Landscapes

Once underway, the cruise takes you through the famous Oman Fjords, renowned for their towering cliffs and dramatic scenery. These fjords are more than just pretty views—they’re living landscapes that showcase Oman’s untouched natural beauty. Travelers love the stunning vistas and often comment on how peaceful and photogenic the scenery is.

Visiting Fishing Villages

The trip includes stops at fishing villages like Nadifi, Qanah, Maqlab, Sham, and Seebi, which are only accessible by boat. These small settlements offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen, with colorful boats and humble houses lining the shores. Reviewers mention that they appreciated seeing these villages because they reflect the authentic culture of Khasab.

Dolphin Watching: A Highlight

One of the most beloved aspects of this tour is spotting humpback dolphins. As noted by travelers, the guides are attentive, and dolphins often jump alongside the boat, making for stunning photo opportunities. One reviewer called it “a fabulous experience,” emphasizing how magical it was to see so many dolphins in their natural habitat. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the wildlife viewing even more enjoyable.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Seebi Island

Snorkeling is included and well-managed, with equipment provided. The crystal-clear waters make for excellent underwater exploration, and reviewers rave about the abundance of marine life. Some mention feeling comfortable in the water thanks to provided towels and life vests, and others highlight how the coral reefs and fish offer fantastic photo opportunities.

The Iconic Telegraph Island

A special stop is Seebi Island, also called Telegraph Island, notable for its historical significance. British engineers laid underwater cables connecting India to London here in 1864, and today it’s a fascinating spot to explore and take photos. Visitors often find it a unique cultural marker, blending history with natural beauty.

Food and Refreshments: A Truly Satisfying Meal

A major highlight is the buffet lunch served onboard. Reviewers consistently mention the delicious food, praising the variety and quality—sometimes including traditional Arabic dishes, fresh fruits, and refreshing drinks. Coffee and soft drinks are available throughout, making it easy to stay energized for snorkeling and sightseeing.

Practicalities for a Relaxing Day

Snorkeling gear, towels, and life vests are provided, removing any hassle and allowing you to focus on the fun. The boat’s facilities, including a restroom, mean you can relax comfortably all day. As one guest put it, “The boat was big and comfortable,” with plenty of space to lounge or chat with fellow travelers.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $44 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the inclusive features—meals, snorkeling equipment, and wildlife sightings. Numerous reviews describe it as a top-notch experience for the price, especially given the personalized service and scenic stops. The half-day trips and other similar experiences are available, but this full-day tour provides a more comprehensive look at Khasab’s fjords and villages.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, curious solo travelers, and groups wanting a mix of adventure and cultural insights. The small group size enhances intimacy, and the friendly guides make a difference in making everyone feel welcome and informed.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance, since this tour tends to fill up about 39 days ahead.
• Arrive early at the designated meeting point around 10:00 am.
• Wear comfortable clothing and swimwear under your clothes—snorkeling and swimming are prime activities.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be strong on the water.
• Confirm weather conditions before your trip, as poor weather could lead to cancellations.
• Keep your camera ready—dolphins and stunning scenery are frequent highlights.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day dhow cruise offers an authentic taste of Oman’s coastal beauty, blending wildlife encounters, cultural sights, and relaxing moments onboard. The experience is well-loved for its knowledgeable guides, delicious onboard food, and stunning landscapes—which many reviewers say far exceeded their expectations. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive day of sightseeing, adventure, and culture in Khasab.

If you’re traveling with family, love marine life, or simply want to escape into nature’s quiet beauty, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. The only consideration is the weather dependency—so check the forecast and plan accordingly. Overall, it represents a wonderful value for an experience that combines scenic vistas with authentic local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 10:00 am from the designated meeting point in Khasab.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered from specific locations, making it easier to join the tour without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately six hours, giving plenty of time for activities and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a buffet lunch, coffee and tea, bottled water, fruits, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, towels, and life vests.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
No, there are no extra charges for the included activities, but outside transfers or visa fees are not included.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who are comfortable in the water will enjoy snorkeling and dolphin watching.

Are there any restrictions?
No specific restrictions are mentioned beyond weather considerations, but always confirm your suitability based on personal health and comfort with water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a camera, and extra cash if you want souvenirs or additional drinks, although most essentials are provided onboard.

This dhow cruise in Khasab offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation—ideal for those eager to explore Oman’s stunning coastline in comfort and style.