Imagine floating over crystal-clear waters, surrounded by colorful fish and coral, with the chance to spot gentle turtles gliding by. That’s essentially what you get on a snorkeling adventure in Fujairah, a part of the UAE that’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but offers some of the best marine scenery in the region.
We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this trip firsthand, and what comes through strongly is its value for money, friendly guides, and stunning underwater views. It’s a family-friendly activity suitable for all ages that promises a fun day out on the water. However, if you’re expecting a peaceful, intimate experience, you might find the boat can get a bit crowded at times, especially during peak season.
This tour is ideal for adventurers craving authentic marine encounters, families with kids, or anyone wanting a relaxed, well-organized day out with good food and spectacular scenery. Keep reading to find out what makes this snorkel trip stand out—and whether it’s the right fit for your UAE itinerary.
Key Points
- Excellent value for money at around $97 per person, especially considering the inclusive BBQ lunch and all snorkeling gear.
- Family-friendly with equipment and guides available for all skill levels.
- Stunning marine life and coral reefs with potential turtle sightings.
- Well-organized experience with a professional team leading the trip.
- Limited alcohol options, so it’s more about the natural beauty than partying.
- Small group size (maximum of 10 travelers), making for a more personal experience.
Why We Love This Experience
The first thing that catches your attention is how straightforward and smooth the whole trip is. From booking to returning, it’s designed for convenience, with most travelers booking about two weeks in advance, indicating good planning. You’ll love the comprehensive snorkeling setup—all the gear is provided, and the guides are ready to assist, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned snorkeler.
Another highlight is the underwater environment. Fujairah’s reefs are vibrant, with plenty of colorful fish and coral formations. The chance to see turtles in their natural habitat is a major draw, especially for wildlife lovers. Plus, the boat’s onboard amenities, including a toilet and fresh fruit, make the day comfortable and relaxed.
Lastly, the lunch deserves a mention. The included light BBQ, set against scenic views, offers a satisfying end to the morning’s activity—no need to worry about packing snacks or finding a restaurant afterward.
Looking for more options in United Arab Emirates? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What to Expect from the Tour
Meeting Point and Duration
The adventure begins at the Reef Oasis Diving Center located on Al Dana Island. The entire experience lasts roughly 4 hours, which is perfect for a half-day escape from the city. The tour ends back at the starting point, allowing for easy planning afterward.
The Journey to the Reef
Once you arrive, the crew provides all necessary equipment—masks, snorkels, fins, and life vests if needed. The group is small, capped at 10 people, which means you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed and more likely to get personalized attention.
The boat itself is quite comfortable, equipped with a toilet and plenty of space to relax before and after snorkeling. We loved the way the boat provided beverages—unlimited soft drinks and water—keeping everyone hydrated, a simple but appreciated touch that adds to the overall value.
Snorkeling Experience
As soon as you put on your gear and hop into the water, you’re in for a treat. The coral reefs are teeming with life—schools of colorful fish, rays, and, if luck is on your side, sea turtles and even sharks. One reviewer specifically mentioned how guides like Samir and Ahmed made sure everyone stayed safe, especially around rocks and low tide areas, which can be tricky for first-timers.
The underwater scenery is breathtaking, and the visibility is generally good. The guides are happy to give tips on spotting marine life or pointing out interesting coral formations, making the experience more insightful and less hit-or-miss.
Turtle Spotting and Marine Life
The highlight for many is the chance to see turtles swimming peacefully nearby. This isn’t a guaranteed sight, but the chance is high enough to make it worthwhile. The reef area is also home to rays and small sharks, which add an extra thrill to the snorkel.
Food and Refreshments
After about an hour in the water, everyone returns to the boat for a light BBQ lunch. It’s simple but tasty, and provides a good energy boost. The tour’s reviews praise the lunch as “amazing” and “well organized,” often highlighting how it exceeded expectations considering the overall value.
Additional Considerations
While most reviews are glowing, some travelers experienced a crowded boat, especially when the tour was oversubscribed. It’s worth booking in advance and arriving on time to ensure you get the best experience. Also, alcohol isn’t included, so if you’re looking to keep things lively, bring your own or plan for a different type of celebration afterward.
The Experience From the Traveler’s Perspective
Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and attentive the guides are. For example, one commented on how Samir and Ahmed “took really good care” of the group and ensured safety around rocks, which makes a big difference for beginners or those less confident swimmers.
Others appreciated how well-organized everything was, with everything running smoothly from check-in to snorkeling and lunch. Many noted the good value for money, especially considering all the inclusions—snorkeling gear, drinks, and food.
Despite a few mentions of crowded boats, most guests felt the experience was worth the price and left with wonderful memories of seeing marine wildlife and exploring Fujairah’s coast.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Book early—the tour tends to be booked about 15 days in advance.
- Arrive promptly at the Reef Oasis Diving Center at Al Dana Island.
- Bring a waterproof camera for capturing the underwater sights.
- Wear sun protection—a rash guard or UV shirt is helpful, plus sunscreen.
- Consider your swimming ability—the trip is suitable for all levels, but if you’re apprehensive, mention this to guides beforehand.
- You’ll need to present your passport on the day, so keep it handy.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This snorkeling trip is ideal for those looking for a fun, safe, and well-organized day in Fujairah’s waters. It offers a fantastic chance to see turtles and colorful marine life without needing diving experience. The inclusive food and drinks, small group size, and knowledgeable guides make it a great value for a mid-range budget.
Families or groups of friends will find it especially appealing for its relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery. If you’re after a low-stress way to enjoy Fujairah’s coast, with the bonus of a tasty BBQ lunch, this tour checks all the boxes.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking a private or ultra-exclusive experience, as the boat can get crowded, but otherwise, it remains one of the best ways to explore the region’s marine ecology.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with equipment and guides available for beginners.
Do I need any prior snorkeling experience? No, beginners are welcome. Guides are there to assist and ensure safety.
What should I bring? Sunscreen, waterproof camera, hat, and an appetite for adventure. All gear is provided.
Can I see turtles on every trip? Turtle sightings are common but not guaranteed; they depend on sea conditions and luck.
How long is the snorkeling portion? Typically around an hour, but this can vary depending on group preferences and conditions.
Are alcoholic beverages available? No, alcohol is not included or served during the tour.
What is the group size? The maximum is 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Is there a bathroom on board? Yes, the boat has a toilet, making the trip more comfortable.
What’s the cost? Around $97.41 per person, which includes equipment, drinks, and lunch—offering good value for a half-day adventure.
What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In essence, this snorkeling tour in Fujairah offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience with beautiful marine scenery, caring guides, and a tasty BBQ—a smart choice for anyone wanting a memorable day on the water.