Khasab Musandam |Telegraph Island |Dhow Cruise | Dolphins

Travelers craving a scenic, authentic maritime adventure will find this dhow cruise in Musandam, Oman, offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, marine life, and historic sites. It’s a chance to drift along rugged fjord-like waters aboard a traditional Omani vessel while soaking up the sun and spotting dolphins. The tour includes visits to Telegraph Island, water activities, and a delicious buffet—all at a reasonable price of $60 per person.

What really makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat, the opportunity to snorkel at Telegraph Island’s calm waters, and the chance to enjoy a culturally rich cruise aboard a traditional dhow. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the tour timing can be quite busy, especially during peak season, and transport from Dubai isn’t included, which adds to planning considerations.

This cruise appeals most to those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with marine wildlife and historic highlights—perfect for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers eager for an authentic Arabian sea experience.

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Key Points

Authentic dhow experience with traditional Omani design and friendly crew
Dolphin sightings are frequent and often memorable
Snorkeling at Telegraph Island offers clear, calm waters rich with marine life
Visit Telegraph Island, a historic British telegraph station built in 1864
Water activities like kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling are included
Food and drinks are provided onboard, making for a hassle-free day

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Arabian Sea Journey on a Traditional Dhow

This full-day cruise departs from Khasab port at 10:00 am, with the crew welcoming you aboard a classic Omani dhow. The vessel, with its wooden hull and colorful sails, offers a charming alternative to modern boats—bringing a sense of history and local culture to the day. It’s important to arrive about 15 minutes early for boarding, and the tour lasts until late afternoon, giving plenty of time to relax and explore.

From the moment we set sail, the views of high mountain peaks and rugged coastline are breathtaking. As the dhow glides through the water, you’ll notice coastal villages dotting the shoreline, giving you a glimpse of local life in this remote part of Oman. Many reviewers emphasize that the scenery is genuinely stunning—“The fjords and cliffs are dramatic and unspoiled,” one traveler noted, making it an ideal backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

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Dolphin Spotting and Marine Encounters

One of the highlights of this cruise is the chance to see playful dolphins. The crew actively scans the waters, and many guests report sightings of pods jumping alongside the boat or surfing the bow wave. Several reviews mention that dolphins are often close enough to photograph and that the experience feels almost magical.

Further, the marine environment around the dhow is teeming with life. Snorkeling gear and floatation devices are provided, and the calm, clear waters around Telegraph Island are perfect for getting close to colorful fish and coral. One reviewer shared, “Snorkeling here was surprisingly vibrant, with plenty of fish swimming right beneath us.”

The crew’s local knowledge is a real bonus—they can often point out interesting marine creatures or tell stories about the history of Telegraph Island, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Telegraph Island: A Historic Stop with Scenic Charm

Anchoring at Telegraph Island introduces a unique historical element to the cruise. Built by the British in 1864, the station was part of a telegraphic cable line connecting India to Europe, passing via Basra, Iraq, and Turkey. Walking around the island, you can almost hear the echoes of colonial ambition and technological progress. Today, it’s a tranquil spot for swimming and snorkeling, with calm, shallow waters perfect for all levels.

Guests have described Telegraph Island as “a picture-perfect spot with pristine waters and fascinating history.” The island’s waters are notably clear, allowing snorkelers to observe vibrant marine life, while the island itself offers a quick explore for those interested in history or photography.

Water Activities and Leisure Time

After the initial stop at Telegraph Island, the boat anchors at two other islands for water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Equipment is provided, and the calm waters make these activities accessible for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. Reviewers appreciate having the flexibility—“We loved that we could kayak around the island and explore at our own pace,” one guest shared.

This part of the cruise is especially relaxing, giving travelers time to soak up the sun or simply float in the gentle water. The crew often serve fresh fruits and unlimited soft drinks, adding to the leisurely vibe.

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Lunch and Refreshments on Board

A key feature of this tour is the all-inclusive lunch buffet, which offers tasty Oriental dishes accompanied by tea and coffee. Many comments highlight the quality of the food, especially considering the price point. “The buffet was surprisingly good—warm, flavorful, and plentiful,” one reviewer wrote.

Soft drinks, water, and fresh fruits are available throughout the day, making it easy to stay hydrated while enjoying the sun. Since alcohol isn’t served onboard, it’s not a party cruise but rather a peaceful day focused on natural beauty and cultural sights.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Transport from Dubai: Not included in the price, but arrangements for round-trip transfer by air-conditioned vehicle are available at an extra cost. Many travelers appreciate having this option, as it simplifies logistics.
Group Size: The cruise usually hosts a moderate group, creating an intimate yet social atmosphere. The crew is friendly and attentive.
Timing: The boat departs at 10:00 am, so arriving 15 minutes earlier is recommended. The tour usually ends back at the port in the late afternoon, giving plenty of time for additional activities or travel plans.
What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen are essential. Luggage or large bags are discouraged for safety and space reasons.
Not suitable for: Pregnant women, due to water activities and overall boat stability. Also, note that smoking and alcohol are not permitted onboard.

Reviewers note that the timing can be busy during peak season, especially with larger groups, which might reduce the feeling of seclusion. However, the overall experience remains charming and engaging.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who want a relaxing day on the water with a mix of adventure and culture. Families with children who can swim will enjoy the water activities, and nature lovers will appreciate the dolphin sightings and stunning scenery. It’s also suitable for solo travelers looking for an authentic, laid-back experience and couples seeking a memorable day together.

For travelers who love history, the stop at Telegraph Island offers a tangible connection to colonial-era engineering, adding an educational twist to the trip.

Final Thoughts

At $60, this dhow cruise offers a well-balanced experience of natural beauty, marine life, and historical sites. The inclusion of water activities, a tasty buffet, and dolphin sightings makes it a good value for the price. The relaxed pace and friendly crew make it an enjoyable escape from busier tourist spots.

However, travelers should consider transportation logistics if they’re staying outside Khasab, and those prone to motion sickness might want to prepare accordingly. The tour operates in a scenic but sometimes busy environment, so managing expectations around group size and timing is helpful.

This cruise is perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Oman’s coastal charm with added fun in the form of dolphins and snorkeling. It offers a peaceful, picturesque slice of Arabian maritime life.

FAQ

Is transportation from Dubai included?
No, transfer from Dubai hotels is not included in the price but can be arranged for an additional charge, making it easier to plan your trip.

What should I bring for the water activities?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), swimwear, and towels. Equipment like snorkeling gear and kayaks are provided.

Are meals included?
Yes, a tasty Oriental buffet with tea and coffee is served onboard, along with unlimited soft drinks and fruits.

Can I see dolphins during the cruise?
Yes, dolphin sightings are common, and the crew actively watches for them, so chances of seeing playful dolphins are very good.

How long is the tour?
The cruise departs at 10:00 am and returns in the late afternoon. It includes multiple stops and water activities, typically lasting several hours.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s suitable for children who can swim. Pregnant women are not recommended due to water activities and boat stability considerations.

This dhow cruise in Musandam offers a straightforward yet enriching experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and history. For those seeking a relaxed but memorable day on the Arabian Sea, it’s a trip worth considering.