Dubai: Sunset or Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and sparkle to your Dubai trip, a sunset or dinner cruise with live music and an open bar offers just that. This experience isn’t just about the stunning views; it’s a perfect blend of scenic beauty, fine dining, lively entertainment, and a bit of luxury. From the comfort of a sleek yacht, you’ll glide past Dubai’s iconic landmarks, enjoying a gourmet buffet, refreshing drinks, and the soothing sounds of live music.

What sets this cruise apart? We loved the impeccable service, the breathtaking marina vistas, and the well-curated menu with international flavors. The relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere makes it a great choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic evening, or simply want a memorable night on Dubai’s waters. The only thing to consider? The cruise lasts 90 minutes, so if you’re after a longer experience, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Otherwise, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a taste of Dubai’s luxury lifestyle.

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Key Points

Spectacular views of Dubai Marina illuminated at night
Luxury yacht with two decks, including open-air upper deck
Gourmet international buffet with live cooking stations
Unlimited drinks including soft drinks, water, tea, coffee, and alcoholic options
Live music enhances the romantic and lively ambiance
Excellent service, with attentive staff and knowledgeable guides
Good value for the quality experience, starting at $49 per person
No hotel pickup included, so plan your arrival at the meeting point
Flexible booking with options to reserve now and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This cruise, operated by Xclusive Yachts, has been a mainstay in Dubai for over 15 years, hosting more than a million satisfied guests annually. Their reputation for professionalism and luxury is evident from the moment you arrive at the Xclusive Yachts Boarding Point near Marina Mansion. Whether arriving by metro, car, or taxi, instructions are straightforward: aim for Marina Mall parking or DMCC metro station, then walk to the meeting point. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to relax in the air-conditioned lounge with Wi-Fi, check-in, and get into the right mood.

Once onboard, guests are greeted with a red carpet—a touch of VIP treatment that continues throughout the evening. The yacht itself boasts two beautifully designed decks, including a lower glass-enclosed area with panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, Dubai Harbor, and Ain Dubai. The open-air upper deck is perfect for catching the breeze and snapping photos of the glittering cityscape.

The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the sights and sounds without feeling rushed. The estimated return to the dock is around 10:00 PM, fitting neatly into an evening plan.

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The Route and Sights

As the yacht begins to glide through Dubai Marina, you’ll quickly notice how illuminated and lively the area looks at night—a striking contrast to the daytime hustle. This part of the cruise offers unparalleled views of the towering skyscrapers, luxury yachts, and the shimmering waters.

Passing Dubai Harbour, you’ll get a clear view of the Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, beautifully lit and spinning gently in the distance. The marina itself becomes a shimmering ribbon of lights, perfect for photo ops, especially from the open-air deck.

Throughout the cruise, the crew may point out landmarks, sharing insights that add to the experience, supported by reviews praising the knowledgeable guides. The views of Dubai’s skyline, especially as the city lights twinkle around you, are what make this cruise truly memorable.

The Food: Gourmet Buffet with International Flavors

One of the highlights of this cruise is the buffet dinner, which combines continental and oriental flavors. Guests rave about the quality and presentation of the dishes, with many reviews describing it as “world-class.” Expect a live noodle station and live pasta cooking, allowing for a fresh, interactive experience.

Sample menu highlights include Egyptian lentil soup, basil pesto pasta, grilled spice-rubbed fish with lemon cream sauce, and chicken cacciatore. Vegetarians are well-catered for with dishes like Kadai vegetables and Singaporean vegetable noodles. The buffet also offers bread selections, salads, and desserts like banana and carrot cake, plus seasonal fruit salad.

Guests consistently praise the generous portions and variety, emphasizing that there’s something for all, whether you’re craving Asian noodles or Mediterranean salads.

Authenticity and Quality

Reviewers like Sophie mentioned how “every dish was beautifully presented, bursting with flavor, and prepared with passion”. The live stations add a fun element, and the careful selection of wines and spirits elevates the experience—they also mention the unlimited alcohol option, which is included for those wanting to indulge.

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Drinks and Entertainment

The open bar is a major plus for many guests, offering unlimited beer, wine, and spirits, as well as soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee. Guests often comment on the attentiveness of staff, like Kamal, who make sure glasses are topped up without needing to ask.

The live music, featuring talented musicians and saxophonists, adds a romantic and lively vibe. Several reviews mention how the music enhances the mood, with some guests describing the saxophonist as “brilliant” or “adding a special touch.” The soundtrack is carefully curated, creating an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and celebratory.

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Service and Atmosphere

From the moment you step on board, the staff is praised for their warm, professional, and attentive service. Many reviewers highlight staff members like Oliver, who is frequently commended for going above and beyond—checking on guests, serving drinks, and ensuring everyone has a memorable time.

The ambiance is versatile; couples enjoy the romantic setting, families appreciate the lively yet respectful atmosphere, and groups find it perfect for celebrations. The upper deck seating is in high demand, especially among those aiming for the best views and photo opportunities, though some reviews note that seating on the lower deck offers a charming open area for pictures.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic night, families wanting a relaxed yet elegant evening, or friends celebrating special occasions. It’s a fantastic way to see Dubai’s iconic skyline, enjoy gourmet food, and unwind with unlimited drinks in a luxury setting.

If you’re after an authentic Dubai experience that combines luxury, views, and entertainment, this cruise delivers. Just remember, it’s a 90-minute ride, so if you’re looking for something longer or with hotel transfers included, you might want to explore other options.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $49 per person, this cruise offers excellent value considering what’s included—gourmet food, unlimited drinks, live music, and stunning views. The reviews support that this is a high-quality experience for the price, with many guests commenting on how well-organized and enjoyable the evening is.

Compared to other luxury yacht experiences, this cruise strikes a good balance between affordability and quality, making it accessible for many travelers without sacrificing the luxurious feel.

The Sum Up

The Dubai Sunset or Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar is a fantastic way to see Dubai from a unique vantage point. It combines spectacular views, delicious international cuisine, and a lively, friendly atmosphere all in one package. The attentive staff, especially guides like Oliver, make the experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.

This cruise is best suited for romantic evenings, family outings, or small groups wanting a taste of Dubai’s luxury lifestyle. It’s an experience that’s easy to recommend—especially if you value quality service, stunning scenery, and good value for your money.

For anyone wanting to top off a Dubai trip with an elegant, memorable night on the water, this cruise hits the mark. Just arrive early, bring your camera, and prepare for a relaxing, fun-filled evening.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the sights, food, and music without feeling rushed.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this experience does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests should meet at the designated Xclusive Yachts Boarding Point.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Swimwear and casual beachwear are not permitted, and it’s best to avoid overly formal clothing unless you want to elevate your look.

Are drinks included?
Yes, an unlimited open bar with beer, wine, spirits, soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee is included in the ticket price.

Can I sit on the upper deck?
Upper deck seating is subject to availability, but it’s highly sought after for the views and fresh air. The lower deck offers a good open area for photos and easy access to the buffet.

Is this suitable for children?
While families are welcome, keep in mind the cruise is adult-friendly with alcohol and live music. Children should be supervised at all times.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change last minute.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Electric wheelchairs are not permitted onboard. Also, dress code is smart casual, and smoking is only allowed in designated areas.

How do I find the meeting point?
Follow signs to Marina Mansion, and once there, walk down the ramp next to the bridge. The staff at the meeting point will assist you if needed.

This Dubai dinner cruise offers a remarkable way to see the city’s nightscape, indulge in gourmet food, and enjoy lively entertainment—all while cruising in style. Whether celebrating or just soaking in the views, it’s a memorable experience enhanced by attentive staff and beautiful surroundings.