Dubai: Water Canal Cruise and La Perle Show with Dinner

Contents show

Dubai: Water Canal Cruise and La Perle Show with Dinner — A Complete Experience

Planning an evening in Dubai that combines scenic views, luxurious dining, and world-class entertainment? This tour offering the Water Canal Cruise with dinner plus access to La Perle, Dubai’s top show, checks all those boxes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a truly memorable night that offers excellent value and authentic Dubai highlights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to soak up Dubai’s iconic skyline from the water, including views of the Burj Khalifa and the Imagine water projection. Second, the luxury cruise with an international buffet provides a relaxed yet stylish setting. Third, sitting front and center at La Perle guarantees an awe-inspiring display of acrobatics, water effects, and theatrical magic.

A possible consideration? The dinner quality on the cruise has been described as average by some, and the show’s style can seem a bit eclectic—some viewers love the spectacle, while others find it slightly strange or disjointed. Still, if you’re after a full evening of Dubai’s best sights, sounds, and tastes, this tour is a well-rounded pick. It’s best suited for those looking for a luxurious, flexible evening with a mix of scenic beauty and entertainment.

Ultimately, this experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive Dubai night, couples celebrating, or anyone eager to enjoy a special night out with excellent views and entertainment. Now, let’s break down what you’ll actually experience and why it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: See Dubai’s skyline, including the Burj Khalifa and the Imagine water projection, from the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat.
Luxury Dining: Enjoy a well-curated international buffet with options to suit different tastes.
Iconic Landmarks: Glide under Dubai’s first sensor-operated waterfall bridge and past the Sheikh Zayed Bridge.
Top Entertainment: Experience La Perle, Dubai’s premier show, with its impressive acrobatics and water effects.
Flexible Options: The tour includes pickup and drop-off (if chosen), making logistics smooth.
Good Value: At $136 per person, it combines multiple memorable experiences into one evening, often cited as excellent value.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubai

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Meet and Board at Al Faris Floating Restaurant

Your evening begins at Al Faris Floating Restaurant, conveniently located behind the Intercontinental Hotel Dubai Festival City. The boarding time is at 6:15 PM, with departure at 7:00 PM. If you’re driving, parking at Dubai Festival City Mall’s North Parking (P1) and walking to the waterfront is straightforward. Reviewers mention that the location is easy to find, and staff are friendly and helpful.

The Water Canal Cruise Experience

Once onboard, expect a luxurious dhow with both glass-enclosed and al fresco dining options. The ambiance is cozy, yet stylish, with taped commentary providing brief insights about Dubai’s landmarks. The cruise lasts approximately an hour and a half, giving ample time to enjoy the views and the relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights of the cruise include:

The chance to spot Dubai’s famous skyscrapers lit up at night; many reviews mention how magical the skyline looks from the water.
Gliding under the world’s first sensor-operated waterfall bridge, which is a fun technological feature and a unique photo opportunity.
Passing the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, a modern marvel, and soaking in the lively Dubai Festival City vibe.
Watching the Imagine water projection—a spectacular display that transforms the water screen into colorful images, creating a captivating backdrop for dinner.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dining on Board

The international buffet is generally described as good, with plenty of options. Reviewers mention that the food is plentiful and well-cooked, though a few note that it’s not gourmet. The buffet includes a variety of dishes, with some reviews highlighting the on-demand pasta station and the friendly staff who serve beverages and clear plates efficiently.

Additional notes:

Selected house beverages are included if you opt for the drink package, with some reviews praising the good selection of soft drinks and alcohol. Be aware that house beverages are only for those 21 and older.
Some guests mention that the buffet may not be hot at all times, likely due to the nature of buffet service on a moving boat, but overall, the quality is considered good for the price.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Dubai

Gliding Under Dubai’s Architectural Wonders

As the cruise progresses, expect moments of awe as the boat passes under Dubai’s signature bridges—waterfalls and sensor-operated features add a futuristic touch. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and impressive the cruise atmosphere feels, especially as the city lights shimmer on the water.

Transition to La Perle

After the cruise, guests are transferred (if you chose the options) to La Perle, Dubai’s leading acrobatic show located in Al Habtoor City. The Silver Pass guarantees good seats, often praised for their unobstructed views.

What to anticipate:

The show is a blend of acrobatics, water, and theatrical effects, with jaw-dropping acts that often leave viewers stunned.
Many reviews describe La Perle as breathtaking, with some respondents calling it “the best show in Dubai” or “a must-see.”
The water effects and performers’ skill are often praised, with some describing the experience as “mind-blowing” and “unlike anything I’ve seen.”

End of the Night

Post-show, your driver will drop you back at your hotel if you selected the return transfer option. Others may choose to explore Dubai’s nightlife or head back independently, as transport options are flexible.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The $136 price point covers the entire evening—from cruising and dining to world-class entertainment. Guests often comment on the value for money, especially considering the multiple experiences packed into one evening. The friendly guides, smooth pickups, and scenic views make it a hassle-free way to enjoy Dubai’s highlights.

While some reviews point out that the buffet isn’t gourmet and the show may be a bit eclectic for some tastes, most agree that the overall experience exceeds expectations. Plus, the flexible options—such as pickup and drinks—allow for customization based on your preferences.

Who Would Love This Experience?

First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Dubai’s skyline, bridges, and landmarks.
Couples seeking a romantic and memorable night out with stunning visuals and entertainment.
Those interested in luxury experiences that combine scenic beauty, good food, and world-class shows.
Travelers looking for easy logistics with pickup and drop-off options included.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai Water Canal Cruise with dinner and La Perle show offers a well-rounded evening that captures the city’s modern charm and entertainment prowess. The combination of scenic water views, international cuisine, and an impressive acrobatic spectacle makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to experience Dubai’s luxury side without breaking the bank.

The friendly guides, the breathtaking views, and the highly acclaimed show make it stand out as a memorable night out. While the buffet may not satisfy gourmet expectations, the overall experience, including the spectacular show, justifies the price for many travelers.

If you desire a relaxed yet lavish evening with Dubai’s best sights and entertainment, this tour provides an excellent balance of both. Just remember to bring your camera—your night will be filled with stunning visuals worth capturing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, but children under 2 years are not recommended. The cruise and show are primarily designed for adults and older children.

Are drinks included in the package?
House beverages are available to those 21 and over if you select the drink package. Soft drinks and alcohol are included, but some reviews mention that alcohol options are limited to wine and beer.

How long is the full experience?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, followed by the show, which typically runs around 1 to 1.5 hours. Overall, expect a 3-4 hour evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and booking allows you to keep your plans flexible with a “reserve & pay later” option.

Is transportation included?
Pickup and return transfers are available if you select those options. The meeting point is easy to find, especially if you are staying near Dubai Festival City.

What should I wear?
Smart casual or respectful clothing is recommended to match the upscale environment.

Can I take photos during the cruise and show?
Yes, photos are allowed, but flash photography during the show is discouraged. Some reviews mention people still take photos, so be discreet.

What if I want to skip the buffet?
The tour price covers the buffet, but you’re free to enjoy a light dinner or snacks elsewhere prior to the cruise if preferred.

How far is the meeting point from central Dubai?
It’s accessible via metro and a short water taxi ride from Dubai Festival City Mall; the journey is straightforward and well-reviewed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for changing plans.

This experience offers a great blend of scenic beauty, culinary delight, and spectacular entertainment. Perfect for those wanting to make a night in Dubai truly special.