Home – Khasab Musandam Dhow Cruise

You’ve been fantasising about an extraordinary journey in a place unlike any other. Somewhere with fjords, quiet beaches, and rocky mountains that drop into the sea. Welcome to Musandam, Oman’s northernmost region with some of the most stunning scenery in the Middle East. The UAE has cut off this remote peninsula from the rest of Oman, giving it a raw natural beauty and a quiet pace of life. The greatest way to enjoy Musandam is to sail through the khors (fjords) on a traditional wooden dhow, with dolphins swimming at your bow. Then take a mountain safari across rugged passes and sand dunes towards the interior. Musandam has adventure in abundance, whether you want to camp under a blanket of stars, catch enormous fish, or simply find your happy spot on a lovely beach. This is a location you will never forget.

There’s nothing quite like cruising the gorgeous Musandam fjords. As your dhow cruises across the turquoise waters, craggy and dramatic ochre cliffs rise on either side. The true magic arrives when pods of dolphins appear out of nowhere, riding the bow waves and leaping excitedly from the sea. You’ll spend a leisurely day exploring hidden bays and beaches only accessible by sea after boarding your dhow (a traditional Arabian wooden boat) in Khasab, Oman. After traveling through a few peaceful fishing villages, your captain will anchor in a calm place near Telegraph Island, ideal for swimming and snorkeling in the warm, clear water. There are plenty more activities such as sightseeing of fisherman villages, exploring fjords, dolphin watching, stops for swimming, and unforgettable journeys throughout the fjords. Lunch and refreshments are available to keep you hydrated.

Keep an eye out for dolphins!

Scan the sea for a telltale fin or splash as you cruise through the fjords. Bottlenose dolphins are common in these seas, and if you’re lucky, a pod will join you on your dhow, dancing and whirling just off the side of the boat. Seeing these playful creatures in their native home is an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience. A Musandam dhow cruise is a lovely retreat from regular life, with a whole day on the water, a picnic lunch, and plenty of opportunity for relaxing (or adventure, if you want!). The breathtaking surroundings and opportunity to interact with nature will leave you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized. Whether or not you see dolphins, a cruise through this stunning scenery is sure to please.

Nothing compares to seeing dolphins in their native habitat. A Dhow ride in Musandam will allow you to see these charming creatures up close and personal. Keep a watch out for fins breaking the surface as your traditional Omani boat sails through the calm, turquoise waters of the fjords. Dolphins enjoy riding the Dhow’s bow wave, jumping, and flipping through the air. If you’re lucky, a complete pod will swim past, gracefully circling the boat in an acrobatic display.

Other Marine Life You Might See

The Musandam fjords are alive with marine life, so expect to see more than dolphins on your dhow tour. As you sail over the turquoise waters, keep a look out for these other amazing species.

Sea Turtles

The Musandam waters are home to the endangered green sea turtle and hawksbill sea turtle. You might see these gentle giants drifting across the waves or breaking the surface for air. They prefer more sheltered fjord settings, so hunt for them in the tiny straits and bays along your path.

Fish

Schools of fish, such as sardines and mackerel, congregate in the fjords to feed and breed. Watch as they emerge from the water, glistening in the sunlight. Lone barracudas may also be seen quietly roaming the reefs in search of their next prey. Many tropical fish species live in the fjords, creating flashes of color beneath the surface.

Seabirds

Watch the skies and nearby cliffs for the many seabirds that call the Musandam home as you sail along. White-tailed tropicbirds, bridled terns, and brown boobies can be seen diving for fish or gliding in the breeze. The white-breasted kingfisher’s lovely song may guide you to its perch on an overhanging limb along the shore.

Conclusion of Musandam Dhow Cruise

After a few hours at sea, you’ll return to port with memories that last a lifetime. The breathtaking beauty of the Musandam fjords, unexpected wildlife encounters, and the excitement of witnessing dolphins in their natural habitat all combine to make this a unique experience. While life on land awaits your return, a part of you will stay at sea, rocking gently with the dhow. The sounds of the waves lapping at the hull, as well as the occasional splash in the distance as a dolphin breaks the surface, will reverberate in your head. This Musandam dhow trip has been described as an exquisite voyage that ignites your sense of wonder and adventure.