Dimaniyat Islands: Snorkeling & Dolphin Tour with Turtles

Summary

Swim with turtles and dolphins in Oman’s clear Dimaniyat waters

You’ll float above colorful reefs at Dimaniyat Islands, swim alongside turtles (if you’re lucky), spot playful dolphins during your boat ride, and maybe learn how to snorkel for the first time with a patient local guide. With snacks, drinks, all your gear included — plus a quick stop at Al Alam Palace — you’ll carry home more than just pictures.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly dropped my mask when the first turtle glided by — I’d been squinting into the blue, half-expecting nothing but sand and shadows. But there it was, just a few meters off the boat at the Dimaniyat Islands, moving like it had all the time in the world. Our guide, Khalid, grinned and pointed it out before quietly reminding me (again) not to chase. The water tasted faintly of salt and something mineral; sunlight flickered over the coral below. I didn’t expect to feel so calm floating there — or so clumsy trying to adjust my fins while everyone else looked like pros.

The boat ride out from near Barka was louder than I thought — kids giggling, some Omani pop music on someone’s phone, and that slap of waves against fiberglass. It took maybe 40 minutes? Hard to say because we got distracted by a pod of dolphins weaving alongside us. Khalid slowed down so we could watch them jump — they seemed almost close enough to touch, but not quite. Someone tried to get a selfie and almost dropped their phone overboard (not me this time). The air smelled faintly sweet and briny; sunscreen mixed with coffee from a thermos someone passed around.

I’d never snorkeled before this day trip to Dimaniyat Islands from Muscat — Khalid actually showed me how to use the gear right there on deck. He was patient about it too; didn’t even laugh when I got tangled up trying to put on my mask backwards. There were whale sharks rumored nearby (maybe next time), but honestly just drifting above those reefs — watching parrotfish dart around and hearing nothing but my own breathing — that’s what stuck with me most. On the way back we stopped for photos at Al Alam Palace; gold-and-blue gates shining in late afternoon sun. I still think about that quiet underwater world sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and sightseeing in Muscat

• Travel to Dimaniyat Islands
• Snorkel with turtles and whale sharks
• Learn snorkeling from the guide
• Take photos of marine life
• Visit Al Alam Palace gates
• Photograph Al Alam Palace exterior

Top questions

How far are the Dimaniyat Islands from Muscat?

The Dimaniyat Islands are about 18 kilometers off the coast of Barka, near Muscat.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included in the tour.

Can beginners join this snorkeling tour?

Yes, beginners are welcome and guides will teach you how to snorkel safely.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?

Dolphin sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals.

Is food or drink included during the tour?

Yes, snacks, bottled water, soda/pop, coffee and tea are provided onboard.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join if seated on an adult’s lap or in a stroller/pram.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options for this tour are wheelchair accessible.

Do we visit Al Alam Palace inside?

No, visitors can stop near the gates for photos but cannot enter inside Al Alam Palace grounds.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkeling equipment plus plenty of bottled water, soda or pop for refreshment between swims. There’s coffee or tea onboard if you want something warm after snorkeling. Snacks are provided too. Restrooms are available on board throughout your trip before returning after your stop at Al Alam Palace for photos.