Muscat: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling with Local Guide

Summary

See wild dolphins near Muscat then snorkel coral reefs with turtles

You’ll set out from Muscat’s marina with a local guide, searching for wild dolphins along Oman’s dramatic coastline before snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and maybe spotting turtles. All gear is included, so you can just focus on watching wildlife and soaking in those quiet moments at sea.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to spot dolphins just off the coast of Muscat? I didn’t expect them to show up so quickly — we’d barely left Marina Bander Al Rowdha when our guide, Khalid, pointed out a pod of spinner dolphins weaving through the waves. There was this salty breeze and the sound of everyone’s voices getting quieter as we watched them leap. I tried to catch it on camera but honestly, it felt better just to watch.

Khalid grew up here and seemed to know every twist of the Omani coastline. He told us about the different types — bottlenose, common dolphins — and how sometimes you might even see whale sharks if you’re lucky (May to October is best for that). The boat ride itself was calm enough that I could smell sunscreen and sea spray mixing together. At one point, someone spotted a turtle’s head poking up near the rocks — quick flash of green before it disappeared again.

The snorkeling part was my favorite. We anchored in this quiet cove surrounded by those rocky “Omani Fjords” people talk about. The water was clear but not too cold; I could see corals in reds and purples below me, plus a hawksbill turtle gliding past like it owned the place. The mask fogged up a bit (my fault), but I still remember how peaceful it felt floating there, hearing nothing but my own breathing and distant laughter from the group. On the way back, Khalid pointed out little fishing boats along the shore — he said some families have worked these waters for generations. That stuck with me for some reason.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and snorkeling tour

• Meet at Marina Bander Al Rwdha early
• Depart marina to see dolphins
• Snorkel at top Muscat spot
• Discover Omani coastline en route back
• Return to harbor

Top questions

Where does the dolphin watching & snorkeling tour start?

The tour starts at Marina Bander Al Rowdha in Muscat.

What kind of dolphins can you see near Muscat?

You might see spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, or common dolphins.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Are whale sharks seen during this experience?

Whale sharks can be seen from May to October along Oman’s coast.

Is this dolphin watching tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

How many people are on each dolphin watching trip?

The maximum group size per booking is 15 people.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult's lap during the trip.

Does the tour include bottled water?

Bottled water is provided for guests during the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Marina Bander Al Rowdha with a local guide, use of all snorkeling equipment (so no need to bring your own), bottled water throughout the trip, and access to onboard toilet facilities before returning to Muscat’s harbor after exploring Oman’s coastline together.