Snorkeling in Khasab: Dhow Cruise with Dolphins

Swim and snorkel at multiple anchored stops inside a fjord ringed by white sand and mountains

A full-day dhow cruise from Khasab takes you into a 16 km fjord where the boat anchors at several spots for snorkeling in shallow water crowded with colorful fish. Dolphins often appear at the entrance. The cruise includes hotel or port pickup, lunch, an English-speaking guide, and all national park fees. The day runs five to six hours and suits all fitness levels.

Step-by-step itinerary

Full day dhow cruise in Khasab

• Board dhow in Khasab
• Cruise through 16 km fjord
• Watch swimming dolphins
• Anchor for swimming and snorkeling
• Enjoy views of mountains and beaches

The experience

You arrive at the dock and board a traditional wooden dhow for a morning departure into the fjord. The boat moves through waters flanked by mountains and white sand beaches, and as you approach the entrance, dolphins often surface. The guide points out what you're seeing and explains what comes next.

The dhow anchors at several spots during the cruise, and at each one you enter the water to snorkel. The fish here are abundant and unafraid: colorful species swim close enough to see clearly without diving deep. You can stay in the water as long as you want at each stop, and the crew keeps watch from the boat. Between swims, you stay on deck, dry off and rest.

Lunch is served on board, and bottled water is available throughout the day. The guide is with you the whole time and speaks English. At the end of the afternoon, the dhow returns to the dock, and your driver takes you back to your hotel or ship. The whole experience, from pickup to drop-off, takes about five to six hours.

What’s included

• Hotel or port pickup and drop-off.
• lunch on board.
• bottled water throughout the day.
• an English-speaking guide.
• all national park fees and local taxes.
• snorkeling at multiple anchored stops in the fjord.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 20 · max 6 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 7 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats available

Operated by Oman Day Tours

Is this one for you?The cruise runs five to six hours with easy water entry at each anchored stop, so it works for families with children and anyone who swims at a comfortable pace. Cruise ship passengers need to provide their return time at booking so the guide can time the return to your re-boarding.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What's the water like for snorkeling in Khasab's fjord?

The fjord waters are shallow and crowded with colorful fish that stay close to snorkelers. The boat anchors at multiple spots so you can enter and exit easily, and the crew watches from the dhow while you're in the water.

Will I actually see dolphins on this cruise?

Dolphins often appear at the entrance to the fjord, especially in the morning. The guide watches for them and will point them out, though sightings are not guaranteed on every departure.

What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?

The cruise includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, lunch on board, bottled water, an English-speaking guide, and all national park fees. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a valid passport. Snorkeling gear is provided or you can bring your own.

How long is the full day, and can I do this if I'm not a strong swimmer?

The cruise runs five to six hours from pickup to drop-off. It suits all fitness levels. You snorkel in shallow water at anchored stops and can stay on deck between swims if you prefer.

I'm arriving by cruise ship, can you pick me up from the port?

Yes, port pickup is included. At the time of booking, provide your ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time so the driver can coordinate your return.