Snorkeling in Khasab: Musandam Dhow Cruise with Telegraph Island

Snorkel the Musandam fjords from a traditional wooden dhow, then wade ashore at Telegraph Island

A half-day snorkeling trip from Khasab aboard a traditional Omani dhow, with dolphin watching, a stop at Telegraph Island for swimming and snorkeling, and refreshments throughout. The dhow anchors for 45 minutes at the island so you can explore both above and below the water. A guide in English or Arabic meets you at the port at 9am. The whole outing runs about three and a half hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Half day dhow cruise in Musandam

• Meet staff at Khasab port
• Board traditional Omani dhow
• Enjoy dolphin watching
• Swim and snorkel at Telegraph Island
• Relax with refreshments on board

The experience

You meet the crew at Khasab port at 9am and board a wooden dhow built in the traditional Omani style. The boat heads out into the Musandam Sea, where dolphins often appear in the morning hours. The route passes the dramatic fjord coastline (steep cliffs and narrow inlets that only show their scale from the water) before the dhow anchors at Telegraph Island for 45 minutes of swimming and snorkeling.

Snorkeling gear is provided, along with life vests and towels. The water around Telegraph Island holds small reef fish and the occasional larger species. The site itself is a former British telegraph station, so the ruins sit just above the waterline if you want to surface and look around. Two crew members stay on board to help with equipment and keep watch. Tea, Arabic coffee, soft drinks, fresh fruit and bottled water are available throughout the trip, so you're not managing hunger or thirst on the water.

The dhow returns to Khasab port by early afternoon. This is a shared boat with other travelers, typically a small group. Children from age one can come along. Pregnant travelers and anyone with heart or cardiovascular concerns should check with a doctor first, as the boat moves and the water entry involves some physical activity.

What’s included

• Snorkeling gear and life vests.
• tea, Arabic coffee, soft drinks, fresh fruit and bottled water.
• bath towels.
• 45-minute stop at Telegraph Island for swimming and snorkeling.
• live guide in English or Arabic.
• pickup at Khasab port at 9am.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

Book up to15h before

AgesAdult (10 to 90 years) · Child (5 to 9 years) · Infant (1 to 4 years): free

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish and Arabic

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Arabian Musandam Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you have a morning free and want to snorkel from a shared boat following the crew's set schedule and route.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

15 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Arabic.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 9 years); Infant (1 to 4 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What exactly is Telegraph Island and why is it on this snorkeling trip?

Telegraph Island is a historical site where a British telegraph station once stood. The ruins remain visible above the waterline. The snorkeling stop there lets you explore the shallow reef below and see the island's remains from the water, combining history with the marine environment in one location.

Do I need snorkeling experience to join this half-day trip?

No experience is required. Snorkeling gear and life vests are provided, and the crew assists with equipment. The water at Telegraph Island is shallow enough for beginners, and the two crew members on board are there to help you get comfortable in the water.

What time does the dhow leave Khasab, and when do we get back?

You meet the crew at Khasab port at 9am and board right away. The trip lasts about three and a half hours total, so you're back by early afternoon, leaving your day open for other plans in Khasab or the surrounding area.

Are dolphins guaranteed on this snorkeling trip?

Dolphins often appear in the Musandam Sea during morning hours, but sightings are not guaranteed. The dhow route passes through waters where they're commonly seen, but wildlife encounters depend on the day and the season.

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

Snorkeling gear, life vests, bath towels, tea, Arabic coffee, soft drinks, fresh fruit and bottled water are all included. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a change of clothes. Wear swimwear under your regular clothes so you can change on board if needed.