Abu Dhabi Islands: Speed Boat Hopping & Dolphin Island Swim

Summary

Island-hopping by speed boat in abu dhabi with swimming and games

You’ll zip across Abu Dhabi’s blue waters by speed boat, passing iconic towers before stopping to swim at Dolphin Island and play beach games at Crystal Bay. With snacks included and a local guide leading you between islands, you’ll soak up sun and laughter—leaving you with salty skin and memories that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

"That’s Dolphin Island up ahead," our captain called out, and honestly, I squinted because it looked more like a mirage than anything real. The air was thick with that salty sea smell, and my shirt was already sticking to my back from the sun. We’d left Abu Dhabi Corniche behind just twenty minutes earlier, zipping past Etihad Towers and the Presidential Palace — both somehow shinier from the water. There was this weird thrill in seeing all those glass towers shrink while we bounced over little waves. I kept thinking: are we really hopping between 150 islands? It sounded made up when I read it online.

Our guide, Ahmed, grinned every time someone pointed out a new shape in the water — "No, really, that one looks like a dolphin!" he insisted. When we finally stopped at Dolphin Island, I nearly slipped jumping off the boat (sandals were not my smartest choice). The water was so clear you could see your own toes wiggling under the surface. There was this faint smell of sunscreen and banana from someone’s snack bag. We swam until our fingers wrinkled up and then just floated there for a bit — not much talking, just sun on our faces and that gentle slap-slap of water against the hull.

Crystal Bay came next — louder somehow, with music playing from someone’s portable speaker and a couple of kids already setting up for volleyball. I joined a game but mostly missed every shot; Ahmed laughed and tried to teach me a trick serve but gave up after two tries (I think he pitied me). Lunch was simple: a sandwich wrapped in plastic and these fried bananas that were way better than they looked. I sat on the sand eating mine slowly while watching everyone else run around or just sprawl out under umbrellas.

Bahrani Island was our last stop before heading back. By then I’d lost track of time — my skin tight with salt, hair wild from wind. The ride home felt quieter; maybe everyone was tired or just full of sun. I remember glancing back at the islands as they blurred into each other and thinking how strange it is that places like this exist so close to all that city noise. Still can’t believe how much fit into four hours — it’s one of those days you don’t really want to end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island hopping and beach activities

• Depart from the port
• Cruise past Etihad Towers and Presidential Palace
• Swim at Dolphin Island
• Admire dolphin-shaped island from boat
• Enjoy beach games and music at Crystal Bay
• Relax and soak in the sun
• Return to the port

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi island hopping tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from departure to return.

What islands are visited during this speed boat adventure?

The tour includes stops at Dolphin Island, Crystal Bay, and Bahrani Island.

Is lunch included on the Abu Dhabi island hopping tour?

Yes, a sandwich and fried banana are provided as part of your day.

Are there swimming opportunities during the tour?

Yes, you can swim at Dolphin Island where the water is clear and calm.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Abu Dhabi Corniche port.

What activities are available at Crystal Bay?

You can play beach volleyball or soccer, listen to music, or relax by the shore.

Is this island hopping tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the info provided.

What’s included

Your day includes a speed boat ride departing from Abu Dhabi Corniche port with stops at Dolphin Island for swimming, Crystal Bay for beach games like volleyball or soccer plus music and refreshments—a simple sandwich lunch with fried banana is served before returning after four hours on the water.