Dubai Marina: Dhow cruise with soft drinks & kids free

Summary

Drift through Dubai’s modern heart on a gentle Dhow cruise

You’ll float through Dubai Marina on a traditional Dhow boat, sipping cold drinks as your local guide points out wild architecture and hidden corners. Kids ride free this summer, and there’s plenty of space to relax or snap photos of Ain Dubai and the skyline — moments you’ll remember long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that building?” our captain grinned, pointing up at the Cayan Tower twisting above us. “They say it’s like a corkscrew — but I think it’s more like my wife’s cooking.” Everyone laughed, including me, even though I was still trying to wrap my head around how something so massive could look so playful. The air smelled faintly salty and metallic, with the hum of engines and distant music from the promenade drifting over the water.

I’d never been on a Dhow boat before — not the old wooden kind, anyway — and honestly, I didn’t expect it to feel so smooth gliding past all that glass and steel. Our guide handed out chilled cans of soda (mine sweating in my hand almost immediately), and pointed out how Dubai Marina Mall sort of hides in plain sight among the towers. There were families snapping photos near the railings, little kids waving at passing yachts. At one point I caught myself just staring at the reflections rippling under the Address Hotel — it looked unreal, like someone had painted it right onto the water.

We drifted by Bluewaters Island next, where Ain Dubai loomed above everything else. It’s huge — bigger than any Ferris wheel I’ve seen back home. Some folks tried to get selfies with it in the background; I tried too but mostly got my own squinting face. The sun was starting to dip behind some clouds but there was still this golden haze over the marina walkways. It felt busy but not rushed — just people out enjoying their evening, you know? The whole thing only took about an hour but I still think about that light on the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise

• Board traditional luxury Dhow boat at Dubai Harbour Marina
• Pass by Cayan Tower
• View Dubai Marina Mall building
• See Marina Walk and Address Hotel
• Pass Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai

Top questions

How long does the Dubai Marina Dhow cruise last?

The sightseeing cruise lasts approximately one hour from boarding to return.

Are soft drinks included on the Dubai Marina Dhow cruise?

Yes, light soft-drink refreshments are included during your cruise.

Is there a restroom available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available for guests on board the Dhow boat.

Are children allowed on the cruise?

Yes, children are welcome and ride free between June 13th and September 30th, 2025.

Is the Dhow cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible for guests with mobility needs.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The tour departs from Dubai Harbour Marina in Dubai Marina district.

What sights will we see during the cruise?

You’ll pass Cayan Tower, Dubai Marina Mall, Address Hotel, Bluewaters Island, and Ain Dubai.

Can infants join the tour?

Yes, infants can join and may ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are also available.

What’s included

Your experience includes a one-hour sightseeing cruise aboard a traditional luxury Dhow boat through Dubai Marina with chilled soft drinks provided along the way; children travel free during summer dates; there’s a restroom onboard for comfort throughout your journey.