Dubai Marina Speedboat Tour: Burj Al Arab & Atlantis Views

Summary

Dubai’s icons from the water on a fast-paced ride with photo stops

You’ll race along Dubai’s coastline by speedboat with a local guide, pausing for photos at Atlantis, Burj Al Arab, and Ain Dubai. Expect salty air, laughter, and new angles on famous landmarks — plus bottled water and help with your best shots. It’s quick but leaves an impression long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

You know that slap of salty air when a boat picks up speed? That’s how our speedboat tour in Dubai Marina started — hair everywhere, grinning like kids. Our guide, Ahmed, handed out life jackets and cracked a joke about his “movie star driving skills.” I wasn’t sure what to expect but seeing those towers of glass and steel from the water — it’s different. The city feels less intimidating, more like a playground.

We zipped past JBR and suddenly the Palm Jumeirah was right there, all those fronds curving out. The engines hummed so loud you had to shout to talk. Ahmed slowed down near Atlantis so we could take photos — he actually took my phone and insisted on “the best angle.” I tried to say thank you in Arabic (probably butchered it), but he just laughed and pointed at the Burj Al Arab ahead, its white sail shape catching the late sun. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small next to these buildings. There was a moment where everything went quiet except for the slap of waves against the hull.

Ain Dubai looked massive from the water — bigger than it seems from shore. Kids on board squealed when we hit another burst of speed; I clung to my seat but couldn’t stop smiling. Bottled water was passed around (needed that), and someone behind me kept snapping pictures nonstop. The whole thing only took about 90 minutes but felt longer in a good way. If you’re thinking about a Dubai Marina speedboat tour, just know it’s not just sightseeing — you really feel part of the city for a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour of Dubai landmarks

• Stop at Atlantis and Atlantis the Royal
• Pass by Burj Al Arab for photos
• Cruise around The Palm at high speed
• See Ain Dubai observation wheel

Top questions

How long is the Dubai Marina speedboat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes from start to finish.

Which landmarks are included on this speedboat tour?

You’ll see Dubai Marina, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis hotel, Burj Al Arab, and Ain Dubai.

Is there a live guide during the tour?

Yes, there is a live guide onboard throughout your speedboat ride.

Are life jackets provided for this tour?

Yes, life vests are included for all passengers during the speedboat tour.

What times does the speedboat tour operate?

Tours run multiple times daily between 9:00am and 7:45pm.

Can children join this speedboat tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants sit on an adult’s lap.

Is bottled water available during the trip?

Bottled water is provided free of charge onboard for all guests.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your outing includes bottled water for everyone onboard, life vests for safety (no exceptions), and guidance from a local crew who’ll help with photos or questions along the way—plus flexible booking if your plans change within three hours before departure.