Dubai Marina: Sunset Yacht Cruise with Drinks & Iconic Views

Summary

Sunset yacht cruise in Dubai Marina with drinks, music and skyline views

You’ll feel the city fade as you step onto a sunset yacht cruise from Dubai Marina—barefoot on deck, drink in hand, skyline glowing around you. Snap photos by Ain Dubai, relax near Burj Al Arab with music and snacks included, and let your guide handle everything while you watch daylight slip away over the Gulf.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping barefoot onto the deck was how the air felt—warm but with that salty edge you only get near the sea. The city behind us was all glass and gold, but out here it was just the low thrum of the yacht’s engine and a handful of us clutching plastic cups, not really knowing where to look first. Our captain, Faisal, grinned as he steered us away from Dubai Harbour. He pointed out Ain Dubai almost immediately—he called it “the big wheel,” which made me laugh because it looked way too huge for such a simple name.

I didn’t expect the light to change so quickly. One minute we were all squinting at the skyscrapers; next, everything went sort of peach-colored and soft. Someone put on music—nothing fancy, just background stuff—and people started taking photos near the railings. Faisal offered to snap one for us (he’s weirdly good at getting everyone in frame). There was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with something grilled from another boat nearby. I tried one of the snacks from the box they handed out—honestly, I still don’t know what half of it was, but it tasted good enough with a cold drink.

We got close to Burj Al Arab after looping around Jumeirah Beach Residence. The water looked almost fake blue under that sky. I leaned over and could hear nothing but wind and distant voices from other yachts—kind of peaceful, actually. A couple next to me asked Faisal about building these islands and he just shrugged like it was no big deal (“In Dubai we build anything,” he said). Shoes weren’t allowed inside so everyone padded around in socks or bare feet—felt oddly homey for such a fancy boat.

By the time we turned back toward Dubai Marina, I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once since we left shore. That view of Ain Dubai against the last bit of sun—I keep thinking about it now whenever someone asks what stood out most on my trip. It wasn’t loud or flashy like I expected; just easy and kind of golden.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai Marina Sunset Yacht Tour

• Depart from Dubai Harbour
• Cruise past iconic hotels
• Visit Burj Al Arab if weather
• Photograph Ain Dubai Ferris wheel
• Pass Jumeirah Beach Residence
• Enjoy drinks and snacks onboard
• Relax with onboard music

Top questions

How long is the sunset yacht tour in Dubai Marina?

The cruise lasts 2 hours total from departure to return.

Are alcoholic drinks included on this Dubai Marina yacht cruise?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are included for guests aged 18 and above.

Does this tour include pickup or transportation?

No hotel pickup is included; you depart directly from Dubai Harbour in the Marina area.

Is there food served during the sunset yacht tour?

Snacks are provided; BBQ dinner is only available on night cruises.

Can infants join this yacht cruise?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or be in a stroller/pram.

What landmarks will we see during this yacht tour?

You’ll see Ain Dubai (the Ferris wheel), Jumeirah Beach Residence, and Burj Al Arab if sea conditions allow.

Is there music onboard during the cruise?

Yes, there is onboard music throughout your cruise experience.

Are there restrooms available on board?

Yes, restroom facilities are available on the yacht.

What’s included

Your two-hour sunset trip includes alcoholic drinks (for those 18+), snacks with vegetarian or non-vegetarian options if you ask ahead by WhatsApp or Viator chat box, bottled water and soda, plus a professional captain and crew who’ll help with photos. Life jackets are provided onboard along with restroom access for comfort throughout your time at sea.