Dubai Marina Yacht Party: Night Cruise, BBQ & Open Bar

Summary

Nighttime yacht party in Dubai Marina with BBQ, open bar and live DJ

You’ll feel Dubai come alive at night as you cruise along its glittering marina with music in your ears and a drink in hand. Enjoy unlimited beverages, fresh BBQ straight off the grill, and lively company while sailing past iconic sights like Ain Dubai—all with an easygoing crew who make sure you’re part of the party.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my shoe stepping onto the yacht — not exactly glamorous, but somehow it set the tone for the night. The Dubai Marina was all neon reflections and chatter as we met up with the crew at this little boarding lounge tucked behind a row of palm trees. Our guide (I think her name was Aisha?) grinned when she saw my wobbly sandal and just said, “Don’t worry, you’ll dance better barefoot anyway.” She wasn’t wrong.

The boat glided out into the water around 9pm, and honestly, I didn’t expect how cool the air felt compared to the sticky heat on land. There was this low thump from the DJ setting up on deck — not too loud yet — mixed with the smell of charcoal from the BBQ already going. Someone handed me a drink before I even found a seat. We sailed past Ain Dubai’s blue glow and those wild skyscrapers along JBR; everything looked sharper at night, like someone turned up the contrast. It’s weird how easy it is to talk to strangers when everyone’s just slightly off-balance from the waves (and maybe the open bar).

I tried some grilled chicken that tasted smoky-sweet — probably marinated in something local but I never did catch what it was. The DJ started playing old-school hits halfway through and suddenly everyone was up dancing, even this older guy who claimed he “never dances” (he did). The crew kept popping by to check if we needed anything or just to laugh at our moves. At one point I leaned over the rail and just listened to that mix of music and water slapping against the hull. It’s a small thing but I still think about that sound sometimes.

We got back after midnight but no one seemed ready for it to end — people lingered on deck swapping numbers or just staring out at Dubai’s lights. If you’re looking for a buttoned-up dinner cruise, this isn’t it. But if you want a proper yacht party in Dubai Marina where you can eat, drink, dance (badly), and maybe lose your shoe… well, you get it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening yacht party and city cruise

• Meet crew at boarding lounge
• Board yacht at 8:30 PM
• Set sail from Dubai Marina
• Cruise past Dubai Marina sights
• Pass by Ain Dubai observation wheel
• Enjoy BBQ, open bar, and DJ
• Dance and socialize on deck
• Return after 4-hour cruise

Top questions

What time does the Dubai Marina yacht party start?

The yacht departs weekends at 9pm; boarding begins at 8:30pm.

Is there food included on the yacht party?

Yes, there is a live BBQ served during the cruise.

Are drinks included on this Dubai Marina yacht cruise?

Unlimited beverages are included throughout the 4-hour party.

Is there a dress code for the yacht party?

No strict dress code is mentioned; casual evening attire is typical.

How long does the yacht cruise last?

The boat party lasts approximately 4 hours.

Is there music or entertainment onboard?

A live DJ plays music during the entire cruise.

Which sights will we see during this Dubai Marina yacht tour?

You’ll sail past Dubai Marina, Ain Dubai observation wheel, Bluewaters Island and JBR skyline.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are nearby.

Who can join this yacht party in Dubai?

This experience is strictly for guests aged 21 and above.

What’s included

Your evening includes four hours aboard a luxury yacht cruising from Dubai Marina with unlimited drinks from an open bar, freshly grilled BBQ served by an attentive crew, nonstop music from a live DJ, plus plenty of chances to dance or relax under city lights before returning late at night.