During my year as a resident in Dubai, I spent entire months exploring everything that the city has to offer. I have to say, the Dubai Marina is one of my favorite areas in town. If I were to move back to Dubai, I’d probably live there!
There are plenty of things to see and do, and I loved walking along the canal, but there’s no doubt that the best way to explore the area is to take a Marina cruise.
Seeing the area from the water is a unique experience, and in this guide, I’ve narrowed down the best Dubai Marina cruises currently available for you to pick from. Private tours, speedboat thrills, or traditional dhow cruises – there’s something for everyone.
I really think these are some of the best tours to join in Dubai, and one of these should be in your itinerary.
If you’re worried about the price tag…worry not. There’s bound to be an option that’s suitable to your requirements, as I’ve compiled the best tours in all categories and budgets.
Take in the skyline, bask in the Arabian Gulf, and make memories on these standout voyages. Ready to cast off? Let’s dive in!
Why should you trust me? I have a decade of experience in the travel industry, and have developed a knack for identifying high-quality tours and activities. Besides, I was a resident of Dubai for a year, and I’m very familiar with Dubai Marina and the excursions that are worth it in the area!
I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Limited time? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Private Yacht Charter from Dubai Marina |
| SPEEDBOAT TOUR | Marina Sightseeing Cruise with Ain Wheel View |
| DINNER CRUISE | Marina Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Live Music |
OUR PICK: The BEST Dubai Marina Cruise
Hop on this incredible Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ and set sail to admire views of Burj Al Arab, the iconic Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Eye from the water.
You can decide to start your day with a cruise, savoring a scrumptious breakfast on board, or sail during sunset and indulge in a BBQ dinner while seeing the coastline bathed in golden hues.
The 64-foot yacht features a spacious upper deck, and a lower deck with AC besides offering a red carpet welcome and modern amenities.
Why is this the best tour? More than 13 THOUSAND previous travelers rave about this tour in the reviews. But besides the glowing recommendations, the tour checks all the boxes as it can be adjusted to your schedule, lasting from 1 to 3 hours, and it includes stops at all the major highlights of the city.
A scrumptious breakfast or BBQ dinner is included on the longer tours to enhance the experience.
Read what the reviews say:
“Honestly so impressed with the service from start to finish. Went with my 5 year old daughter and staff couldn’t be more accommodating. Brilliant service all around 10 stars! Worth every penny. Thanks for a brilliant experience :)”
Patrice – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A yacht cruise, life jackets, and breakfast or BBQ depending on your selection. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Looking for a boat tour but maybe not in Dubai Marina?
I’ve also compiled a list of the best Dubai boat tours if you’re looking for something different!
Another Great Option on a Superyacht
Cruise in style on this Dubai: Superyacht Experience with Live Music & Drinks, in which you’ll step aboard a 3-deck vessel with 6 lavish cabins, a dining area, and top-notch facilities, and set sail.
Groove to the DJ’s live beats on deck, play on the Mario Kart game console, and take a splash in the sea to refresh yourself before indulging in a delectable breakfast, lunch, or dinner – depending on the time of day you choose the cruise!
Premium beverages, tea, and coffee will also be available, and you’ll sail past landmarks such as Jumeirah Beach, Blue Water Island, and Palm Jumeirah.
This tour includes: A yacht cruise, a guide, all amenities, beverages, and a meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Dubai Marina Cruises & Boat Charters
▶️ Embark on this luxurious Private Yacht Charter from Dubai Marina with your group of up to 10 people, ready to enjoy a memorable sailing trip.
With the assistance of a personal skipper, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience as you cruise past the coastline, admiring the stunning city views and spotting iconic landmarks including Atlantis the Palm, the World Archipelago, the Dubai Eye, and Burj Al Arab.
Day or night, it’s a sight to behold, so pick the departure time that best suits your plans. If you choose the 4-hour cruise, fishing equipment, and BBQ for cooking will be included. It’s the best boat rental in Dubai Marina you’ll find.
This tour includes: A private yacht cruise with crew and captain, life jackets, a music system, and in the 4-hour cruise BBQ and fishing gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Choose this Dubai: Marina Sightseeing and Swimming Cruise and get ready to make memories with five of your closest friends. You’ll hop aboard a luxury boat and sail past Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab, among other attractions.
Bask in the Arabian sun and enjoy time to swim in the crystal clear waters if you choose the 3-hour version of the tour. This cruise in Dubai Marina allows you to bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and whip up the perfect picnic feast on board!
This tour includes: A private cruise, life jackets, a stereo system, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ One of the most fun boat trips in Dubai Marina to enjoy with your group of friends is the Dubai: Private Luxury Night Boat Tour. You’ll set sail on a modern boat and let the city’s night skyline dazzle you as it reflects its shimmering lights on the water.
Gaze at Jumeirah Beach Residence and Ain Dubai, the famous Ferris wheel, as you calmly glide past the modern skyscrapers and under a sky full of stars. A stereo system allows you to play your favorite tunes directly from your phone and dance the night away.
This tour includes: A boat tour, water, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The BEST Dubai Marina Speedboat Tours
▶️ Check out this 90 Minutes Speedboat Tour: Dubai Marina, Atlantis and Burj Al Arab which will take you zipping through the Persian Gulf at up to 30 knots, and catching glimpses of Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah’s lavish villas, and the glorious Atlantis The Palm Hotel.
You’ll get to choose between an early morning or a late evening tour to stay cool from the desert heat, and enjoy photo stops at some of the most remarkable attractions.
This tour includes: A 90-minute speedboat tour, life jacket, a guide, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Embark on a 60-minute Dubai: Marina Sightseeing Cruise with Ain Wheel View and sail on the Marina’s glimmering waters. Gather your crew—family or pals—and leave the city behind to enjoy a full hour of bliss, gliding on peaceful waters and getting to know Dubai’s other side – as seen from the water.
Sail past some of its most iconic sights, including Ain Dubai Wheel and the vibrant JBR, and fill your camera roll with a new perspective of the city. Take your pick on whether you set sail during the day, or after night has fallen!
This tour includes: A 60-minute cruise, a guide, bottled water, and free wifi. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Get up close to Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah on this Dubai: Marina Private Boat Tour & Palm Jumeirah Sightseeing. Choose from 3 tour lengths (80, 100, or 120 minutes), and see Ain Dubai, Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab, and the lagoon from a unique perspective.
Snap pictures during the convenient photo stops, and groove to your music on the boat, setting the vibes for a truly enjoyable afternoon with your own group of 8 travelers. You’ll also get to learn a bit about Dubai’s history from the live commentary of your guide.
This tour includes: A guided cruise, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Dubai Marina Dhow Cruises & Dinner Cruises
▶️ Ever wondered what it’s like to sail Dubai’s glitzy skyline on a mega yacht? You won’t have to wonder anymore after joining this 3-hour Mega Yacht Cruise with Buffet Dinner.
Exchange the bustling city for the glistening waters of the Persian Gulf, and cruise past some of its most iconic buildings.
See the renowned Atlantis The Palm and the Ain Dubai Wheel from up close, and cruise past the man-made Palm Jumeirah island as you dig into a fancy buffet meal cooked by professional chefs with beverages. If you’re in the mood for an alcoholic drink, you can purchase it at the bar.
Enjoy live cultural performances and be prepared to be dazzled by the star-studded atmosphere in this magnificent dhow cruise in Dubai Marina!
This tour includes: A cruise with a professional captain and crew, dinner and non-alcoholic drinks, and live entertainment. VIP tickets have priority lounge time and a separate dining area. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Glide through Dubai Marina at night on this Exclusive Dubai: Marina Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Live Music. You’ll set foot on a luxury boat, enjoy lounge perks, and sail in style on the Persian Gulf, being treated to wonderful views as you relish a Radisson Blu dinner.
The delectable menu includes lamb Shepherd’s pie, chicken with mushroom sauce, heavenly coconut pudding, and a delicious assortment of cupcakes, among various other dishes. All you have to do is relax, take in the beautiful atmosphere, and savor the flavors of the region.
This tour includes: A yacht cruise, buffet dinner with soft drinks, coffee & tea, live music, and free wifi. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Treat yourself to a special evening with this Dubai Marina Dinner in a Traditional Boat. Set sail after dark, when the city – as if by magic – has been lit up for the night and the flickering lights’ reflections dance on the water.
You’ll be gliding on a spectacular four-deck boat that will welcome you with a red carpet entrance and a drink. The friendly staff will then serve you a scrumptious dinner for you to enjoy as you sail past Palm Islands, Bluewaters, and JBR.
Sip on soft drinks, or choose the open bar option at check out to indulge in premium drinks with your dinner (you can also choose to purchase them onboard!)
This tour includes: A 2-hour cruise, buffet dinner, and red carpet entrance with a welcome drink. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Dubai Marina Sailing Tour with BBQ
Go on a Gulet boat adventure with this Dubai Marina: Sailing Tour with BBQ and Swimming. Board a beautiful vessel and receive a red carpet welcome with tropical drinks before leaving the harbor for a memorable day or evening cruise.
Get comfortable on deck to enjoy views of Jumeirah Beach, Burj Al Arab, the magnificent Palm Jumeirah, and Ain Dubai Wheel while enjoying a tasty brunch or a BBQ dinner. Swim in the crystal clear waters before returning.
This tour includes: A sailing cruise, brunch or barbecue, life jackets, and a swim stop. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The Most Fun Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise
Glide in style around Dubai Marina with this Yacht Cruise with Swimming, Snorkeling and BBQ Lunch, then drop anchor at JBR Beach for the real fun to commence.
Dive into a BBQ feast paired with free drinks from the bar, ride the yacht’s slide, and chill on inflatable sea loungers.
This luxurious boat’s experiences include snorkeling gear to jump into the water with, and jet skis to zip through the pristine waters and along the city skyline. Don’t forget your camera for the most epic vacation snaps!
This tour includes: BBQ lunch, water and juice, music entertainment, all activities, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
