Exploring Oman › Forts, souqs and things to do in Oman › Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha
Photo: Mostafameraji · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha
Muscat's coast the way it was meant to be seen, from a wooden deck.
A traditional Omani dhow out of Bandar Al Rowdha marina, cruising the cliffs, forts and coves south of the harbour. Sunset runs are the classic: the coast goes gold, the city disappears, and the boat does the work.
| Best for | Sunset on the water |
|---|---|
| Time needed | 2–3 hrs |
| Departs | Bandar Al Rowdha marina, 10 min past Mutrah |
| Book? | Yes, ahead — several operators run from the marina; sunset slots sell out first |
| Vehicle | Any car / taxi to the marina |
| Kids | Easy yes |
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How to get to Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha
- Bandar Al Rowdha marina is 10 minutes past Mutrah on the Sidab road.
- Book ahead and arrive 20 min early, boats don't wait for parking.
What you'll do
- Board a real wooden dhow, the boats Oman traded from for centuries.
- Cruise under the cliffs and past coves you can't reach by road.
- Watch sunset hit the Hajar mountains from the water with Omani coffee in hand.
Tell us your dates and how many you are and we'll connect you with an MHT-licensed tour operator, who organises and runs the trip.
WhatsApp Explores OmanThe guide is free. If you'd rather hand the planning to a licensed guide, send me your dates and I'll build your route: the order, the drives, where to sleep and what it costs. Every trip is different, so I quote each one.
Request a quote on WhatsAppTips from a local guide
- Sunset departures sell out first, book those early.
- Light jacket in winter, the sea breeze is real once you're moving.
Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha: questions people ask
How long do you need at Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha?
2–3 hrs.
Do you need a 4x4 to reach Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha?
Any car / taxi to the marina.
Is Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha good for kids?
Yes, it works with children.
Open Dhow cruise from Bandar Al Rowdha in the guide app →
More near Muscat
- Qurum Beach, The city's beach, and better than a city beach has any right to be.
- Sidab & its hidden coves, The 100/10 coves. My favourite hike in Muscat, with some of the most beautiful views.
- Marjan Beach (Ras Al Hamra), Turtles grazing metres from the sand, inside the city, for free.
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, The one thing every visitor should do in Muscat.
- Mutrah Souq & Corniche, Old Muscat, best at dusk.
- Daymaniyat Islands, Oman's best reef, a boat ride from the city.
From Exploring Oman, a guide to Oman by Hussain, a licensed Omani tour guide (@hussain_explores). 67 places and two 1-day plans, free to read; the 3, 5 and 7-day routes are in the app.
If you face an issue or something is incorrect, please contact us and we will make the necessary adjustments.