You board a traditional wooden dhow at the marina and settle in as the boat pushes off into the lagoon. Over the next two hours it loops the waterway past the towers of Jumeirah Beach Residence, the spiralling Cayan Tower, Bluewaters Island and the observation wheel, all of it lit up against the night sky. You can stay on the open upper deck in the breeze or take a table on the air-conditioned level below. A welcome drink and dates mark the start, and dinner is served as an international buffet: grills, chicken and meat dishes, seafood, salads, vegetarian options and desserts, with unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee. A live Tanoura dancer performs mid-cruise, the spinning skirts catching the deck lights, and music plays through the evening. The boat sails in the evening, so the skyline is at its best. Plan to arrive about half an hour before departure, as boarding closes before the dhow leaves the berth. Smart casual clothing is the usual choice, and a light layer is worth bringing in the cooler months when the wind picks up over the water. It works well for couples, for families with children who would rather move around than sit through a restaurant meal, and for groups marking an occasion. Steps and deck access mean it is not well suited to travellers with limited mobility.
© Explore Dunya. All rights reserved
