You are collected from your hotel and brought to the creek-side mooring, where a traditional wooden dhow waits with its decks laid for dinner. A welcome drink, dates and Arabic coffee greet you as you board, and once the boat pulls away the old city begins to slide past: the gold and spice souks of Deira, the wind towers of the heritage quarter, the clocktower and the bank buildings lit against the water. Dinner is a buffet of Arabic, Indian and continental dishes, with vegetarian and meat options and dessert, served while the boat sails. Soft drinks, water, tea and coffee come with it. Entertainment is the tanoura spinner, whose weighted skirts turn in colour under the lights, accompanied by music. You can take a table on the air-conditioned lower deck or go up to the open deck, where the evening breeze and the unobstructed view are the draw. Many people move between the two over the course of the cruise. The sailing lasts around two hours, and with transfers each way the outing fills most of the evening. It suits couples, families and small groups who want a relaxed, sit-down way to see old Dubai from the water rather than a late night out. Dress is smart casual, and a light layer helps for both the breeze and the air conditioning. If anyone in your party uses a wheelchair, check access before booking, as dhows vary.
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