Free cancellation available
Cancel for free 48 hours before the trip
- 3.5 Hours
- Maximum Capacity: 80
Adult
(age 12-90)
Child
(age 3-11)
From
ر.ع.15.00
Per Adult
From
ر.ع.8.00
Per Child
Duration
3.5 Hours
Tour Type
Boat Trip
Language
English, Arabic
Description
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Musandam’s fjords on this half-day dhow cruise. Often called the “Norway of Arabia,” Musandam offers dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, hidden coves, and remote villages accessible only by sea. Sail aboard a traditional Omani dhow, watch for playful dolphins, swim in crystal-clear waters, and snorkel at the historic Telegraph Island. This relaxing cruise combines natural beauty, marine life encounters, and cultural insights for an unforgettable Arabian fjord experience.
Type of Cruise
Infants (under 4 years old) enter free of charge and are not included in the group count.
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
Lulu Hypermarket, Khasab, Oman
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Meet-at: 09:00 am – Meet and greet at our office at Lulu Hypermarket Khasab.
End point
01:00 pm – This activity ends at Khasab Port.
Highlights
Scenic Dhow Cruise Experience
✓ Traditional Omani Dhow - Sail aboard an authentic wooden dhow through Musandam's stunning fjords
✓ Norway of Arabia - Glide through dramatic fjords with towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters
✓ Dolphin Watching - Spot playful dolphins leaping and swimming alongside the boat
✓ Telegraph Island - Visit the historic 1864 British telegraph cable station with excellent snorkeling
✓ Swimming & Snorkeling - Enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and underwater exploration
✓ Remote Villages - Pass traditional fishing villages accessible only by boat
✓ Refreshments Included - Fresh fruits, cold drinks, tea, and coffee served onboard
✓ Scenic Photography - Capture stunning fjord landscapes and mountain reflections
Unique Fjord Destinations
✓ Khor Shem - 17km sheltered fjord with calm, crystal-clear waters and mountain reflections
✓ Nadafi Village - Remote fishing community of 50 people accessible only by boat
✓ Qanaha - Historic fishing village with stone houses blending into cliffs
✓ Sham Village - Traditional coastal community
✓ Maqlab - Mountain village where residents live by goat-herding and fishing
✓ Telegraph Island (Jazirat al Maqlab) - Famous landmark with vibrant coral and tropical fish
Included
- Fruits
- Cold Drinks
- Tea/Coffee
- Towels
- Life Vest
- Transfer (to and fro) from cruise terminal
Excluded
- Snorkeling Equipment
Level of dificulty
Easy/Minimal Physical Activity. Only light walking and no major climbing required.
Age & Health Restrictions
Age Limits:
- Infants (0-3 years): FREE entry, not counted in group size
- Maximum Age: 80 years old
Health Restrictions:
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or serious medical conditions
- Not suitable for those with severe mobility issues
- Consult doctor if you have concerns
Medical Disclaimer: If you have any health concerns, please consult your physician before booking and inform us at time of booking.
Can I bring my infant?
Yes, infants (under 4 years old) enter free of charge and are not included in the group count.
Destinations Covered
Khor Shem Fjord
The Jewel of Musandam
- 17 kilometers long sheltered fjord
- Crystal-clear, calm waters
- Perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Mountain reflections on water surface
- Frequent dolphin sightings
- Protected from wind and waves
- Stunning limestone cliff walls
- Underwater visibility 15+ meters
Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, dolphin watching, photography
Nadafi Village
Remote Fishing Community
- 50 inhabitants living traditional lifestyle
- Accessible only by boat
- Children travel to Khasab for school
- Government-provided fresh water
- Traditional stone houses
- Active fishing community
- Cultural insight into isolated living
Best For: Cultural observation, photography, understanding remote life
Qanaha Village
Historic Fishing Settlement
- Stone houses blending into cliffs
- Natural defensive position
- Historical significance
- Traditional architecture
- Small fishing community
- Photogenic cliff-side setting
Best For: Historical interest, architecture photography, scenic views
Sham Village
Traditional Coastal Community
- Approximately 50 residents
- Fishing-based economy
- Traditional Omani coastal lifestyle
- Stone houses and boats
- Peaceful atmosphere
Best For: Cultural observation, traditional lifestyle appreciation
Maqlab Mountain Village
High Mountain Settlement
- Around 10 houses
- Goat-herding and fishing economy
- Mountain and sea access
- Shortest route to east coast
- Remote, self-sufficient community
- Traditional mountain life
Best For: Understanding mountain-coastal lifestyle, dramatic setting
Telegraph Island (Jazirat al Maqlab)
Historic Communication Hub
Historical Facts:
- 1864 British telegraph cable station
- Part of Bombay-London communication line
- Strategic repeater station
- Harsh conditions for British operators
- Operational for only a few years
- Stone ruins still visible
Marine Environment:
- Vibrant coral growth
- Colorful butterfly fish
- Groupers and reef fish
- Clear waters for snorkeling
- Protected anchorage
Best For: Snorkeling, swimming, history enthusiasts, underwater photography
What to bring
Essential Items
✓ Swimwear (modest style recommended) ✓ Sunscreen (reef-safe, high SPF) ✓ Sunglasses with UV protection ✓ Wide-brimmed hat or cap ✓ Camera or smartphone (waterproof case recommended) ✓ Light cover-up or rash guard ✓ Flip-flops or sandals
Recommended Items
✓ Waterproof bag for electronics ✓ Small backpack or day bag ✓ Extra change of clothes ✓ Personal medications ✓ Motion sickness tablets (if prone) ✓ Cash for snorkeling equipment rental ✓ Reusable water bottle (refills available) ✓ Light jacket (for air-conditioned transfers)
Optional Items
✓ Snorkeling equipment (or rent onboard) ✓ GoPro or underwater camera ✓ Binoculars for dolphin watching ✓ Notebook for journaling ✓ E-reader or book ✓ Playing cards
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation 48 hours prior to the tour. Read More
Travel Itinerary
09:00 AM - Meeting Point
Meet and greet at our office at Lulu Hypermarket Khasab.
09:30 AM - Depart from Khasab port
- Khor Shem: A sheltered 17 km long fjord with crystal clear, calm water perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The mountains reflect on the water, and dolphins often play around the boats.
- Nadafi: A small village with around 50 inhabitants, mainly fishermen. Accessible only by boat, the children travel by boat to school and stay in Khasab from Sunday to Thursday. The Oman Government provides fresh water tanks on the beach.
- Qanaha: A small fishing village with stone houses blending into the cliffs, serving as a historical line of defense.
- Sham: Another village with around 50 inhabitants.
- Maqlab: A mountain village with around 10 houses, where residents earn their living through goat-herding and fishing. It is the shortest distance to the east coast, accessible by climbing over Jabal Maqlab.
- Telegraph Island (Jazirat al Maqlab): The most famous landmark in the area. The British laid the first telegraph cable here in 1864. Snorkeling here offers views of butterfly fish, groupers, and vibrant coral growth. The dhow is anchored at Telegraph Island for 1 hour for snorkeling. Lunch is served on board.
01:00 PM - Return to Khasab port
Return to Khasab port. End of the trip.
Key Highlights -
Scenic Views: As you set sail on a traditional Omani dhow, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged Musandam coastline, characterized by towering cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters. The fjords of Musandam are often compared to the stunning landscapes of Norway.
Dolphin Watching: Musandam is renowned for its resident population of playful dolphins. Keep your eyes peeled as your dhow glides through the waters, and you might be lucky enough to spot these graceful creatures leaping and playing in the waves.
Swimming: Feel the refreshing embrace of the sea as you take a dip in the calm, azure waters of the fjords. Whether you're an experienced swimmer or just looking to cool off, swimming in Musandam's pristine bays is a delightful experience.
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Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation 48 hours prior to the tour. Read More
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Half-Day Dhow Cruise to the Fjords of Musandam – Morning Session
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