As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi offers a wealth of dining, shopping and sightseeing opportunities. But what many people don’t realize is that Abu Dhabi is located on an island in the Persian Gulf, making it the perfect destination for a wide range of water activities!

See the city from a completely different perspective and make the most of the UAE’s warm weather when you join a boat tour in Abu Dhabi. Whether you prefer an exhilarating speedboat ride or a leisurely sail around the island, there is an option to suit everyone.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Abu Dhabi.

What are the most popular boat tours in Abu Dhabi?

When looking for a boat tour in Abu Dhabi, you are truly spoilt for choice. Take this opportunity to make unforgettable memories with your travel companions as you explore Abu Dhabi and its surrounding areas by boat.

Speedboat sightseeing tours in Abu Dhabi

Enjoy the pure adrenaline that comes with a fast-paced speedboat tour in Abu Dhabi. Not only will you get to ride around the Persian Gulf at top speeds, but you’ll also get to see some of the city’s most noteworthy landmarks along the way.

A few of the places that you can look forward to seeing include Yas Beach, Ferrari World, Jazeerat Al Sammaliyah Island, Aldar HQ and many more. You should also keep an eye out for marine life, like dolphins and sea turtles.

There are various speedboat excursions for you to choose from, including 45-minute, 60-minute and 75-minute tours.

Self-drive boat tours through the Mangrove National Park

Pilot your own Rhino Rider speedboat as you cruise through the beautiful Mangrove National Park in Abu Dhabi. Before you begin exploring the lagoon, your guide will show you how to operate the speedboat and provide you with a safety briefing.

As you make your way around the lagoon, testing the boat’s top speed, you’ll be treated to sights of flocks of pink flamingos, which make for great photos! Follow your guide into the canals where you’ll see even more marine life, including herons and maybe even dolphins!

Stop at a picturesque island in the middle of the lagoon, where you can relax, take photos or swim before your boat tour comes to an end.

Sunset cruises in Abu Dhabi

Experience the magic of a Persian Gulf sunset as you take a leisurely boat cruise past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Have your camera ready to capture pictures of a glowing sun disappearing behind Abu Dhabi’s city skyline.

This relaxing excursion is limited to 8 participants per tour, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. You’ll be provided with water and soft drinks to sip on to stay hydrated as the sun goes down.

Some of the places that you’ll see along the way include the Presidential Palace, the Emirates Palace, the Qasr Al Watan, Dolphin Island and more.

Sailboat rentals in Abu Dhabi

Make the most of your time in Abu Dhabi by renting a sailboat for the day and exploring the nearby islands and coastline. Choose between skippering the boat yourself or hiring a private skipper for the day, who will take you to wherever you’d like to go.

Your private skipper will be able to suggest locations for your day’s itinerary that you may not have thought of, and tell you a bit more about the various landmarks that you’ll see along the way.

There are dozens of different vessels available to rent, including sailing yachts, speedboats and luxury yachts. There is truly something for everyone, and hiring a yacht ensures a private, personalized experience.

Island hopping boat tours from Abu Dhabi

Did you know that Abu Dhabi is an archipelago made up of more than 200 islands? This makes Abu Dhabi the perfect destination for an island-hopping adventure! Join this 4-hour excursion to see the best of what the UAE has to offer island lovers.

Your first stop is at Dolphin Island, where you’ll get the chance to swim in its pristine waters. Next, you’ll head to Baharani Island. Here, you’ll be treated to a full beach setup, complete with music and snacks.

This is the perfect experience for those looking to enjoy themselves and spend a day out on the water. The cre goes above and beyond to ensure that everybody has a good time and you won’t be disappointed.

Buffet dinner cruises from Abu Dhabi

This relaxing dinner cruise takes place onboard a dhow, which is a traditional Arabic sailboat. The comfortable vessel boasts large windows so that you can take in the incredible views of Abu Dhabi.

There is a full bar onboard, serving all sorts of different drinks, and you’ll be served a delicious buffet dinner so that you can eat until your heart’s content. Enjoy the tasty food provided as you take in the views of the city.

This is a luxury experience, which includes hotel pickups and excellent service, that you certainly won’t regret!

How much do boat tours in Abu Dhabi cost?

Basic speedboat sightseeing tours in Abu Dhabi, lasting 45 minutes, cost around US$45 per person, while 1-hour long speedboat tours usually cost around US$55 per person. These tours include live commentary, bottled water and the use of a life vest.

Self-drive boat tours, which take place in the Mangrove National Park, typically cost around US$110 for this unique experience, including the use of a life vest and Rhino Rider speedboat.

Sunset cruises in Abu Dhabi, which are inclusive of water and soft drinks, usually cost approximately US$70 per person.

Sailing boat rentals in Abu Dhabi can vary depending on the type of vessel that you’re interested in renting, but you can expect to pay at least US$200 for the day.

Buffet dinner cruises in Abu Dhabi, which include dinner and unlimited soft drinks, typically cost around US$100 per person, as do 4-hour island hopping tours.

Which places are seen?

The places that are seen on a boat trip in Abu Dhabi depend on the type of boat trip you choose to join. Self-drive boat trips in the Mangrove National Park focus specifically on this area, while speedboat sightseeing tours and island hopping tours may give you a better overview of the entire area.

Some of the places you’ll see on a speedboat tour in Abu Dhabi include Abu Dhabi Corniche’s promenade, Al Lulu Island, Al Maya Island, The Etihad Towers, Yas Island and the Presidential Palace among many other attractions and landmarks.

Ensure that you check tour itineraries before making a booking to ensure that the places seen align with your interests and preferences. Boat tours in Abu Dhabi present you with the unique opportunity to see the city and its many landmarks from the water.

How long does a boat trip last?

While speedboat sightseeing tours typically last anywhere between 45 and 75 minutes, there are island hopping cruises that last around 4 hours. There is also the option to rent a sailboat in Abu Dhabi for the entire day.

No matter whether you’re looking for a 1-hour excursion or a full-day experience, there is a boat tour in Abu Dhabi that is perfectly suited to your schedule.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Boat trips in Abu Dhabi typically leave from Yas Bay Waterfront, AlBateen Marina, the Emirates Palace Marina or the waterfront near the Mangroves National Park.

Some tour operators offer complimentary hotel pickup services, but in most cases, you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own terms.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While most boat tours in Abu Dhabi are not wheelchair friendly, there are a few tours—such as the buffet dinner cruise—that are suitable for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Abu Dhabi?

The best time for a boat trip in Abu Dhabi is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, with milder temperatures and calmer seas, making it ideal for a relaxing and enjoyable boat excursion. The summer months, from June to August, can be extremely hot, with high temperatures and stronger winds, making boat trips less comfortable.

Which other water activities can be done in Abu Dhabi?

Travel Tips

Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for the boat tour. Consider bringing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout your cruise, especially in Abu Dhabi's hot weather.
Follow the safety instructions and guidelines of your captain or tour guide.
Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of Abu Dhabi's coastline and landmarks.
If you are prone to seasickness, please consider taking appropriate medications and remedies before your boat tour.

Boat Tours in Abu Dhabi