Cruise Overview
The Al Seef Dhow Cruise is a boutique cruise departing from Dubai's most atmospheric heritage district — Al Seef. Unlike the larger Dhows at Dubai Marina or the Creek, the Al Seef cruise runs on a smaller, more intimate traditional vessel, offering a more personalised and characterful experience.
Al Seef is a beautifully restored heritage area along the Creek, styled to look like old Dubai with mud-brick architecture, traditional shops, and lantern-lit alleyways. Boarding here immediately immerses you in Dubai's history before you even set sail.
The 2-hour cruise takes you past the Creek's landmarks — Al Fahidi, the Gold Souk, Deira — with a stop at the Al Seef promenade where you can capture the traditional architecture lit at night. Buffet dinner includes Arabic mezze, grilled meats, biryani, and traditional Emirati desserts.
Ideal for guests who want an authentic, less touristy experience with a smaller group. Maximum 40 guests ensures an intimate atmosphere with personal service.
What's Included & Not Included
Included
- 2-hour boutique cruise from Al Seef
- Maximum 40 guests (intimate)
- Welcome Arabic coffee & dates
- Full international & Arabic buffet dinner
- Traditional Emirati dessert selection
- Live Tanoura show
- Al Seef promenade photo stop
- Hotel pickup & drop-off (Dubai city)
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages (available on board)
- Hotel transfer (available as add-on)
- Professional photography
- Shisha (available for purchase where permitted)
- Tips & gratuities
Cruise Itinerary
Hotel Pickup
Pickup from your Dubai hotel.
Arrival at Al Seef
Free time to explore the heritage district before boarding.
Boarding
Welcome Arabic coffee, dates & fresh juice.
Set Sail
Sail past Al Fahidi historic district & wind-tower houses.
Buffet Dinner Opens
International & Arabic buffet service begins.
Tanoura Show
Traditional Egyptian spin dance performance.
Gold Souk & Deira Views
Sail past the historic Gold Souk & Deira waterfront.
Al Seef Promenade Photo Stop
Lantern-lit heritage district from the water — stunning.
Docking & Hotel Drop-off
Return to Al Seef, drop-off at hotel.
What to Wear & Bring
Smart Casual
Evening cruise — dress up a little.
Comfortable Shoes
Boat deck can be slippery.
Camera
Skyline photos from the water are spectacular.
Light Layer (Winter)
Sea breeze can be cool on the deck.
Sunglasses
Sunset glare on the water is strong.
Cash / Card
For drinks & extras on board.
Choose Your Package
Standard Deck
- 2-hour boutique cruise
- Full buffet dinner
- Tanoura show
- Al Seef photo stop
- Hotel pickup & drop
Private Table
- Everything in Standard
- Reserved private table
- Dedicated waiter
- Welcome fruit platter
- Ideal for couples
Heritage Package
- Al Seef cruise
- 45-min guided Al Seef tour
- Heritage architecture walk
- Arabic coffee & dates tasting
- Perfect combo experience
Cancellation Policy
Flexible & Fair
- More than 24 hours before100% Free Cancellation
- 12 – 24 hours before50% Refund
- Under 12 hours or no-showNo Refund
- Weather/sea cancellation by operator100% Refund or Reschedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Al Seef is a restored heritage district along Dubai Creek designed to recreate the look and feel of old Dubai — mud-brick buildings, traditional shops, lantern-lit alleyways, and authentic Emirati cuisine. Beautiful for photos & cultural exploration.
Yes — smaller vessel (max 40 guests vs 100+), higher quality buffet, and a stop at the Al Seef promenade for photos. More intimate and characterful.
Yes — we recommend arriving 30 minutes before boarding to walk through the district. Or add the Heritage Package for a guided tour.
Limited beer & wine available for purchase. Soft drinks & water are unlimited and free.
October through April is ideal — cooler temperatures and clearer skies. Summer is fine but humid; the lower deck is fully air-conditioned.
What Our Guests Say
"Smaller group made all the difference. Felt personal, not crowded. The Al Seef setting is gorgeous — like stepping back in time. Dinner was high quality too."
"Booked the Heritage Package — guided walk through Al Seef before the cruise was a beautiful surprise. Our guide explained Dubai's history so well. Highly recommend."
