How to Plan Your Half-Day Dhow Cruise with Snorkeling from Khasab

If you’re heading to Khasab and want to experience the beauty of the Khor Sham fjord, a half-day dhow cruise with snorkeling is an excellent choice. The tour is perfect for those who want to witness the vibrant marine life and breathtaking fjords, as well as the chance to see dolphins. In this guide, we’ll tell you how to plan your half-day dhow cruise with snorkeling from Khasab.

Experience

Taking in the stunning views of the Khor Sham fjord, snorkeling and seeing the colorful marine life, and having the chance to spot dolphins are just some of the highlights of this tour. You’ll also have the opportunity to relax on a leisurely cruise along the silent waters of the fjord.

Full Description

Your half-day dhow cruise with snorkeling will start by picking you up from certain locations in Khasab. From there, you’ll board a traditional Omani dhow and set off to explore the Khor Sham fjord.

The cruise will take you to a spot where you’ll have the chance to see dolphins in the sea. You’ll then anchor near the historic Telegraph Island, where you can snorkel and swim in the crystal clear waters while witnessing the parade of marine life along the reefs.

During your cruise, you’ll be provided with life jackets and a snorkeling kit. Refreshments such as soft drinks, mineral water, and fresh fruit will also be available onboard.

What’s Included

The package includes pickup from specific locations in Khasab, a cruise on a traditional Omani Dhow, an English-speaking host, life jackets, snorkeling kits, as well as soft drinks, mineral water, and fresh fruit.

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Conclusion

A half-day dhow cruise with snorkeling from Khasab is an opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of a fjord and witness vibrant marine life in its natural habitat. With this guide, planning your Khasab tour should be a breeze.

Insider’s Guide to Khasab, Oman

Khasab is the capital city of the Musandam Governorate in Oman, located in the northernmost tip of the country on the Musandam peninsula. Known for its stunning fjords, crystal-clear waters, and a traditional way of life, Khasab offers a range of unique experiences to its visitors, including snorkeling, dhow cruises, and cultural encounters with the local people. Here is a comprehensive guide to help plan your visit to Khasab, Oman.

Local Attractions

– Khasab Fort: A 17th-century Portuguese fort overlooking the harbor and offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding mountains.
– Khawr Najd: A picturesque lagoon surrounded by mountains, with turquoise water and coral reefs teeming with marine life.
– Telegraph Island: A small island in the middle of the fjord with ruins of a British telegraph station that was used to communicate with India in the 19th century. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
– Jebel Harim: The highest mountain peak in Musandam, offering breathtaking views of the fjords and the Arabian Gulf from its summit.
– Musandam Dhow Cruise: A traditional wooden boat (dhow) tour of the fjords, including snorkeling, swimming, and dolphin watching.

Dining Spots

– El Sheikh Restaurant: A local favorite for seafood, Middle Eastern, and international cuisine, with stunning views of the harbor.
– Al Afiyah Restaurant: A cozy spot serving Omani and Indian specialties, including grilled meats, curries, and biryanis.
– Al Shamaliah Restaurant: A restaurant specializing in Arabic meze and grilled seafood, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the mountains.

Cultural Experiences

– Traditional Dhow Building: A visit to a local shipyard where traditional wooden dhows are built by hand, using centuries-old techniques.
– Khasab Village: A stroll through the old town of Khasab, where you can mingle with the locals and see their traditional houses, souks, and mosques.
– Omani Halwa: A tasting of the famous Omani dessert made with sugar, rose water, saffron, and nuts, served with Arabic coffee.
– Frankincense Distillery: A tour of a local factory producing frankincense, a prized resin used in perfumes, medicine, and religious ceremonies.

Local History

– Portuguese Occupation: Khasab was occupied by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and their influence can be seen in the city’s architecture, such as the Khasab Fort and the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
– Oman-United Arab Emirates Border Dispute: Khasab was the center of a territorial conflict between Oman and the UAE in the 20th century, which was eventually settled in favor of Oman in 2008.
– Traditional Livelihoods: Khasab’s economy has been traditionally based on fishing, pearl diving, and date farming, which are still important sources of income for the locals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

– Fossil Hunting: Musandam is known for its rich fossil deposits, and you can join a local guide to search for ancient marine creatures and prehistoric plants.
– Wadi Tiwi: A scenic valley with small freshwater pools, palm groves, and waterfalls, located a few hours’ drive from Khasab.
– Beach Camping: There are several secluded beaches near Khasab where you can camp overnight and enjoy the starry skies, the sound of the waves, and a bonfire.
– Dolphin Watching: Although it is a popular activity, you can avoid the crowds by hiring a private boat and going on your own dolphin-spotting adventure.

Whether you are interested in nature, culture, or relaxation, Khasab has something to offer for everyone. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance and check the local regulations regarding travel permits, dress code, and alcohol consumption. Enjoy your half-day dhow cruise with snorkeling, and create memories that will last a lifetime.