Dhow, Kayak & Dubai – A Journey Between Tradition and Modernity
We invite you to enjoy a truly unique experience aboard a traditional dhow, sailing through the heart of Musandam — the “Fjords of Arabia.”
This dramatic natural fortress, guarding the entrance to the Persian Gulf, plunges into the crystal-clear waters of the Strait of Hormuz, forming spectacular inlets and limestone cliffs.
Still relatively unknown, this remarkable region has remained beautifully preserved, retaining its centuries-old heritage.
We’ve crafted a flexible, à-la-carte program tailored to your desires: swimming, snorkeling among vibrant corals and tropical fish, exploring hidden coves and sandy beaches, visiting fishing villages, hiking, fishing, enjoying beach barbecues… or simply relaxing in the sun.
In the heart of winter, bask in tropical warmth and generous sunshine. Lounge on the deck of your boat, let your thoughts wander, and take in the extraordinary landscapes — in perfect harmony with nature.
Come disconnect from the world and soak in the peace and serenity of this magical region.
This journey has been designed with care and passion by a team who knows and loves this land deeply.
What You’ll Love
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Discovering the stunning bays and turquoise waters of Musandam
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Coral reefs, hidden beaches, and wild coves
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Sailing alongside dolphins
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Short or long hikes — it’s up to you
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A new anchorage every night
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Visiting a fishing village nestled between the cliffs
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And to top it all off: a unique and original tour of the extraordinary city of Dubai to end your adventure
DAY 1: Europe – Dubai (UAE) – Khasab (Oman)
Flight to Dubai. Arrival either early in the morning or late at night.
Meet your English-speaking guide at the airport for the transfer to Khasab, in the Musandam region of Oman.
Transfer will take place either during the night of Day 1 or the morning of Day 2, depending on the group’s flight schedule.
Short night in a hotel or onboard the plane.
You may choose a daytime flight option when registering; plan for a supplement of at least €50 for the hotel night and breakfast in Dubai.
DAY 2: Khasab – Shams Fjord
Upon arrival in Khasab, visit of the town.
Optional visit to the museum inside Khasab Fort, where you’ll discover the traditional heritage of the peninsula.
We load our kayaks and gear onto the dhow and begin a 4-day autonomous journey into the Fjords of Arabia.
We sail past Humsi, a dramatic sugarloaf islet that guards the entrance to Shams Bay — a popular gathering point for dolphins that often play in the dhow’s bow waves.
After a short sail, we reach the center of the fjord and set up camp on a small islet.
The dhow departs and will return on Day 3.
Swimming is possible in a nearby cove, with clear waters full of coral reefs and multicolored tropical fish.
Accommodation: Tent
Activities: Walking and swimming, 1 hr of navigation
DAY 3: Ras Shuraytah
At dawn, we enjoy breakfast as the rising sun casts a red glow on the towering cliffs of Shams mountain.
The morning is spent swimming and learning basic sea kayaking skills.
Early afternoon, the dhow returns to pick us up.
During the 2 to 3-hour sail toward Ras Shuraytah, we travel along a coastline of sheer cliffs before crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
We anchor in Mina Sayt cove, near a sandy beach — time for swimming, sunset drinks, and dinner around a beach fire.
Overnight: Tent, under the stars, or on the dhow.
Activities: 1 hr walking/swimming, ±100m elevation gain
Navigation: 2–3 hrs
DAY 4: Khumzar Village – Ancient Site
Free day to enjoy as you wish:
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Relax on paradise beaches
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Fish in the island currents
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Visit Khumzar, a remote village nestled between massive limestone cliffs
Khumzar is a fascinating place, home to a unique culture that has endured for centuries.
Once a hub for sailors navigating the Strait, the local dialect blends over 20 different languages.
For those who opt for hiking: we take a centuries-old trail climbing above the village to a plateau where lie the ruins of an ancient settlement — known to researchers as the “Arabian Machu Picchu.”
After returning to the dhow, we sail among the islands of the Strait and anchor again in Mina Sayt cove.
Evening swim before dinner by the sea.
Activities: 5–6 hrs hiking (or free time / swimming)
Navigation: 2 hrs
DAY 5: Sham Bay
Transfer to Sham Bay by dhow.
During the journey, some may try their luck fishing from the boat, while others relax on cushions or enjoy being towed on a floating board behind the boat.
Late morning, we arrive in Sham Bay and land in Dashun, a bay at the end of the fjord.
We hike up a steep path to a mountain pass with panoramic views over Habbalayan Bay — where, through the emerald waters, it’s sometimes possible to spot reef sharks gliding beneath the surface.
In the afternoon, we land on Sibi Island, where we leave the dhow until Day 6.
We set up camp, swim, and explore the island by foot or by kayak.
DAY 6: Khasab – Dubai
Time for one last swim or snorkel among corals and colorful fish (angelfish, clownfish, damselfish, and more).
The dhow returns to pick us up.
As we exit Sham Fjord, we search once more for dolphins — although we’ve likely seen them already throughout the trip.
We return to land in the early afternoon and transfer by minibus to Dubai (3–4 hrs).
Check in at hotel and dinner at a restaurant.
Activities: 2 hrs navigation
Transport: Dhow + minibus
Accommodation: 2–3 star hotel
DAY 7: Exploring Dubai
We begin with a visit to the spice souk, then stroll the old harbor where traditional dhows load up for journeys to Persia.
We cross “the creek” by water taxi, accompanied by gulls.
Stop at Heritage Village, the historical district where you’ll discover Dubai’s rise from desert outpost to modern metropolis.
Then we head straight into the future:
From the foot of Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest tower) to the Burj Al Arab sail-shaped hotel, to the Palm Jumeirah and its extravagant Atlantis Hotel.
Depending on time, we’ll also stop at Ski Dubai (indoor ski slope), and finish at the Dubai Mall, home to an enormous aquarium.
Final dinner near the Burj Khalifa, followed by an airport transfer during the night.
Activities: 2–3 hrs walking
Transport: On foot and by taxi
Accommodation: 2–3 star hotel
DAY 8: Flight Dubai – Europe
Return flight.
For Everyone
This trip is rated easy. Elevation gains during hikes are moderate.
It is therefore a journey accessible to all.
These itineraries can be organized for private groups of 2 to 14 people, or as part of a scheduled group departure.
We can also create custom dhow-based circuits ranging from 4 to 21 days, depending on your preferences.
The trip is led by a crew member aboard the dhow and a dedicated guide or tour leader.
Attentive and experienced, your guide will adapt the pace of the trip if needed.
If you wish, you may skip a hike and relax onboard instead — the program is flexible.
Accommodation is provided in spacious tents equipped with mosquito nets, individual sheets, and comfortable sleeping mats.
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