Traditional Dhows Offer a Relaxing Cruise Along the Sharjah Corniche
If you’re visiting Sharjah and have some time to spare, taking a relaxing dhow cruise along the waterfront might be the perfect way to spend your time there. Dhow Cruise The dhows are traditional boats that used to be the main source of transportation and trade in the area, but now they’re mostly just used for tourism purposes in Sharjah’s waterways near the beautiful corniche that circles around Sharjah city proper. If you’ve never been on a dhow cruise before, here’s what you can expect!
A Historically Rich Culture
The dhow’s history dates back to ancient civilizations. The vessels were once used by Babylonians, Egyptians, and Arabs. They have undergone multiple modifications over time. At one point, they were made of wood instead of metal or fibreglass, but they have been primarily built with modern materials for decades now. They are still used for fishing and diving in some parts of Asia and Africa, but only for leisure purposes in Sharjah – which makes them an iconic part of Dubai’s history.
What’s So Great About These Boats?
A traditional dhow is more than just a boat – it’s an experience. The historic vessels offer breathtaking views and comfortable ways to see some of Sharjah’s most popular attractions. While you can’t go wrong with choosing any of these cruising options, it’s best to make your decision based on which sites you would like to see. If you want to visit both Al Qasba and Al Majaz, you can hop from one dhow to another along each waterway.
What Type of Packages Are Available?
The Al Qasba boardwalk offers dhow packages starting at 25Dhs per person. In contrast, Al Majaz charges 10Dhs per person. If you’re looking for more lavish accommodations and services, there are also private dhow cruises available for 100 Dhs per person. What Are My Options?: You can choose from an assortment of accommodation options when booking your dhow package. You can select from fixed seating on open seating dhows or even opt for an individual cabin.
The Corniche During Sunset
The stunning landscape of Sharjah’s waterfront is always perfect for cruising during sunset. Marina Dhow Cruise The dhows take you along a 2.5-kilometer stretch on both sides of the corniche, passing by popular destinations like Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront. You’ll get to admire Dubai’s impressive skyline while sipping on your favorite drink in one hand and taking photos with your other hand, even though everyone around you is probably doing that too.
Fruits & Snacks on Board
To encourage dhow cruise passengers to shop, some vessels have on-board snacks and refreshments that are sold in bite-sized portions. At Al Qasba, these include nuts, candies, and other sweets. These types of souvenirs are popular because they’re easy to carry around in bags or pockets, and they make great gifts for friends and family back home.
