What a yacht trip is like
Boarding, the route, the swim stop, what to bring.
Boarding is at Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Harbour or the Marina walk, depending on the boat. Arrive twenty minutes early; boats leave on time because berths are booked by the slot. Shoes come off on most yachts, so wear something easy to slip off.
The classic route heads out of the Marina channel, turns along JBR beach, circles the Palm Jumeirah crescent with a slow pass of Atlantis, then runs along the coast to Burj Al Arab and back. On a two-hour trip that is most of the time; on a longer private charter the captain anchors in the Palm lagoon for swimming.
Sunset is the moment: the skyline goes from glass to gold, and the marina towers light up on the way back. Morning trips have the flattest sea and the best light for photos of the water.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat that will not blow away, swimwear and a towel on private charters, and a light layer for winter evenings. Leave glass bottles and drones at home. Children are welcome; life jackets in small sizes are on board.
Dress code on shared dinner cruises is smart casual. On your own boat it is whatever you like.