Quick answer
A catamaran has two hulls, which makes it wide, stable and roomy on deck — good for groups, families and anyone worried about seasickness. In Dubai you can join a shared catamaran cruise, often at sunset, or charter a sailing or motor catamaran privately by the hour. The routes are the same as other boats: out of Dubai Marina or Dubai Harbour, along JBR and round the Palm towards the Burj Al Arab.
1How is a catamaran different from a motor yacht?
| Catamaran | Motor yacht | |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | CatamaranVery stable; rolls less | Motor yachtRolls more at anchor |
| Deck space | CatamaranWide open decks, often with nets | Motor yachtMore indoor lounge space |
| Speed | CatamaranSlower, especially under sail | Motor yachtFaster |
| Best for | CatamaranSwim stops, groups, sunbathing | Motor yachtStyle, speed, air-conditioned interiors |
2What catamaran trips are there?
- Shared sunset cruises, priced per person.
- Private sailing catamarans, using the sails when the wind allows.
- Private motor catamarans.
- Large party catamarans for big groups.
3How much does a catamaran cruise cost?
Shared trips are priced per person, in line with other shared cruises — a shared sunset cruise costs about AED 150–250. Private catamarans are priced by the hour, broadly like a motor yacht of the same size and guest capacity.
4Who is a catamaran best for?
- Families with children — stable, with room to move.
- People prone to seasickness.
- Groups who want open deck space.
- Swimmers and snorkellers, with an easy step into the water.
5What to ask before booking
- Is it a sailing or a motor catamaran, and will it sail?
- How much shade is there on deck?
- Is there a toilet on board?
- Are there a swim ladder and life jackets in all sizes?
- What is the licensed guest limit, and is catering available?
6Where does a catamaran cruise go?
A sailing catamaran may take a longer line to use the wind; a motor catamaran follows the same routes as a yacht — see Dubai yacht routes.
- Out of Dubai Marina, past the JBR beachfront and Ain Dubai.
- Round the Palm Jumeirah towards Atlantis.
- On to the Burj Al Arab on longer trips.
- A swim stop in calm water on trips of three hours or more.
Frequently asked questions
Is a catamaran better than a yacht for seasickness?
Usually — two hulls roll less, especially at anchor.
Can you sail on a catamaran in Dubai?
Yes. Some are sailing catamarans that use their sails when the wind allows; others are motor-powered.
How long is a catamaran cruise in Dubai?
Shared cruises typically last 1.5–3 hours; private charters are booked by the hour.
Are catamaran cruises good for kids?
Yes — they are stable, with room to move; ask for child life jackets.
Where do catamaran cruises leave from?
Mostly Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour.
Can you swim from a catamaran?
Often yes, at an anchored swim stop, when the crew allows it.
Do catamaran cruises include food and drinks?
Shared cruises often include soft drinks and sometimes snacks or a barbecue; private charters add catering as an extra. Check what the price includes.
Is a catamaran cheaper than a yacht in Dubai?
Shared catamaran seats are among the cheapest ways onto the water; a private catamaran costs roughly what a motor yacht of the same size does.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
