Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis & Burj Al Arab Speedboat Tour Dubai

Dubai Marina from the water

Dubai Marina is one of the tallest waterfront districts in the world, and seeing it from a speedboat is very different from walking along the promenade. Skyscrapers rise on both sides of the canal, and yachts and dhows fill the moorings. After a safety briefing at the boarding point, your boat slips through the channel before opening up onto the Gulf.

If you are searching for a Dubai Marina speedboat tour, this is the departure point and the best place to feel the contrast between the sheltered canal and the open sea. Sit near the front for the best views, and keep your phone in a secure pocket.

Jumeirah Beach and the Ain Dubai wheel

Heading along the coast you pass the sands of Jumeirah Beach, backed by hotels, cafes and public beach areas. Out on Bluewaters Island stands the huge Ain Dubai observation wheel, one of the tallest of its kind, which is an impressive sight against the skyline.

The guide points out what you are seeing and shares details about how quickly this coastline has developed. Beach views from the sea are especially good in the morning, when light is soft and the water is calm. Bring sunglasses because the reflections can be bright.

The Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

The Palm Jumeirah is the man-made palm-shaped island that has become a symbol of modern Dubai. From the sea you can see its fronds lined with villas and beach clubs, and the crescent that shelters them. At the tip stands the Atlantis resort, its towers connected by a bridge and clearly visible from the water.

Speedboat trips to the Palm Jumeirah give a much clearer sense of its scale than you can get from the road. Your boat slows for photos, and the guide explains how the island was reclaimed from the sea. The waters here can be choppy, so hold on when the boat speeds up.

Burj Al Arab

The tour's highlight is the Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped luxury hotel on its own island off Jumeirah. From the water you see it as few land-based visitors do, with the sea at its feet and the sky behind. It is the most popular photo stop on the route.

Pregnant women, children under five and travellers with heart conditions or limited mobility are advised not to join because of the speed and motion. Wear flat-soled shoes or sandals, light clothing and a jacket for spray, and follow the crew's safety instructions at all times.