Alexandra is a highly rated floating restaurant that has been operating in Dubai Marina since 2008.
Our team is committed to a focus on customer service and constant improvement of our product.
all cruising time slots operate on the same boats, with the same menu, route & inclusions.
Alexandra Sea Lounge is part of our family, a younger sister of Alexandra Dhow.
Its a catamaran style house boat with a different atmosphere and vibe but with an equal attention to quality and high service.
You are welcome to try it, especially if Alexandra Dhow is fully booked.
DINNER CRUISE
20.15 – 20.55: BOARDING TIME
21.00 – DEPARTURE
22.45 – RETURN
OPERATES DAILY
SUNSET CRUISE
5.00 – 5.30: BOARDING TIME
5.30 – DEPARTURE
7.15 – RETURN
OPERATES ONLY ON FRIDAYS & SUNDAYS.
There is no difference in terms of inclusions between the two time slots.
We have a licensed bar onboard and drinks can be bought for an extra charge.
There is also a ticket type that includes unlimited house drinks.
During Ramadan this will not be affected.
You can find us on google maps as ‘Alexandra Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina”
You can reach us by car, or the metro – this involves an approximately 20 minute walk.
We accept bookings per deck. Which ever you book you will be allocated.
Lower deck has fully panoramic floor to ceiling windows.
Guests from the lower deck can go upstairs anytime to take photos.
Buffet is served on both decks, live show is performed on both decks.
Currently we have a live tanura dance show onboard.
The situation with live entertainment is ever changing due to COVID.
A “Dhow” is a traditional wooden vessel that is common in the Middle East and has been used historically for a variety of purposes, primarily for trading.
Dhows are made in a variety of sizes and in the UAE have been most used for trade between UAE and Iran aswell as for pearl diving.
Over the last decade the demand for dhows has gone down and has been replaced by more modern vessels.
Nonetheless, Dhows have played a cruicial role in the history and evolution of the gulf and are iconic as a mode of sea transportation.
In the last couple of decades, a lot of the ‘Dhows’ have been repurposed for tourism purposes, one of them being dhow cruise dinners.
A Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina is a nice concept. Read on.
In the 90’s, some entrepreneurs began converting the larger dhows that were traditionally used for trading into refurbished floating restaurants that would operate dinner cruises in the Dubai Creek.
That segment has grown and over many years has evolved into a rather important and iconic type of tourist attraction in Dubai.
Starting with only handful of Dhows in early 90’s the segment has grown into over 30 dhows in the Creek and 8 in Dubai Marina.
One the elements of the Dhow Cruise ‘culture’ has been to have live entertainment onboard in a variety of forms.
Originally, belly dancing was most common, but with time, Dubai Government has been eliminating this form of entertainment and has now been almost entirely replaced by ‘Tanura’ – a traditionally Turksih dance that is usually performed by a male dancer that is spinning in a flowing and elaborately decorated dress, creating a very interesting sight.
The dinner cruise in Dubai Marina as a concept began in 2010 with some operators bringing the dhow boats to Dubai Marina and operating floating restaurants. The Dhow Cruise Marina attraction began gaining momentum and popularity and currently is a household product among inbound tour operators in Dubai.
Today, the dinner cruise in Dubai Marina is considered to be a much more upscale option that any other area in Dubai.
As always, with the opening of Dubai Marina as a new area and tourist destination, there was room for starting new business ventures.
Alexandra was one of the first boats that began its operations as far back as 2009.
Now there are around 7 boats that operate in Dubai Marina.
So what is the difference between a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina versus a Dhow Cruise in Dubai Creek?
Well, this article will give you a very detailed answer, but funadmentally – the main difference is location.
Dubai Creek is the old part of town, and Dubai Marina is a new area in Dubai.
Fundamentally, that is the only difference, and the difference then lies in the actual operators of each boats. There are many good boats in Dubai Creek and some in Dubai Marina.
It must be noted however that Dubai Marina has MUCH less boats 8 versus more than 25 in the Creek.
As a rule of thumb, the quality of operators in Dubai Marina on average is higher, due to the the higher parking fees and the need to compensate by attracting a higher quality clientele.
A dinner cruise generally is a great combination of dinner and cruising, but a cruise dinner in Dubai Marina is a particular excellent fusion
A dinner cruise in Dubai Marina is an excellent way to combine a sightseeing experience with a dining experience.
We try our best onboard Alexandra to make it a pleasant one and entertain you with our live performers and meticilous approach to food.
A dinner cruise in Dubai Marina onboard a traditional Arabic dhow boat is a truly enchanting experience that blends culture, scenic beauty, and culinary delights. As the sun sets over the shores of the Arabian Gulf, guests are invited to embark on a magical journey through the stunning waters of Dubai, where modernity meets tradition.
The evening begins at the dock, where the beautifully adorned dhow awaits. These traditional wooden boats are intricately designed and offer a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the UAE. As guests board, they are greeted by the warm hospitality of the crew, who ensure everyone feels welcome. The aroma of delicious food wafts from the dining area, setting the stage for a delightful evening.
As the dhow departs, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Dubai Marina canal. Surrounded by glistening skyscrapers and luxurious waterfront properties, the skyline of Dubai creates a picture-perfect backdrop. The sights are mesmerizing, from the unique architecture of the buildings to the vibrant lifestyle of the marina, full of life and energy. This is enhanced by the relaxing atmosphere of the boat, allowing guests to appreciate the stunning scenery in a calm and serene setting.
During the dhow cruise, the buffet dinner is served, offering an exquisite selection of Arabic and international dishes. The buffet is thoughtfully crafted, featuring a variety of delectable options that cater to all tastes. From aromatic biryanis and savory kebabs to fresh salads and traditional desserts, every bite is a celebration of flavor. While dining, guests can savor the rich culinary heritage of the region, and the open-air dining area allows for a pleasant breeze and stunning views as they enjoy their meal.
As guests indulge in their dinner, the entertainment begins with a captivating Tanoura dance show. This traditional Egyptian performance mesmerizes audiences with vibrant costumes and hypnotic movements. The dancer twirls gracefully, their colorful skirt spinning in intricate patterns, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The rhythmic music enhances the atmosphere, transporting guests to a world of cultural richness that complements their dining experience. It’s a perfect blend of sight and sound, capturing the essence of Arabian traditions.
The cruise continues along the notable landmarks of Dubai. As the dhow glides smoothly through the waters, prominent sights like Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, come into view. This spectacular attraction on Blue Water Island offers an exciting perspective of the city from above. Guests will also admire the majestic Palm Island, a marvel of modern engineering, shaped like a palm tree and dotted with luxurious villas and hotels. Each sight is a reminder of Dubai’s rapid transformation into a global destination for luxury and leisure.
The night is still young as the dhow passes by the bustling Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). The lively atmosphere of JBR is vibrant, with people enjoying the beachfront cafes and boutiques. The illuminated buildings create a stunning reflection on the water, enhancing the magical ambiance of the dinner cruise.
As the boat turns back toward the marina, guests can take a moment to capture the breathtaking views. The shimmering lights of the skyline reflect off the water, creating a captivating scene that is simply unforgettable. This is the moment where guests can truly appreciate why this is considered one of the best dhow cruises in Dubai.
The evening concludes with guests returning to the dock, filled with wonderful memories and a sense of fulfillment. This dinner cruise not only satisfies the palate with an array of flavors but also nourishes the soul through captivating performances and breathtaking sights. Whether seeking a romantic evening, a family gathering, or simply a night out with friends, this Dubai Marina dhow cruise is an experience that caters to everyone.
A dinner cruise in Dubai Marina onboard a traditional Arabic dhow offers more than just a meal; it’s a holistic experience that captures the heart of Dubai’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty. For those looking for a unique way to explore the city while enjoying delicious food, this is the perfect opportunity. The combination of the enchanting atmosphere, delicious buffet dinner, and live entertainment makes the Dubai cruise dinner a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city.
In summary, if you wish to experience the best of Dubai, the marina dhow cruise is an excellent choice. With all the highlights of the Dubai Marina, Ain Dubai, Blue Water Island, JBR, and the iconic Palm Island, this dinner cruise is undoubtedly one of the finest ways to enjoy a meal in this beautiful city. So, gather your loved ones, embark on this magical journey, and create unforgettable memories on the waters of Dubai.