Marsa
Prices, hours, guests, IDs, swimming, weather and cancellations: clear answers to the 15 questions people ask most before renting a yacht in Dubai.
Most people renting a yacht in Dubai for the first time ask the same handful of questions. Here are clear answers to the 15 we hear most often, from the price and the guest limit to IDs, swimming, weather and cancellations.
1. How much does it cost to rent a yacht in Dubai?
Our yachts start at AED 599 per hour. The rate depends mainly on the size of the yacht: 44 to 48 ft yachts are the most affordable, and the 90 ft yacht for large groups costs the most. Every hourly price is shown on the Yacht Rental Dubai page, so you can compare before you ask. To see what drives the price, read Small Yacht Rental Prices in Dubai.
2. Is the price per person or for the whole yacht?
For the whole yacht. You pay the same hourly rate whatever the size of your group, up to the yacht’s guest capacity. The more guests you bring, the better the value: a group of 12 shares one price, not twelve tickets.
3. What is included in the price?
The yacht, a licensed captain and crew, fuel for the standard route, water, soft drinks and ice. Catering, decoration, a DJ and watersports such as jet skis are quoted separately and agreed before you board. The full list is in what’s included and what costs extra.
4. What is the minimum rental time?
Two hours, which is enough to cruise from Dubai Marina past JBR, Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah. Book three hours to add Burj Al Arab, and four if you want to anchor for a swim or a meal. Larger yachts may need three hours or more, especially on weekends. Our guide to Dubai Marina yacht routes shows what you see in each duration.
5. How many guests can a yacht take?
Every yacht has a fixed capacity, and everyone on board counts, including children and infants. As a guide, the Majesty 44 takes up to 12 guests, the Majesty 56 up to 25 and the Big Daddy 90 up to 50. The limit cannot be exceeded on the day, so count your guests before you book.
6. Do I need a boating licence or experience?
No. Every charter comes with a licensed captain and crew who handle navigation, mooring and safety. You simply enjoy the trip.
7. What documents do guests need?
An original passport or Emirates ID for every guest, adults and children alike, because IDs can be checked before departure. Copies or photos on a phone may not be accepted. Our guide to yacht rental rules in Dubai explains the checks.
8. Where do the yachts depart from?
Most of our fleet departs from Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour. The exact berth is shared when your booking is confirmed. Arrive 15 minutes early: the charter starts at the agreed time, and arriving late does not extend it.
9. When is the best time to rent a yacht in Dubai?
October to April is the most comfortable season, and sunset is the most requested slot all year. In the summer months, early morning and the hours around sunset are the most pleasant. Read the best time to rent a yacht in Dubai, or see our sunset cruise.
10. How far in advance should I book?
For weekends and sunset slots between October and April, book a few days ahead. On weekdays a yacht is often available at short notice. Send us your date and we confirm availability and the total price right away.
11. Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food, cake and drinks. We can also arrange catering, from snack platters to a barbecue on board. Illegal substances are not allowed on board.
12. Can we swim during the trip?
Yes. On charters of two hours or more the captain can anchor in a calm spot for a swim, weather and sea conditions permitting. Swimming is only possible in daylight, so choose a morning or afternoon slot if it matters to you. Jet skis and other watersports can be added: see swimming and watersports by yacht.
13. Are children allowed on board?
Yes. Children of any age are welcome with an adult, and life jackets are on board in adult and child sizes. Children count towards the guest capacity, so include them in your headcount and tell us their ages when you book.
14. What if the weather is bad, or I need to cancel?
If the coast guard or the captain cancels the trip because of the weather or the sea, you reschedule at no extra cost. If you cancel more than 48 hours before the start time you get a full refund, between 24 and 48 hours you get 50% back, and with less than 24 hours’ notice there is no refund. The details are in our cancellation policy.
15. Can you decorate the yacht for a birthday or a proposal?
Yes. Balloons, flowers, a cake, a DJ or a photographer can be ready before you board. Ask when you book, so everything is prepared on time. Ideas and options are on our birthday yacht party and proposal and anniversary pages.
Three more quick answers
- Payment: we accept Visa, credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and crypto
- Tipping: never required, but appreciated when the crew looked after you well. Read tipping the crew in Dubai
- What to wear: soft-soled shoes, swimwear, sunscreen and a light layer for the evening. Read what to wear and bring on a yacht
Ready to book?
Compare every yacht, its capacity and its hourly price on the Yacht Rental Dubai page, or follow our step-by-step guide to renting a yacht in Dubai. Have a question we did not cover? Write to us through the Contact page and a real person will reply.