Visitors to Dubai can now experience the city from the water aboard a distinctive new craft: Dubai’s first authentic Thai long-tail boat, operated by Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa from its private jetty on Palm Jumeirah Marina. The traditional vessel, shipped directly from Thailand, offers scheduled transfers between the resort’s jetty and Dubai Marina on the mainland, providing a memorable alternative to conventional transport and sightseeing.
The long-tail boat, known in Thai as Ruea Hang Yao, is designed to carry up to ten passengers per trip, accommodating both hotel guests and external visitors. Its classic appearance and handcrafted details deliver an intimate, culturally rich sailing experience that contrasts with Dubai’s usual modern yachts and motorboats. The boat allows visitors to glide along the waterfront and enjoy unique perspectives of the Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai skyline and the marina, all while aboard a vessel steeped in Southeast Asian maritime tradition.
Jean Francois Laurent, general manager of Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, highlights the intention behind the new offering: to give guests more than just a stay, but stories and memories they will want to share. He emphasizes that the long-tail boat’s journey from Thailand adds to its character, turning a simple transfer into a narrative—an experience that feels like an authentic cultural encounter as much as a scenic ride. The gentle pace of the craft and the close-to-water vantage point make the trip particularly well suited to guests seeking a relaxed, photogenic way to explore Dubai’s iconic waterfront.
The service runs multiple times each day to and from Dubai Marina, making it a practical option for both leisure visitors and residents seeking a special way to commute or sightsee. Because the boat is more intimate than larger ferries or private yachts, departures are scheduled to balance privacy and availability, ensuring a comfortable onboard atmosphere. Passengers are encouraged to book in advance, particularly during peak tourism seasons and weekends, when demand is likely to be higher.
Pricing for the long-tail boat service is straightforward and family-friendly. A one-way trip is approximately $20 per adult and $10 per child, while a roundtrip fare is about $34 per adult and $16 per child. These rates position the service as an affordable luxury—offering an unforgettable, culturally infused transport option without the premium price tag of many private yacht charters.
Beyond simple transfers, the long-tail boat can be used for a variety of leisure purposes. Guests can opt for a serene morning departure to capture sunrise views over the water, an afternoon cruise to enjoy the waterfront architecture, or a sunset voyage that frames the Dubai skyline in changing light. The boat’s intimate capacity also makes it suitable for small group gatherings, romantic excursions or personalized photo sessions that make use of the unique coastal backdrops.
Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa’s introduction of this Thai long-tail boat aligns with the resort’s broader commitment to offering culturally distinctive and memorable guest experiences. The resort’s private jetty provides easy access to the marina, allowing visitors to combine resort amenities with an authentic on-water journey. Staff members assist with boarding and itineraries, ensuring that the trip is smooth and enjoyable for all ages.
This new sailing option adds variety to Dubai’s expanding portfolio of waterfront activities, complementing established choices such as yacht charters, speedboat tours and traditional abra crossings. By introducing a handcrafted Thai vessel, Anantara brings a fresh, narrative-rich alternative to the city’s maritime offerings—one that highlights craftsmanship, cultural exchange and relaxed exploration of Dubai’s celebrated coastline.