General Information » Getting Around » Boat

An increasing number of cruise ships are calling into Muscat as part of their itinerary. However, there are no scheduled passenger services from Muscat to other countries. There are plans to build a cruise port terminal at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat and a 32m quay in Khasab – perhaps once construction is completed on these projects, Muscat will become a bona fide cruise destination.

At various points along the coast it is possible to hire fishing boats or dhows for daytrips to hidden bays or, for instance, along the coast of Mussandam. If you are just looking for a quick boat ride, head for Bandar Al Jissah Beach (p.XXX), where you will find a crowd of crusty old seafarers touting for willing passengers – for about RO 3 they will take you on a half-hour trip around the coastline. It’s a good way to get a different perspective on the impressive Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort.

There are no scheduled internal boat services from Muscat to other parts of the country. However, there is a daily ferry from Shanab to Masirah Island (this is the only way that travellers can get to the island). The ferry only leaves at high tide (so you might have to wait a while) and the crossing takes around 90 minutes.