Horizon Blue’s most popular tour. A shared, 5-hour snorkelling trip from Al Mouj Marina in Muscat out to the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve — a protected chain of nine islands roughly 18 km offshore, home to hawksbill and green sea turtles, vibrant coral reefs and hundreds of species of reef fish. Tours run twice daily and include everything you need on the water.
What’s Included
- Round-trip boat transfer from Al Mouj Marina
- Licensed captain and crew (30+ years on Omani waters)
- Snorkelling mask, fins and life jacket
- Bottled water and light refreshments
- Ministry of Environment snorkelling permits
- Two snorkelling stops at different sites around the Daymaniyat Islands
Tour Itinerary (Morning Departure)
- 8:00 AM — Check-in at Al Mouj Marina, safety briefing
- 8:30 AM — Departure
- 9:15 AM — Arrive at first snorkelling site
- 10:45 AM — Move to second snorkelling site
- 12:30 PM — Begin return journey
- 1:30 PM — Back at Al Mouj Marina
The afternoon departure follows the same shape, shifted forward five and a half hours (check-in 1:30 PM, return by 7:00 PM). Sunset timing in the afternoon trip is excellent for photos.
Marine Life You May Encounter
The Daymaniyat Islands sit in some of the richest waters in the Arabian Sea. Hawksbill and green sea turtles are sighted year-round and are the most commonly seen large marine animal on our tours. The reefs host more than 250 species of fish — butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, clownfish in their anemones, snappers and groupers — alongside stingrays and moray eels. Pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins often appear on the boat ride out. From August to November, whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) pass through the area; they’re harmless and spotting one is a genuine highlight.
What to Bring
- Swimwear (wear it under your clothes for a quicker change)
- Quick-dry towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher
- Hat and UV-protection sunglasses
- Underwater camera (optional)
- A light snack if you have dietary needs we haven’t asked about
Pricing
30 OMR per adult. Children aged 5 to 12: 18 OMR. Under 5: free. Snorkelling equipment, captain, refreshments and Ministry of Environment permits are all included in the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sharing snorkelling tour depart?
We run two daily departures from Al Mouj Marina: the morning trip leaves at 8:30 AM and returns by 1:30 PM, and the afternoon trip leaves at 2:00 PM and returns by 7:00 PM. You choose which slot at booking. Please arrive 30 minutes before departure for check-in and the safety briefing.
How long is the boat ride to the Daymaniyat Islands?
The boat ride from Al Mouj Marina to the Daymaniyat Islands takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions. Dolphins are often spotted on the way out.
What is included in the sharing snorkelling tour?
Round-trip boat transfer from Al Mouj Marina, a licensed captain and crew, snorkelling mask, fins, life jacket, bottled water, light refreshments, and Ministry of Environment snorkelling permits. Bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen and hat.
How much does the sharing snorkelling tour cost?
30 OMR per adult, 18 OMR per child aged 5 to 12, and free for children under 5. Permits and equipment are included in the adult and child price.
What marine life will I see at the Daymaniyat Islands?
Hawksbill and green sea turtles year-round, hundreds of species of tropical reef fish, hard and soft corals, stingrays and moray eels. From August to November there is a seasonal chance of spotting whale sharks. Dolphin sightings during the boat ride are common.
Is the snorkelling tour suitable for beginners and non-swimmers?
Yes. Our licensed captain provides a full safety briefing before snorkelling, life jackets are provided and required for non-confident swimmers, and the snorkelling stops are chosen for relatively shallow, calm water. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Can we land on the Daymaniyat Islands?
Landing on the islands is permitted from November to April. From May to October the islands are closed for sea turtle nesting season, but snorkelling in the surrounding waters is still allowed and remains excellent.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance. If we cancel due to unsafe sea conditions, you will receive a full refund or be rescheduled at no extra cost.