Abu Dhabi has calm water, beautiful islands and a relaxed atmosphere, which makes it perfect for a few hours on a private boat. The first question most of our guests ask is simple: should we book a houseboat or a yacht? Here is how they compare.
What is a houseboat?
A houseboat is like a floating villa. It moves slowly and stays close to the coast, but it offers a lot of space: wide decks, comfortable sofas, shade and room for big groups. Houseboats are very popular in Abu Dhabi for family days, birthdays and gatherings with friends.
What is a yacht?
A yacht is faster and sportier. It can cruise further along the coast and around the islands, and the experience feels more like a classic day at sea. Yachts usually take fewer guests than the biggest houseboats.
Side by side
| Houseboat | Yacht | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slow, relaxed cruising | Faster, can go further |
| Space | Very spacious, like a villa | Comfortable, more compact |
| Best for | Families, big groups, parties | Small groups, sightseeing |
| Guests (our fleet) | 15 to 45 | 8 to 20 |
| Price (our fleet) | From AED 615 / hour | From AED 415 / hour |
Our houseboats in Abu Dhabi
- Ria Houseboat 1 – up to 15 guests, AED 615 / hour
- Haya Houseboat – up to 15 guests, AED 645 / hour
- Ria Houseboat 2 – up to 30 guests, AED 995 / hour
- Ria Houseboat 3 – up to 35 guests, AED 1,195 / hour
- One Houseboat – up to 45 guests, AED 1,295 / hour
- San 2 Houseboat – up to 45 guests, AED 1,495 / hour
- San 1 Houseboat – up to 45 guests, AED 1,895 / hour
Our yachts in Abu Dhabi
- Gulf Craft Yacht 42 – up to 8 guests, AED 415 / hour
- Italy Yacht 62 – up to 20 guests, AED 825 / hour
All our boats in Abu Dhabi are private, include a captain and crew, and have a minimum of 2 hours.
So which one should you choose?
- Choose a houseboat if you are a big group, you are celebrating, or you simply want space to relax with family and friends.
- Choose a yacht if you are a small group and want to cruise further and see more of the coastline.
- Love fishing? Then neither – book one of our fishing trips in Abu Dhabi with the equipment on board.
Good to know before you go
Every guest needs an original passport or Emirates ID. Arrive 15 minutes before your time, bring sunscreen and sunglasses, and tell us in advance if you want a cake or decoration on board.
Still not sure? Send us your group size and date on WhatsApp and we will suggest the right boat in Abu Dhabi.
