Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs ➝
What tours do you offer at the Daymaniyat Islands?
We offer Morning Snorkeling Tours, Afternoon Snorkeling Tours, Full Day Tours (November to April only), Overnight Camping (November to April only), Certified Scuba Diving, Beginner Scuba Diving (Try Dive), Dolphin Watching, and Private Snorkeling Tours. All snorkeling and diving tours depart from Seeb Marina, Muscat. Dolphin Watching departs from Bandar Rowdha Marina.
Are the Daymaniyat Islands closed during summer?
No — the islands are not fully closed. Beach landing on the island is restricted from May to October to protect the sea turtle nesting season. However, all snorkeling, diving, and boat tours run year-round, and the marine life is spectacular during the summer months.
Where do tours depart from?
All snorkeling and diving tours depart from Seeb Marina, Muscat. The Dolphin Watching Tour departs from Bandar Rowdha Marina. Your booking confirmation includes exact meeting point details and directions.
Turtles and Marine life ➝
Will we definitely see turtles?
Sea turtle sightings are very common at the Daymaniyat Islands — both green and hawksbill turtles are resident in these waters year round. Our guides know exactly where to find them. However since they are wild animals we cannot give a 100% guarantee. The vast majority of our guests spot turtles on every trip.
Is it possible to touch the turtles?
No — we ask all guests to observe turtles from a respectful distance without touching or chasing them. This protects the turtles and is a requirement of the nature reserve. The turtles are very comfortable around people and often swim extremely close on their own.
Will we see dolphins on the snorkeling tour?
Dolphin sightings are possible on the snorkeling tours — dolphins are commonly spotted on the boat ride to and from the islands. However, if dolphins are your main priority, we recommend our dedicated Dolphin Watching Tour, where the captain navigates specifically to find dolphin pods.
What other marine life will we see?
Expect vibrant coral gardens, hundreds of tropical fish species, stingrays, moray eels, reef sharks, and sea turtles on almost every trip. Between June and September, whale sharks are also commonly spotted in the area.
Swimming & Experience Level ➝
Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. No swimming experience is required. Life jackets are provided for all guests throughout the tour. Our guide stays in the water with the group the entire time. With a life jacket on, you float naturally — many of our guests who cannot swim describe this as one of the best experiences of their lives.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Our snorkeling tours are designed for all experience levels. We provide full snorkeling equipment, a safety briefing before departure, and guides who stay in the water with you throughout. The calm, clear waters of the Daymaniyat Islands are ideal for first-timers.
Can pregnant women join the tour?
We always recommend consulting your doctor before snorkeling during pregnancy, as every pregnancy is different. If snorkeling is not advised, you are still welcome to join on the boat and enjoy the experience from the deck while your companions snorkel.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes — children are very welcome. Life jackets are provided for all ages, and our guides are experienced with young children. Children aged 0-2 are free of charge; ages 3-12 pay the child rate, and ages 13 and above pay the adult rate.
Pricing & Booking ➝
What are the tour prices?
Morning and Afternoon Snorkeling Tours are OMR 28 per adult and OMR 15 per child (ages 3-12). Children under 3 are free. Dolphin Watching is OMR 20 per adult and OMR 10 per child. Certified Scuba Diving is OMR 70 per person. Beginner Try Dive is OMR 65 per person. All prices are subject to 5% VAT.
Is there a group discount?
Yes, we offer group discounts for larger bookings. Please contact us directly with your group size and preferred date for a custom quote.
How do I book?
You can book directly through our website or contact us via WhatsApp. We require a 50% deposit to secure your booking, which can be paid by debit card, credit card, or Apple Pay via our secure payment link. The remaining balance is due before departure.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellations made more than 48 hours before the scheduled tour are eligible for a 50% refund of the total booking amount, minus a 5% payment processing fee. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the tour are not eligible for a refund. No-shows — including failure to arrive at the meeting point on time — are strictly non-refundable and non-reschedulable. If the tour is cancelled by us due to adverse weather or sea conditions, you will receive a full refund with no deductions or fees.
What To Expect ➝
Is beach landing on the island included?
Beach landing on the Daymaniyat Islands is available from November to April only. The islands are protected from May to October due to the sea turtle nesting season. During this period, the tour takes place entirely on the water — snorkeling at two sites with no island landing.
What is the difference between the morning and afternoon tour?
Both tours are 4 hours and visit the same snorkeling sites. The morning tour departs at 8:30 AM and offers cooler temperatures and the calmest sea conditions of the day. The afternoon tour departs at 1:30 PM. During the summer months, the actual sunset is not visible during the afternoon tour, as it returns at 5:30 PM — please keep this in mind when choosing.
Does the boat have shade?
Yes, our boats have a shaded canopy area to protect guests from the sun during the crossing and between snorkeling stops. This is especially important during summer months.
Can someone join the boat without snorkeling?
Yes. Guests who prefer not to snorkel are welcome to stay on the shaded deck and enjoy the views, refreshments, and watch the marine life from above the crystal-clear water. The tour price applies for all guests on board, regardless of whether they snorkel.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe recommended), sunglasses, a hat, and any personal medication. All snorkeling equipment, life jackets, permits, and refreshments are provided. Please wear modest clothing at the marina and change into swimwear once on board.
What is the dress code at the marina?
Out of respect for local customs in Oman, please wear modest clothing while at the port. You are welcome to change into your swimwear once you are on board the boat.
Scuba Diving ➝
Do I need a certification to scuba dive?
No. Our Beginner Try Dive is open to anyone aged 14 and above, with no prior experience or certification required. You will be paired with a professional instructor for the entire dive. Certified divers can join our Certified Scuba Diving Tour for two full dives.
How long is the scuba dive?
Each Try Dive is approximately 20-30 minutes underwater. Certified divers complete two dives of approximately one hour each, with a surface interval between dives.
Can certified children join the scuba diving tour?
Yes. Children who hold a valid PADI, SSI, or equivalent certification are welcome to join the Certified Scuba Diving Tour regardless of age.
Safety & Trust➝
Is it safe to visit Muscat and the Daymaniyat Islands?
Oman is one of the most politically neutral and stable countries in the Middle East with peaceful diplomatic relations with all neighbouring countries. Muscat and the Daymaniyat Islands are very calm and safe. We run tours daily without any issues and welcome guests from all over the world.
Is underwater photography and video allowed?
Yes. Guests are welcome to bring underwater cameras, GoPros, and waterproof phone cases. GoPro camera rental is also available for OMR 10 per trip.
Your Next Island Adventure is Closer Than You Think
Imagine snorkeling alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear waters, camping under star-filled skies, or watching the sun paint the ocean in golden hues. With Daymaniyat Islands Tours, that dream is just a few clicks away — and the memories will last a lifetime.