Oman’s rugged terrain, turquoise waters and white sands make it an ideal place to enjoy outdoor life.
Watching the playful dolphins off the coast or an evening stroll in the beach to get fresh air and see the sunset or a drive through the roads up in the mountains or quick visit to wadis are stress busters especially during the pandemic.
“We had a great time in the sea with two professional and passionate Omani sailors and had lots of fun,” Piya Prakash Pawani, a social media influencer and model in Muscat, who was on a long boat ride with Qantab Tourism’s Yousuf al Hasni and Asaad al Hasni, said.
“I am also happy that I finally tried snorkeling near the Qaraba island which was an unforgettable experience,” she said. They said at least twenty species of whales and dolphins live off Oman coast including some of which are resident year round. The best time to watch whales and dolphins are early morning and late afternoon, when the sea is calm.
“This is one of the most enriching experiences that one can have of the seas of Oman. We had the best sea trips at the best rates. The guide and leader Yousuf is more of a buddy than a guide. He loves his job so much that he won’t mind any extra hours with you in the middle of the ocean trying to spot a whale or dolphin. Yousuf and Asaad made sure none of us got hungry and thirsty and had the boat stocked with food and drinks,” said Nirvan Ray, another expat who took the trip.
“We have started getting good responses not only from Oman but from the region and across the world. These visitors would love to cruise along the Oman coast and enjoy a few moments in the sea,” says Al Hasni.
Watching the whales and dolphins in Oman is an interesting leisure time activity but one should bear in mind not to disturb their habitat as boats can injure whales and dolphins.
Flora Ghainder said she had a gorgeous day sailing with dolphins and whales.
“I enjoyed diving, snorkeling, seeing corals and dolphins and thanks to Yousuf and Asaad who made sure to give us the best diving experiences. One can also get chilled enjoying the sunset and catching some tuna. The beauty and the underwater wonders and diversity of the world beneath us are something that one should cherish in Oman.
“When you see whales or dolphins approaching, the boat should be slowed down at 500 m and maintain a constant speed of less than 4 knots. Also, one should approach from the side and slightly behind. They shouldn’t be chased or harassed or overtaken.
“While watching these intelligent creatures, one should remain stationary until they move away.
“Visitors shouldn’t bang on the hull, shout, whistle or yell at the whales or dolphins,” said Asaad, adding that the viewing time should be limited to 50 minutes.
