Water Activities

Diving in Oman provides adventure and enjoyment with dramatic wall drop-offs and scenic coral lined fjords, ranging in depth from 6-40 m. Oman enjoys good sea conditions with an average visibility of 20-30 m. Diving is relatively easy. During winter months, the sea temperature drops to 20-25 C° and a 5 mm wetsuit may be necessary. In summer, as the sea temperature rises, a 3 mm wetsuit will suffice. Night dives are popular and divers are often astonished by the amount of phosphorescence found in Oman's night-time waters.

There are several superb dive sites around the Capital Area, including Fahal Island, the Damaniyyat Islands and Cemetery Bay.

Whatever the choice of site, underwater life is abundant; a variety of intact hard and soft corals and a spectacular range of fish can be seen. The trip to the site is often rewarded by the sight of dolphins.

A number of diving agents operate in the Sultanate, and can arrange trips to the numerous diving sites along the shores of the Sultanate.

Masirah is also an ideal spot for windsurfing, particularly during the Khareef (monsoon season; June to September). Visitors can camp on the clean, unpolluted beaches and purchase essential provisions from local shops.

The island is reached only by ferry from the village of Shanna on the mainland, a trip taking roughly one hour. Ferry times depend on tides, but there are usually four crossings a day. Once docked, it is a 15-minute drive eastbound to where the surf breaks.

The warm waters of Oman are ideal for this sport and kayaking tours are available around the inlets of Bander Al-Khiran close to Muscat. It is also possible to rent single or double sea kayaks with optional glass bottoms.