First Look: Nara on the Sea - A Luxurious Dinner Cruise Experience in Dubai

  • Jan. 18, 2025
  • FMCG HORECA BUSINESS
First Look: Nara on the Sea - A Luxurious Dinner Cruise Experience in Dubai

Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious and unique dining experiences, but Nara on the Sea takes the concept of a dinner cruise to a whole new level. Set aboard the beautifully crafted wooden dhow, Lady Nara, this new dining experience promises an unforgettable evening of gourmet food, scenic views, and top-notch service.

A Stunning Ambiance on Dubai’s Waters

The moment you step onto Lady Nara, you’re immediately struck by the attention to detail. The wooden teak panels gleam under the warm glow of the lights, setting the perfect tone for the evening. The dhow’s interior is both chic and sophisticated, with a design that blends traditional wooden elements with modern touches.

Cushioned banquettes, rattan chairs, and carefully arranged table settings make the space feel intimate, yet open enough for you to take in the stunning views of Dubai’s waterfront. From the meticulously arranged décor to the ambient lighting, it’s clear that Nara on the Sea is designed to offer more than just a typical dhow cruise experience.

Two Unique Dining Experiences

Nara on the Sea offers two cruise options: the sunset cruise and the dinner cruise. The sunset cruise starts at 4 pm and is priced at AED 390 per person. It offers a light, canape-style menu with delicacies like salmon toast with lemon cream cheese, Mandarin-infused lemon chicken, and panipuri with guacamole.

However, it was the dinner cruise, starting at 8 pm, that stole the show. With upper deck seating priced at AED 690 per person and lower deck seating at AED 590, this two-hour cruise presents a more refined dining experience. The cruise takes you along Dubai Creek and into the Dubai Water Canal, providing stunning views of the city’s skyline as the evening unfolds.

The Culinary Journey

The meal begins with an array of appetizers that immediately set the tone for the evening. A crudites platter with an assortment of fresh vegetables, paired with a vibrant pink hummus and creamy labneh olive dip, serves as the perfect introduction to the flavors of the meal.

The starters are nothing short of impressive. The beef bresaola carpaccio is rich in smoky flavors and complements the tangy confit tomato and balsamic glaze beautifully. Another standout dish is the red snapper fish salad, perched atop a velvety baba ganoush, offering a perfect balance of smokiness and delicate sweetness from the fish.

Main Courses that Steal the Spotlight

As the dhow cruises towards the iconic Burj Khalifa, the main courses arrive, served in an elegant and timely manner. Three exceptional dishes take center stage: black cod in spiced tomato sauce, slow-braised veal, and pepper mechouia.

The black cod is perfectly cooked, its tender texture enhanced by the acidity of the tomato sauce, while the roasted vegetable medley adds depth with its smoky notes. But it’s the braised veal that really steals the spotlight. Cooked to perfection, the veal is tender and caramelized in a rich garam masala sauce that’s nothing short of divine.

A Sweet Conclusion to the Evening

As the dhow makes its way back to the dock, dessert arrives: a pistachio cake with refreshing raspberry sorbet. While delicious, the dessert didn’t quite match the grandeur of the savory dishes, leaving me wishing for a more memorable sweet finale.

Despite the challenges of cooking aboard a dhow, the presentation, temperature, and quality of each dish were impeccable. It’s clear that the culinary team behind Nara on the Sea knows how to elevate dining experiences, creating dishes that rival those of some of Dubai’s top land-based restaurants.

A Magical Ending

As the dhow nears the dock, the Dubai Festival City water show begins, lighting up the night sky with a spectacular display of lights and music. The dhow gently rocks in the water, adding to the magic of the moment. It’s the perfect end to a perfect evening of fine dining and breathtaking views.

Whether you're a Dubai local or a visitor looking for a unique dining experience, Nara on the Sea offers an unforgettable journey. With luxurious surroundings, world-class food, and a setting that’s both serene and sophisticated, this is one dinner cruise you won’t want to miss.

Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the elegance of Nara on the Sea, where class and quality redefine the dhow dining experience.


Contact Information:

  • Dinner cruise timings: 8 pm
  • Prices: AED 690 (upper deck), AED 590 (lower deck)
  • Reservations: Nara on the Sea website or contact details provided on request.