Abu Dhabi never ceases to amuse you. The first of its kind underwater Safari has been launched in the city with Snorkelling Underwater Safari Tour. Looking for an adventure this summer? Then be on it.
And no, you don’t have to be a professional diver to do it.
The four-hour safari tour involves snorkelling in two different locations of Yas beach on Yas Island and a walking tour that promises some unique marine animal sightings along the way.
Found mostly in shallow tropical seas like the in Bahamas, the ooids are a rare occurrence in the coastal waters of the Arabian Gulf. “When it is low tide – one gets a better glimpse of the Ooid shoals as they are more exposed. Marine adventurers and geologists are very excited to find them on our tours,” said Freeman.
The snorkelling Underwater Safari also involves walking around the shoals to catch a glimpse of marine animals. “During low tide, some exotic marine animals show up on the shallow side of the water, waiting for a strong tide to wash them off to sea. On one of our trips, we found moon snail nest eggs and cattle fish swimming up here. As people wade into the water, they also get to see coral reefs.
“Assuming the wind is not too strong; we get back into the boat and head off to the north part of the Saadiyat Island – Ra’s Al Ghurab. Here again, depending on whether people are comfortable in deep or shallow water, we do some more snorkeling in select routes around coral reefs. We take ample care while snorkelling to not knock off any coral heads,” said Freeman about the Underwater Safari.
According to Freeman, best times to snorkel are in the mornings when the tide is low. “We have a daily time-table of the tides on Yas beach. Those booking for an underwater tour can check this before fixing the time with us.”
The tour costs Dh300 per person. People are advised to bring their own food and water for the trip.
Abu Dhabi has a great reputation of holding things that are not only special but also amusing and unique. It has just added another feather on its hat with the new Underwater Safari.
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