Self-drive
Self-drive lets guests take the captain’s seat, creating a more hands-on boat outing.
Al Jaddaf
Nova Boats is a boat rental service in Al Jaddaf where you can book a relaxed cruise or take a self-drive boat out on the water. Reviews also point to sunset, sunrise and night rides, with family outings and birthday celebrations among the occasions people have enjoyed.
Source: Google Maps
Self-drive lets guests take the captain’s seat, creating a more hands-on boat outing.
A repeat visitor found the boat clean and comfortable, with a relaxing atmosphere worth returning for.
Reviews describe the staff as cooperative, respectful and helpful throughout the experience.
The boat has been used for birthdays and a parent anniversary, with reviewers describing the occasions as well organised.
Several reviews describe the trip as calm, cozy and relaxing rather than hectic.
Check pricing. Confirm the current price before travelling; one visitor expected 250 dirhams for 45 minutes but was told 360.
Try sunset. Choose a sunset ride if you want the changing light and a scenic cruise.
Go at night. Book at night to see Dubai illuminated, and ask whether photo help is available during your ride.
Consider sunrise. For a family or friends outing, one reviewer specifically recommends sunrise as the best time to try it.
Confirm pickup. Check the pickup station before setting off, since one customer suggested the station should be changed.
Choose self-drive. If you want to feel like the captain rather than simply ride along, ask for the self-drive option.
Plan the visit
| Mon | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Tue | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Wed | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Thu | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Fri | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sat | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sun | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Sunset rides are recommended for a scenic outing with a calm, enjoyable atmosphere.
Night-time bookings are suggested for views of Dubai lit up after dark.
Sunrise is recommended by one reviewer as the best time for a family or friends outing.
One customer saw 45 minutes advertised at 250 dirhams but was quoted 360 dirhams after travelling to the location.
A customer alleged that the ride was allowed to run longer and that this was used to withhold a refund.
One reviewer said changing the pickup station would improve the experience.
A review reported a problem with the bathroom flush.
The Bottom Line
Nova Boats is a boat rental service in Al Jaddaf, with reviews pointing to two distinct ways to enjoy it: a conventional boat trip with a captain or a self-drive outing where you take the helm. Customers have used the boat for family days, birthdays and an anniversary, and repeat visitors mention a clean, comfortable boat and a calm atmosphere. Timing makes a real difference to the experience.
Sunset is a recurring suggestion, while another reviewer recommends sunrise for time with family or friends. Night rides are aimed at seeing Dubai glowing, and one captain was praised for taking guests’ photos against a good background. Those options make the outing feel more tailored than a standard ride, whether you want views, photographs or the novelty of driving.
There are a few practical points to settle before you go. Confirm the pickup station, as one review says the location could be improved, and check the bathroom condition because a reviewer reported a flush problem. Most importantly, verify the price and ride duration in advance: one customer saw 45 minutes advertised at 250 dirhams but was quoted 360 after travelling there.
Another review raised a dispute over an extended ride and a refund, so clear timing and payment terms are worth confirming when booking.