How to rent a yacht with a captain in Dubai?

Long-distance sea voyages require significant experience and skills, including: Yacht management experience: It is desirable to have experience managing a yacht in various weather conditions and situations. Navigation skills: The ability to read nautical charts, use navigation instruments and sail a yacht on the high seas. Meteorology: Knowledge of the basics of weather forecasting and the ability to interpret weather maps. Rescue skills: The ability to provide first aid and use life-saving equipment. Communications: Experience working with radio communications and other means of communication.

Dubai's cultural scene is constantly evolving, offering a variety of events. Dubai Opera is an architectural masterpiece shaped like a traditional dhow boat. I attended a performance there and was impressed by the acoustics and comfort of the hall. The Opera's program includes ballet, musicals, classical concerts, and even contemporary shows. Magic Planet in Mall of the Emirates offers family entertainment programs, including theatrical productions and artist performances. Coca-Cola Arena is the largest indoor multi-purpose arena in the region, hosting concerts by global stars, sporting events, and festivals. I attended a concert of my favorite band and appreciated the high level of organization and technology.

Dubai has transformed into a global education hub, attracting students and faculty from all over the world. Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City host campuses of leading universities, such as the University of Wollongong and Heriot-Watt University. I attended a lecture at the American University in Dubai and was impressed by the modern technologies and multinational atmosphere. Additionally, the city offers a wide range of language schools and courses in various fields – from business to art. I enrolled in a short-term Arabic language course at Eton Institute, which enriched my journey by allowing me to better understand the culture and interact with locals.

Dubai strives to be an inclusive city, and many public spaces are equipped for the convenience of people with disabilities. Most hotels, malls, and restaurants have ramps, lifts, and special restrooms. Public transportation, including the metro and buses, is adapted for wheelchair users. I noticed that many pedestrian crossings have tactile and sound signals for the visually impaired. In beach areas, special swimming chairs are provided. City services and staff are typically well-trained and ready to help when needed. This care for accessibility makes Dubai a comfortable place for all travelers.

The most famous yacht regattas include: America's Cup: One of the most prestigious and oldest yachting competitions in the world. Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race: It is known for its difficult conditions and high requirements for participants. Vendee Globe Regatta: A round-the-world solo regatta without stops and assistance, held every four years. The King of Spain Cup (Copa del Rey): A prestigious regatta held in Mallorca, attracting participants from all over the world. Fastnet Race: A classic offshore regatta from Great Britain to Ireland and back.

On board, yachts from entertainment are available: bathing on the open sea, fishing, water skis, skating on a banana or a tablet.

Yachts use various navigation systems to ensure safe and accurate sailing: GPS (Global Positioning System): The main system for location and navigation. Modern GPS receivers provide data on the coordinates, speed and course of the yacht. Chartplotters: Electronic devices that display maps and integrate GPS data, providing a visual representation of the route and surrounding objects. Autopilots: Automatic control systems that help maintain the yacht's course without the constant intervention of the captain. AIS (Automatic Identification System): An automatic identification system that allows you to see other vessels in the field of view and exchange data on location, speed and course. Radar systems: Used to detect objects and navigate in low visibility conditions such as fog or night. Echo sounders: Devices for measuring the depth of water under the keel of a yacht, which helps to avoid shoals and underwater obstacles. Paper nautical charts and compasses: Traditional navigation tools that remain important in the case of failure of electronic systems.

Thanks to the warm climate and abundance of beaches, Dubai is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. I tried kitesurfing at Kite Beach, where the wind and waves are perfect for this activity. The instructors are professional and friendly, making it easy for even beginners to learn the basics. For a more relaxed experience, you can try paddleboarding or kayaking along the coast. Speed lovers will appreciate jet skiing and water skiing. I also tried flyboarding — a device that lifts you above the water using a jet of pressurized water. It was an unforgettable feeling of flight and freedom.

There are several main types of yachts: Sailing yachts: Use a sailing system for locomotion. They can be single- or multi-hull (catamarans and trimarans). Motor yachts: Equipped with a motor and designed for faster travel. They include sports boats, cruisers and superyachts. Mega and superyachts: Large, luxurious yachts with numerous amenities designed for long trips and large companies. Expedition yachts: Designed for long voyages in difficult conditions, often used for research. Hybrid yachts: Combine sailing and motor installations for maximum efficiency and environmental friendliness.

The "12-person rule" is an informal guideline suggesting that a yacht should ideally have no more than 12 people on board for safety and comfort. It is not a legal requirement, but it is based on common sense and experience.