While researching things to do in Muscat, I came across numerous snorkelling and diving tours. What instantly caught my attention was that nearly all of them guaranteed turtle sightings. That was it, I knew I had to book one. But there was a catch: most tours required a minimum of two people. Hmm. I was travelling solo. Fortunately, after a bit of searching, I found a company offering solo-friendly tours and booked it straight away.

Al Mouj marina

Meeting point


The meeting point was at Al Mouj Marina, where all the tour operators have small booths lined up for check-in. Once my booking was confirmed, I was asked to sign a waiver stating they weren’t responsible for anything and that all liability lay with me. Classic.

Marina

At exactly nine, our captain, also our guide, arrived and welcomed everyone. He called out our names, then led us through a gated area of the marina, where our boat was waiting among much larger yachts.


Our boat

The trone (with a hidden toilet)

It was a 45-minute bumpy ride to our first stop: Turtle Bay. Several boats were already there, and the water was dotted with tourists. Snorkelling gear was provided, though I had brought my own. We were given instructions: not to touch the turtles, not to swim directly above them, and when to be back on the boat. After that, we were free to explore.

We need Internet everywhere even on a tiny island

Turtle Bay and tourists

There was a particular spot where many turtles had gathered for what looked like a late breakfast. Naturally, that spot was swarming with people, some of whom completely ignored the rules and swam right above the turtles. I didn’t join the crowd, there was no need. The turtles would come up for air and pass right by me.


Turtle needing some air

A group of turtles

Aside from the turtles, the area was teeming with beautiful, colourful fish.


Some fish

Once it was time to regroup, our captain had prepared some light refreshments. There were sandwiches, bananas, and crisps. The sandwiches had some kind of cream in them, so I gave those a miss. I didn't stay hungry, I’d brought a few snacks of my own. The bananas and crisps were much appreciated, and we were also offered mango juice and water to stay hydrated.

After our break, we headed to the second stop, a stunning beach with white sand.


Beach

Another beach

I’m not much of a sunbather, so I grabbed my snorkelling kit again and went exploring. I spotted some tiny shrimps building sand houses, though they were far too small to photograph properly. There was also a very colourful fish (I think it was a parrotfish, though feel free to correct me) who seemed oddly fascinated by me and followed me around, as if posing for more photos.



Time flew by, and before I knew it, we were heading back to the marina.

View on the way back

Here are a few photos from the Al Mouj area: