Diving

With 1700 Km of coastline, and clean, unpolluted waters, Oman is one of the best kept secrets in the diving world. There are a number of dive agents who will arrange trips to the numerous coral reefs surrounding the Sultanate. The diving available in Oman provides adventure and enjoyment with dramatic wall drop-offs to scenic coral lined fjords, ranging in depth from 6–40 meters.

Oman has good sea conditions with an average visibility of 20-30 meters. There are many superb dive sites around the capital area, including Cemetery Bay, Fahal Island and Dimaniyyat Islands. The sea-life is abundant regardless of chosen site with a variety of hard and soft corals present and shoals of fish everywhere. The diving is easy diving with good intact corals and a spectacular range of fish, with possibility to see dolphins on the way to the dive sites. In April 2003, an old 86-meters-long armed vessel–Al-Munassir was sunk to function as a wreck.

Night dives are popular and divers are often astounded by the amount of phosphorescence found in Oman's night-time waters. During the winter months, the sea temperature drops to 20-25 C° and one may require a 5mm wetsuit. During the summer months, as the sea temperature rises, a 3mm wetsuit will suffice.

Oman has good sea conditions with an average visibility of 20-30 meters. There are many superb dive sites around the capital area, including Cemetery Bay, Fahal Island and Dimaniyyat Islands. The sea-life is abundant regardless of chosen site with a variety of hard and soft corals present and shoals of fish everywhere.

Dolphin & Whale Watching

Dolphins are popular in Oman's coastal water and whales are occasionally seen. Fahal Island is a good site to spot Dolphins in hundreds roaming around or following the tuna. Spinner, Common and some Bottlenose dolphins are the main types. Orcas playing round the island have been reported twice in 2002. Also whales.

Tourists as well as local residents can experience the fascinating trips organised by Oman Dive Centre to watch dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

The Centre uses traditional Omani fishing boats fully equipped with all necessary safety equipment. Plenty of space, lots of shade and free refreshments all help to maximize the watching experience. Trips are arranged in early morning and at sunset.

Whales and dolphins are highly intelligent animals. They are sensitive to disturbance and can easily be hit by vessels, including their propellers. Shall one decided to undertake the experience by self, he/she should be careful not to disturb or herd them in any way. If they approach the boat, or attempt to bow-ride, he/she should maintain a slow speed and course until they are clear.

Surfing

One of the best places to surf in Oman is Masirah Island, reached only by ferry from Sana on the mainland. The ferry times depend on the tides, but there are usually four trips each day. The ferry takes around one hour to reach the island and it is then a drive of approximately 15 minutes to the eastern side where the surf breaks.

The size of the surf depends on the time of the year, but 4-6 feet is normal. Masirah is also an ideal area for Windsurfing, particularly during the Khareef (monsoon season–June to September). Visitors can camp on the clean, unpolluted beaches and purchase essential provisions from the local shops.