To rent a yacht in Abu Dhabi, choose your group size first, then your departure marina, then the trip length. Butinah Charters runs a licensed fleet of 12 vessels in Abu Dhabi, from 33 ft boats for 6 guests to the 100 ft Butinah-3 for up to 30 guests, departing from Marina Mall, Emirates Palace Marina, Yas Marina and Al Mina. Every charter comes with a captain and crew, and you book by phone, WhatsApp or email.

Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest cities in the world to enjoy from the water. The Corniche, the mangroves, the islands of Lulu, Bahraini and Saadiyat, and calm Gulf water for most of the year make a yacht the best seat in the city. But “yacht rental” covers everything from a two-hour sunset cruise for a couple to a full-day corporate charter for 40 people. This guide walks you through every decision so you book the right boat the first time.

•  Calm, sheltered water. Most cruising happens inside the protected waters between the city and the outer islands, so even first-timers rarely feel seasick.
  
  
•  Skyline views you cannot get on land. The Corniche, Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Watan and the Saadiyat cultural district all look their best from the sea.
  
  
• Privacy. Unlike shared boat tours, a private yacht is yours. You choose the music, the food, the route and the guest list.
  
  
• Year-round season. October to April is peak season with perfect weather. Summer trips still work well early in the morning and around sunset.

The number of guests is the single biggest factor in choosing a yacht. UAE maritime rules set a maximum capacity for every licensed vessel, and a reputable operator will never exceed it. Here is how the Butinah Charters Abu Dhabi fleet lines up:

Expert tip: Book for the number of guests you actually expect, not the maximum the yacht allows. A 70 ft yacht with 10 guests feels spacious; the same yacht with 12 guests and a buffet set-up feels full.

Where you board shapes your route and your guests’ journey.

•  Marina Mall: the most central departure point, with parking and easy taxi access. Ideal for Corniche and Lulu Island cruises.
•  Emirates Palace Marina: the premium choice for luxury charters on the 100 ft Butinah-3, with the palace and Etihad Towers as your backdrop.
•  Yas Marina: the place to be during the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and for cruises around Yas Island and the mangroves.
•  Al Mina (near the Fish Market): the traditional harbour, popular for fishing trips.

2 hours: a sunset cruise along the Corniche. Perfect for couples and small celebrations.

3 to 4 hours: enough time to cruise, anchor and swim near an island. The most popular option for birthdays and family groups.

 Half or full day: island hopping, swimming, water sports and a proper meal on board. Best for corporate days and large groups.

Most operators set a minimum booking length, especially for larger yachts and on weekends, so check this when you enquire.

Prices vary by season and demand, so the only reliable figure is a quote for your exact date.

These are the factors that move the price:

1. Yacht size and class. A 100 ft luxury yacht costs more per hour than a 36 ft boat.
2. Duration. Longer bookings usually cost less per hour.
3.  Day and season. Weekends, public holidays, National Day and the Grand Prix weekend are the busiest dates.
4.  Departure marina. Premium marinas can carry higher fees.
5.  Extras. Catering, decorations, a DJ, jet skis, donut rides or a fishing set-up are added on request.

Butinah Charters shares a clear quote before you book, so you know what is included and what is optional.

• A licensed captain and crew
•  Safety equipment and life jackets for every guest
•  Soft drinks, water and ice (confirm for your package)
•  Bluetooth sound system on most yachts
•  Optional add-ons: catering, birthday decoration, water sports, fishing gear and grilling on board

If you are hosting VIP clients, celebrating a milestone or planning a proposal, a luxury yacht changes the experience. Larger yachts such as the Butinah-3 and IBT offer multiple decks, indoor lounges, sun beds and room for a proper dinner service. They also handle open water more smoothly, which matters for longer trips to the outer islands.

1. Decide your date, group size and preferred departure time.
2.  Message Butinah Charters on WhatsApp (+971 56 660 7778) or email info@butinahcharters.com.
3.  Get recommendations and a quote for suitable yachts.
4.  Confirm your booking with a deposit and share your guest list for the boarding pass.
5.  Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early at the marina with a valid Emirates ID or passport forevery guest

Only book with a licensed operator. Ask whether the vessel is registered, whether the captain is certified and whether the yacht carries insurance. Butinah Charters is a licensed sea cruising company based on Corniche Street, Abu Dhabi, with fleets in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht in Abu Dhabi?
The price depends on yacht size, duration, date and extras. Contact Butinah Charters with your date and group size for an exact quote.

Do I need a licence to rent a yacht in Abu Dhabi?
No. Every Butinah Charters yacht comes with a licensed captain and crew, so guests only need to relax.

How many people can go on a yacht in Abu Dhabi?
 It depends on the vessel. The Butinah Charters fleet covers groups from 3 guests up to 49 guests on Butinah-1.

What should I bring on a yacht trip?
 A valid ID for every guest, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear and a light layer for evening cruises. Towels and drinks are usually provided.

Can I swim during a yacht rental?
 Yes, on trips of three hours or more the captain can anchor at a safe swimming spot, subject to weather and sea conditions.

What is the best time of year to rent a yacht in Abu Dhabi?
 October to April offers the best weather. In summer, choose early morning or sunset departures.