Dhows are the traditional workhorses of the Arabian seas, sleek wooden craft which are to this day built by hand just down the coast at Sur. Although they have lateen-rigged sails, most are motorised as well, and they make an ideal platform for a cruise around the coast of Muscat. To the north of Muscat the coast isn’t that spectacular, mainly being flat beach sloping a short distance up to the inland plain. South of Muscat is where you’ll cruise to admire the jagged cliffs, rock arches and hidden coves. You can take a daytime cruise, or a dinner cruise – a wonderful way to see the city lit up at night.