Antarctica, World Islands

Far from La Dolce Far Niete, the art of doing nothing, today we head out on a Dubai Marina Yacht Club rally to the World Islands. We have a line up of things to do!

We reach the marina around 8:30 a.m., and Candida is nearly ready with the boat. As we load our gear and step aboard, the smell of the sea and the gentle sway of the vessel set the tone for the day. We glide toward Blue Water Islands and pause, waiting for the rally to begin at 9:30 a.m.

The morning is calm, the water sparkles under the rising sun and the rally starts right on time. Soon, we’re cutting smoothly across the waves, the thrill of being out on the open water mingling with the crisp sea breeze and the sense of adventure that lies ahead.

Rally Boats

The Persian Gulf glitters under a spectacular morning sun, turning the waves into a field of dancing diamonds. We lean into the breeze, the salty air filling our lungs and the wind tugging playfully at our hair.

The ride out is a little bumpier than usual, each wave sending a gentle jolt through the boat, reminding us we’re truly at sea. The thrill of motion, the sparkle of water, and the cool morning air combine to make the start of the day feel alive and exhilarating.

Water Sports

We arrive, moor and the marina boat and the usual crowd of friendly staff help us onto the island.

We make a beeline for the water sports area, where kayaks and paddleboards bob gently in the breeze and a yoga session is scheduled later. The wind has picked up and Jason is warned that only a confident sailor should tackle the small sailboat. With a grin, he takes Jasper out anyway, slicing through the waves with skill and ease. The spray of the water, the rush of wind, and the laughter echoing across the bay make the morning feel alive with energy and adventure.

Harley grabs a kayak, and we set off, bracing against the stubborn wind. Paddling proves tougher than expected – though I’ve tried this before, I’m no expert. Every stroke feels like hard work, and before long, the wind sweeps us back toward shore. Undeterred, we try the paddleboard, only to end up around the corner, where I end up hauling it back like a reluctant hero.

Meanwhile, Jason and Jasper return from their sail, faces glowing with triumph and wide grins plastered across their faces. Watching them, I can’t help thinking, “Oh dear… here we go!” The mixture of challenge, laughter, and playful chaos makes the morning unforgettable, a perfect blend of effort, fun, and salty adventure on the water.

Candida gives the kayak a go as well with great results. She runs rings around us struggling slightly on the paddle board and also comes back with a big grin.  “I think I might buy a kayak” she announces with a smile and a sparkle in her eye.

Antarctica

After the morning’s adventures, hunger finally wins, and we lay out our picnic for lunch. The aroma of grilled chicken fills the air, complemented by an assortment of fresh salads, crusty bread, and irresistible pesto-stuffed olives. There’s cheese waiting for later – a detail I always forget to set out in time.

Once we’ve eaten, the boys dash off to a beach volleyball game nearby. We all join in, laughter and playful competition filling the sun-drenched sand. After a couple of rounds, I retreat to the shade tent, proud of a few perfect shots and happy to call it a win while I’m ahead.

I pour myself a drink and stretch out on my towel, alternating between chatting and digging with Harley, following his strict instructions on where and how to scrape and dig. Meanwhile, the volleyball keeps Jasper occupied, running and leaping with boundless energy for the rest of the afternoon. The combination of sun, sand, and spirited play makes it a perfectly lively and relaxed desert escape.

Racing the Wind

Jason spots a fleet of catamarans coming in.  It turns out to be from the Jebel Ali sailing club that he used to sail with, they’ve come up from the club this morning, leaving the boats near here for a race next weekend.  His face is lit up and I can see the passion in his eyes.  He loves this stuff.  I wander down to have a look.

Not long after this the wind has picked up enough to have blown one shade sail down and unhinges ours too.  We pack up and decide to make our way back to Lady Pinto and we’re sailing through the World Islands exit close to the scheduled 4pm departure time anyway.

There are some kite surfers having a field day in the wind.  They’re incredibly good.  They’re jumping as high as some of the boats and it looks like so much fun.  Alas, I know I don’t have the strength for activity like that but I imagine it must feel incredible flying along like that.  Perhaps not so incredible if you happen to crash.

The Return

The ride back is bumpy but the wind is at our backs and we all stick to the aft of the boat this time.  The air is so clear today that we have fantastic views of the whole Dubai coastline.  The Burj Khalifa and downtown look impressive in the distance.

As we move along the coastline, the Burj Al Arab comes into sight and we round the top of The Palm and The Atlantis is visible.  Coming back into JBR, we have great views of the new Dubai Eye (not yet open) and the JBR skyline and the Marina always looks great in the evening light as the lights come on.

The boys are excited to clean the boat but they’re a bit tired and it’s not long before tears ensue.  We say our goodbyes as Candida kindly assumes full responsibility for the final clean up.

It’s been an action packed day, we’ve had a great line up of things to do and have had a really fun time.  I think a passion for the hobie lifestyle may have been reunited as well.

Would I Return?

Yes.  A great day out for family and friends.