A meal on the water

Sightseeing and food? You really can experience the best of both worlds with the Shuja Yacht at Le Royal Meridien Hotel. We recently had the chance to head down to the port (directly across from Marina Mall) where we boarded the yacht to experience a truly fantastic night out.

In terms of seating, we suggest you opt for the top deck to really take advantage of the views you’ll be able to enjoy while you cruise down the coast. Ladies, the weather can get a bit chilly so don’t forget to bring a shawl! After we settle ourselves, we feel the rumble beneath us as the engines roars into life.

We visit on a Wednesday, Seafood Night, and encounter a buffet filled with options from the sea beneath us. We start with a few appetisers, our favourite being a lovely fried cheese, kidney bean and cucumber salad. The creamy beans and crunchy cucumber combination is so good we can’t resist taking another helping on our second round.

The mains, of course, are filled with seafood-inspired dishes, however, if you’re not particularly keen about our finned friends there are plenty of land animals to choose from. We try a beef steak with gravy and a creamy chicken that is perfectly spiced. Our favourite has to be the pink salmon that falls apart on our fork and melts in our mouth.

Properly stuffed, we take a break from the food to enjoy the stunning views rolling alongside us. The yacht moves quickly but not enough to make us feel ill, although we’re sometimes a bit wobbly when walking around on our novice sea legs. After passing the National Theatre and flagpole fluttering in the night-time breeze, we stick close to the coast, travelling until we reach Mina Port. After we reach Mina, we turn around and head back towards the theatre, this time getting a chance to look a bit more closely at the darkened Lulu island.

All too soon the boat is pulling into the port and with empty plates being cleared from our table, we reluctantly get up to leave. The scenic views, attentive service and delicious food make this a night we won’t forget.

Sawaiba Khan

What? Shuja Yacht, Le Royal Meridien
When? 8.30pm boarding time, Wednesday, Seafood Night
Cost: AED 221 per person inclusive of beverages
We say: Food with a view
Contact: 02 674 2020