The Costa Viva journal

Stories from the water

Routes, itineraries and plain-language how-tos — written by the captains and crew who run them every day.

Self-drive speedboat in front of the Burj Al Arab at golden hour

The Perfect Half-Day — Dubai Marina to Burj Al Arab by Self-Drive Boat

Three hours, one helm, and the best stretch of coastline in the city. Here's the exact route our crew runs when friends are in town.

Head of Guest Experience28 May 20262 min read

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Self-drive boats passing Ain Dubai at golden hour

Six Photo Stops Every Self-Drive Captain Should Plan For

The coastline is one long backdrop. These are the six spots worth cutting the engine for — and exactly how to line up each shot.

Marco Ferreira19 May 20261 min read

A guest learning to ride a jet ski with an instructor alongside

Jet Ski 101: Your First Ride, Demystified

Never touched a throttle? Good. Here's everything that happens between the dock and your first clean turn — no jargon.

Priya Nair12 May 20261 min read