Telegraph Island

جزيرة مقلب

A small historic island in Khor Ash Sham that once held a British telegraph relay station, now a favourite dhow cruise stop. Visitors swim in the clear waters and explore the ruins with their curious colonial history.

Things to do

• Swim in the clear khor waters — Dive off the dhow into the calm turquoise waters surrounding the island for a refreshing swim in the fjord.
• Explore the telegraph station ruins — Clamber over the crumbling stone walls of the 1860s British relay station that once linked Britain to India.
• Snorkel the reef edges — Bring a mask to spot colourful reef fish, clownfish and occasional rays in the shallows around the island.
• Jump from the rocks — Follow the tradition of leaping into the deep water from the low cliffs beside the island.
• Cruise the Khor Ash Sham fjord — Sail the dramatic Norway-like fjord aboard a traditional wooden dhow, watching sheer cliffs plunge into the sea.
• Spot dolphins en route — Watch for humpback and spinner dolphins that frequently ride the bow waves of dhows in the khor.
• Relax on the dhow sundeck — Lounge on cushions and carpets on the open deck as the boat anchors near the island for lunch.

Food to try

• Dhow-cooked biryani — Most cruises serve a hearty chicken or fish biryani prepared fresh on board and eaten anchored off the island.
• Grilled kingfish — Freshly caught Musandam kingfish (kanad) is grilled and served with rice, a staple of the region's coastal cuisine.
• Omani dates and kahwa — Welcome aboard with sweet dates and cardamom-spiced Omani coffee, a gesture of local hospitality.
• Harees — A slow-cooked porridge of wheat and meat, this comforting Omani dish is often offered on longer cruises.
• Fresh tropical fruit platter — Cruises typically follow the meal with watermelon, bananas and other fruit to enjoy on deck.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly when swimming — Women should wear shorts and a t-shirt or rash guard over swimwear out of respect for local Omani customs.
• Book via Khasab dhow tours — Access is only by boat from Khasab port, usually as part of a half or full-day dhow cruise.
• Nickname 'Elephant's Cove' — British staff called the isolating posting 'going round the bend', a phrase some link to the maddening solitude here.
• Bring reef-safe sun protection — There is no shade on the island itself, so pack a hat, sunscreen and water for exploring the exposed ruins.

Nearby

• Khor Ash Sham — 4 km
• Musandam Fjords — 5 km
• Kumzar — 8 km
• Khor Najd — 15 km