The wait is finally over. Even though Qatar and Bahrain sit only about 65 kilometres apart across the water, travellers had no choice but to drive through Saudi Arabia — or take a flight that often felt longer than it should once you counted airport check-ins, security queues, and boarding delays. A direct sea route didn't exist.

That changed on 6 November 2025, with the launch of the Qatar to Bahrain ferry service — a dedicated ferry that officially began sailing between Al-Ruwais Port in northern Qatar and Sa'ada Marina in Bahrain, making the journey far easier than dealing with two border crossings.

The ferry links Al-Ruwais Port — about 100 km north of central Doha — with Sa'ada Marina in Bahrain. The sailing itself covers roughly 35 nautical miles and usually takes between 70 and 80 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

For travellers driving from Doha, the trip to the port takes around 40–50 minutes along Al Shamal Road. Once you arrive in Bahrain, Sa'ada Marina offers quick access to Manama, with taxis and ride-hailing services waiting at the terminal.

The service is passenger-only, so no cars or motorbikes are allowed on board. Regular sailings use vessels with 28 seats total: 20 Standard and 8 VIP. There's also a private VIP charter option that fits 32 passengers. All vessels come with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and meals you can order onboard.

Travelling by road means crossing Saudi Arabia, which requires two border checkpoints and GCC vehicle insurance. Your standard Qatar car insurance typically covers you only inside Qatar, so you'll need to arrange GCC coverage before leaving or purchase it at the Abu Samra border.

The drive also includes crossing the King Fahd Causeway into Bahrain, which adds another checkpoint and extends the overall journey. Between the highway distance, border traffic, and administrative steps, driving can be more time-consuming and less predictable.

The ferry, on the other hand, removes the need for cross-border vehicle paperwork and offers a single immigration process upon arrival in Bahrain. It's a calmer, more straightforward alternative — especially for travellers who prefer to avoid long queues and multiple border stops.

GCC nationals can enter Bahrain without a visa, provided the passport is valid for at least 6 months.

Most expat residents of Qatar can obtain a two-week visa on arrival, but the rules vary by nationality. Always check the latest requirements on Bahrain's official eVisa portal before booking your ferry tickets. If you need a visa in advance, apply online first — incorrect documentation will prevent you from boarding.

All tickets are booked through the MASAR app, available on iOS and Android. It's the only way to reserve seats — there are no walk-in or port-side sales.

1. Download MASAR and create your account

2. Tap International on the home screen, choose one-way or round-trip, select departure and arrival ports, and add the number of adults, children, infants, or senior passengers

3. Pick your date and preferred sailing time

4. Tap Book now and complete your payment

5. Once confirmed, your e-ticket appears in the app

Capacity is limited — each vessel carries fewer than three dozen passengers — so bookings fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. If you don't see any available trips, it usually means that sailing is already full. New dates are released regularly, so checking the app often helps.

The ferry is positioned as an affordable regional travel option. As of the latest published prices:

One-way

• Standard: QAR 174

• VIP: QAR 257

Round-trip

• Standard: QAR 257

• VIP: QAR 354

Children under two travel at half price.

Prices vary depending on travel date, ticket type, and seasonal demand. Always check the MASAR app for live rates.

Carry necessary documents: Your passport — with at least 6 months’ validity recommended, a valid visa if applicable, and an e-ticket from the MASAR app.

Arrive early: Be at Al-Ruwais 60–90 minutes before departure. You'll go through check-in, immigration, and security before boarding.

Pack light: With limited space onboard and no vehicles allowed, small bags are best. The MASAR app lists any specific baggage guidelines.

Get travel insurance: Many domestic policies don't automatically cover ferry travel between countries. QIC travel insurance can help you assess the coverage you need.