Kubbar, Umm Al-Maradim and Qaruh: Planning a Three-Island Trip

Kubbar, Umm Al-Maradim and Qaruh are the three islands Kuwaiti boaters aim for, and they are not interchangeable. Each has a different run, a different shelter story and different rules. This guide covers the planning side: how much time you really need, the weather you should wait for, what the regulations demand, what to load, and how fishing around the islands changes with the season.

Distance, access and the time you actually need

Kubbar is the shortest run from the southern coast and can work as a single-day trip in calm weather. Umm Al-Maradim sits further out and needs a longer window, while Qaruh is the furthest and deserves a full day with a fuel plan you have double-checked. The practical rule: count the run out and the run back, then add a buffer on each leg. Leave at first light instead of midday, and be back before conditions build.

Weather and wind: the go or no-go call

Everything starts with sea state. Northerly winds and summer gusts can turn the water quickly, and near an island you have less room to hide than inside a bay. Check wind direction and strength a day ahead, look at wave height, and cancel when the forecast is unsettled. B7R app pairs sea state with tide times for Shuwaikh and Shuaiba ports, which helps you set departure and return windows.

Regulations and protecting the islands

The islands are sensitive ground and important for wildlife, so the rules are part of the trip, not paperwork:

• Stay inside open areas and obey signs and instructions from the authorities.
• Keep your distance from birds and nesting zones, and never touch wildlife or nests.
• Take every piece of rubbish back with you, including small plastic and loose line.
• Light no fire unless it is safe and allowed, and put it out completely.
• Leave plants, rocks and shells where they are.

Supplies: water, fuel and safety gear

Load more drinking water than you think you need, carry spare fuel, and check the engine before you leave the dock. Basics: a life jacket for everyone aboard, a first-aid kit, charged phones, a power bank, sun cover and navigation tools. Leave a float plan with someone ashore — where you are going, who is with you and when you expect to be back. The SOS emergency button exists for the moment that plan breaks.

Fishing around the islands by season

Fishing near the islands follows water temperature and current, not the calendar. In cooler months fish hold around rock and structure; during Qaiz heat the best bites come at first and last light while fish sit deeper in the middle of the day. Watch the current where it sweeps past an island and fish the edges. Keep a catch log with time, tide, wind and bait, and use the fish guide to match species to season before you pick bait.

Three-island trips come down to time, fuel, water and respect for the place. Download B7R app — it is free on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.q8dm.b7r