Tanzania · Cruise & Sailing

7-Hour Safari Blue Dhow Cruise in Zanzibar with Kwale Island

7 Hours Round trip from Zanzibar Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Sail on a traditional dhow across the Menai Bay Conservation Area
02 Enjoy opportunities for dolphin spotting during the cruise
03 Snorkel and swim at a pristine sandbank with crystal-clear waters
04 Visit Kwale Island, one of the most scenic islands in Zanzibar
05 Explore the famous giant baobab tree on Kwale Island
06 Swim in the natural Blue Lagoon surrounded by mangroves

Experience a 7-hour Safari Blue tour from Zanzibar, sailing on a traditional dhow across the scenic Menai Bay Conservation Area. Along the way, enjoy opportunities for dolphin spotting, snorkel in crystal-clear waters at a pristine sandbank, and relax on white sandy beaches. On Kwale Island, savor a delicious seafood BBQ lunch with lobster, calamari, fish, vegetables, and fresh tropical fruits, then explore the island's famous giant baobab tree. Complete the day with a swim in the natural Blue Lagoon surrounded by mangroves before sailing back to Fumba Village.

Sail across the Menai Bay Conservation Area from 09:30 AM to 11:00 AM, with opportunities for dolphin spotting along the way.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Zanzibar

Languages English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Safari Blue Dhow Cruise to Sandbank and Kwale Island

Begin with a hotel pick-up between 08:00 AM and 08:30 AM and transfer to Fumba Village, the starting point of the tour.
Arrive at Fumba Village by 09:00 AM to meet the crew and board a traditional dhow sailing boat.
Sail across the Menai Bay Conservation Area from 09:30 AM to 11:00 AM, with opportunities for dolphin spotting along the way.
Stop at a pristine sandbank between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the clear waters.
Proceed to Kwale Island between 12:30 PM and 02:00 PM.
Enjoy a delicious seafood BBQ lunch featuring lobster, calamari, fish, vegetables, and a selection of tropical fruits.
Visit the island's famous giant baobab tree and explore the surroundings.
Relax and swim in the natural Blue Lagoon, surrounded by mangroves, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM.
Sail back to Fumba between 03:00 PM and 04:00 PM, with the possibility of traditional dhow sailing if the wind allows.
Arrive back at Fumba Village by 04:30 PM to 05:00 PM and transfer back to your hotel to conclude the day.

Where this trip takes you

Menai Bay Conservation Area, pristine sandbank, Kwale Island's giant baobab tree, natural Blue Lagoon

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Zanzibar 1 city · 7 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel transfers to and from Fumba Village
Full-day dhow sailing trip in Menai Bay
Professional guide and experienced crew
Snorkeling equipment provided (mask and fins)
Entrance and conservation fees included
Seafood BBQ lunch on Kwale Island (fish, calamari, lobster, vegetables, tropical fruits, soft drinks)
Bottled water and soft drinks provided throughout the trip
Visit to sandbanks, Kwale Island, and the Blue Lagoon
All government taxes included

What's Not Included

Alcoholic drinks
Tips and gratuities for the crew
Personal expenses
Any items not specifically mentioned as included

What to bring

Swimsuit and towel for swimming and snorkeling
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
Light beachwear or cover-up for additional sun protection
Sandals or water shoes for walking on sandbanks and in shallow water
Waterproof camera or phone case (optional) for capturing photos
Personal essentials, including any medication and extra cash for drinks or souvenirs