Safari Blue Zanzibar: Snorkeling, Coral Reefs, Sandbanks & BBQ

4.9

22 reviews

Discover Zanzibar from the water on a full-day dhow cruise. Swim and snorkel at Blue Lagoon and Kwale Island, relax on pristine sandbanks, and enjoy a beachside BBQ lunch with fresh seafood and tropical fruits.

Full description

Your full-day adventure begins around 8:00 AM with a hotel pickup from all main areas in Zanzibar (if option selected). You’ll then travel close to the peaceful fishing village of Fumba, where you’ll board a traditional wooden dhow and set sail across the turquoise waters of Menai Bay, a protected marine reserve rich in marine life and island scenery.

The first stop is a dazzling sandbank, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh tropical fruits. Equipped with mask, snorkel, and fins, you’ll then explore colorful coral reefs teeming with fish and marine creatures. Please note: for conservation reasons, marine life must not be touched.

Around 11:30 AM, the dhow sails to the Blue Lagoon, a hidden natural pool surrounded by mangroves. Depending on the tides, you’ll either enjoy crystal-clear swimming or admire the sandy basin revealed by the ebbing water.

Continue to Kwale Island, the highlight of the tour. Here you can marvel at a centuries-old baobab tree, relax on the beach, and enjoy a freshly prepared beachside BBQ lunch with lobster, calamari, octopus, grilled fish, chicken, rice, salads, and tropical juices. Vegetarian options are available on request.

After lunch, take time to swim in calm waters, relax beneath palm trees, or browse handmade souvenirs from local artisans.

In the late afternoon, re-board your dhow for a relaxed sail back toward Fumba. Fresh fruit and drinks are served on board as you watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. The dhow arrives back near Fumba around 6:00 PM, with hotel drop-off provided for those who selected this option.

From: 55$

Available spots: 25

Adults *
Youths
Infants
0.00
Total: 0 $

About this activity

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Live tour guide

English

Duration

8 hours (without transfer)

Private group available

please contact us for a private tour option

Pickup optional

Please wait at your hotel reception or lobby 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Your driver will meet you there and call your name, then your adventure will begin with a comfortable, air-conditioned van ride. Note: The exact pickup time will be confirmed one day before the activity.

This Tour Through
Our Guests’ Eyes

Highlights
  • Cruise on a traditional dhow through Zanzibar’s Menai Bay
  • Explore Kwale Island and its ancient giant baobab
  • Snorkel colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish
  • Swim in the Blue Lagoon surrounded by mangroves
  • Savor a fresh beachside BBQ with seafood and fruits
  • Includes
    Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected)
    Full-day traditional dhow boat trip
    Guided snorkeling in Menai Bay coral reefs
    Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel)
    Life jackets and safety equipment
    Seasonal tropical fruits
    Seafood BBQ lunch (lobster, octopus, calamari, fish, chicken, rice, salads)
    Vegetarian meal (on request)
    Soft drinks, water, and fresh juices during lunch
    Conservation and entrance fees
    Safety briefing in Fumba
    French and German available on request
    Alcoholic beverages
    Towels
    Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs)
    Tips for crew (optional)
    Private boat upgrade (on request)
    Not suitable for
  • Pregnant women
  • People with back problems
  • Non-swimmers
  • Wheelchair users
  • People prone to seasickness
  • Important information

    What to bring

  • Sun hat
  • Swimwear
  • Change of clothes
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Not allowed

  • Smoking in the vehicle
  • Touching marine life
  • Know before you go

  • This is a shared boat tour; private trips are available on request.
  • Snorkeling is suitable for beginners and experienced swimmers.
  • Suitable for all ages, unless restrictions apply.
  • Please inform us in advance if you require vegetarian meals.
  • Notify us in advance of any special needs or health concerns.
  • Be prepared for sun exposure; bring sun protection and appropriate clothing.
  • French and German are available on request.
  • Departure times and operators may change due to weather, operational, or safety reasons.
  • Meet us here
    If you haven’t chosen the hotel pick-up, please meet us at this location 10 minutes before your activity starts. The meeting point is located near the roundabout between Fumba Village and Mkunguni. For easy navigation, you can use the following GPS coordinates on Google Maps: 6°18’27.3″S 39°17’47.2″E. Look out for our Ocean Blue flag and team in Ocean Blue T-shirts — you can’t miss them!
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