Safari Blue
The original and most popular boat tour in Zanzibar. Sail on a traditional dhow, snorkel in turquoise waters, visit a sandbank, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch.
Tour Overview
Safari Blue is the original and most popular boat tour in Zanzibar, offering an unforgettable day on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This full-day excursion takes you sailing on a traditional wooden dhow boat through the stunning Menai Bay Conservation Area, home to pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life.
You'll have the opportunity to snorkel at two different coral reef locations, visit a beautiful natural sandbank in the middle of the ocean, and enjoy a delicious seafood buffet lunch on Kwale Island. The tour also includes exploration of mangrove lagoons and a tropical fruit tasting experience.
Safari Blue is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of Zanzibar's marine environment. The professional guides ensure your safety and comfort throughout the day, making this tour suitable for all ages and swimming abilities.
Tour Details
Tour Highlights
Sailing on traditional wooden dhow boats
Snorkeling at pristine coral reefs with colorful marine life
Visit to a natural sandbank in the middle of the ocean
Delicious seafood buffet lunch with lobster, fish, calamari, and more
Tropical fruit tasting experience
Exploration of mangrove lagoons
Swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters
Professional guides and snorkeling equipment
Tour Itinerary
7:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Pickup & Transfer to Fumba
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Stone Town or nearby areas. Enjoy a scenic drive to Fumba Village on the southwest coast of Zanzibar (approximately 30-45 minutes). Upon arrival, you'll meet your boat crew and receive a safety briefing and information about the day's activities.
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Dhow Sailing & First Snorkeling Stop
Board a traditional wooden dhow boat and set sail into the beautiful Menai Bay Conservation Area. The bay is known for its pristine waters and abundant marine life. Arrive at the first snorkeling location where you'll have the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. Your guide will provide snorkeling equipment and assistance for beginners.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Second Snorkeling Location
Sail to a second snorkeling spot with different marine ecosystems to explore. Here you might see starfish, sea urchins, and if you're lucky, dolphins that frequently visit the bay. The crew will ensure your safety and point out interesting marine life.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Sandbank Visit
Visit a stunning natural sandbank that emerges during low tide in the middle of the ocean. Enjoy time to swim, relax, and take photos on this pristine white sand island surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The views are spectacular and perfect for memorable photos.
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Seafood Lunch on Kwale Island
Sail to Kwale Island for a delicious seafood buffet lunch prepared by the crew. The feast typically includes grilled fish, lobster, calamari, octopus, and chicken (for non-seafood eaters), along with rice, chips, and local sauces. After lunch, enjoy a tropical fruit tasting with seasonal fruits like pineapple, mango, banana, and coconut. Refreshments including soft drinks, water, and local beer are available throughout the day.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Mangrove Lagoon Exploration
Explore the beautiful mangrove lagoons around Kwale Island. These unique ecosystems are home to various bird species and marine life. You'll have the opportunity to swim in a natural lagoon with crystal-clear water.
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Return Journey & Transfer to Hotel
Sail back to Fumba Village, often with the traditional dhow sails up if the wind is favorable. Upon arrival, board your transfer vehicle for the return journey to your hotel, arriving between 5:00-5:30 PM.
What's Included
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off (from Stone Town and nearby areas)
- ✓Transportation to Fumba Village
- ✓Traditional dhow sailing boat trip
- ✓Professional English-speaking guide
- ✓Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins)
- ✓Seafood buffet lunch with lobster, fish, and more
- ✓Fresh tropical fruits
- ✓Soft drinks, water, and local beer
- ✓Life jackets
Not Included
- ✗Tips and gratuities
- ✗Personal expenses
- ✗Underwater camera (available for rent)
- ✗Hotel pickup from beaches outside Stone Town (available at additional cost)
What to Bring
Swimwear
Towel
Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
Sunglasses
Hat
Camera (waterproof if possible)
Cash for souvenirs or tips
Change of clothes
Additional Information
- •This tour is tide-dependent and the exact schedule may vary
- •The tour operates with a minimum of 2 people
- •Private tours are available at an additional cost
- •The boats have shade canopies, but sun exposure is still significant
- •Vegetarian meal options are available upon request
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Safari Blue suitable for children?
Yes, Safari Blue is suitable for children of all ages. Children typically enjoy the boat ride, swimming, and beach time. Life jackets are available in various sizes, including for children. However, parents should supervise their children at all times, especially during snorkeling activities.
Do I need to know how to swim to enjoy this tour?
While basic swimming ability is recommended to fully enjoy the snorkeling activities, non-swimmers can still participate in the tour. Life jackets are provided for everyone, and the crew is experienced in assisting non-swimmers. Non-swimmers can enjoy the boat ride, sandbank visit, and lunch on the island.
What is the difference between Safari Blue and other boat tours?
Safari Blue is the original and most established boat tour in Zanzibar, known for its professional organization, quality equipment, and excellent seafood lunch. The tour covers multiple snorkeling spots, a sandbank visit, and mangrove exploration, providing a comprehensive experience of Menai Bay. The traditional dhow boats used are also part of the authentic experience.
What marine life might we see?
The waters of Menai Bay are home to a diverse range of marine life including colorful reef fish, starfish, sea urchins, and various coral formations. Dolphins are frequently spotted in the area, though sightings cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals. Occasionally, sea turtles may also be seen.
Is there a toilet on the boat or at lunch?
The traditional dhow boats do not have toilets onboard. However, there are basic toilet facilities available on Kwale Island where lunch is served. The tour is designed with appropriate stops to ensure comfort for all participants.
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Ready to Experience Safari Blue?
Book your unforgettable adventure today or contact us for more information about this tour.