Tours & experiences

Exclusive private full-day Dhow sail & snorkel Mnemba sandbank

About this experience

We are a family-run business providing a high-end sailing experience on traditional Dhow sailing boats. We are proudly Tanzanian-made with a focus on sustainability.

Our trip will start in the morning from Kendwa beach, sailing along the north coast of Zanzibar, making our way over to the neighbouring island of Mnemba. Arriving shortly before lunch, you will anchor in a nice spot to hop off and snorkel while our team cooks your lunch fresh on board. If we are lucky, we get to watch dolphins on the way. After lunch we will stop on the Mnemba sandbank for some lounging and make our way back to Kendwa in the afternoon, in time for sunset accompanied by some more snacks and drinks on board.

At a glance

  • Duration: 9 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Mnemba Celebration Package
Cake and Bubbles : We will prepare a cake and a bottle of Sparkling wine for your group to enjoy during the trip
Special decoration : We will decorate the boat, arrange for flowers etc.
Pickup included
Full-day Dhow Sailing trip to Mnemba sandbank with snorkeling
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour9 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 9 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Bottled water
  • We serve you a freshly cooked seafood bbq for lunch on board. If you have any dietary restrictions, these can be taken into account for when you inform us beforehand.
  • We serve soft drinks as well as fresh coconuts on board.
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Includes snacks and fresh fruit
  • Parking Fees
  • Includes beer and wine, further alcoholic beverages can be provided at additional charge

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Does not include the access fee for the special area at the Mnemba Marine park.

Itinerary and highlights

Our trip is a full day sail to the Mnemba sandbank with stop on the sandbank for lounging and pictures. We will also anchor at nearby reef for some great snorkeling and swimming. In addition guests will have a high chance to see dolphins in the area which is a great experience to watch them in their natural habitat. We treat these animals with the respect they deserve - no chasing! We cannot guarantee that the dolphins will be there, but have a high probability to see them at some point throughout the sail.

We will sail along the north coast of Zanzibar allowing for a unique view from ocean side towards the island. Discover what some call the Maldives of Africa with crystal-clear waters, all shades of blue on board of a traditional Dhow Sailing boat which can only be found at the coast of East Africa.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Our boats are usually anchoring at Kendwa Beach in front of Mano Restaurant and Apa Divers. We are going to be in touch with you the day before planned departure to exchange again about the planned meeting point details.
  • Booking your trip with us includes free taxi pickup from any location in Kendwa or Nungwi. Outside of these we can arrange for taxi service at additional charge by our driver. Departure is from our main anchor spot at Kendwa Beach.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Zanzibar Dhow

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Not recommended for small children below 2 years

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 9 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
What are the pickup arrangements?
Booking your trip with us includes free taxi pickup from any location in Kendwa or Nungwi. Outside of these we can arrange for taxi service at additional charge by our driver. Departure is from our main anchor spot at Kendwa Beach.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 5–15; Adult tickets: age 16+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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