Zanzibar’s boat tours deliver memorable experiences without breaking the bank. The standout Prison Island trip packs great value into three hours, covering transport, guide, and entrance fees – perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. For a full day on the water, we love the Kwale Island dhow tour, combining snorkeling and mangrove exploration with an authentic seafood lunch.
The Rock Restaurant offers something truly special – a dining adventure reached only by speedboat, serving the freshest catch in a stunning setting. Sunset cruises provide the classic Indian Ocean experience, while the Nungwi Turtle excursion lets you get close to these magnificent creatures.
Let’s explore the best boat tours Zanzibar has to offer.
Key Points
- Explore Prison Island with 3-hour tours starting at $75, offering interaction with giant tortoises, scenic views, and snorkeling.
- Set out on a dhow sailing adventure with experiences like Kwale Island tour, sandbank picnics, and captivating sunset cruises.
- Enjoy private sunset yacht cruises and romantic dhow cruises with dinner, showcasing Zanzibar’s stunning coastline.
- Dine at the unique Rock Restaurant, accessible only by boat, featuring fresh seafood and scenic ocean views.
- Book private boat rentals and charters to discover Zanzibar’s islands and coastline at your own pace.
Zanibar Prison Island Boat Trip
Zanzibar’s Prison Island Boat Trip offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich history. Priced from $75 per person, this 3-hour tour is operated by Zan Archipelago Tours & Safaris.
The experience includes pickup from hotels around Stone Town, entrance fees, a professional guide, and transportation via traditional boat.
While snorkeling equipment isn’t consistently provided, the tour highlights include exploring the island, interacting with giant tortoises and peacocks, and taking in scenic coastal views.
With 59 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0, the Prison Island Boat Trip provides good value compared to cruise line offerings, though some travelers noted the prison tour was a bit short.
Read our full review: Zanibar Prison Island Boat Trip Review
Book now: Check availability
Kwale Island Dhow Sailing Tour From Zanzibar With Seafood Lunch
A captivating full-day sailing adventure awaits on the Kwale Island Dhow Sailing Tour from Zanzibar.
Set out on a traditional dhow sailboat and explore the island’s pristine natural wonders. Snorkel vibrant coral formations, trek through mangroves, and swim in a tranquil lagoon.
Savor a mouthwatering seafood lunch featuring local delicacies like lobster, crab, and tuna, complemented by Zanzibar-style sauces and fresh tropical fruits.
This tour offers the opportunity to learn about Zanzibar’s rich island culture. While reviews are mixed, the tour’s stunning scenery and authentic experiences make it a popular choice.
Priced from $98 per person, it’s an unforgettable way to discover the beauty of Kwale Island.
Read our full review: Kwale Island Dhow Sailing Tour From Zanzibar With Seafood Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Prison Island & Nakupenda SandBank (Boat Trip)
Exploring Zanzibar’s diverse island offerings, the Prison Island & Nakupenda SandBank (Boat Trip) promises an unforgettable day of adventure and natural beauty.
Priced from $150 per person, this tour includes hotel pickup, a seafood lunch, snorkeling gear, and a professional guide.
Departing from Stone Town, the trip takes visitors to the historic Prison Island and the stunning Nakupenda SandBank, where highlights may include dolphin sightings and tortoise observation.
With a 4.5-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour offers flexibility, with free cancellation and the option to pay later.
Travelers rave about the friendly guides and the well-organized nature of the experience.
Read our full review: Prison Island & Nakupenda SandBank (Boat Trip) Review
Book now: Check availability
The Rock Restaurant by Speed Boat
The Rock Restaurant, perched atop a solitary rock formation in the azure waters off Zanzibar’s coast, offers a truly unique dining experience accessible only by speed boat.
Priced at €444.45 per group of up to 6 guests, the restaurant serves a delectable seafood platter, boasting a 5.0 rating from 3 reviews.
Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Guests are picked up from the nearby Zanzibar Extreme Water Sports, with an additional fee for other locations.
The 12 PM tour is a private affair, not recommended for those with health concerns, but most travelers can participate.
Read our full review: The Rock Restaurant by Speed Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Zanzibar Boat Rental/Charters
Chartering a boat offers visitors to Zanzibar a chance to explore the island’s picturesque coastline and nearby islands at their own pace.
Zanzibar Boat Rental/Charters, operated by Kiyzo, provides a private tour for up to 8 guests, starting at €144.45 per group. The tour includes complimentary soft drinks, wine, or beer, as well as a boat with a captain.
While the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an ideal way for your group to experience Zanzibar’s beauty.
Reviews highlight positive experiences, with music and singing from locals noted as highlights, though some expressed concerns about the wooden boat’s stability.
Read our full review: Zanzibar Boat Rental/Charters Review
Book now: Check availability
Zanzibar Sunset Yacht Cruise
A sunset yacht cruise in Zanzibar provides an enchanting opportunity to witness the island’s stunning coastline bathed in warm, golden light.
Lasting 3 hours, this private tour costs from $450 per person and departs at 3:30 PM from Mama Mia in Nungwi. Guests can enjoy soft drinks, snacks, and alcoholic beverages as they take in the breathtaking views.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s perfect for those without heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Though non-refundable, the cruise has earned a 4.0 average rating from 10 reviews, with one praising the “lovely staff” and “clean boat.”
Don’t miss this chance to experience Zanzibar’s beauty at sunset.
Read our full review: Zanzibar Sunset Yacht Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Cruise in Zanzibar
Often, visitors to Zanzibar can enjoy a captivating sunset cruise along the island’s picturesque coastline.
The Sunset Cruise in Zanzibar offers an approximately one-hour experience, subject to daily tides and weather conditions. Departing from the Cape Town Fish Market in Forodhani Park, the cruise accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers.
Amenities include toilet facilities, complimentary drinking water, Zanzibar-style snacks, and a welcome drink. Guests can also expect commemorative photos, diver assistance, and a personal jetty and briefing.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is located near public transportation. Guests should arrive 30 minutes early and adhere to Zanzibar’s dress code.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 7 reviews, this sunset cruise promises a memorable experience.
Read our full review: Sunset Cruise in Zanzibar Review
Book now: Check availability
Sandbank Picnic and Dhow Sailing With Seafood Lunch
Visitors exploring Zanzibar’s picturesque coastline can embark on a captivating Sandbank Picnic and Dhow Sailing With Seafood Lunch experience.
This highly-rated activity includes a huge seafood lunch, soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks, as well as the use of snorkeling equipment. Participants are transported via air-conditioned vehicle to the meeting point at the Old Fort, from where the dhow sailing and sandbank picnic commence.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Priced from €107.04 per person, the activity can be booked with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Sandbank Picnic and Dhow Sailing With Seafood Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Departing from Stone Town, the Sunset Dhow Cruise offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting coastal scenery of Zanzibar.
Operated by Africa Experience Tours, this 2-hour cruise takes you aboard a traditional dhow boat, where you’ll witness the sun dipping below the horizon.
The tour includes all fees and taxes, as well as bottled water. With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at SEK 1,011.78 per person, the Sunset Dhow Cruise has earned a 5-star rating from previous guests, who praised its beautiful views and relaxing ambiance.
Booking is available with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Sunset Dhow Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Stone Town Tour & Prison Island (Boat Trip)
The Stone Town Tour & Prison Island (Boat Trip) allows travelers to explore the historic charm of Zanzibar’s capital and visit the nearby Prison Island. Priced from $60 per person, this guided tour includes snorkeling equipment, entrance fees, and mineral water.
Visitors can wander through Stone Town’s winding alleys, shop for local goods, and take a boat trip to Prison Island to see its giant tortoises. With a 3.5/5 rating from 2 reviews, the tour provides a rundown of Zanzibar’s culture and natural attractions.
While personal expenses and guide tips are excluded, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for visitors.
Read our full review: Stone Town Tour & Prison Island (Boat Trip) Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Cruise – Magic of Zanzibar Sunset – Zanzibar
After exploring the historic charm of Stone Town and visiting the nearby Prison Island, travelers can embark on a captivating Sunset Cruise to witness the “Magic of Zanzibar Sunset”.
Operated by Delight Trips, this tour offers a chance to experience the enchanting Zanzibar sunset from the comfort of a boat. Priced from $89 per person, the cruise includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, snorkeling equipment and guide, as well as refreshments.
Travelers can enjoy the stunning coastal views, capture the moment with a photo session, and relax as the sun dips below the horizon. With a maximum capacity of 30, the Sunset Cruise provides an intimate and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Sunset Cruise – Magic of Zanzibar Sunset – Zanzibar Review
Book now: Check availability
I Love Sandbank & Sunset Dhow Cruise
For travelers seeking a captivating sunset experience in Zanzibar, the Nakupenda SandBank & SunSet Dhow Cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity. Priced from $200 per person, this tour takes a maximum of 15 guests on a journey to the Nakupenda Sandbank, where they can enjoy a seafood lunch, snacks, and snorkeling.
The highlight is the traditional Dhow cruise at sunset, providing stunning views of the Zanzibar coast. While the overall rating is 3.0, the tour’s strengths include the brilliant scenery, knowledgeable guide Ishmael, and the Dhow cruise itself. Improvements in the sandbank service have been recommended.
With free pickup, cancellation, and payment options, this tour is worth considering for an authentic Zanzibar sunset experience.
Read our full review: I Love Sandbank & Sunset Dhow Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Nungwi Turtles and Cruise Excursion – Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s Nungwi Turtles and Cruise Excursion offers travelers a unique opportunity to interact with sea turtles in their natural habitat and experience a picturesque sunset dhow boat ride.
Rated 3.5 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, the tour includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a visit to Zanzibar’s popular Nungwi beach.
Participants can swim with the turtles and enjoy a seafood lunch at an ocean-view restaurant. A photo shooting session is available for an additional fee.
While one reviewer reported issues with the tour, the host has acknowledged the feedback and is working to improve the experience.
Read our full review: Nungwi Turtles and Cruise Excursion – Zanzibar Review
Book now: Check availability
Zanzibar Romantic Sunset Cruise With Dinner
The Zanzibar Romantic Sunset Cruise with Dinner offers travelers a serene and intimate experience on the island’s picturesque waters.
Departing at 4:00 PM, this private sailing dhow experience includes a delectable dinner and caters to all personal needs.
Pickup is available directly at the meeting point or from hotel lobbies, with the tour returning to the starting location at Blue Zee Watersports.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most travelers.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this 5-star rated experience is perfect for honeymooners and those seeking a relaxing evening on the Zanzibari seas.
Read our full review: Zanzibar Romantic Sunset Cruise With Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Book a Private Boat Tour for a Special Occasion?
Yes, you can book a private boat tour for a special occasion. Many tour operators offer customized boat tours that allow you to celebrate events or enjoy a more intimate experience on the water.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Boat Tours?
The maximum group size for boat tours can vary, but many operators offer private tours for smaller groups. It’s best to check with each company to determine their specific group size limits and availability for private bookings.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for the Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for the boat tours, though young children may require adult supervision. Special requirements, such as life jackets, are usually provided for all participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Do the Boat Tours Offer Vegetarian or Dietary-Specific Meal Options?
Many boat tours offer vegetarian and dietary-specific meal options to accommodate guests’ needs. It’s best to inquire about the available meal choices when booking the tour to ensure your dietary requirements can be met.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The Sum Up
Zanzibar offers a variety of boat tours and cruises, from visiting historic Prison Island to sailing on traditional dhows and enjoying romantic sunset cruises. Travelers can also spot turtles, savor seafood lunches, and dine at the unique Rock Restaurant. With so many options, there’s something for all to explore Zanzibar’s stunning coastline and islands by boat.