Best Safari Blue Zanzibar Tour: Dhow Sailing, Snorkelling and Seafood Lunch - Gowitos Safaris & Holidays

Spend a full day exploring Zanzibar’s southwest coast on the Safari Blue Zanzibar tour. Departing from Fumba, this popular ocean experience combines traditional dhow sailing, a tidal sandbank, guided snorkelling, swimming and a generous Swahili-style lunch.

The excursion takes you into the Menai Bay Conservation Area, an attractive marine landscape containing islands, mangrove channels, coral reefs and temporary sandbanks. The exact route changes according to tides, weather and sea conditions.

With a local guide and experienced boat crew, Safari Blue offers a balanced day of ocean adventure, coastal scenery and relaxed island hospitality.

Safari Blue Zanzibar Tour Overview

Tour details	Information
Activity	Full-day sailing and snorkelling excursion
Departure point	Fumba, southwest Zanzibar
Main destination	Menai Bay Conservation Area
Tour duration	Approximately 7–9 hours, excluding some hotel transfers
Tour style	Private or shared boat excursion
Boat type	Traditional dhow or local motorised boat
Main activities	Sailing, sandbank visit, swimming, snorkelling and island lunch
Meals	Seafood or local lunch, fruit and refreshments
Suitable for	Couples, families, friends and solo travellers
Availability	Throughout the year, weather permitting

Why Choose Safari Blue Zanzibar?

The Safari Blue Zanzibar tour combines several coastal experiences within one day. Instead of visiting only one beach or snorkelling location, you travel through Menai Bay and stop at different places according to the day’s conditions.

Tour highlights include:

Traditional dhow or local boat journey
Exploration of Menai Bay Conservation Area
Relaxation on a tidal sandbank
Guided snorkelling in the Indian Ocean
Swimming in clear coastal waters
Visit to Kwale Island or a similar lunch location
Swahili-style seafood lunch
Fresh tropical fruit
Mangrove lagoon visit when conditions allow
Private and shared tour options
Professional local guide and boat crew
Beautiful views of Zanzibar’s southwest coast

Menai Bay Conservation Area

Menai Bay lies along the southwest coast of Zanzibar. Its marine environment includes coral areas, small islands, mangroves, channels and sandbanks shaped by the tides.

The sheltered bay has long supported fishing communities, and local boats remain an important part of everyday life. Tourism activities should respect the marine ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.

During the tour, your guide may explain the importance of:

Coral reefs
Mangrove forests
Seagrass habitats
Sustainable fishing
Coastal conservation
Marine wildlife
Responsible snorkelling
Waste reduction

Wildlife sightings vary naturally and cannot be guaranteed.

Detailed Safari Blue Zanzibar Itinerary

Morning Hotel Pick-Up

Your driver will collect you from your Zanzibar hotel in the morning when transfers are included.

The exact collection time depends on your accommodation location. Guests staying in Stone Town or nearby areas generally have a shorter journey to Fumba than travellers staying in Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani or Michamvi.

Because the activity follows tides and sea conditions, departure times may change. Your confirmed pick-up time will be provided before the tour.

Arrival at Fumba Village

After arriving in Fumba, meet your local guide and boat crew.

The team will provide a short briefing covering:

The planned route
Current sea conditions
Correct use of life jackets
Boat safety
Snorkelling procedures
Environmental guidelines
The expected return time

You will then board a traditional dhow or local motorised boat. The boat type depends on the package, weather and operational arrangements.

Sailing Into Menai Bay

Leave Fumba and travel across the waters of Menai Bay.

Traditional dhows may use sails when wind conditions are suitable, while motors are used for safety, manoeuvring and maintaining the schedule.

The journey offers views of turquoise water, small islands, mangrove-covered shores and passing fishing boats. Your guide may introduce the bay’s coastal environment and explain the day’s route.

Because the excursion operates in a natural marine area, the sequence of stops can change according to tides, wind and water conditions.

Tidal Sandbank Experience

When conditions permit, the boat stops at a sandbank surrounded by ocean water.

You can swim, relax, take photographs or walk along the exposed sand. Shade may be prepared by the crew, depending on the operator and package.

Sandbanks are shaped by tides and currents. Their visible size and accessibility change throughout the day. At high tide, a planned sandbank may be partly or completely submerged, so the captain may choose a safer alternative.

Fresh fruit, water or a light snack may be served during this stop.

Guided Snorkelling

Continue to a selected snorkelling area within Menai Bay.

The guide will explain how to use the mask, snorkel and fins before you enter the water. Beginners should inform the guide so that extra assistance can be provided.

Possible marine sightings include:

Colourful reef fish
Sea urchins
Starfish
Corals
Small crustaceans
Other reef organisms

Marine life and underwater visibility depend on tides, weather and natural conditions. Specific sightings cannot be promised.

Guests should avoid touching coral, standing on the reef or collecting marine animals. Coral is fragile and can be damaged by fins, hands and footwear.

Swimming and Ocean Relaxation

After snorkelling, there may be additional time for swimming or relaxing on the boat.

Guests who do not want to snorkel can remain aboard, enjoy the scenery or swim in an approved shallow area when conditions are safe.

Non-swimmers should inform the guide before departure and wear a life jacket as instructed.

Kwale Island and Lunch

The boat continues to Kwale Island or another designated lunch location, depending on the tour arrangement.

A Swahili-style meal is normally served in a shaded area. The menu may include:

Grilled fish
Prawns
Calamari or octopus
Rice
Fried potatoes
Chapati
Vegetable dishes
Salad
Local sauces
Seasonal tropical fruit
Water or soft drinks

The exact menu depends on the operator, season and availability.

Vegetarian meals can normally be arranged with advance notice. Guests with shellfish, seafood, nut or other serious allergies must disclose them before booking. Cross-contact may occur in shared kitchens and serving areas.

Mangrove Lagoon or Coastal Walk

Depending on tides and the selected programme, the tour may include a mangrove lagoon or a short coastal walk.

The guide may explain how mangroves protect the shoreline and provide habitat for fish, crabs and other marine organisms.

Access to the lagoon is not guaranteed. High or low tides, weather and safety conditions may require the boat crew to change the route.

Tropical Fruit Tasting

After lunch, guests may be served seasonal Zanzibar fruits.

The selection can include:

Pineapple
Mango
Banana
Watermelon
Papaya
Passion fruit
Coconut
Citrus fruit

Availability changes throughout the year. The guide may introduce less familiar fruits and explain how they are grown or eaten locally.

Return Journey to Fumba

In the afternoon, board the boat for the return journey across Menai Bay.

Sails may be raised when wind conditions are suitable. Otherwise, the crew will use the motor to return safely and on schedule.

After arriving in Fumba, meet your driver for the transfer back to your hotel when transport is included.

This marks the end of your Safari Blue Zanzibar experience.

Private and Shared Safari Blue Tours

The excursion can be organised privately or as a shared group activity.

Private Safari Blue Tour

A private arrangement reserves the boat for your couple, family or group, according to the confirmed package.

Benefits may include:

More personal attention
Greater flexibility at different stops
More space on the boat
Easier arrangements for children
Flexible dietary planning
A quieter experience
Flexible hotel pick-up

The route still depends on tides, weather and local marine regulations.

Shared Safari Blue Tour

A shared tour allows you to join other travellers. It usually costs less per person but follows a fixed departure time and schedule.

Boat size and maximum group numbers vary. Ask for the expected group size before confirming if this is important to you.

Best Time for Safari Blue Zanzibar

The Safari Blue Zanzibar excursion is available throughout the year when sea conditions are safe.

June to October

These months generally offer drier weather and comfortable temperatures. They are also part of Zanzibar’s busiest travel season.

December to February

Conditions are often hot and sunny. Strong sun protection and plenty of drinking water are important.

March to May

Rain and changing sea conditions are more frequent. Tours may still operate, but heavy rain, strong wind or rough water can lead to delays or cancellations.

November

Short seasonal rains may occur, but many tours continue between showers.

Weather cannot be guaranteed in any month. The captain makes the final decision about safe boat operation.

What Is Included?

Hotel pick-up and return transfer when specified
Boat excursion from Fumba
Local professional guide
Experienced boat crew
Life jacket
Snorkelling equipment
Guided snorkelling session
Sandbank visit when accessible
Swimming stops
Seafood or local lunch
Vegetarian meal when requested in advance
Seasonal tropical fruit
Drinking water and selected refreshments
Marine or local activity fees stated in the booking
Support from Gowitos Safaris and Holidays

What Is Not Included?

International or domestic flights
Zanzibar accommodation
Tanzania visa fees
Zanzibar entry insurance
Alcoholic drinks
Special meals not requested in advance
Hotel transfers not listed in the quotation
Personal purchases
Tips for the guide, driver and boat crew
Travel and medical insurance
Medical treatment or evacuation
Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Waterproof camera or phone equipment

What to Bring

Snorkelling Guidance

Snorkelling can be enjoyable for beginners and experienced swimmers, but safety instructions must be followed.

Before entering the water:

Confirm that your mask fits correctly
Tell the guide if you cannot swim
Use a flotation aid when needed
Enter only in the approved area
Remain near the guide or boat
Avoid swimming against strong currents
Do not touch coral or marine animals
Never stand on coral
Avoid feeding fish
Return to the boat when instructed

Guests who do not feel comfortable can remain on the boat or relax at the sandbank.

Boat Safety

The captain and crew are responsible for assessing weather, tides and sea conditions.

Guests should:

Wear life jackets as instructed
Remain seated while the boat is moving
Keep hands and feet inside the boat
Supervise children continuously
Inform the crew about medical conditions
Avoid alcohol before swimming
Keep the deck clear of loose belongings
Follow instructions during boarding
Avoid jumping from the boat without permission
Return to shore if instructed by the captain

The itinerary may be altered, shortened or postponed for safety.

Is Safari Blue Suitable for Children?

Yes. Families can enjoy Safari Blue, but parents must consider the full-day duration, sun exposure, boat movement and swimming activities.

Children must remain under adult supervision during:

Boarding and leaving the boat
Sailing
Sandbank visits
Swimming
Snorkelling
Island walks

Child-sized life jackets should be requested when booking. Families with babies or very young children should discuss sea conditions and boat facilities before confirming.

Accessibility Information

The tour requires boarding a small boat from a beach or simple landing area. Guests may need to step through shallow water and move across uneven sand.

The experience may be difficult for travellers with limited mobility, serious back conditions or difficulty balancing on a moving boat.

Share any mobility concerns before booking so the team can assess whether suitable assistance is available.

Food Allergies and Dietary Requirements

Inform Gowitos Safaris and Holidays about dietary requirements before the tour.

Please mention:

Shellfish allergy
Fish allergy
Nut allergy
Gluten intolerance
Dairy intolerance
Vegetarian diet
Vegan diet
Halal requirements
Other medically important allergies

Seafood is commonly prepared and served during the excursion. Guests with severe seafood or shellfish allergies should understand that cross-contact may occur.

Marine Wildlife Sightings

Dolphins may sometimes be encountered in the wider Menai Bay area, but the Safari Blue Zanzibar tour is not primarily a dolphin-watching trip.

No dolphin, turtle, fish or other wildlife sighting can be guaranteed. Boats should never chase, surround or disturb marine animals for entertainment.

If dolphins are seen, they should be observed calmly from an appropriate distance.

Responsible Marine Tourism

Guests can help protect Menai Bay by following simple responsible practices:

Do not leave plastic or other rubbish behind
Avoid single-use plastic where possible
Never remove shells, coral or marine animals
Use reef-conscious sunscreen
Do not touch or stand on coral
Do not feed fish or dolphins
Respect local fishing activities
Keep a responsible distance from wildlife
Follow the guide’s instructions
Use reusable drinking bottles
Avoid loud behaviour near wildlife

Healthy reefs, mangroves and seagrass habitats support both marine wildlife and coastal communities.

Combine Safari Blue With Your Zanzibar Holiday

Safari Blue can be included within a longer Zanzibar Island holiday.

Other activities to consider include:

Prison Island Tour
Jozani Forest Tour
Zanzibar Cooking Class
Stone Town walking tour
Spice-farm tour
Kizimkazi dolphin-watching tour
Mnemba snorkelling excursion
Sunset dhow cruise
Nungwi or Kendwa beach stay
Paje or Jambiani beach stay

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Safari Blue Zanzibar start?

Most Safari Blue excursions depart from Fumba on Zanzibar’s southwest coast.

How long does the tour take?

The boat excursion normally occupies most of the day. Total duration is approximately seven to nine hours, depending on transfers and sea conditions.

Is the tour private?

Private and shared options are available. Your booking confirmation will clearly state the arrangement.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A seafood or local Swahili-style lunch is normally included. Confirmed inclusions may vary between packages.

Can vegetarians join?

Yes. A vegetarian meal can normally be arranged when requested before the tour.

Is snorkelling equipment included?

Yes, basic snorkelling equipment is usually included. Confirm this when booking, especially if you require a particular size.

Can non-swimmers join?

Yes. Non-swimmers can enjoy the boat ride, sandbank and lunch. They should not enter deep water without suitable flotation and direct guidance.

Is the sandbank always visible?

No. Sandbanks change with the tide. The captain may select another suitable location when a planned sandbank is submerged.

Will we see dolphins?

Dolphin encounters are possible but not guaranteed. Safari Blue should not be booked solely as a dolphin-watching tour.

What happens during bad weather?

The itinerary may be adjusted, postponed or cancelled when conditions are unsafe.

Are hotel transfers included?

Transfers are included only when stated in your quotation. Charges depend on your hotel location.

Is Safari Blue suitable for children?

Yes, but children require continuous adult supervision and appropriately sized life jackets.

Can I book a private dhow?

Yes. Private boat arrangements can be requested, subject to availability and weather conditions.

Book Your Safari Blue Zanzibar Tour

Sail through Menai Bay, relax on a tidal sandbank, snorkel in the Indian Ocean and enjoy a generous island lunch on the Safari Blue Zanzibar tour.

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays can arrange private or shared departures, hotel transfers, vegetarian meals and customised Zanzibar activity packages.

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays
Website: gowitossafarisandholidays.com
WhatsApp: +255 769 100 815
Email: info@gowitossafarisandholidays.com