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Traditional wooden dhow sailing boat on calm Zanzibar water
Home / Zanzibar / Safari Blue
Zanzibar's Signature Boat Excursion

Safari Blue, sandbanks, snorkeling and a seafood feast.

A full-day traditional dhow sailing trip through the Menai Bay Conservation Area — snorkeling on coral reefs, swimming at a sandbank, and a Swahili seafood lunch cooked on board.

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Duration
Full day (8-9 hours)
Best For
Snorkeling, boat lovers, groups
Style
Joined group or private charter
Starts From
Fumba village, southwest Zanzibar
Overview

Safari Blue

Safari Blue is the best-known boat excursion in Zanzibar, and consistently one of the highest-rated activities on the island. A traditional wooden dhow sails you through the Menai Bay Conservation Area to two separate snorkel sites, a sandbank that appears only at low tide, and a mangrove channel — with a fresh seafood lunch grilled and served on board.

  • Two snorkel stops in Menai Bay's coral reef
  • Swimming and relaxing at a sandbank surrounded by turquoise water
  • Fresh Swahili seafood lunch prepared and served on the dhow
  • Dolphins are sometimes spotted en route, though not guaranteed
Traditional wooden dhow sailing boat on calm Zanzibar water
What You'll Experience

What to expect

Reef Snorkeling

Two stops over healthy coral reef in the protected Menai Bay Conservation Area.

Sandbank Swimming

A stretch of pure white sand surrounded by sea, visible only at the right tide.

On-Board Feast

Freshly grilled seafood and tropical fruit served straight from the dhow's kitchen.

Planning Your Trip

Good to know

Safari Blue runs most days year-round and is best booked a day or two in advance, especially in peak season (June-October, December-February). Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit and a change of clothes for the boat ride back.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Basic swimming ability is recommended for the snorkeling stops, though life jackets are available.
Is lunch included?
Yes — a full seafood lunch is a standard part of the Safari Blue experience.
Can I combine this with a spice tour?
It's usually a full day on its own; most travelers do the spice tour on a separate day.
Traditional wooden dhow sailing boat on calm Zanzibar water
Add This To Your Trip

Ready to plan your Zanzibar escape?

This can stand alone or combine with a Tanzania safari or Kilimanjaro climb into one seamless trip. Tell us your dates for a personalized quote.

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