Zanzibar: Traditional Sailing & Local Fishing Experience

Sail the Zanzibar coast aboard a traditional wind-powered boat, learn local fishing techniques from experienced fishermen, and discover the ocean through an authentic community experience with optional snorkeling.

Step away from conventional motorized boat tours and experience Zanzibar's maritime traditions from the water. Join local fishermen aboard a traditional sailing boat and learn how they use the wind, sails and knowledge of the sea to navigate along the coast. During the experience, your local hosts will introduce you to traditional fishing techniques and the relationship between Zanzibar's coastal communities and the ocean. Depending on the day's conditions and fishing activity, guests may have the opportunity to participate in traditional fishing. When weather, tides and sea conditions are suitable, the experience can also include time for swimming or snorkeling in the clear coastal waters. This is a slower, more authentic marine experience focused on local knowledge, traditional sailing and life on the Zanzibar coast rather than a conventional sightseeing cruise. Fishing activities and snorkeling locations depend on weather, tides, sea conditions and local fishing conditions, and catches or marine-life sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Highlights

• Sail using the wind aboard a traditional Zanzibar boat
• Learn traditional sailing techniques from local fishermen
• Discover how coastal communities have depended on the ocean for generations
• Experience traditional fishing methods and local maritime knowledge
• Swim or snorkel when sea and weather conditions are suitable

Itinerary

1. 09:00

   Meet the local crew

   Meet your local hosts and receive a short introduction to the traditional sailing boat and the day's experience.

2. 09:15

   Traditional sailing

   Set sail along the Zanzibar coast using the wind, learning how the crew handles the sails and navigates the boat without relying on a motor.

3. 10:00

   Local fishing experience

   Learn about traditional fishing methods and, where conditions allow, participate in fishing alongside the local fishermen.

4. 11:00

   Swimming & snorkeling

   If weather, tides and sea conditions are suitable, enjoy time in the water for swimming or snorkeling.

5. 11:45

   Return sailing

   Sail back toward the starting point while enjoying the coastal scenery and learning more about local maritime life.

6. 12:00

   End of experience

   Return to the starting point and conclude the traditional sailing experience.

Gallery

Good to know

Is this a motorized boat tour?

The main sailing experience is conducted using a traditional wind-powered boat. A motor may only be used when necessary for safety or operational reasons.

Will we definitely catch fish?

No. Fishing is dependent on local conditions, weather, tides and the natural environment, so a catch cannot be guaranteed.

Can I participate in fishing?

Yes, when conditions and the day's fishing activity allow, guests can learn about and participate in traditional fishing methods under the guidance of the local crew.

Is snorkeling included?

Snorkeling may be offered when weather, tides and sea conditions are suitable. The exact snorkeling location may change according to conditions.

Is this a private experience?

The standard experience may be shared with other guests. Private sailing can be requested if available.

Who leads the experience?

Local fishermen and hosts with knowledge of traditional sailing, fishing and the surrounding coastal waters lead the experience.

Is the experience suitable for non-swimmers?

Yes, guests who do not swim can remain on the boat, but snorkeling and swimming activities are only suitable for confident swimmers.