Ocean & Marine
Nakupenda Sandbank
A pristine sandbank at low tide, swim, relax and lunch surrounded by ocean.
◷ Half dayfrom $64 / person
Based on two guests.
View experience →
Ocean & Marine · Full day
Safari Blue
A full day sailing, snorkelling and feasting across the sandbanks and reefs of Menai Bay, Zanzibar's classic ocean day, done properly.
Overview
Safari Blue is the island's best-loved ocean experience.
From the fishing village of Fumba, you sail into the protected marine waters of Menai Bay aboard a traditional dhow. The day moves at the ocean's pace: snorkelling over coral reefs, unhurried time on a sandbank that rises from the sea at low tide, and a generous grilled-seafood lunch on the beach. It's a full day on the water, relaxed, scenic and genuinely memorable.
We arrange it with vetted local boat operators, confirmed for your date, with the timing and transfers handled so the day simply flows.
Highlights
- Sail the sheltered waters of Menai Bay by traditional dhow
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs with equipment provided
- Relax on a pristine sandbank that emerges at low tide
- A generous grilled-seafood lunch served on the beach
- Swim and unwind in warm, clear water
- Taste fresh tropical fruit picked in season
What your day looks like
An illustrative flow, exact timings depend on tides and are confirmed the day before.
- MorningHotel pickup & transfer. Collected from your hotel and driven to the departure point at Fumba, on the south-west coast.
- Late morningSet sail. Board a traditional dhow and sail out into the sheltered, turquoise waters of Menai Bay.
- MiddaySnorkelling. Stop at a coral reef to snorkel among the fish and clear water, with equipment and guidance provided.
- Early afternoonSandbank & lunch. Land on a sandbank for swimming and relaxing, followed by a grilled-seafood lunch on the beach.
- AfternoonReturn sail. A relaxed sail back as the day cools, with time to take in the coast.
- Late afternoonTransfer back. Return transfer to your hotel.
What's included
Included
- Return hotel transfers
- Traditional dhow & crew
- Snorkelling equipment
- Grilled seafood lunch
- Fresh tropical fruit
- Drinking water
- English-speaking guide
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Good to know
Suitability. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Life jackets are provided; the sandbank water is calm and shallow. Please tell us of any mobility needs, medical conditions or non-swimmers when you enquire.
Weather. This is a sea-dependent experience. If conditions aren't safe, we reschedule or substitute, decided early and communicated clearly.
Gallery
Frequently asked
Yes. Life jackets are provided and the sandbank has shallow, calm water. Let us know in advance and the crew will look after you. Snorkelling is optional.
Swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a light cover-up. We provide snorkelling equipment, lunch and water.
Yes, it's a popular family day. We'll pace it to suit your group and advise on suitability for younger children when you enquire.
Safari Blue depends on sea conditions. If it isn't safe to sail, we reschedule to another day in your trip or arrange a suitable alternative, decided early and communicated clearly.
Yes. Safari Blue can be booked as a private charter for couples, families or groups. Tell us your dates and party size and we'll arrange it.
You might also like
Related experiences
Ocean & Marine
Mnemba Snorkelling
Snorkel the clear, protected waters around Zanzibar's finest reef.
◷ Half dayfrom $85 / person
Based on two guests.
View experience →Evening
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Sail a traditional dhow into a Zanzibar sunset, the island's most romantic hour.
◷ Half dayfrom $35 / person
Based on two guests.
View experience →