Kwale Island is a small, low island in Menai Bay, off the south-west coast of Zanzibar, ringed by white sand and a shallow reef. It lies in the same sheltered conservation area as the more famous Safari Blue sandbanks, but visiting it by dhow gives a quieter, slower introduction to the bay. Because the water is shallow and clear, the sail is gentle, and the island’s beaches are some of the nicest places on the island to swim, snorkel and laze without crowds. The trip is built around the classic Zanzibar dhow, a wooden sailing boat with a triangular lateen sail that has carried traders across the Indian Ocean for centuries. Sailing in one is an experience in itself: the crew work the sail by hand, the boat heels softly in the breeze and the only sounds are the water and the wind. The day usually includes snorkelling over coral gardens, time on a sandbank or the island beach and a fresh seafood lunch cooked by the crew, and the combination makes it a favourite for anyone who wants a relaxing, genuinely local day on the water.
How it works
You are picked up from your hotel or at a meeting point near Stone Town and driven south to the departure beach, where the dhow waits. After a short briefing and a life jacket check, you sail across Menai Bay to Kwale Island. Snorkelling gear is normally provided, lunch is cooked on board or on the beach, and drinks and fruit are supplied. Check the booking page for the start time, the pickup area, and whether the version you choose is shared or private.
What you see
The bay is one of the richest marine areas around the island, and you may see colourful reef fish, starfish, sea urchins and, with luck, turtles or dolphins. On Kwale Island you can walk the sand, swim in the shallows and sit under a shaded area while the crew prepare grilled fish, octopus, rice and fruit. As the tide changes the sandbanks appear and disappear, giving the sea a different look hour by hour.
Making the most of it
Wear a swimsuit and a rash vest, apply reef-safe sunscreen before you board and bring a hat, sunglasses and a towel. Water shoes help on rocky or sandy patches. Choose a morning departure in the dry season, when the sea is calmest. If you get seasick easily, take a preventive tablet beforehand, since the dhow rolls gently even in calm seas.
If you want a bigger, livelier day with a larger group, the Safari Blue trip covers the same bay, whereas the Kwale Island sail is better if you prefer smaller numbers and a quieter pace.
What to expect
The experience
A dhow sail across Menai Bay to Kwale Island with snorkelling, beach time and a seafood lunch.
Best time
Dry-season mornings, when the seas are calm and the water is at its clearest.
How long
About seven to eight hours including the drive to the departure beach.
Tips
Wear a rash vest, use reef-safe sunscreen, take seasickness tablets if you are prone and bring a towel and hat.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a quieter alternative to the busiest sandbank trips.
- Families
- Good for children who are comfortable around boats and water, with life jackets provided.
- Couples
- A slow, scenic day on a traditional sailing boat with a beach lunch.
- Pair with
- A Stone Town evening with food at Forodhani, or a spice farm morning on another day.
- Time needed
- One full day.
Good questions
How does this differ from Safari Blue?+
Both cover Menai Bay, but Safari Blue is a larger, set-menu day with a bigger group, whereas a Kwale Island sail is often smaller and focuses on one island.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?+
Equipment is normally supplied. The booking page gives the exact inclusions, and you can bring your own mask if you prefer.
Can non-swimmers join?+
Yes, life jackets are available, and you can enjoy the sail and the beach without going into deep water.
What is for lunch?+
Typically grilled fish, seafood, rice and tropical fruit. Tell the operator about allergies and dietary needs when you book.
Is there a toilet on board?+
Facilities on dhows are basic, so use the toilet before you leave. Ask about arrangements on the island when you book.
