Stone Town is at its most beautiful from the water. Seen from a boat a little way offshore, the old waterfront reads like a painting: the white bulk of the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, the clock tower, the flat roofs and minarets behind them and the old harbour with its fishing boats and dhows. As the sun drops towards the horizon the whole shore turns gold and then pink, and the call to prayer drifts over the water from the mosques. A sunset cruise gives a calmer, more spacious perspective on the town after a day spent in its crowded lanes. A catamaran suits this kind of outing because it is stable, with wide decks for sitting, standing and taking photographs. The cruise normally leaves the Stone Town harbour area in the late afternoon, sails out beside the waterfront and turns around to follow the sunset, with drinks and snacks served as the light changes. It is a gentler and more comfortable alternative to the dhow sunset sails on the north coast, and it is easy to fit into a day when you are staying in Stone Town and do not want to travel.
How it works
This is a private cruise, so the boat is yours for the length of the trip and you can set the pace with the crew. Most outings last around two hours and depart in the late afternoon, timed to the sunset, which falls at roughly the same time of year all year thanks to Zanzibar’s position near the equator. The booking page gives the meeting point, the inclusions and any extras such as drinks, and it is worth reading before you choose.
What you see
From the water you can pick out the main landmarks in a single sweep, including the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, the former Sultan’s Palace and the Forodhani seafront. Local dhows and fishing boats pass at close range, and at dusk the Forodhani Gardens begin to light up as the food stalls open. On clear evenings the sky glows through gold, orange and violet, and the town’s silhouette becomes sharper as the light fades. Sometimes you will also see dolphins or flying fish near the boat.
Making the most of it
Bring a light jacket or scarf, since the breeze on the water can feel cool after sunset, and wear shoes that are easy to slip off on the deck. Carry a camera or phone with a strap, and consider a small waterproof bag. Tell the crew in advance if you would like to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary, and ask what drinks and snacks are provided, as arrangements vary.
After the cruise, walk straight to the Forodhani Gardens for dinner from the seafront stalls, which is a natural and very Zanzibari way to finish the evening.
What to expect
The experience
A private catamaran cruise from the Stone Town waterfront at sunset, with views of the old town skyline.
Best time
Late afternoon, timed to catch the sunset over the Indian Ocean on a clear evening.
How long
About two hours.
Tips
Bring a light layer for the sea breeze, a camera with a strap and cash for the Forodhani food stalls afterwards.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and small groups who want a calm, scenic evening in Stone Town without travelling to the north coast.
- Families
- Fine for children who are comfortable on boats, with life jackets available.
- Couples
- One of the most romantic things to do in Stone Town, especially timed with a late dinner at the seafront.
- Pair with
- The Forodhani night market food walk, or a guided morning walk through Stone Town on the same day.
- Time needed
- One evening.
Good questions
Is the cruise private?+
Yes, the linked option is a private catamaran cruise for your own group, so you can set the mood and pace with the crew.
Where does it depart from?+
From the Stone Town waterfront area. The booking page shows the exact meeting point.
What time should I go?+
Choose a departure that puts you on the water before sunset, usually in the late afternoon. Sunset times change only slightly through the year.
Are drinks provided?+
Inclusions vary between versions. Check the booking page for the drinks and snacks that are covered.
What if the weather is bad?+
Strong winds or rain can affect sailing. Operators normally offer another time or a refund when the sea is unsafe, as set out in the cancellation terms.
