Billowing sails, golden light and the Indian Ocean turning pink — the most romantic way to end a day in Zanzibar.
The dhow, with its single triangular lateen sail, has carried trade across the Indian Ocean for centuries, and sailing one at sunset is one of the simplest pleasures of a Zanzibar holiday. Zanzibar’s west coast faces the setting sun, so the evening light is spectacular from both Stone Town and the northern beaches.
From Stone Town, the cruise follows the historic waterfront past the Old Fort, the House of Wonders area and the dhow harbour, with the town’s rooftops glowing in the late light. From Nungwi or Kendwa in the north, you sail along white beaches and clear water, often with other dhows on the horizon. On board, you relax with soft drinks and light snacks such as fruit and samosas while the crew sets the sails, and some trips include a short swim stop or traditional music.
The cruise lasts around two hours and is ideal for couples, honeymooners and families. Choose a shared cruise for a relaxed, sociable evening or a private dhow for your own party, with options for champagne, a celebration cake or a seafood dinner on board on request.
Sail as Swahili traders and fishermen have for centuries.
Zanzibar’s west coast faces the setting sun.
Historic waterfront or white northern beaches.
Soft drinks and light snacks while you sail.
Your own dhow for a proposal, anniversary or celebration.
Transfer to Stone Town, Nungwi or Kendwa, depending on where you are staying.
Meet the crew and set sail as the afternoon light softens.
Cruise along the waterfront or beaches with drinks and snacks on board.
Watch the sun go down over the Indian Ocean.
Sail back to shore and transfer to your hotel or a restaurant of your choice.
Per person in US dollars. The more travellers in your group, the lower the price per person.
Just your party, with your own guide and vehicle or boat — set your own pace and start time.
Join other travellers on a scheduled departure — a relaxed, sociable and lower-cost way to go.
One price per seat, whatever the size of your party.
Indicative per-person prices in US dollars. Private prices are for your own party with a private guide, vehicle or boat; shared prices are for a seat on a scheduled group departure. Your final price depends on your date, hotel location and group size, and is always confirmed in writing before you book.
Private prices are per adult for a party of one, two, four or six; shared prices are per seat. Larger groups are quoted on request.
Return transfers from hotels in Stone Town and the main beach areas (Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi, Matemwe) are included. Remote hotels may carry a small supplement.
No entry fees apply. Harbour and beach fees are included.
Reduced rates apply for children; ages and any minimum age are confirmed with your quote.
Champagne, cakes, decorations and dinner on board can be added to a private cruise on request.
Boat trips depend on the weather, sea state and tides. If conditions are unsafe, we move your trip to another day or refund it.
Availability, pick-up time and the final price are confirmed in writing before you pay.
Pair this experience with another on the same day or during your stay — we arrange the timing and transfers.
Explore the old town in the afternoon, then sail at sunset.
Half dayDiscover →Street food on the Stone Town waterfront after your cruise — ask your guide.
EveningA morning on the reef before an evening sail in the north.
Half dayDiscover →
This experience fits naturally into these itineraries — ask us to add it to your quote.
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Stone Town offers the historic waterfront; Nungwi and Kendwa offer beaches and clear water. Choose the one closest to your hotel.
Yes — perfect for proposals, anniversaries and celebrations.
Some cruises include a short swim stop, depending on the route and conditions.
We reschedule to another evening or refund your cruise.
Tell us your date, group size and where you’re staying — our team will confirm availability, pick-up time and your final price within 24 hours.
