Diani Beach: Kisite Marine Park Dhow & Snorkeling with Lunch

Diani Beach: Kisite Marine Park Dhow & Snorkeling with Lunch

Exploring the Kenyan coast offers a mix of stunning marine life, scenic views, and authentic local culture. The Diani Beach: Kisite Marine Park Dhow & Snorkeling with Lunch tour promises a full day of adventure, relaxation, and memorable moments, all wrapped into one well-organized package. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a truly worthwhile experience for anyone craving an authentic marine safari.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the charm of sailing on a traditional dhow, the chance to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to enjoy a hearty, fresh seafood lunch with spectacular views. The fact that the tour is quite inclusive—covering transportation, snorkeling gear, and a professional guide—adds to its value. A potential point of consideration is the boat quality; some travelers mention the boat’s age and waves, so those prone to seasickness or seeking very modern vessels might want to take note.

This tour suits travelers who love marine life, enjoy snorkeling, or want a taste of local culture and scenic coastlines without too much hassle. It’s particularly great for families, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate a mix of adventure and comfort, as long as they’re okay with basic mobility requirements and don’t mind being on the water a good part of the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Sails on a traditional dhow, offering a charming and culturally immersive experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins, turtles, and vibrant fish in Kisite Marine Park.
• Snorkeling Fun: Two designated snorkeling spots with equipment and professional guides, perfect for first-timers or seasoned snorkelers.
• Delicious Lunch: Enjoy Kenyan seafood, including fish and crab, with scenic cliff-top views.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch are covered, making the day seamless.
• Value for Money: At $130 per person, the experience offers solid value considering the activities and inclusions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting with Hotel Pickup
The day begins early with hotel pickup in Diani Beach, a plus for convenience, especially if you’re staying in a busy resort zone. The transfer to Shimoni, a small fishing village, offers a glimpse of rural coastal life—fields of cassava, sugar cane plantations, and local villages along the way. This is a quiet moment to appreciate the landscape and culture before setting sail.

Boarding the Dhow
Once in Shimoni, you’ll board a traditional Arabian dhow. This type of boat lends a sense of history and authenticity, transporting you back to the days when spice and dhow trade routes flourished. The boat’s design lends itself to gentle sailing, but some reviews note it’s an older vessel with strong waves, so bring your sea legs if you’re sensitive. The crew, including marine escorts, are trained professionals, making safety and guidance a priority.

Sailing to Kisite Marine Park
The journey out to Kisite Marine Park is where the fun begins. Many travelers report spotting dolphins as the boat heads out, thanks to the marine-rich waters. The guides often support snorkeling novices, providing instruction and reassurance. This kind of personalized attention can turn a nervous beginner into a confident snorkeler, making the activity accessible for most.

Snorkeling at Two Spots
You’ll visit two different snorkeling sites, each offering unique views of coral reefs and marine life. The water is usually clear, and you’ll have use of snorkeling equipment. Some travelers mention taking plenty of photos—if you have an underwater camera, this is your chance to capture vibrant fish and perhaps even a turtle or two. An experienced guide will support you, pointing out interesting species and ensuring your safety.

Lunch on Wasini Island
Post snorkeling, the tour continues to Wasini Island, where a private cliff-top restaurant awaits. The setting is picturesque—think panoramic views over the ocean, perfect for unwinding after the water activities. The meal includes fresh fish and crab, prepared in traditional style, alongside citronella tea or Kenyan coffee. Reviewers have described the lunch as “superb” and “amazing,” emphasizing the flavor and freshness of the seafood.

Relaxation & Return
After lunch, there’s time to relax and take in the views or explore briefly before heading back to the mainland. The boat transfer back is typically smooth, although one review notes the bottom of the transfer involves stepping through knee-deep water filled with sea urchins—so wearing bathing shoes might be wise.

Back to Your Hotel
The bus ride back completes the full circle of a day packed with activities. While some travelers found the boat a little old and the waves strong, most appreciated the overall organization and friendly crew. The entire experience is designed to maximize fun and minimize fuss.

What’s Included & Practical Tips

Inclusions:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Diani Beach
• Ticket for Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park
• Dhow trip to the marine park
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Services of trained marine escorts
• Drinks on the boat (tea, coffee, soft drinks, water)
• A hearty lunch with seafood and Kenyan specialties

What to Bring:

• Comfortable shoes for walking or bush walks near the restaurant
• Towel for after snorkeling or beach time
• Camera or underwater camera to capture marine life
• Sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

Reminders:

• No alcohol allowed in the vehicle, so plan accordingly
• Depending on tides, there might be a short bush walk (about 10 minutes) to reach the cliff-top restaurant
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired guests or non-swimmers

The Experience’s Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The charm of sailing on a traditional dhow enhances the cultural feel
• Opportunities to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat
• Two snorkel sites provide varied underwater experiences
• Delicious seafood lunch with stunning views on Wasini Island
• Guides and crew are knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring safety and comfort

Cons:

• The boat’s age and design may not appeal to those seeking modern vessels
• Some mention rough waves and an older boat, which could be challenging for seasick travelers
• Limited time at each snorkeling spot, which might be a drawback for avid snorkelers
• The transfer involves stepping through knee-deep water, so water shoes are advisable

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who want a balanced mix of marine adventure, cultural authenticity, and scenic relaxation. It’s perfect for those eager to see dolphins, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy quality seafood in a beautiful setting. Families, couples, and solo travelers who don’t have mobility issues will get the most out of this tour. However, those prone to seasickness or seeking ultra-modern boat facilities might want to weigh their options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that combines marine wildlife, traditional sailing, and authentic Kenyan cuisine, this tour offers great value and memorable experiences. The chance to spot dolphins, snorkel among colorful fish, and dine with ocean views makes it a well-rounded adventure. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew further enhance the overall experience, making it suitable even for first-time snorkelers or those new to sailing.

While the vessel’s age and some logistical details might not appeal to everyone, most travelers find that the authentic charm and scenic rewards more than compensate. It’s an ideal choice when you want to connect with nature while enjoying tasty local flavors and stunning coastal vistas.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price, making logistics easy.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, sun protection, and your camera are recommended. Water shoes might be helpful due to the water transfer.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Non-swimmers should be cautious, as snorkeling and water transfers are involved.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, starting early with pickup and ending with your return to the hotel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
Absolutely, a Kenyan seafood lunch is part of the package, served at a cliff-top restaurant with great views.

Will I see dolphins?
Many travelers report seeing dolphins during the boat trip, especially in the open waters en route to Kisite.

What if I’ve never snorkeled before?
No problem. The tour includes professional guides and instructors who support beginners.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews mention the boat is older and might have strong waves, so consider your comfort level with seasickness.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Dolphins, turtles, and a variety of colorful fish are common sightings in Kisite Marine Park.

This tour offers a genuine taste of coastal Kenya’s marine life, local culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day if you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventure-filled experience on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: