Zanzibar: Prison Island tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling

Zanzibar: Prison Island Tour by Speedboat with Snorkeling — A Detailed Review

Exploring Zanzibar’s Prison Island through a speedboat trip offers a mix of history, wildlife, and underwater beauty, all packed into a relaxed half-day. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions provide a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What really stands out are the stunning views from the boat and island, the chance to play with giant Aldabra tortoises, and the crystal-clear snorkeling waters teeming with colorful marine life. The inclusion of a historical site like the Hamamni Persian Baths adds an extra layer of cultural intrigue.

A possible downside? The tour isn’t designed for those prone to seasickness, and some of the activities—like bathing—are not included, so you might want to prepare accordingly. This trip is best suited for travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and a touch of history, all at an accessible price point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Perfect for half-day adventures that combine relaxation, wildlife, and history
• Snorkeling offers vibrant marine life in clear waters
• Visitors can interact with giant tortoises and see peacocks
• Historical insights into Zanzibar’s past at the Persian Baths
• The trip is family-friendly but not suitable for seasick travelers
• Excellent value for the price of $80 per person

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting from Stonetown, your adventure begins with a short transfer to the designated meeting point, in front of the Old Fort—a landmark that’s easy to find. From there, a speedboat whisks you across the water, offering you a spectacular view of Zanzibar’s coastline and the open sea.

Speedboat Ride – Fast, Fun, and Scenic

The journey over to Prison Island takes around 20-30 minutes, and this part alone is an experience. Many reviewers mention the breeze and the panoramic views as highlights, making it a refreshing start to the day. The boat ride is generally smooth, but if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth taking precautions.

Prison Island Exploration – A Blend of History and Wildlife

Upon arrival, the island exudes a relaxed tropical vibe, with lush greenery and interesting architecture. The highlight here is the giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. Visitors love to capture photos with these gentle giants, and several reviews mention how friendly and curious the tortoises are.

You’ll also see peacocks wandering freely, adding bursts of color and a touch of charm. The island is home to dik-dik (small antelopes), but visitors should remember that touching animals is not allowed, respecting their well-being.

The historical aspect of the island is also intriguing. While the Hamamni Persian Baths are no longer operational, they serve as a beautiful reminder of Zanzibar’s Arab and Persian influences. Some reviewers note that the site reflects a fusion of Arab, Persian, and Swahili architecture, providing a glimpse into the island’s diverse past.

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Snorkeling in Crystal Clear Waters

After exploring the terrestrial sights, it’s time to don your snorkel gear. The water around Prison Island is praised for its crystal clarity and abundance of marine life. Expect to see a variety of colorful fish and coral formations, making it a favorite for underwater photography.

Most travelers mention the vividness of the reef, with some noting that their underwater experience exceeded expectations. The snorkeling session typically lasts enough time for a good swim without feeling rushed.

Tropical Fruits and Relaxation

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy a refreshing break with tropical fruits, a simple but appreciated touch that allows you to relax and soak in the views. Many reviews emphasize how this peaceful moment complements the earlier activities perfectly. The views from the boat are impressive—craggy island coastlines and endless ocean.

End of Tour – Back to Stonetown

The tour concludes at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The entire experience lasts around half a day, fitting easily into a morning or afternoon slot, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

The Value of the Experience

At $80 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the money. You’re getting a boat ride, island exploration, wildlife encounters, and snorkeling—all in one package. The inclusion of insights into Zanzibar’s past, especially through the Persian Baths, adds depth that makes the trip more meaningful than just beach lounging.

While the tour doesn’t include bathing, the snorkeling alone is often worth the price, given the vibrant marine ecosystem. Plus, the opportunity to interact with giant tortoises and see peacocks freely roaming adds an element of fun and uniqueness.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: Pack essentials like sun protection, water shoes, and a towel. The tour suggests arriving prepared for sun and water activities.
• Transport: The meeting point is conveniently located in front of the Old Fort, making it easy to find.
• Group size: While not explicitly stated, reviews imply a comfortable group size, allowing for easy interaction.
• Weather considerations: Best enjoyed in calm weather; rough seas might affect the snorkeling experience.
• Booking: You can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This half-day experience appeals most to travelers who want a blend of history, wildlife, and underwater adventures without committing a full day. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a manageable outing that offers a snapshot of Zanzibar’s natural and cultural attractions.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic boat rides and want to see giant tortoises up close, as well as anyone eager to snorkel in beautiful waters with minimal hassle. However, if seasickness is a concern or you’re looking for a more immersive historical trip, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Zanzibar Prison Island tour by speedboat with snorkeling provides an authentic and varied experience that combines the island’s lively wildlife, intriguing history, and vibrant marine life. For just $80, you get a well-rounded half-day tour that doesn’t skimp on scenic views or memorable moments.

Travelers seeking a flexible, fun-filled adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and hands-on wildlife experiences will find this tour a great value. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy quick, scenic escapes that showcase Zanzibar’s diverse charms.

While not designed for those prone to seasickness or looking for an all-inclusive activity, it certainly offers a wholesome taste of the island’s natural beauty and history—making it a worthwhile addition to any Zanzibar itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children often enjoy interacting with the tortoises and exploring the island’s scenic spots. Just be sure to supervise young kids around marine and animal areas.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience is approximately half a day, making it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon schedule.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Most reviews suggest that snorkeling is included, but bringing your own mask and snorkel for comfort can be beneficial.

Is swimming or bathing included?
No, swimming is part of the snorkeling activity, but bathing (like in the baths) is not included and the baths themselves are no longer operational.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, beachwear, and water shoes for comfort and sun protection.

Are animals touched during the tour?
No, touching the animals or marine life is not allowed, respecting their well-being and safety.

What language is the tour conducted in?
It’s available in both English and French, catering to a wide range of travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided information doesn’t specify, so check with the provider for particular needs.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic speedboat rides, close-up wildlife encounters, and snorkeling in pristine waters makes it a well-rounded and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: