kendwa: jet ski experience

When it comes to adrenaline-pumping activities on Zanzibar’s most famous beaches, jet skiing at Kendwa takes the top spot. Though I haven’t personally given it a whirl, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight this tour as a fun, scenic, and relatively affordable way to enjoy Zanzibar’s crystal waters.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the breathtaking views of the shoreline and peaceful waters create the perfect backdrop for an adventure. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides ensure safety and smooth rides, even if you’re new to jet skis. Lastly, the optional drone photography offers a fantastic way to capture the thrill from above.

One thing to consider is that some reviewers mention the equipment’s age—the jet skis might be a bit vintage across the fleet, which could influence your comfort level. Still, it’s a worthwhile activity for anyone craving a taste of speed and the ocean’s beauty.

This tour is ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers looking for a quick, exciting escape from the beach loungers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned water sports enthusiast, Kendwa’s calm, tide-free waters make it an accessible and memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Unmissable Shoreline Views: You’ll race past stunning hotels and Tumbatu Island, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
• Guided Safety & Instruction: Expert staff ensure you’re comfortable, even if it’s your first time.
• Optional Drone Photos: Capture your adventure from above with drone footage, a unique keepsake.
• Flexible Timing & Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if plans change.
• Affordable Price: At $60 for a group of up to two, it offers good value considering the experience.
• Best for Small Groups & Families: The limited group size makes for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Kendwa Jet Ski Experience

The Setting: Kendwa’s Calm Waters & Pristine Beach

Kendwa Beach is widely regarded as Zanzibar’s most beautiful stretch of sand. With no tides, you can swim any time of day, and its gentle turquoise waters are perfect for jet skiing. The white sand and lush coconut trees lining the coast set a picture-perfect scene that makes every part of the jet ski ride feel like a postcard.

The area is known for its less boat traffic, which means fewer disturbances and more freedom to enjoy your ride. This tranquility is appreciated by all, especially reviewers like Nathalie Rime, who mentioned, “The sea was calm and the area for jet skiing was very large. There were no boats nearby, so you had complete freedom to jet ski.”

The Itinerary: From Shore to Open Waters

The tour begins at a designated meeting point, which may vary depending on the booking. Once your safety briefing and instructions are complete, you’ll be fitted with life jackets, and an instructor will accompany you to the jet ski.

The first stretch is along the shoreline: about 100 meters from the beach, you’ll zip past luxury hotels and resorts, providing a stunning view that’s perfect for photos. The guides are clear and helpful, making sure everyone feels confident before heading into the open water. As Sophie noted, “Safety equipment was provided, the jet skis were perfect and instructions were clear.”

Next, it’s out to the open waters: where you’ll pass by the peaceful Tumbatu Island, rarely seen by travelers, adding a touch of exclusivity to your adventure. If timing permits, you might hop off briefly for a quick snorkel—some reviews highlight passing reefs where you can dip in to see marine life.

The finale is a high-speed race back to Kendwa: a straight shot along the shoreline, giving you a chance to satisfy your need for speed and challenge your friends or family. The entire experience is designed to be dynamic, thrilling, and scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos, especially if you opt for drone footage.

Safety & Instruction: Making Sure You’re Comfortable

A standout feature of this tour is the emphasis on safety. According to reviews, instructors are attentive and ensure everyone understands how to control the jet ski. Mohamed, a reviewer, mentioned, “There was absolutely no one at the meeting point to welcome you, so you had to search the beach to find out who was responsible for your activity,” but generally, the staff is described as friendly and professional.

The briefing covers controls, stopping, and riding areas, and even if you’ve never ridden a jet ski, you’ll receive a watch to keep track of your time on the water. For most, this approach makes the experience accessible and less intimidating.

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The Drone & Photos: A Unique Souvenir

For an extra fee, some providers include drone photography, capturing aerial views of your ride. Given the stunning backdrop—crystal waters, lush greenery, and rolling waves—these photos are often the highlight for many guests. Nathalie loved that “you are also given a watch to tell the time,” and the drone footage adds a special touch, creating lasting memories.

The Cost & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $60 for a group of up to two, this tour offers reasonable value, especially considering the personalized experience and scenic appeal. When you factor in the optional drone photos, you get a comprehensive package that’s hard to match elsewhere in Zanzibar.

Some reviews, like Sophie’s, commend the efficiency of booking, noting communication via WhatsApp was smooth. The flexibility to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance makes it easier to plan this adventure into a busy itinerary.

Additional Considerations

While most reviews praise the experience, a few mention the jet skis’ age, which might lead to some concern about comfort or reliability. Mohamed observed, “The equipment wasn’t great, the jet skis were from another era, even if they worked well!”

Also, while the activity is suitable for beginners, those looking for a more intense thrill might find the calm waters somewhat relaxing rather than adrenaline-pumping. Sunset rides are available, turning the experience into a romantic or magical moment as the sky turns reddish yellow—a view that many find unforgettable.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This jet ski tour works best for families or small groups seeking a safe, scenic adventure. It’s perfect for first-timers, thanks to clear instructions and laid-back waters, but also appeals to those wanting fun and challenge, especially with the race back.

Travelers looking for authentic Zanzibar scenery combined with a quick adrenaline shot will find this activity fits the bill. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a memorable experience that combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of the island’s coastline.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider This Tour

For adventure seekers, the chance to race across Kendwa’s calm waters and pass by Tumbatu Island offers a memorable rush. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the drone option, capturing aerial shots of your ride above the turquoise sea.

Value-conscious travelers will find the pricing reasonable considering the scenery and guided safety, especially with the option to customize timing. Meanwhile, those who prioritize local guides and safety will feel confident knowing they’re in good hands with the experienced staff.

Despite some older equipment, the overall charm lies in the simplicity, stunning vistas, and the pure joy of zipping over Zanzibar’s famed beaches. Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill or a fun family activity, Kendwa’s jet ski experience strikes a good balance between adventure, scenic beauty, and affordability.

FAQ

Is the jet ski activity suitable for beginners? Yes, the guides provide safety instructions and briefings, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Can I do the jet ski at sunset? Yes, sunset rides are available, offering a stunning view as the sky turns reddish yellow, creating a magical backdrop.

What is included in the tour? The fee covers the jet ski rental and an instructor. Drone photography can be added for an extra cost.

What should I bring with me? Remember to bring sunglasses, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, and cash for extras or tips.

How long is the jet ski experience? While the exact duration isn’t specified, reviews suggest a fun ride along the shoreline, passing Tumbatu Island, and returning, with times likely around 15-20 minutes of riding.

Is there a group size limit? The price is for groups up to two, making it intimate and ideal for small groups or couples.

What if I want more ride time? You can pay on the spot for extra time if you wish to extend your ride beyond the initial booking.

To sum it up, Kendwa’s jet ski experience offers a combination of scenic beauty, guided safety, and fun that’s hard to beat in Zanzibar. It’s suited for anyone looking to add a splash of speed to their beach holiday, especially those who want memorable photos and a taste of adventure. While equipment age might be a minor concern, the overall package promises a lively, scenic, and enjoyable outing worth every penny.

You can check availability for your dates here: