Private Catamaran – Stone Town Islands & Sandbanks (5 hrs)

Imagine a day spent cruising along Zanzibar’s coast on a sleek, fully equipped catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and the sea breeze tousling your hair. That’s exactly what this Private Catamaran – Stone Town Islands & Sandbanks tour offers. It’s a luxurious way to see some of the most beautiful spots around Zanzibar without the crowds—just your group, the crew, and the endless ocean.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are three things: the personalized experience, the high-quality onboard amenities, and the delicious, freshly prepared food. It’s a day crafted for comfort, fun, and discovery. The only possible downside? The price point might seem steep for some, but considering what you get, it’s good value for those seeking a high-end adventure. This tour suits travelers wanting a private, relaxed day with plenty of snorkeling, scenic views, and exquisite meals.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private yacht for up to 12 guests ensures intimacy and personalized service.
• Unmatched Comfort: Fully outfitted with bathrooms, dining areas, charging stations, and sound system.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Gourmet meals, snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine included.
• Remote Beaches & Snorkeling: Access to secluded spots beyond local boats’ reach, plus snorkeling gear provided.
• Flexible & Customizable: Dietary preferences catered to, and optional extras like birthday cakes.
• Ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a luxe day on the water.

Why This Catamaran Tour Stands Out

This private catamaran trip offers a level of comfort and exclusivity that really elevates the experience compared to public boat tours or crowded excursions. From the moment you’re picked up from Stone Town—just a short walk from the lively Cape Town Fish Market—you’re heading into a day of laid-back luxury. The boat itself is designed to maximize relaxation, with cozy quarters, dual bathrooms, and outdoor decks perfect for sunbathing or lounging.

The Itinerary: A Day of Discovery and Relaxation

The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting with a departure from Stone Town. Your first stop is Prison Island, famous for its giant tortoises and historical significance. Here, you can snorkel, visit the tortoises, or just enjoy the view. The snorkeling gear is provided, and many reviews highlight the quality of the experience—one reviewer raved about the “amazing team and fun snorkeling,” and pointed out that the boat’s ability to reach secluded spots means you’ll often find better visibility and fewer crowds.

Next, the yacht heads to the Nakupenda sandbank, a pristine stretch of sand that emerges from the sea during low tide. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a perfect spot to relax in the sun, explore the shallow waters, or snorkel again. Reviewers often say they felt like they had their own private island—”totally exceeded expectations,” one said.

Finally, the yacht returns to Stone Town, where you can enjoy the sunset views from the deck. Many travelers find this moment captivating, with the city’s historic skyline contrasting against the quiet sea, making for a memorable photo moment.

Food & Beverage: A Culinary Highlight

One of the recurring themes in reviews is the exceptional onboard cuisine. The chef prepares a full lunch catering to a variety of diets—meat, seafood, vegetarian, and vegan options. Many travelers rate it as “the best food on the island,” praising its freshness and quality.

Snacks and fruits are available throughout the day, along with an open bar of soft drinks, mineral water, beers, and wines. The inclusion of alcohol elevates the experience, making sunset drinks particularly special.

Onboard Amenities and Comfort

This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a floating retreat. The yacht boasts Bluetooth-enabled sound systems for your playlists, charging stations for electronic devices, and changing rooms with showers and toilets—a true luxury after swimming or snorkeling. Reviewers note the boat’s spotless cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, which contribute to a sense of indulgence.

The Crew: Professional, Friendly, and Attentive

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly and professional crew, with some mentioning captains and staff by name—Lorne, for example, is noted for his attentive service. Many reviewers appreciate how flexible and accommodating the team is, whether it’s adjusting the itinerary or catering to specific dietary needs.

The True Value of the Experience

At $1,300 per group (up to 12 people), this tour offers excellent value if you’re traveling as a group or family wanting a private day on the water. Consider that the price includes fuel, meals, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and private transportation—these are significant costs when booked separately. The exclusivity means you avoid the typical tourist crowds and can tailor the day to your preferences.

What Reviewers particularly love

• The secluded beaches and snorkeling spots, which many describe as “unforgettable.”
• The delicious, European-standard food, a rare find on the island.
• The luxury amenities, like bathrooms and showers, making the day comfortable and convenient.
• The sunset cruise back to Stone Town, which earns universal praise for its scenic beauty.

Considerations and Tips

While this tour is a fantastic choice for those seeking comfort and privacy, it’s worth noting that prison island’s entry fee isn’t included. Budget accordingly if you plan to visit the tortoises or explore the island thoroughly. Also, bring your own towels, as most reviewers agree this is a good idea. The tour operates daily from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm, giving plenty of flexibility in planning.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private catamaran is perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for an exclusive day on Zanzibar’s waters. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, good food, and personalized service over a quick, crowded excursion. If you’re after snorkeling, scenic beaches, and sunset views with a touch of luxury, this tour hits all those marks.

Final Thoughts

This Zanzibar catamaran trip delivers a memorable day filled with stunning scenery, top-tier amenities, and delicious food. It combines the best of relaxation and adventure, letting you explore remote beaches and snorkel in clear waters without the hassle of public tours.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the all-inclusive setup, private atmosphere, and high-quality service make it a solid investment for those wanting a truly luxurious experience. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with a small group or family who appreciate personal attention and comfort.

For anyone seeking a special day in Zanzibar’s waters, with beautiful views, good vibes, and excellent cuisine, this private catamaran tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation to and from your accommodation, making it easy and seamless to start your day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, typically from 8:30 am to around 4:30 pm, leaving plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

How many people can fit on the yacht?
The yacht comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized service.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a full lunch with options for meat, seafood, vegetarian, and vegan diets is included, along with snacks, fruits, mineral water, soft drinks, beer, and wine.

What amenities does the yacht have?
The boat features dual bathrooms, changing rooms, showers, indoor/outdoor dining, a Bluetooth sound system, and charging stations.

Can dietary preferences and allergies be accommodated?
Absolutely. The crew requests dietary information beforehand and can cater to various dietary needs and allergies.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore underwater life at Prison Island and the sandbank.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Prison Island, famous for giant tortoises and snorkeling, and Nakupenda sandbank, known for its pristine, shallow waters and soft sand.

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
The only extra cost is the entrance fee for Prison Island; all other costs—including fuel, food, drinks, and snorkeling gear—are covered.

This private catamaran tour offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and stunning scenery that’s hard to match. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an unforgettable day on Zanzibar’s waters, it’s a choice that promises comfort and exclusivity with every wave.