Private Catamaran – Stone Town Islands & Sandbanks (8 hrs)

Imagine a day cruising along Zanzibar’s coast in a sleek, fully outfitted catamaran, with the wind in your hair, gourmet food on deck, and stops for snorkeling and island exploring. This private tour, rated a perfect 5.0 with glowing reviews, promises a high-end adventure combining comfort, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a luxurious day on the water, this trip seems to tick all the boxes.

Three things we love about this experience? First, the intimate group size of up to 12 guests ensures personalized service and a relaxed vibe. Second, the delicious onboard catering, featuring options for vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers, makes the day much more than just sightseeing. Lastly, the beautiful stops at Prison Island and Nakupenda sandbank offer a mix of wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and beach lounging that’s hard to beat.

A potential consideration? The price point of $1,800 per group might be steep for some travelers, but when you factor in the exclusivity, all-inclusive drinks, gourmet meals, and personalized service, it could be valuable for those seeking a premium experience. It’s best suited to couples, small groups, or families celebrating a special occasion who appreciate comfort, privacy, and a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Fully equipped yacht with bathrooms, indoor/outdoor dining, Bluetooth sound system, and charging stations.
• Authentic Stops: Visits to Prison Island for giant tortoise encounters and Nakupenda sandbank for snorkeling and lunch.
• Gourmet Catering: Full meals catering to various dietary preferences, plus snacks, beverages, and alcohol.
• Personalized Experience: Private tour for up to 12 guests, with custom requests available such as birthday cakes.
• Stunning Views: Breathtaking scenery from the water, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and island exploring.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently high praise for crew professionalism, food quality, and overall organization.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off from a conveniently located meeting point in Zanzibar, with the yacht ready to deliver a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Prison Island – Changuu Island

This stop is often viewed as the highlight of the trip, offering more than just history. Despite its name, Prison Island was never used to jail prisoners; instead, it once served as a quarantine station for yellow fever. Today, it’s famous for its gentle giant tortoises, some of which are over a century old. Reviewers repeatedly mention the joy of interacting with these majestic creatures – “offering an up-close experience with one of nature’s most slow-moving marvels.”

The island itself provides a peaceful escape with plenty of space for wandering. The entry fees aren’t included, but the real draw here, according to reviews, is the chance to see the tortoises, relax on the beach, or snorkel around the island if you fancy a quick dip.

Nakupenda Sandbank – The Secret Paradise

Next, the yacht glides toward Nakupenda Sandbank, which appears only at low tide. Here, the water surrounds you in a postcard-perfect setting with the Indian Ocean’s calm, clear waters lapping at the soft sands. Reviewers describe it as an “idyllic location” where you can indulge in a delicious lunch served right on the sand. The menu is impressive, catering to different dietary needs including vegetarian and vegan options.

Post-lunch, snorkeling becomes the main attraction. The waters are celebrated for their vibrant marine life and coral reefs. One reviewer raves about the “incredible corals and the best meal of their travels,” highlighting this stop’s capacity to combine culinary delights with underwater exploration.

Sailing Back to Stone Town

After a leisurely afternoon, the yacht begins its gentle sail back to Zanzibar’s Stone Town. Guests often mention how relaxing the return journey is, with the option to unwind in the shaded lounge or soak up the sun on deck, all while enjoying the yacht’s Bluetooth sound system and a selection of drinks.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Comfort and Luxury: The fully outfitted yacht isn’t just a boat—it’s a floating resort. With bathrooms, indoor dining, and charging facilities, you can indulge in luxury while exploring Zanzibar’s highlights. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, ensure every need is met. Reviewers mention Captain Lorne as attentive and personable, adding a layer of trust and reassurance.

Quality Food and Drinks: Food seems to be a real standout, with full catering options that impress even seasoned travelers. As one reviewer put it, “the onboard seafood platter was the best meal of the entire trip,” reflecting the high quality of the culinary experience. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages, beer, and wine, adds to the festive, vacation vibe.

Authentic Encounters: Prison Island’s giant tortoises and snorkeling off Nakupenda make this tour more than just a scenic cruise. You get tangible moments of interaction with nature, complemented by the tranquil beauty of the sandbank.

Ease and Personalization: The private nature of this experience means fewer crowds and a tailored itinerary. Requests like birthday cakes are welcomed, and the small group size ensures a personalized touch that big tours often lack.

The Real Value

At $1,800 for a group of up to 12, this experience emphasizes exclusivity and comfort. When you compare the price to the included amenities—luxury yacht, gourmet meals, all drinks, snorkeling gear, private guide—it offers significant value for those seeking a high-end adventure. For travelers craving a day that combines pampering, stunning scenery, and authentic local encounters, this tour seems well worth it.

What You’ll Love

• The beautiful stops that balance wildlife, watersports, and relaxation.
• The luxury yacht that feels more like a private retreat than a boat.
• The excellent crew who are attentive, friendly, and professional.
• The delicious onboard food that rivals many fine dining experiences.
• The personalized atmosphere perfect for celebrating special occasions or just treating yourself.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Price point might be a barrier for budget travelers, but the all-inclusive luxury and small group size justify it for many.
• Optional Prison Island entry fees aren’t included, so if you want to explore the island, plan accordingly.
• The tour’s timing and weather dependence means you should be flexible with your schedule or prepare for possible cancellations due to poor weather.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families celebrating a special day. If you prioritize comfort, personalized service, and authentic experiences, this trip will likely meet your expectations. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a blend of wildlife encounters, beach lounging, underwater exploration, and gourmet dining, all wrapped in a private, well-organized package.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour includes use of snorkeling equipment, full catering with meals, snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages (for guests 18+). The yacht features Bluetooth sound systems, bathrooms, indoor/outdoor dining, and charging facilities, ensuring a comfortable day on the water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, Prison Island’s entry fee is not included if you choose to explore the island. Depending on your interest, this could be an additional expense.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including sailing time, stops at Prison Island and Nakupenda, and the return trip.

What is the group size?
The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests, making it a more intimate and personalized experience compared to larger commercial tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly option, especially for those comfortable with boating and snorkeling.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, you can make special requests like birthday cakes or other celebrations, adding a personal touch to your day.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran tour in Zanzibar offers a rare combination of luxury, authenticity, and breathtaking scenery. From the giant tortoises of Prison Island to snorkeling amid vibrant coral reefs, every moment is designed to indulge your senses and create lasting memories. The crew’s professionalism and the high-quality onboard amenities elevate the experience from a simple boat trip to a personalized adventure.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic day with top-tier service, stunning views, and gourmet food, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to treat themselves to something extraordinary in Zanzibar.

This experience provides excellent value for a luxurious, intimate day on the water—perfect for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and memorable moments on Zanzibar’s beautiful coast.