Zanzibar: Nungwi and Kendwa Sunset Dhow Cruise

Trying to decide whether a sunset dhow cruise in Zanzibar is worth your time? While I haven’t personally been on this tour, I’ve gathered all the details to help you determine if it fits your travel style. What stands out is the authentic experience of sailing on a traditional dhow, the breathtaking Indian Ocean views, and the chance to enjoy local dances and tropical fruits. However, expect a shorter experience, so if you’re after a lengthy tour or specific activities like swimming, you might want to plan accordingly. This cruise seems perfect for romantic evenings, couples, families, and friends who want a taste of Zanzibar’s maritime charm.

Three things I particularly like about this tour: its affordable price, the authentic traditional dhow experience, and the beautiful sunset views. One potential drawback is that it’s a shorter evening outing—about 1-2 hours—so if you’re seeking a longer day on the water or swimming options, this might not be the best fit. That said, it’s a great introduction to Zanzibar’s coastline, especially for those wanting a relaxing, scenic, and cultural experience.

Key Points

• Authentic traditional dhow sailing offers a genuine feel of Zanzibar’s maritime history.
• The price point of $19 per person makes it a very accessible activity for most travelers.
• Expect stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean, perfect for memorable photos.
• The tour includes local music, dances, and tropical fruits, providing cultural insights and delicious snacks.
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick travelers due to the boat’s sailing conditions.
• Group size appears to be manageable, with a focus on comfort and intimacy.
• The tour’s timing and meeting point are straightforward, with a pickup at a well-known local restaurant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience in Detail

Starting with a pick-up from your hotel, the tour offers reliable transportation to the beachside meeting point at Mama Mia restaurant, around 3:30 pm. From there, you’re led to the pristine sands of Nungwi Beach, a stretch famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. Here, you’ll have a few minutes to soak in the scenery before boarding a traditional dhow, which is both a functional fishing vessel and a cultural icon of Zanzibar.

Once aboard the dhow, the real magic begins as the boat starts sailing out into the Indian Ocean. The crew, often knowledgeable guides, will share insights into the Arab and Indian origins of Zanzibar’s maritime history, adding depth and context to your cruise. This is not just a boat ride; it’s an introduction to the island’s seafaring past, with a chance to appreciate the vessel’s craftsmanship and traditional design.

What to Expect During the Cruise

As the dhow gently rocks with the waves, you’ll be served sparkling drinks of your choice—a simple but thoughtful touch that elevates the experience. The onboard staff often includes lively traditional music and dance performances, with group Maasai dancing adding an energetic vibe. This cultural element makes the cruise lively and engaging, especially for those who enjoy local music and dance traditions.

The highlight, of course, is the sunset—a slow, magnificent descent that paints the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Many reviewers have noted that the views are breathtaking, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a peaceful moment. Participants are encouraged to bring a camera, as the scenery makes for wonderful pictures both of the sunset and the surrounding coastline.

Tropical Fruits and Cultural Dances

Midway through the cruise, organic tropical fruits are offered—think juicy pineapple, mango, and papaya—that perfectly complement the tropical setting. These are not just snacks but a nod to Zanzibar’s rich agricultural tradition. Guests are also treated to traditional dances onboard, including Maasai performances that are lively and colorful, providing insight into local customs.

Returning and Additional Highlights

As the cruise winds down, the dhow heads back toward Nungwi Beach, giving everyone time to reflect on the breathtaking views and cultural experiences. The boat’s gentle return journey is often described as peaceful, with many guests taking the opportunity to snap a few more photos or simply enjoy the moment. Upon disembarkation, a driver will be waiting to return you to your hotel.

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Practical Details and Tips

What’s Included

• Traditional dhow boat cruise
• Sparkling drinks and tropical fruits
• Traditional music and dance performances
• Maasai dancing

Meeting Point and Timing

You’ll meet at Mama Mia restaurant at 3:30 pm. The tour concludes back at the same spot, making logistics simple. The activity generally lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it suitable for an early evening outing.

What to Bring

• Sun hat and sunscreen for protection during the day
• Camera for capturing the stunning sunset and performances
• Comfortable clothes suitable for the beach and boat
• Swimsuit (as one reviewer suggested, there’s a “swimming time”, so bring a swimsuit if you want to take advantage of that)

Restrictions

• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, as the boat is sailing on open water
• Smoking and alcohol are not allowed onboard, maintaining a family-friendly environment

Cost and Value

At $19 per person, the tour is highly affordable. You get a cultural experience, beautiful scenery, and refreshments all bundled into one short cruise—great value for a relaxing evening on Zanzibar’s coast. While the tour is short, it offers a genuine glimpse of local traditions and spectacular views that are often missed in more commercialized activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for romantic couples looking for a special sunset experience, families wanting a relaxed cultural outing, or friends seeking a scenic social activity. The price point makes it accessible while still offering authentic touches like local dances and traditional sailing. If you’re interested in photography, this cruise is a prime opportunity to capture the vibrant colors of Zanzibar’s sunset.

However, if you prefer longer activities such as swimming or snorkeling, or if you’re prone to seasickness, you might find this tour a bit limiting. It’s more about the experience of sailing and cultural enjoyment rather than active water sports.

Final Thoughts

The Zanzibar: Nungwi and Kendwa Sunset Dhow Cruise offers a simple yet beautiful experience that combines authentic maritime tradition with breathtaking scenery. The affordable price, combined with the cultural insights and spectacular views, makes it a worthwhile outing for those wanting a peaceful, scenic evening. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate local culture, stunning vistas, and a relaxed atmosphere.

While it’s not a long excursion, the tour’s authenticity and the opportunity to enjoy Zanzibar’s famous sunset make it a memorable highlight of any trip to Nungwi or Kendwa. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching experience, this cruise should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but keep in mind that swimming isn’t part of this cruise. If you want to swim, you’ll need to bring a swimsuit and possibly arrange that separately.

What time does the tour start and end?
It starts around 3:30 pm with pickup and typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, ending back at the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for the beach and boat. Bringing a sun hat and sunscreen is recommended for daytime exposure.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely. The sunset and performances provide plenty of photo opportunities—don’t forget your camera!

Is the experience suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity, especially since the onboard environment is lively but respectful.

Are drinks included?
Yes, sparkling drinks of your choice are provided, along with tropical fruits.

What is the price and is it good value?
At $19 per person, it’s a very affordable activity considering what’s included—cultural performances, drinks, fruits, and a stunning sunset.

This sunset dhow cruise offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural flavor, making it a delightful addition to your Zanzibar adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: