Zanzibar: Pungume Sandbank Boat Trip with Snorkeling & Lunch

5

27 reviews

Fully private Zanzibar adventure: catch-and-release fishing, snorkel, spot dolphins, relax on sandbanks, enjoy Swahili seafood BBQ, and experience life like a local.

From: 50$

Available spots:

Adults *
Youths
Infants
0.00
Total: 0 $

Full description

“Your ocean adventure begins early in the morning, when we pick you up from your hotel and head toward Muyuni Beach, a quiet stretch of coastline in northeast Zanzibar. As the sun rises over the Indian Ocean, you’ll meet your local skipper and guide and step aboard a traditional handcrafted wooden dhow, prepared exclusively for your group. This experience is fully private, designed for two adults or a family of up to two adults and two children, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere. Departing around 6:00 AM, the boat heads south of Mnemba Island, an area known for its rich marine life and crystal-clear waters. Fishing equipment and snorkeling gear are included, and your guide will teach you catch-and-release fishing techniques, showing you how to fish like a local, explaining the habits of the fish, and sharing fascinating insights into Zanzibar’s marine ecosystem. All fishing is done sustainably — fish are carefully handled and returned to the ocean, ensuring a respectful interaction with marine life. As you cruise, your guide searches for the best spots, while you may encounter dolphins along the way. If a pod appears and you wish, the captain can slow the boat for a respectful swim alongside these playful creatures. The tour is flexible, so you can also stop at nearby coral reefs to snorkel among colorful fish and stunning coral formations, or visit one of the sandbanks near Mnemba Island that appear at low tide. These pristine, temporary islands are perfect for swimming, relaxing, or simply taking in the endless shades of blue surrounding you. For guests opting for the half-day tour, the boat returns to Muyuni Beach around 11:30 AM, with hotel drop-off included if selected. The full-day experience continues into the early afternoon, featuring a freshly prepared Swahili seafood BBQ, including grilled octopus, chicken, rice, chapati, and sambusek, served on board while soaking in the serene ocean surroundings. Freshly cut local tropical fruits and soft drinks are available throughout the trip. By approximately 3:00 PM, you’ll return to shore, with hotel drop-off included if selected. From fishing like a local with hands-on guidance and swimming with dolphins, to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and relaxing on secluded sandbanks, this tour delivers a fully private Zanzibar ocean adventure. Experience the local lifestyle, marine wonders, and delicious Swahili cuisine, all at your own pace. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for a day full of Zanzibar’s magic, marine life, and unforgettable ocean adventures.”

About this activity

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Live tour guide

English

Duration

5,5 hours or 9 hours (without transfer)

Private group available

Please contact us for a private tour option

Pickup optional

Please wait at your hotel reception or lobby 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Your driver will meet you there and call your name, then your adventure will begin with a comfortable, air-conditioned van ride. Note: The exact pickup time will be confirmed one day before the activity.

Highlights
  • Visit Pungume Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s largest white-sand sandbanks
  • Two snorkeling stops at coral reefs with tropical fish and starfish
  • Traditional wooden dhow boat from the coast near Fumba
  • Fresh Swahili BBQ lunch and fruit served on board
  • Relaxed small-group tour with optional hotel transfers
  • Includes
    Hotel pick-up and drop-off (if transfer option selected)
    Small-group experience (min 2, max 25 participants)
    Traditional handcrafted wooden dhow boat ride
    Two snorkeling stops with snorkeling gear and life vests included
    Guided snorkeling with local crew sharing knowledge
    Fresh fruit on board
    Swahili BBQ lunch served on Pungume Sandbank
    Soft drinks throughout the day
    Optional sailing back (weather permitting)
    Opportunity to spot dolphins from the boat
    Personal expenses
    Tips for crew and guides
    Not suitable for
  • Children under 4 years
  • People with back problems
  • Wheelchair users
  • Non-swimmers
  • People prone to seasickness
  • Important information

    What to bring

  • Sun hat
  • Swimwear
  • Change of clothes
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen
  • Not allowed

  • Littering
  • Touching marine life
  • Know before you go

  • This is a shared boat tour; private trips are available on request.
  • Snorkeling is suitable for beginners and experienced swimmers.
  • Suitable for all ages, unless restrictions apply.
  • Please inform us in advance if you require vegetarian meals.
  • Notify us in advance of any special needs or health concerns.
  • Be prepared for sun exposure; bring sun protection and appropriate clothing.
  • French and German are available on request.
  • Departure times and operators may change due to weather, operational, or safety reasons.
  • Meet us here
    If you haven’t chosen the hotel pick-up, please meet us at this location 10 minutes before your activity starts. The meeting point is located near the roundabout between Fumba Village and Mkunguni. For easy navigation, you can use the following GPS coordinates on Google Maps: 6°18’27.3″S 39°17’47.2″E. Look out for our Ocean Blue flag and team in Ocean Blue T-shirts — you can’t miss them!

    From: 50$

    Available spots:

    Adults *
    Youths
    Infants
    0.00
    Total: 0 $

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