Dhow sailing

About this experience

Step aboard a traditional wooden dhow and sail the Zanzibar coast the way traders have for centuries. As the lateen sail fills, the islands slip by and the water turns gold in the late afternoon light.

It's an unhurried, deeply local way to see the coast — often paired with snorkelling stops, fresh seafood and a sunset on the water.

Highlights

• Sail a traditional hand-built dhow
• Golden-hour light on the water
• Optional snorkel stops along the way
• Fresh seafood served on board

Good to know

Best season

Year-round

Typical duration

2–4 hours

Effort level

Easy