About this experience
This experience is designed to take you beyond the standard snorkeling trip and into some of the most exclusive and carefully protected areas around Mnemba Atoll. With access to quieter reefs and sandbanks, you can enjoy the ocean in a more peaceful and personal way, away from large crowds.
Small group sizes of 2 to 12 guests ensure a relaxed atmosphere, while the traditional wooden dhow adds an authentic Zanzibar sailing experience. Throughout the day, everything is guided by a local crew who know these waters intimately and help you experience the ocean in the best possible way.
The day is beautifully rounded off with a traditional Swahili seafood BBQ and lunch served on board, offering a true taste of Zanzibar’s coastal culture — where fresh seafood, local spices, and island traditions come together as a perfect final touch to the experience.
At a glance
- Duration: 216 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 216 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Dolphin sightings and optional swimming (if dolphins are present)
- Access and entrance fees to protected marine areas
- Safety equipment, including life vests
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
- Swahili seafood BBQ lunch served on board (grilled octopus, chicken, rice, chapati, sambusek…)
- Stop at sandbanks to swim, relax, and enjoy freshly cut local tropical fruit
- Experienced local guide
- Morning hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected)
- Traditional handcrafted wooden dhow for your group
- Soft drinks throughout the trip
Not included
- Tips for the guide or crew (optional)
Itinerary and highlights
Discover the crystal-clear waters of Mnemba Atoll with exclusive access to private reefs and sandbanks on a full-day snorkeling experience for small groups of 2 to 12 guests. The day includes 2 hours in quieter, less-visited areas where you can snorkel, relax on pristine sandbanks, and enjoy marine life without the crowds, as well as visits to protected zones around Mnemba Island.
The tour starts with an optional hotel pickup, followed by departure at around 8:30 AM on a traditional wooden dhow. All snorkeling equipment is provided as you explore vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and calm turquoise waters. Depending on conditions, you may also encounter dolphins and have the chance to observe or swim nearby.
Later, enjoy a relaxing sandbank stop with fresh tropical fruit, followed by a Swahili seafood BBQ served on board, including grilled octopus, chicken, rice, chapati, and local specialties. Soft drinks are available throughout the day.
Return is expected around 3:30 PM, bringing an end to a day of snorkeling, sailing, and discovering Zanzibar’s marine life and natural beauty.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- You’ll meet our Ocean Blue team directly at Muyuni Beach. Look for the large Ocean Blue flag and our crew wearing Ocean Blue T-shirts — you can’t miss them! For easier navigation, here are the GPS coordinates you can use on Google Maps: 5°48'32.9"S 39°21'33.0"E
- Exact pickup time will be confirmed 24 hours before your safari, based on the hotel pickup schedule.
Languages and tickets
- German — Guide
- English — Guide
- pl — Guide
- French — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Ocean Blue Holidays
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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pickup schedule.
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