Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience

Outty Ranking 73 5.0 · 15 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $123
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Outty Ranking

73/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 15 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience worth booking?

Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience is a 9-hour experience in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, from $123 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 15 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
73 / 100
Rating
5/5 (15)
Duration
9 hours
From
$123 per person

Enjoy a relaxed traditional dhow experience around Mnemba Island, combining guided snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, swimming, beautiful ocean views and a freshly prepared BBQ seafood lunch served on board. Depending on the tides, you may visit a beautiful sandbank or Blue Lagoon. The journey also includes snacks, possible dolphin spotting and peaceful sailing back towards Nungwi/Kendwa, followed by a beautiful sunset and fresh tropical fruit. Available as both private and shared tours. Shared tours operate on selected days and require a minimum number of guests. If the minimum is not met, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What you get

    About this experience

    Enjoy a relaxed traditional dhow experience around Mnemba Island, combining guided snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, swimming, beautiful ocean views and a freshly prepared BBQ seafood lunch served on board. Depending on the tides, you may visit a beautiful sandbank or Blue Lagoon. The journey also includes snacks, possible dolphin spotting and peaceful sailing back towards Nungwi/Kendwa, followed by a beautiful sunset and fresh tropical fruit. Available as both private and shared tours. Shared tours operate on selected days and require a minimum number of guests. If the minimum is not met, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

    What's included

    Included

    • Carbonated beverages
    • Bottled water
    • Use of snorkeling equipment
    • Government fees
    • Snacks
    • Lunch

    Not included

    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Private transportation

    What you'll see and do

    1. Mnemba Island

      The experience begins at 9:30 AM with a relaxing 1.5–2 hour dhow cruise from Nungwi/Kendwa towards Mnemba Island. Enjoy snacks, soft drinks and ocean views along the way, with possible dolphin spotting depending on sea conditions. At Mnemba Island, spend approximately 4 hours snorkeling, swimming and relaxing in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Depending on the tides, we visit a beautiful sandbank or Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood BBQ lunch on board. Around 4:00 PM, we raise the sails and begin the peaceful 1.5–2 hour journey back towards Nungwi/Kendwa. As we approach the coast, we stop to enjoy the sunset from the boat with fresh tropical fruit before the experience ends.

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Zanzibar City

    Please wait on the beach at the agreed meeting point. Our crew will meet you there and guide you to the dhow boat. Our crew members wear grey Maria Ocean Breeze T-shirts, and our boats are named Maria or Maria II. The exact meeting instructions will be confirmed after booking.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations.

    Ends at

    Please wait on the beach at the agreed meeting point. Our crew will meet you there and guide you to the dhow boat. Our crew members wear grey Maria Ocean Breeze T-shirts, and our boats are named Maria or Maria II. The exact meeting instructions will be confirmed after booking.

    Options you can book

    • Private Mnemba Dhow Boat Trip with Snorkeling & BBQ Seafood Lunch

      Guided Snorkeling at Mnemba : Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish with a local guide Duration: 9 hours: Flexible depending on weather and sea conditions Fresh seafood BBQ lunch : Freshly prepared seafood served on board, including seasonal fruits, snacks, and soft drinks

    • Shared Mnemba Dhow Trip

      Snorkling at Mnemba Reef : Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish with a local guide Duration: 9 hours: Flexible depending on weather and sea conditions Fresh Seafood BBQ lunch : Freshly prepared seafood served on board, including seasonal fruits, snacks, and soft drinks. Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Maria Ocean Breeze

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 2Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 3Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 4Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 5Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 6Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience in Zanzibar City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    7 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    9 verified traveler reviews for Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
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    Sort
    612manelleh · September 2026

    Beautiful Dhow

    A really nice experience! Beautiful Dhow, it was the best one on the sea. The food was delicious, the men on the boat were really kind and respectful. My husband usually gets seasick and they very supportive and attentive. Thank you! We would highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re so happy you enjoyed the dhow, food, and our crew. It was a pleasure having you both on board, and we’re especially glad we could make your husband feel comfortable throughout the trip. Thank you for recommending us!

    via Tripadvisor

    135taylam · September 2026

    The highlight of our Zanzibar trip

    We did two tours with the same guides, the sunset cruise and the Mnemba half-day snorkelling tour and both were absolutely amazing! The sunset cruise was such a beautiful experience. The crew made us the most delicious fresh seafood dinner on board, and we got to watch the sun drop right into the ocean while we ate. It was honestly such a special evening and one of our favourite experiences in Zanzibar. Our Mnemba snorkelling tour was just as incredible! Stanley was amazing from start to finish. He took us out to see dolphins and then snorkelling, where he came into the water with us and pointed out all the different things to look for and made sure we didn’t miss anything. He was so friendly, attentive and genuinely made the whole experience so much fun. They also prepared the freshest fruit I think I’ve ever tasted, along with plenty of snacks and refreshments throughout the trip. Everything felt really well organised, relaxed and personal, and the whole crew went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time. We loved both tours so much and would 100% recommend them to anyone visiting Zanzibar. A huge thank you to Stanley and the whole crew for making these experiences so memorable! 🤍🌴🐬

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for this incredibly kind and heartfelt review! It truly means so much to Stanley and the whole Maria Ocean Breeze team. We’re so happy to hear that you enjoyed both the sunset dinner and the Mnemba snorkelling tour, and that they became some of your favourite experiences in Zanzibar. It was such a pleasure having you with us, and we’re especially happy that you enjoyed the fresh seafood, fruit and all the little details we love to prepare for our guests. Thank you for choosing us twice, for your wonderful words, and for recommending Maria Ocean Breeze. We hope to welcome you back on board one day!

    via Tripadvisor

    harveens2020 · September 2026

    Would book again!

    Amazing experience, lovely professional staff and what an amazing tasty lunch prepared on the boat. 100% recommend

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much! We’re so happy to hear that you enjoyed the experience, our team, and especially the lunch prepared fresh on board. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we would absolutely love to welcome you back again in the future! Thank you for recommending Maria Ocean Breeze!

    via Tripadvisor

    101fridaj · September 2026

    The most amazing boattrip!!

    I thought the boat trip was absolutely fantastic from start to finish! They picked us up close to our accommodation, which was very convenient. The staff on the boat were incredibly friendly, helpful, and attentive throughout the entire trip, which made the experience even better. Early on, we had the opportunity to jump into the water and see dolphins. We then stopped at the bluest water I have ever seen, where we had plenty of time to enjoy a delicious lunch and go swimming. Our guide even joined us in the water for some snorkeling, which made the experience even more special. After that, we slowly made our way back along the island, taking our time and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. We got to enjoy some delicious fresh fruit while watching the sunset before being dropped off at the same place where we started. I would definitely recommend going on this boat trip. It was the most amazing day of our entire trip!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your beautiful review! It makes us so happy to hear that you enjoyed the whole day with us, from the snorkeling to the lunch and sunset. It was such a pleasure having you on board, and we’re so glad we could be part of your Zanzibar memories. We hope to welcome you back one day!

    via Tripadvisor

    126smillal · September 2026

    Best day ever

    It was amazing 10/10 🙏🏻 book now!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much, Smilla! We’re so happy to hear that you had the best day with us! It was a pleasure having you on board!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    9 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $123 to $225
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 73

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)89
    Review evidence (18% weight)52
    Booking momentum (14% weight)42
    Value for money (12% weight)85
    Listing quality (10% weight)80
    Local standing (8% weight)65
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Zanzibar City.

    How much does Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience cost?

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    Prices start at $123 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Zanzibar City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience take?

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    Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Zanzibar City is not rushed.

    Is Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 15 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Zanzibar City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Zanzibar City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Zanzibar City and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Zanzibar City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Zanzibar City?

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    On Outty we rank every Zanzibar City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 3 Hours Private Stone Town Walking Tour, Stone Town Heritage Walk with local Guide, Zanzibar Adventure Quad with Sunset and Transfer Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Zanzibar City?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Zanzibar City?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    Included: Carbonated beverages; Bottled water; Use of snorkeling equipment; Government fees; and Snacks. Not included: Alcoholic beverages; and Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 10 listed pickup locations in and around Zanzibar City.

    What languages is Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    Across 15 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, the guide. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    What booking options are available for Mnemba Island Dhow Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch Experience?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Private Mnemba Dhow Boat Trip with Snorkeling & BBQ Seafood Lunch, Shared Mnemba Dhow Trip. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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