About this sunset dhow cruise
Stone Town faces west across the Zanzibar Channel, which makes it one of the few places on the island where the sun sets over the sea. A late-afternoon sail on a wooden dhow is the classic way to watch it.
You sail past the Old Fort and the waterfront, watch the light change on the town, and come back as the evening food stalls open at Forodhani Gardens.
Highlights
- Sunset over the sea from a traditional dhow
- Stone Town skyline from the water
- Soft drinks and light snacks
- Step off near Forodhani for the evening food market
Sunset dhow cruise itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- 17:00Meet on the Stone Town waterfront and board the dhow.
- 17:15Sail along the seafront past the Old Fort and the port.
- 18:00Sunset over the channel (time varies slightly through the year).
- 19:00Return to shore near Forodhani Gardens.
Your private options
Private sunset sail
Your own dhow and crew.
Celebration sail
Decorations or a cake for a proposal or anniversary.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Stone Town | Included |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Stone Town | $90 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Stone Town | $110 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Stone Town | $130 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Stone Town | $120 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Stone Town | $130 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Dhow with crew
- Soft drinks and water
- Snacks and fruit (Standard and Private)
- Pickup from hotels in the Stone Town & airport area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Alcoholic drinks unless arranged
- Tips
Add-ons
- Private dhow
- Decorations or a cake for a celebration
- Street food tour straight after
Children and groups
Families are welcome. Life jackets on board. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Sunset dhow cruise FAQs
What time is sunset?
Zanzibar is close to the equator, so sunset is roughly between 6:15 and 6:45 pm all year. We set the departure to match.
Is alcohol served?
On request on private sails, where permitted. Tell us when booking.
Is it good for a proposal?
Yes. Book the private dhow and tell us your plan; we keep it quiet.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our Zanzibar & Mikumi: Safari Plus Stone Town.