Kisite Marine Park: Snorkeling Dhow Tour & Wasini Island Lunch

Summary

Swim with dolphins taste Swahili crab hear the dhow creak in Kisite

You’ll join a small group from Diani or Mombasa for a day trip to Kisite Marine Park, snorkeling twice among bright coral and maybe dolphins if luck’s on your side. With local guides helping out and all gear included, you’ll end up sharing fresh seafood (or veggie) lunch on Wasini Island before heading back salty-haired and sun-warmed—a day that lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is our driver, Musa, grinning as he handed out cold bottles of water before we even left Diani. He joked about “Kenyan air conditioning”—meaning open windows—and honestly, the breeze was perfect. The drive to Shimoni felt like a slow reveal: kids waving by the roadside, goats everywhere, that salty tang in the air getting stronger as we neared the coast. At the jetty, our guide Salim welcomed us onto this old wooden dhow—he called it Pilli Pipa—paint peeling a bit but sturdy underfoot. There was this moment when the engine cut and all you could hear was the slap of water and some distant laughter from another boat.

Snorkeling at Kisite Marine Park is something I still think about. Salim handed me a mask (they had prescription ones too—didn’t expect that) and pointed to where he’d just seen dolphins. We slid into the warm water—honestly warmer than my morning shower—and suddenly it was just color everywhere: parrotfish darting, coral like someone spilled paint underwater. I tried to say “moray eel” in Swahili; Li laughed so hard she nearly dropped her snorkel. It’s two snorkeling stops, so you get a break for tea and these little coconut snacks on deck while your skin dries sticky with salt.

Lunch on Wasini Island felt like something out of an old story—bare feet in sand, plates piled with crab and grilled fish (they had veggie stuff too). The owner’s auntie brought out homemade chili sauce that nearly knocked me over—she winked when I coughed. White wine flowed a bit too easily in the shade. The whole place smelled like seaweed and charcoal smoke, which sounds odd but somehow made sense right then. Afterward we wandered past kids playing football barefoot on crushed shells—I kind of wished we could stay longer but our ride back was waiting.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and lunch at Wasini Island

• Collect from South Coast hotel
• Drive to Shimoni by minivan
• Board dhow to Kisite Marine Park
• Snorkel at two dive sites
• Watch for dolphins en route
• Sail to Wasini Island
• Enjoy traditional Swahili seafood lunch
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How far is Kisite Marine Park from Diani Beach?

It’s about 50km south of Diani Beach; transfers are included in the tour.

Is dolphin watching guaranteed on this snorkeling tour?

Dolphin sightings are highly probable but not guaranteed; they’re seen regularly though.

What’s included in the Pilli Pipa dhow snorkeling tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, marine park fees, all snorkeling equipment, snacks, drinks, and seafood lunch with wine or beer.

Are vegetarian or chicken options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian or chicken meals can be ordered in advance instead of seafood.

Can non-swimmers join the snorkeling trip?

A moderate level of fitness is needed; life jackets and buoyancy rings are provided but swimming comfort helps.

Where does lunch take place during this day trip?

You’ll have lunch at a private restaurant on Wasini Island after snorkeling.

Is scuba diving possible on this tour?

Yes, diving is available at extra cost if you have certification; fun dives for beginners can be arranged too.

What should I bring for this Kisite Marine Park trip?

Pilli Pipa provides all gear; bring swimwear, sunscreen, towel, and any personal items you need.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel around Diani Beach or Msambweni by minivan to Shimoni jetty where you board a traditional dhow with guides; all marine park entry fees are covered; modern snorkeling equipment (including prescription masks) is provided; there’s morning tea with snacks onboard plus cold drinks throughout; after two snorkeling sessions you’ll enjoy a buffet-style Swahili seafood (or vegetarian/chicken) lunch with white wine or beer at a private spot on Wasini Island before returning in the afternoon.