Stone Town Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Private Zanzibar Sailing

Watch the sun drop over Stone Town from an open deck while the boat moves beneath you

A private catamaran sunset cruise from Stone Town carries up to 40 guests on a 65-foot power catamaran through Zanzibar's coastal waters for three hours, with complimentary drinks, snacks, music and a swimming stop at an anchored spot. The boat departs at 3 pm (arrive 20 minutes early) and includes beer, wine, soda, water, snorkelling gear and all fees. A live English-speaking guide is on board.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private catamaran sunset cruise

• Arrive 20 minutes early
• Board 65-foot luxury catamaran
• Cruise past islands and landmarks
• Enjoy music, drinks, and coastal breeze
• Anchor at swimming spot
• Swim if desired and safe
• Watch sunset over Stone Town

The Experience

Stone Town's sunset cruise boards a 65-foot catamaran—the largest on the island—and heads into open water as the afternoon light begins to shift. The boat has full bathrooms, an open deck for lounging, and a sound system playing music while you move past islands and landmarks. Complimentary beer and wine flow throughout, along with cold sodas, water and snacks. The pace is slow enough to feel the coastal breeze and watch the sky change; there's no rushing between stops or ticking off a checklist.

Around halfway through, the boat anchors at a swimming spot in turquoise water. Bring a towel if you want to get in—snorkelling gear is on board and included. The water is calm at the anchorage, and you can float or dive depending on what appeals to you. The rule is straightforward: stay sober in the water for safety, which keeps everyone's afternoon uncomplicated.

The final hour is the reason you booked. As the sun drops toward the horizon, the light turns gold and the Stone Town skyline glows behind you. The boat stays anchored or drifts slowly, the music plays, and there's nothing between you and the view. Groups run up to 40 people, though you can request a private charter if you want the boat to yourself—contact the operator directly for that arrangement.

What’s included

• Complimentary beer and wine.
• soda and bottled water.
• snacks.
• use of snorkelling equipment.
• Bluetooth sound system.
• all fees and taxes.
• live English-speaking guide.
• fully equipped bathrooms on board.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Queen of Zanzibar Yacht

Is this one for you?Book this shared cruise if you want a set departure time and group atmosphere; choose a private charter (contact the operator) if you need flexibility for your group size or prefer sailing with only your party.

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Top questions

What's the water like at the swimming stop?

The catamaran anchors at a sheltered spot in turquoise water off the coast, calm enough for swimming and snorkelling. Snorkelling equipment is included, and towels are recommended if you plan to get in.

Can I bring my own food or drinks aboard?

Complimentary beer, wine, soda, water and snacks are provided throughout the cruise. Custom requests such as birthday cakes can be arranged—contact the operator when you book to discuss what you'd like.

What time does the boat leave Stone Town?

The cruise departs at 3 pm and returns at 6 pm. Arrive 20 minutes early to board and settle in before departure.

Is there a guide on the boat?

A live guide in English is on board throughout the cruise to point out landmarks and islands as you sail past them.

What if I'm not a strong swimmer?

The cruise is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Swimming at the anchorage is optional—you can stay on deck and watch others, or skip the water entirely and enjoy the boat and the views.