Zanzibar Yacht Charter Itinerary

Route Zanzibar Pemba

Zanzibar Yacht Charter Itinerary

Welcome to Africa’s most captivating blue cruise route!

This exclusive sailing itinerary brings together nature, culture, and tranquility between the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba. Each day offers a different island, every bay reveals a new landscape, and every evening ends with a unique dinner beneath the tropical sky.

Day 1: Check-in

Azam Marina, Kendwa, and Nungwi are popular mooring points for yachts. Your yacht will be located at one of these three marinas. Your crew will welcome you and assist you as you settle on board.

If the wind is calm, you will stop for a swim around Tumbatu Island. At the end of the day, enjoy a seafood-focused dinner on board and a peaceful night under the tropical stars.

The northern shores of Zanzibar offer some of the most romantic sunsets in the Indian Ocean.

Day 2: Misali Island (Pemba Channel)

Sail north early in the morning along the Pemba Channel.

After about three hours of pleasant cruising, you will reach Misali Island, one of the marine conservation areas recommended by UNESCO. Its coral reef formations, visibility of up to 30 meters for divers, and vibrant schools of fish make it a remarkable underwater destination.

More than 40 species of coral and nearly 300 species of fish have been recorded around Misali.

Your yacht will anchor just off the pristine white beach. Guests who wish can go ashore and enjoy a picnic under the coconut trees.

You will either stay at anchor for the night or, upon request, experience an unforgettable evening with a beach bonfire.

Day 3: Ngezi Forest & Ras Kigomasha Lighthouse

In the morning, you sail toward the northern part of Pemba Island. Pemba means “Green Island.” With its spice farms, mangrove forests, and coconut groves, it represents one of the most beautiful sides of Zanzibar.

After anchoring, you head ashore to visit the Ngezi Forest Nature Reserve. This area is famous for its endemic Pemba flying fox, blue monkeys, and exotic bird species.

During the guided forest walk, you can enjoy the cool shade of the tropical vegetation and immerse yourself in nature.

In the afternoon, you visit Vumawimbi Beach and Ras Kigomasha Lighthouse, located at the island’s northern tip. Built by the British in the early 1900s, this lighthouse offers panoramic views over Pemba’s vast lagoons.

Day 4: Mkia Mgombe Village

Today will be a day where tranquility and local life blend together.

After spending the morning at Vumawimbi Beach, you anchor in front of the fishing village of Mkia Mgombe.

Here, guests can observe the daily rhythm of local life: women mending fishing nets, children collecting seashells or traditional wooden boats being pulled ashore.

Bringing small gifts, such as notebooks, pencils or soap, is a kind gesture during a village visit.

Day 5: Fundo Lagoon & Sandbar

Today’s route includes the Fundo Lagoon. Here, you can experience drift snorkeling in a natural “blue river” shaped by tidal currents.

Letting the underwater current carry you as you glide past colorful corals and small fish is a rare and unforgettable experience in Zanzibar.

In the late afternoon, when the wind settles, your yacht approaches the sandbar.

Floating Dinner: Here, on a white sand islet that appears in the middle of the sea, a private sunset dinner is prepared for you.

Dining by candlelight at a table surrounded by the ocean will be one of the most romantic moments of your blue cruise.

Day 6: Mnemba Atoll

Depart early in the morning and set course for the Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar’s most famous diving spots often visited by pods of dolphins.

You can enjoy drift snorkeling, letting the current carry you gently over the coral reefs. Underwater visibility is excellent; you may spot butterflyfish, giant clams, and small turtles.

At the end of the day, you will anchor off Kendwa for the night. Enjoy the quiet bay and a sky full of stars.

Day 7: Stone Town

On your final full morning, your yacht sails toward Stone Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is the most authentic reflection of Zanzibar’s soul.

We recommend exploring the maze-like streets on foot. The spice market, old Arab houses, intricately carved wooden doors, and the seaside Forodhani Night Market are all must-see highlights.

The cultural heart of Zanzibar, this historic port city is a mosaic shaped by Arab, Indian, and African influences throughout the centuries.

Practical Information Zanzibar

Zanzibar Yacht Charter Itinerary

General Information Zanzibar

Area: 2.654 km² (including main island Unguja and Pemba)
Population: 1.9 milyon (2025 estimate)
Country: United Republic of Tanzania
Capital: Zanzibar City
Currency: Tanzanian Shiling (TZS)
Time Zone: GMT +3 (no daylight saving time)
Electricity: 230V AC, 50Hz; plug type D / G (UK-style three pin)
Official Languages: Swahili ve English
People: Predominantly Muslim communities of Swahili heritage, with a blend of Arab, African, and Indian cultural influences
Tipping: A 5–10% gratuity is appropriate in restaurants and for yacht crew

Flights & Transfers

The main gateway to Zanzibar Island is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).
Turkish Airlines operates direct flights from Istanbul (7.5 hours).
Additional connections are available via Doha, Dubai, Addis Ababa, and Nairobi with various airlines.
The airport is 8 km from Stone Town, and transfers to popular marinas take approximately 1 hour.

Weather & Climate

Month	Air (°C)	Sea (°C)	PPT (mm)
January	≈ 30	≈ 27-28	~60
February	≈ 30-31	≈ 28	~40
March	≈ 30	≈ 28	~90
April	≈ 29	≈ 27-28	~150
May	≈ 28	≈ 27	~150
June	≈ 27-28	≈ 26-27	~70
July	≈ 26-27	≈ 26	~50
August	≈ 26-27	≈ 25-26	~55
Sept	≈ 27-28	≈ 26-27	~80
Oct	≈ 28-29	≈ 26-27	~120
Nov	≈ 29-30	≈ 27-28	~110
Dec	≈ 30-31	≈ 28-29	~70