1 Day Wasini Island Excursion: Dhow Cruise, Snorkeling & Culture

Wasini Island , Kenya
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1 Day Wasini Island Excursion: Dhow Cruise, Snorkeling & Culture

$ 150.00
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Overview

Wasini Island Excursion: A Full-Day Coastal Adventure

The Journey & Setting Sail
The adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Diani Beach hotel for a scenic drive to the historic fishing village of Shimoni. Here, you board a traditional wooden dhow, setting sail across the crystal-clear Indian Ocean while enjoying a light breakfast of fresh tropical fruits.

Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling
As you cruise towards the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, you are highly likely to encounter pods of playful spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Arriving at the protected marine park, you dive into the warm waters to snorkel amongst vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful reef fish, starfish, and the occasional sea turtle.

Swahili Lunch & Island Exploration
After working up an appetite, you sail to the tranquil Wasini Island for a delicious Swahili seafood feast. The meal typically features fresh fish, crab, and coconut rice, with vegetarian options always available. Following lunch, you take a guided walk through a traditional fishing village and explore the atmospheric Shimoni Slave Caves, a poignant historical site.

The Return
As the day winds down, you re-board the dhow for a relaxing sail back to the mainland, followed by a comfortable transfer that returns you to your hotel by late afternoon, filled with memories of the Swahili coast.

Schedule Details

Early Morning: Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Shimoni

Your day begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Diani Beach between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. You'll enjoy a scenic one-hour drive through coastal villages and palm-fringed roads to the historic fishing village of Shimoni, which means "place of the cave" in Swahili.

Mid-Morning: Dhow Cruise and Dolphin Watching

Upon arrival at the Shimoni jetty, you'll board a traditional wooden dhow or a comfortable speedboat. As you set sail across the crystal-clear Indian Ocean, keep your eyes peeled for pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins. The crew will navigate to areas where dolphins are often spotted, giving you a fantastic opportunity to see them playing in the wild

Late Morning: Snorkeling at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

Arrive at the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, a protected area renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Dive into the warm waters with your provided snorkeling gear and guided by an expert. Explore the stunning coral reefs teeming with colorful reef fish, starfish, and, with luck, sea turtles and reef sharks

Early Afternoon: Swahili Lunch on Wasini Island

After working up an appetite, sail to the nearby Wasini Island. Here, you'll be served a mouthwatering Swahili seafood lunch at a local restaurant. The meal typically includes fresh fish, crab, calamari, and coconut rice, with vegetarian and chicken options always available

Afternoon: Island Exploration and Slave Caves

Following lunch, take a guided walk through a traditional fishing village to experience the slow pace of island life. You may visit a coral garden or a mangrove forest. On your return to the mainland, you'll tour the atmospheric Shimoni Slave Caves, a poignant historical site that served as a holding pen for slaves before they were shipped to Zanzibar

Late Afternoon: Return Journey

You'll board the boat for the short trip back to Shimoni, where your driver will be waiting. You'll arrive back at your Diani Beach hotel by late afternoon, around 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM

F.A.Q

Q: Is there a guarantee that I will see dolphins?

While dolphins are spotted on the majority of tours (estimates range from 90-95% success), they are wild animals and sightings cannot be 100% guaranteed. Reputable operators practice ethical viewing and do not chase or harass the animals 

Q: What if I don't eat seafood?

No problem. Tour operators are accustomed to catering to different dietary needs. Be sure to inform them at the time of booking, and they will prepare a delicious alternative like chicken or a vegetarian curry

Q: What should I bring with me?

You should pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a change of clothes. It's also a good idea to bring cash for tips or any personal purchases. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the coral or rocky areas

Q: Is the tour suitable for children and elderly people?

Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages. The boat ride is calm, and life jackets are provided. However, it may not be ideal for those with serious back problems, heart conditions, or severe mobility issues. For snorkeling, children should be comfortable in the water 

Q: What is the difference between a Dhow and a Speedboat?

A traditional dhow offers a more authentic, leisurely sailing experience with plenty of space and shade. A speedboat is faster, getting you to the snorkeling sites more quickly, which can be preferable if you are prone to seasickness or want to maximize time in the water

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What's Included
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Government statutory taxes
  • Meals on trip
  • Safari guide/driver
  • Transport
What's Excluded
  • Services & items of personal nature
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
Activities
  • Snorkeling
  • Snorkeling
Why Book With Us?
  • Dive into a sea of wonder on our Wasini Island tour! Snorkel vibrant reefs, sail with dolphins, and feast on fresh Swahili seafood—all in one magical day
  • Escape to paradise! Experience the ultimate Kenyan coast adventure with crystal-clear waters, historic caves, and a delicious island lunch. Book your dhow cruise today
  • Create memories that last a lifetime. Spot wild dolphins, explore marine parks, and savor the flavors of Wasini Island on our most popular day trip from Diani Beach
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