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Watch the sun dip below the Indian Ocean from the deck of a traditional dhow, sailing along Zanzibar's northern coastline from Kendwa Beach. Hotel pickup, drinks, snacks and a live band are all on board, pairing an easy afternoon on the water with one of the island's best sunset views.
Guests are collected from their hotel in the afternoon and driven to Kendwa Beach, where a traditional wooden dhow waits close to shore. Once everyone is aboard and fitted with a life jacket, the boat sets off along the reef lined northern coastline, with a live band playing and drinks and snacks passed round as the light begins to soften.
Each stage of the afternoon, from the first pickup to the moment the sun drops below the horizon, is covered step by step below.
Kendwa sits on Zanzibar's north west coast and is known for one of the island's calmest, most swimmable stretches of sand, sheltered from the tide changes that affect beaches further south. Powder white sand meets shallow turquoise water, and the open horizon here gives an uninterrupted view for sunset that few other spots on the island can match.
The surrounding coastline is dotted with small fishing settlements and dive centres, and boats from Kendwa can reach open water quickly, which is why the area has become the island's favourite base for sunset sailing. Most hotels along this stretch and further into Nungwi are within easy pickup distance, making the beach a natural gathering point before heading out to sea.
No sailing experience or particular fitness is needed to enjoy this trip, and it suits most adults and older children who are comfortable spending a few hours on the water. The dhow itself is stable and spacious, with plenty of room to sit, stand and move around the deck during the crossing.
Comfortable clothing, a hat and sun protection are worth bringing along, since much of the sail takes place in open sunlight before the temperature cools toward evening. Guests who are unsteady on their feet or prone to seasickness should mention this on booking so the crew can offer a seat with the steadiest ride.
The crew grew up sailing this stretch of coast and reads the tides and wind by eye, choosing a route each afternoon that makes the most of the light and keeps the ride comfortable. The dhow itself is a genuine working sailing boat rather than a motorised tourist launch, so the crossing has a quieter, more traditional feel than most sunset trips.
Hotel pickup, drinks and a live band are built into the afternoon, so there is nothing to organise beyond turning up ready to enjoy the ride. Group sizes stay manageable rather than packing the deck, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and gives everyone a clear view as the sun goes down.
About the centre
Kendwa
Operated by Suley Zanz Excursion, a partner of adventuro.
