The Zanzibar Archipelago, off the coast of Tanzania, is an absolute haven of islands combined with azure crystal-clear waters, striking coral reefs, and endless immaculate beaches.
With the different kinds of marine life, wind conditions, and scenic islands, this breathtaking destination has risen to be among the best places for sailing.
Why Zanzibar is ideal for sailing.
Located at the Indian Ocean, besides the warm tropical climate prevailing in Zanzibar, sailing is perfect here. The waters are usually calm, and the winds are good owing to the moderate breeze passing; hence, sailing is ideal for both novice and experienced sailors. Moreover, the islands and islets within this archipelago are easily explored, and thus tourists and lovers of nature pass their precious moments and experiences there.
Wind Conditions: The prevailing northeast and southeast trade winds in this region offer an excellent year-round sailability.
Scenic Marine Life: The Zanzibar reefs are a celebrated tourist spot due to the wide marine life varieties they harbor, which let the snorkellers swim close with dolphins and sea turtles amidst colorful species of fishes.
Principle Anchorage Sites at Zanzibar
There are several islands constituting this archipelago, where each provides a different service to an ambitious sailing boat tourist.
1. Unguja Island or Zanzibar Island: This is the biggest island and it has a very good strategic position to visit historic Stone Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a very good position at the beginning or the end of your sailing vacation, with nearby reefs and sandbanks.
2. Pemba Island: With luxuriant green forests and uncrowded beaches, Pemba Island is a serene island to cruise around. The many-coloured coral reefs create a haven for a lot of species in its waters, hence making Pemba the most favourite place for a snorkeling stop.
Mnemba Atoll: This is a small uninhabited island lying off the shores of Zanzibar Island. Mnemba is reasonably popular because of its beautiful reef. The area around Mnemba is a protected marine reserve, and thus this is an excellent stop for underwater exploration while on your sailing tour.
Activities While Sailing in Zanzibar
Indeed, there are many things one can undertake when on a sailing tour at Zanzibar such as island hopping, the sunset cruise, and snorkeling.
Island Hopping: The sailor will encounter a lot of islands in the archipelago along with their respective cultures, beaches, and ecosystems, each different from the previous one and making another part of the archipelago.
Sunset Cruises: Not many persons miss the sun setting into the horizon, and you get this marvelous experience as it sets below the horizon. The dhow boats of the locals give a realistic touch to it.
Snorkeling and Diving: Waters around Zanzibar are rich in marine life. Most sailing tours have stoppages for snorkeling or diving, where one gets to peek into life underwater.
Hello, Lykkers!
Have any of you guys ever been around the shores of Zanzibar, maybe to a place that holds a special spot for you? If so, do share your story and, together, let's dream up a dream voyage.
