Zanzibar Submarine

Reef and Beach Tour

/ Per Person
This tour combines underwater reef exploration and beach relaxation with picnic included.

This Includes:

3 Hours semi-submarine tour
Welcome drink on departure launge
On-board facilities
Memory Pictures

Summary

Combining our famous Semi-Submarine Reef Tour with a Speed Boat excursion. Picnic, sun bathing & swimming at one of the white sandbanks in front of Stone Town. Guests will be transferred from the reef to sandbank by one of our famous RIB speedboats.

Semi-Submarine Reef & Speed Boat Sandbank Adventure

Experience the best of both worlds in Zanzibar with our unique Semi-Submarine Reef Tour combined with a Speed Boat excursion to a white sandbank near Stone Town. This adventure offers a blend of underwater exploration and beach relaxation.

Cruise to Coral Reef & Beach

  • Coral Reef Tour: The journey to the coral reef lasts about 30 minutes. Initially, enjoy Zanzibar’s historical and geographical insights on the upper deck, then move to the lower deck to observe marine life through large windows.
  • Sandbank Visit: After about 1.5 hours, our speedboat transfers you to a nearby sandbank for a picnic, sunbathing, and swimming. Our hospitality staff and a designated picnic tent await you.

Memory Pictures

  • Guides and divers will take free memory photos of passengers through the submarine’s windows. Restrictions: No swimming, diving, or snorkeling during the tour.

Briefing & Refreshments

  • Safety briefing in the acclimatized departure lounge at Forodhani Gardens
  • Life jackets for children; adults’ jackets on board
  • Free Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks, and private toilets at the lounge
  • Advised to leave large baggage at the departure lounge

Boarding Process

  • Escort to the submarine via an inflatable shuttle boat, depending on the tide.
  • Welcome and assistance by the Captain and crew on the boarding platform.

Limitations

  • No pets allowed
  • No outside food/drinks
  • No Luggage or large bags
  • Not suitable for children under 5
  • Not suitable for pregnant women
  • Dress code as per Zanzibar’s guidelines
  • Fixed departures; check-in 30 mins before at Stone Town lounge
  • Tour duration subject to tides and weather

How to prepare

  • Carry ID/Passport for boarding identification
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sandals recommended
  • Waterproof bag for belongings
  • Essential medications for specific conditions
  • Use restroom facilities before starting the activity
A Must-Do Activity When Visiting Zanzibar
We highly recommend the Zanzibar Submarine Tours! It’s the next best thing to snorkeling and you’ll stay a lot dryer. Their equipment is totally safe and top notch. Their staff is friendly and very informed. If you visit Zanzibar, this is a must-do activity!
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Scott R
Original Review 
The best breathtaking Excursions i have ever been
This is one of the best breathtaking excursions I have ever been to. Since I was a kid, I have always been very inquisitive and wanted to know what lay under the sea and Zanzibar Submarine you made it possible for me, thank you so much. From the briefing at their departure lounge by the beautiful ladies Khadija and Sania, to their picking-up point to their drop-off spot, everything was just flawless. The staff are fantastic and very professional. I must say Zanzibar Submarine does know how to make you feel VIP. Thank you for having us and giving us the most amazing experience! I am coming back to try out the other excursions that you have : )
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Natasha E
Original Review 
I would definitely tell all of my colleagues to go
Hello I jus sant to say the submarine experience was first time in my life i really enjoyed it it was fun and amazing my wife loved it a lot and my family also
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Mohamedhussein B
Original Review 
Amazing classic reef tour
The views were fantastic. We went around Bawe Island and saw reefs and various kind of fish species. We really enjoyed the tour & I highly reccomend anyone to experience this too. Everthing was well organized , the Captain & crew staff were kind, personable & ensured our safety all the time.
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Juvenal L
Original Review 
To do list while in Zanzibar Tanzania.
Safety first 🥇 Very safe and kids friendly! The Captain and the Crew were very professional. The views were amazing too.
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Sheila
Original Review 

Frequently Asked Questions

Reservations can be made through various platforms including our reservations office, website, Viator, and agents.

In unfavorable weather conditions, your tour’s safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. If the weather worsens, we have contingency plans in place. We can either reschedule your tour for an alternative date that suits you or provide a full refund, ensuring you have flexibility and peace of mind when booking with us.

To join the cruise, you can go to our temporary waiting area, a 6 x 6m tent situated at Forodhani, or you can contact us at +255 788 300 005 for further inquiries and directions.

The cruise duration can take upto 3 hours.

Payments can be made through various platforms including Our Website, Expedia, and Viator. We also accept direct payments via Mobile Payments.

Payments can be made through various platforms including Our Website, Expedia, and Viator. We also accept direct payments via Mobile Payments.

Cancellations made 48 hours in advance are fully refundable. Late cancellations may incur a fee.

For our policies during your tours at the Semi-Submarine, it’s important to dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing. If you’ve booked the “Royal Beach Tour,” which includes visiting the open sandbank beaches, you can bring your swimwear to change into. Afterward, you should switch back into appropriate attire to respect the local Zanzibar culture, which adheres to modest dress codes in public areas and during excursions, especially considering it’s a predominantly Muslim Culture. Please review the Zanzibar code of conduct and dress guidelines

The semi-submarine is a remarkable vessel designed for underwater exploration. It has a substantial portion, about 140cm, submerged beneath the water, allowing you to get up close to the marine life and coral reefs. Its impressive stability sets it apart, with 8 out of its 10-ton weight concentrated in the belly, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. In terms of fuel efficiency, it consumes only 4.5 liters per hour, making it an eco-friendly choice for underwater adventures. This makes the semi-submarine an excellent choice for those exploring the ocean’s wonders while minimizing their environmental impact.

Our two speedboats serve multiple purposes. They are used for transfers to the semi-submarine and other excursions, like renting day-long charters for open Indian Ocean adventures during your Zanzibar holiday. Each boat consumes 24 liters of fuel per hour and can be hired individually for a thrilling.

These tours provide a unique opportunity to explore and experience the wonders of Zanzibar’s open oceans, which include its vibrant marine life, coral reefs, and the marine ecosystem, all without the need to get wet. Additionally, the tours offer a captivating glimpse into the underwater world of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, during these excursions, you can enjoy exploring open sandbanks, indulge in sunbathing sessions, and take refreshing swims in the crystal-clear blue ocean while sipping on soft drinks and capturing memorable photos for your unforgettable tour with us.

We have multiple departure times throughout the day for the different packages:

  • Classic Reef Tour
    • 9:30 am – 11:30 am
    • 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
    • 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
  • Royal Beach Tour
    • 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
    • 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Sunset & Moon Tour
    • 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

While we aim to provide a pleasant experience, motion sickness can be challenging for some passengers during our tours. We suggest those prone to motion sickness take precautions like using anti-motion sickness medication and sitting in well-ventilated areas, which our semi-submarine has an open-top to enjoy the surface. Our crew members are trained to assist passengers experiencing motion sickness and ensure their well-being. We also have motion sickness bags available onboard for your convenience.

The Semi-Submarine has a substantial portion, about 140cm, submerged beneath that can reach up to 2m.

The distance covered depends on the type of tour and the tide conditions. Different coral reefs are visited depending on the level of the tide.

You can reschedule your tour subject to availability, provided you inform us at least 48 hours in advance.

Combining tours is possible, but it would depend on the scheduling and availability of the tours you are interested in.

Our semi-submarines have life jackets, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers. Safety briefings are conducted before each tour, and a rescue speed boat is always 5-10 minutes away. For more information go to our safety & comfort page

This safety briefing outlines the procedures and equipment in place for the semi-submarine service, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, rescue speed boat availability, and emergency exit procedures. The briefing emphasizes the importance of following crew instructions and being aware of safety protocols.

1. Introduction:

Welcome aboard Zanzibar’s semi-submarine service.

Your safety is paramount to us, and we have specific measures in place to ensure a secure experience.

2. Life Jackets:

Life jackets are located above your heads.

In the event of an emergency, put on the life jacket by slipping it over your head, fastening the straps, and pulling them tight.

Crew members will assist you if needed and demonstrate the correct usage.

3. Fire Extinguishers:

Our semi-submarine is equipped with an automatic fire extinguisher in the engine.

Additionally, two manual fire extinguishers are strategically located on board.

The crew is trained to handle fire emergencies, and passengers should follow their instructions.

4. Rescue Speed Boat:

A rescue speed boat is always 5-10 minutes away from our submarine.

We maintain constant radio contact with the rescue boat.

In an emergency, the rescue boat will be summoned to assist with evacuation.

5. Emergency Exit Procedures:

  • Scenario 1 (Rescue Boat On Sight): Passengers will be guided to board the rescue boat. Follow the crew’s instructions and move calmly to the designated exit.
  • Scenario 2 (Rescue Boat Not On Sight): Passengers will be instructed to jump into the water with life jackets on. Crew members will assist with the procedure and coordinate rescue efforts.

6. Conclusion:

Your safety is our priority, and we have taken measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

If you have any questions or concerns, please ask a crew member

In our temporary 6 x 6m tent at Forodhani, you will receive a tour briefing, meet your captain, and access vending machines for refreshments as you wait to board the speed boat that will take you to your semi-submarine for your underwater tour.

A 15 x 10m floating platform is used for boarding. It has docks for two speedboats and two submarines and is equipped with a CCTV.

Each semi-submarine can accommodate eight people. Amenities include a bottle of water for each passenger, sick bags, and a no-shoes policy. A portable toilet can be installed for private cruises.

Yes, for safety reasons, we do not recommend our tours for women who are over 6 months pregnant or have had previous pregnancy complications.

Our facilities are not fully equipped for disabled persons. However, we strive to accommodate everyone and recommend contacting us in advance to discuss specific needs.

No foods or drinks (alcohol) are allowed on board. Picnic boxes are served at the sandbank, and a mocktail is provided for the sunset cruise.

For transfers in Zanzibar, we collaborate with Sun Tours, and they charge $10 per person for pickups from any hotel or resort on the island. Please note that online bookings do not include the transfer option.

We serve picnic boxes at the sandbank, which include Sambusa, a drink, and fruit. A mocktail is provided for the sunset cruise.

The sales and administrative team can be identified by their attire: white polo T-shirts and blue shorts. Our team will be available in our temporary 6 x 6m tent at Forodhani.

Our dedicated photography team manages all the photography aspects during the tour.

Zanzibar Submarine

Reef and Beach Tour

$149
/ Per Adult
*Special introductory price until 31/03/2024
This tour combines underwater reef exploration and beach relaxation with picnic included.

This Includes:

3 Hours semi-submarine tour
Welcome drink on departure launge
On-board facilities
Memory Pictures

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