Blue Ocean Club
9 days · 9 stops

9-Day Stone Town Yacht Charter: Southern Zanzibar & Mafia Island

Embark on an extended Stone Town yacht charter, journeying south from Zanzibar's vibrant capital to the pristine waters surrounding Mafia Island. This Indian Ocean adventure is designed for those seeking ultimate seclusion and unparalleled marine encounters. Imagine diving with whale sharks, exploring untouched coral gardens, and anchoring in bays where the only footprints are your own. The itinerary promises a blend of historical discovery in Stone Town and raw, unspoiled nature, offering a unique perspective on Tanzania's captivating coastline.

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  1. DAY 01

    Stone Town, Zanzibar

    Immerse yourself in Stone Town's historical charm. Wander through the Old Slave Market site and the Sultan's Palace Museum, absorbing centuries of history.

    • Sultan's Palace Museum
    • Old Slave Market site
    • St. Joseph's Cathedral
    • Sunset dhow cruise from Forodhani
    Anchorage
    Stone Town Harbour
    Dining
    Lukmaan Restaurant (local Swahili cuisine)
  2. DAY 02

    Jozani Forest & Chwaka Bay

    Sail east to Chwaka Bay, then venture inland to Jozani Forest to see the rare red colobus monkeys. Enjoy the tranquil waters of the bay.

    • Red colobus monkey viewing in Jozani Forest
    • Mangrove boardwalk exploration
    • Relaxing on Chwaka Bay beach
    • Birdwatching
    Anchorage
    Chwaka Bay anchorage
    Dining
    Yacht's private chef
  3. DAY 03

    Uzi Island & Kizimkazi

    Head south to the remote Uzi Island, connected by a tidal causeway. Continue to Kizimkazi, known for its dolphin sightings and the oldest mosque in East Africa.

    • Dolphin spotting in Kizimkazi
    • Visit to Dimbani Mosque (Shirazi Mosque)
    • Exploring Uzi Island's traditional villages
    • Snorkelling in crystal clear waters
    Anchorage
    Kizimkazi Dimbani anchorage
    Dining
    Local seafood at a Kizimkazi beach restaurant
  4. DAY 04

    Songo Songo Archipelago (Pemba Channel crossing)

    Undertake a crossing of the Pemba Channel towards the remote Songo Songo Archipelago. This journey offers open ocean sailing and a chance to spot pelagic species.

    • Open ocean sailing experience
    • Potential for dolphin and tuna sightings
    • Starlit night at sea
    • Arrival at a truly remote destination
    Anchorage
    Songo Songo Island anchorage
    Dining
    Onboard gourmet dinner
  5. DAY 05

    Chole Bay, Mafia Island

    Arrive at Chole Bay, the heart of the Mafia Island Marine Park. Explore the ruins on Chole Island and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the bay.

    • Snorkelling in Chole Bay
    • Visiting Chole Island ruins and flying fox bats
    • Kayaking through mangrove channels
    • Birdwatching
    Anchorage
    Chole Bay anchorage
    Dining
    Chole Mjini Lodge (advance booking recommended)
  6. DAY 06

    Utende & Juani Island, Mafia Island

    Explore the area around Utende, the main village in the marine park. Take a trip to Juani Island to see the Kua Ruins and the natural 'Blue Lagoon'.

    • Snorkelling and diving in Utende's reefs
    • Kua Ruins on Juani Island
    • Swimming in the 'Blue Lagoon' tidal pool
    • Relaxing on deserted beaches
    Anchorage
    Utende anchorage
    Dining
    Kinasi Lodge Restaurant
  7. DAY 07

    Kilindoni & Whale Shark Spotting, Mafia Island

    Sail to Kilindoni, the main town of Mafia Island. From here, embark on an excursion to spot and potentially swim with whale sharks (seasonal, Oct-Mar).

    • Whale shark swimming excursion (seasonal)
    • Exploring Kilindoni market
    • Diving in the Mafia Island Marine Park
    • Learning about local conservation efforts
    Anchorage
    Kilindoni Bay anchorage
    Dining
    Local Swahili dinner in Kilindoni
  8. DAY 08

    Returning North: Ras Mkumbuu

    Begin the journey back north, making a stop at a secluded anchorage along the coast, perhaps near Ras Mkumbuu for a final swim and sunset.

    • Secluded swimming and relaxation
    • Enjoying the vastness of the Indian Ocean
    • Stargazing away from light pollution
    • Reflecting on the journey
    Anchorage
    Ras Mkumbuu anchorage
    Dining
    Farewell dinner aboard your yacht
  9. DAY 09

    Stone Town, Zanzibar

    Return to Stone Town, disembarking with memories of secluded coves, vibrant marine life, and the rich history of the Zanzibar Archipelago. The exotic scents of the market welcome you back.

    • Final walk through Stone Town's alleys
    • Last-minute souvenir shopping
    • Enjoying a local coffee
    • Transfer to Zanzibar International Airport
    Anchorage
    Stone Town Harbour
    Dining
    Zanzibar Coffee House
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