"Turquoise Lagoons, Wild Dolphin Encounters, and Swahili Seafood Banquets: Sail the Indian Ocean in Traditional Dhow Luxury from Diani Beach"
Safari Overview
Embark on the South Coast’s premier ocean safari, seamlessly linking the pristine white sands of Diani Beach with the protected waters of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Board a traditional handcrafted Swahili wooden dhow at historical Shimoni harbor and cruise across azure channels where wild bottlenose and humpback dolphins play in the bow waves. Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens teeming with green sea turtles, stingrays, and over 250 reef fish species before anchoring at Wasini Island for a celebrated seafood feast with seasoned mangrove crab. Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and couples looking to discover Kenya’s finest marine wonderland.
Key Excursion Highlights
Wild Dolphin Tracking in Wasini Channel
Spot resident pods of bottlenose and spinner dolphins playing in calm tropical waters.
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park Snorkeling
Two guided snorkeling sessions across shallow coral reefs packed with sea turtles and tropical fish.
Traditional Wooden Dhow Sailing
Glide across the Indian Ocean aboard an authentic Arab-style dhow equipped with safety gear and sun canopies.
Authentic Wasini Island Crab Feast
Savor a multi-course Swahili banquet featuring fresh ginger-garlic mangrove crab, grilled fish, coconut rice, and seaweed.
Ancient Coral Garden & Boardwalk
Take a guided stroll across Wasini village’s ancient fossilized coral formations protected by the local women’s group.
🐬 Full-Day Marine Safari: Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park & Wasini Island Dhow Voyage - Circuit Route Map
Detailed Timed Itinerary
Step-by-step expedition timeline from hotel pickup to evening drop-off.
Hotel Pick-Up in Diani Beach
Board your air-conditioned safari van or 4x4 cruiser from your Diani resort and drive south through coconut plantations and coastal villages.
Arrival at Historic Shimoni Port
Arrive at the old slave port of Shimoni, meet your marine guide, and board the motorized Swahili wooden dhow with tea, coffee, and fresh fruit.
Dolphin Safari in Wasini Channel
Keep your camera ready as your captain navigates protected channels renowned for dolphin pods swimming alongside the dhow.
Snorkeling at Kisite Marine Park
Drop anchor inside the marine sanctuary. Don snorkeling gear with qualified marine rangers to explore pristine coral reefs and swim with sea turtles.
Wasini Island Swahili Seafood Banquet
Disembark onto Wasini Island for a leisurely gourmet lunch featuring fresh crab, line-caught fish, coconut sauce, and tropical fruits (chicken/vegetarian available).
Wasini Women Boardwalk & Coral Garden Tour
Explore the fascinating mangrove ecosystem and prehistoric coral garden on an elevated timber boardwalk.
Return Dhow Cruise to Shimoni Mainland
Sail back across the channel with gentle ocean breezes, disembarking at Shimoni harbor for your return transfer.
Drop-Off at Diani Beach Resort
Arrive back at your Diani Beach resort in time for evening sundowners.
What’s Included
- ✔️ Round-trip hotel transfers from Diani Beach / Ukunda / Galu in air-conditioned vehicle
- ✔️ Full-day traditional wooden dhow cruise with dedicated captain and crew
- ✔️ Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park conservation entry fees
- ✔️ Quality snorkeling gear (masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets)
- ✔️ Professional licensed marine and snorkeling guide
- ✔️ Sumptuous multi-course Swahili seafood lunch at Wasini Island (Crab, Fish, Coconut Rice)
- ✔️ Morning tea, Kenyan coffee, mineral water, and fresh tropical fruit onboard the dhow
- ✔️ Wasini Island Boardwalk and Coral Garden community entry fee
What’s Not Included
- ❌ Alcoholic beverages and premium sodas at the island restaurant
- ❌ Optional Shimoni Slave Caves historical tour entry fee ($5 / KES 500)
- ❌ Gratuities and tips for dhow crew, guides, and transfer drivers
- ❌ Personal travel and medical insurance
- ❌ Souvenirs and personal beach purchases
Ready for the Coast Best Seller?
Book your private transfer and entry passes with Southern Grevy Tours Limited. Direct hotel pickup in Diani, Mombasa, or Nairobi included.