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Sail under the stars on a traditional dhow, listen to legendary tales, and feel the rhythm of African drums on this cultural cruise in Zanzibar.

Highlights

• Feel the rhythm of African drums as you sail under the stars
• Listen to legendary tales from a local storyteller in Swahili and English
• Enjoy refreshing drinks and light snacks made from local ingredients
• Join a Swahili dance session guided by local dancers
• Upgrade to savor a traditional Swahili meal prepared by local chefs

Description

As the golden sun dips below the Indian Ocean and the skies of Zanzibar shift into hues of purple and navy blue, the island reveals a mystical side of its soul – one steeped in ancient stories, Swahili traditions, and the gentle rhythm of African drums. Departing just after sunset from the shores of Stone Town or Nungwi, board a traditional Zanzibari dhow, a hand-crafted wooden sailing vessel once used for trade, fishing, and sea exploration. As the dhow glides across the calm, moonlit waters, the adventure begins. Be welcomed aboard the dhow by a friendly crew dressed in traditional Swahili attire. The deck is beautifully arranged with colorful cushions, woven mats, and low tables that create a cozy, communal atmosphere. As the boat sets sail, enjoy refreshing drinks such as fresh coconut juice, spiced tea, or chilled tamarind juice, alongside light snacks made from local ingredients like cassava chips, dates, and roasted peanuts. As the dhow cruises along the coastline, the storytelling begins. A seasoned local griot (traditional storyteller), known in Swahili as a msimulia hadithi, takes center stage. With a powerful voice and theatrical expression, the storyteller shares legendary tales that have been passed down for generations. These stories blend history, myth, and moral lessons – from ancient Swahili sailors braving the monsoons, to romantic tragedies set in Stone Town, to trickster animals from African folklore. As the night deepens, the tempo of the cruise shifts. The sound of live African drums begins to rise – played by skilled local musicians who know how to stir the spirit. The dhow becomes alive with rhythm as drummers play traditional instruments such as ngoma, kayamba, and marimba, creating a captivating and heart-pounding atmosphere. Be invited to participate – to clap along, move to the beat, or even join a Swahili dance session guided by local dancers. Whether you choose to dance under the stars or simply enjoy the performance, the energy is contagious and joyful. As the dhow continues to sail, be treated to breathtaking night views of the Zanzibari coastline. Stone Town’s old buildings glow with soft lights, their Arabic architecture reflecting on the water. In the distance, the silhouette of palm trees and dhows docked on the beach create a postcard-perfect scene. If the sky is clear, the stars twinkle brightly above – far away from city lights – offering a tranquil moment for reflection and connection with nature. For guests who choose the dinner package, a traditional Swahili meal is served onboard. Prepared by local chefs, the menu may include coconut rice, grilled seafood, plantain stew, chapati, spiced vegetables, and local desserts like kashata or mandazi. Dining by lantern light with the sounds of drums in the background adds to the magical ambiance of the cruise.

Includes

Traditional Zanzibari dhow cruise Welcome drinks and light snacks Cultural storytelling by a local griot Live African drumming and dance performance Breathtaking night views of the Zanzibari coastline

Important Information

• The tour departs just after sunset from Stone Town or Nungwi. The storytelling is conducted in both Swahili and English. Guests are invited to participate in the drumming and dance session.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund