Zanzibar Submarine Tour: See the Coral Reef Through Panoramic Windows, Dry & Comfortable
Not everyone wants to snorkel, and that is where the semi-submarine comes in. You sit in a cabin below the waterline and look out at the coral reef through large panoramic windows, while staying completely dry.
The trip leaves from Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town and suits families, older guests and non-swimmers.
Duration
From 2 Hours
Tour Type
Submarine / Adventure
Difficulty
Very Easy
Age
All Ages
Drinks
Water Included
Pickup
Available
Overview
The vessel is a semi-submarine, not a fully diving submarine: the upper deck stays above water and the viewing cabin sits about 1.4 metres below the surface. There is no pressure change and no sealed dive.
You cruise to the reefs around Bawe Island, where a marine guide narrates and points out fish and corals. Photos through the windows are easy.
Duration depends on the package, starting from two hours. Prices are per person and shown below.
Mosum Tours & Safaris is a Zanzibar-based operator with more than ten years of experience in ground handling. Our guides and drivers live on the island, know it well and are on WhatsApp from 8 AM to 9 PM every day.
Highlights
Professional narration
A marine guide on board
Photo opportunities
Large windows
Family friendly
Dry and calm
Marine conservation
Learn about the reef
Itinerary
Arrive at Forodhani
Meet at the boarding lounge near Cape Town Fish Market.
Boat transfer
A short speedboat ride to the floating platform.
Board the semi-submarine
Go down to the viewing cabin with your seat by a window.
Reef cruise
Cruise around Bawe Island while the guide narrates.
Optional beach time
Some packages add a sandbank or beach stop.
Return to Stone Town
Return to the waterfront.
Price
Includes
- Professional captain and marine guide
- Submarine tour with panoramic views
- Expert narration and marine education
- Soft drinks and refreshments
- Safety equipment and briefing
- Hotel transfers (available for an extra cost)
- All government fees and permits
Best Time for a Zanzibar Submarine Tour
The semi-submarine runs year-round from Forodhani, and because the Bawe Island reef sits on Zanzibar's sheltered west coast, it is protected from the strongest seasonal swells. What changes month to month is underwater visibility. The clearest water falls between September and March, when calm seas and low runoff give you the sharpest view through the windows. April and May bring the long rains, when sediment reduces visibility and some departures may be moved.
- Excellent — clearest water, calm crossing
- Good — occasional showers or light swell
- Moderate — long rains, reduced visibility
What Guests Say
The best tourist guide in Zanzibar!!
Very nice visit to Stone Town with Mohamed. Good explanation and Mohamed is very knowledgeable about Zanzibar's history. Recommended.
We were attended by Mohamed who provided us with impeccable service. Great driver, super polite and helpful! In addition to knowing Zanzibar very well and being a great guide!!!
Erg goede gids, wist veel te vertellen van Stonetown. Goed gezelschap!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Book This Tour
Tell us your dates and group size and we will confirm availability, pickup time and the final price. Prefer to chat? Message the Mosum Tours & Safaris team on WhatsApp.