Dolphin Safari & Snorkelling with a Traditional Dhow

(10 Reviews)
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Tour Details

What? Experience dolphins swimming in their natural habitat up close on a traditional dhow, swim with the fishes through the marine protected corals and paddle through the mangrove of Mida Creek.

When? Dolphins are in the area between October and March. However you can experience turtles and whales during other times of the year and epic sunsets every single day!

Why? To experience one of the most beautiful species in the world while sailing on a traditional wooden dhow with local captains. Snorkelling and paddle boarding is a great plus too!

How? Depending on the type of trip you want, embark the dhow early in the morning to experience the dolphins / whales etc. Or later in the afternoon for a sunset cruise. We’ll take care of the rest. 

Location:

  • Watamu

Price Includes

  • Meals Cooked Fresh
  • Snorkelling Gear
  • Water
  • Exclusive Dhow for your Group

Price Excludes

  • Transport To & Fro
  • Tips
  • Marine Park Fees

Impact Created

  • ConservationCarrying out the dolphin safari ethically, using the sail where possible and giving the creatures space.
  • Local EmploymentThe dhow was built in Kenya by Kenyans and the entire crew are from the local area. Including the chef on board, bringing in some swahili twists into your meals!
  • EducationThe crew will share information with you about the local area, ecosystem, culture and marine life. Learn as you have a gooood time.
  • Minimising Engine UseThe authentic African dhow has a sail, therefore whenever possible the dhow moves with the sail rather than engine. Less noisy and much better for marine protection.
Photos
Dolphin Safari & Snorkelling with a Traditional Dhow in Watamu | Top Attractions & Things To Do in Coastal Kenya | Travel4Purpose

1st, 2nd & 3rd HourWelcome to the Dhow!

You will meet a crew member by the KWS offices where you’ll purchase your marine park ticket. You’ll then walk over to the dhow, dependent on tides a small boat will pick you up to take you to the dhow. Take a moment to be mesmerised with the elegant dhow then make yourself comfortable for a fantastic day trip. First up is a dolphin safari, as you sail the blue waters of Watamu. (Hopefully) spot the dolpins and spend some time with them, watching them gracefully swim through the waters in pods. 

4th & 5th HourSnorkelling Time

Once you’ve enjoyed the dolphins you can ask the crew to take you for some snorkelling time. You’ll head over to the marine park and dock the dhow, here you’ll be given some snacks while you’re free to jump into the clear waters and be surrounded by an array of fish. Take some time to bask under the sun on the comfortable cushions at the front of the dhow. 

If the tide is right, we’ll visit a sand bank – a section of sand in the middle of the ocean!

6th, 7th & 8th HourDid someone say Food?

Feeling peckish? Let the crew know. You’ll then head towards the quiet waters of Mida Creek, taking in a whole new landscape of greenery, calm waters and birds. You can choose whether to have the freshly cooked lunch on the dhow or at a nearby island. The food is cooked fresh by the Chef and is honestly some of the most delicious food you’ll ever have tasted!

FAQ's

Is the dhow exclusive for my friends and family?

Yes, the dhow is booked exclusively, therefore only your group and the crew will be on the dhow!

Is a Marine park ticket needed?

Yes it is. KWS rules state that to be out at sea in Watamu you need a Marine ticket. A crew from the dhow will meet you at the KWS office where you can purchase this ticket (100kshs for Kenyan Residents and 1,500kshs for Internationals).

What if I cannot swim?

No worries, if you’d like to get into the water we’re well equipped with life jackets, buoys and fantastic swimmers in the crew, to help you!

10 Reviews
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Mihir

Couple Traveller

Had an amazing experience with Travel4purpose. Sham was very accommodating. I made a mistake in the date of booking and Sham managed to find us a dhow last minute!

The crew of the dhow were amazing! Would definitely recommend using Sham!!

December 17, 2022

Chelsea

Group Traveller

We spent an amazing day on the dhow that Sham arranged for us. The trip started at Lichthaus Watamu. First stop was an amazing snorkeling spot after which we went to a small island in the mide creek on which our chef served a super good lunch. After that we did an additionally paid kanoe ride through the mangrove forest (mida creek) which was so beautiful. All in all the trip was really perfect. Recommend it to everyone who’s visiting Watamu.

October 14, 2022

Rashmi S

Group Traveller

Travel4purpose arranged for us (a group of 6) a city tour of Mombasa. We went around with tuktuks and discovered the city with the help of our amazing drivers.
The booking experience, communication and overall professionalism of T4P was outstanding. Our guides on the day were also great, giving us the true local feel of the city. Definitely recommend!

April 28, 2022

Saj S

Solo Traveller

Overall perfect experience. It was well curated, the crew on the boat and chef were amazing. We saw loads of dolphins and then went snorkeling. I will definitley book future trips with Travel4purpose as a lot of thought goes into making the trips fun, varied, reasonably priced, local and authentic.

March 28, 2022

John

Group Traveller

I cannot recommend Sham enough. The itinerary she had set out for us, was perfect for us. The highlights were plenty from the overnight dhow, Sunset Canoe on the river and Dolphins and snorkelling. Would highly recommend for those looking for activities to do on the Kenyan Coast – Stress-free

February 10, 2022
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