Zanzibar

Tanzania

Explore the labyrinthine spice markets and whitewashed Stone Town, where centuries of Arab, African, and Indian influences blend into an intoxicating sensory experience.

Currency Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Language Swahili, English

Time Zone EAT (UTC+3)

Best Time to Visit Dec–Mar

Typical Duration 12-93 nights

Price Range From $44,490 pp

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the exotic Spice Island of Zanzibar, offering pristine beaches, historic Stone Town, and access to East African wildlife and Indian Ocean adventures.

Cruises that visit Zanzibar

Build Your Day in Zanzibar

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Mtende Beach There are many see urchins so bring you water shoes to get into the water. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 2k

Shangani Public Beach Nice place for a swim and exercise in the morning plus great sunset Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k Open 24 hours

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Zanzibar

About Zanzibar

Zanzibar serves as a compelling port of call for discerning cruise travelers, with three premium cruise lines including Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea, and Emerald Cruises calling regularly throughout the year. With 19 upcoming cruises and typical itineraries spanning 12 nights, this Tanzanian island attracts cruise passengers seeking authentic East African experiences. The port connects seamlessly to some of the world's most remarkable destinations, from the wildlife-rich ports of Mombasa to the dramatic landscapes of Cape Town and the remote beauty of Aldabra Atoll.

When your ship arrives in Zanzibar, you'll step into a world where centuries of Swahili culture, Arab influence, and maritime history converge. The island's UNESCO-listed Stone Town captivates visitors with its labyrinthine streets, ornate architecture, and vibrant spice markets, while pristine beaches and turquoise waters invite relaxation and water activities. Whether you're a culture enthusiast or nature lover, Zanzibar delivers memorable shore experiences that complement any Indian Ocean or African cruise itinerary, with peak season running from December through March.

Stone Town's Enchanting Historic Streets

Wander through Stone Town's UNESCO-listed labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with intricately carved wooden doors, ornate balconies, and centuries-old coral stone buildings. This living museum showcases Swahili, Arab, Persian, and Indian architectural influences accumulated over 500 years of trade. Visit the former Sultan's Palace and explore the atmospheric spice markets that made Zanzibar legendary.

Savor Zanzibar's Legendary Spice Heritage

Taste your way through Zanzibar's famous spice plantations and local cuisine featuring cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Sample authentic Zanzibari dishes like urojo (street food soup) and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or join a spice tour to learn how these aromatic treasures shaped the island's history and economy for centuries.

Pristine Beaches and Turquoise Waters

Relax on powdery white-sand beaches with crystalline turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Nungwi Beach and Kendwa Beach offer vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish just minutes from the port. The warm Indian Ocean and gentle waves provide an idyllic tropical escape within your port day.

Bustling Darajani Market's Sensory Experience

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Darajani Market, where vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, colorful fabrics, handcrafted souvenirs, and local spices. This authentic marketplace captures the essence of Zanzibari daily life, offering opportunities to haggle for unique gifts while experiencing the island's energetic trading culture firsthand.

Jozani Forest's Rare Red Colobus Monkeys

Visit Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to encounter Zanzibar's endemic red colobus monkeys in their natural mangrove forest habitat. This unique ecosystem is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience and guided nature walks through pristine coastal wetlands accessible from the port.

Cruise Lines at Zanzibar

Emerald Cruises (30 cruises)
Viking Ocean Cruises (14 cruises)
Atlas Ocean Voyages (7 cruises)
Seabourn (7 cruises)
MSC Cruises (3 cruises)

Cruises Departing From Zanzibar

Cruises Visiting Zanzibar

Ship Schedule at Zanzibar

Zanzibar Location

Other Cruise Ports in Tanzania

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Mafia Island