NEW! Grand Africa to Asia Explorer

Explore Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town on foot to see a bustling local market and the Old Fort of Zanzibar. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site that is steeped in Afro-Asian history. Stone Town’s architecture reflects the seaborne trading activity between Asia and Africa, which took place for centuries. Set out on a walk with your guide, passing the Anglican Church and through the narrow alleys to Jaw's Corner, and the Hamanmni Persian Baths. Admire the view from Forodhani Gardens as you pause outside of the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum. Visit the Old Fort of Zanzibar, established by the Portuguese during the 16th century; it has been recently restored and now houses stores displaying arts and handicrafts. Enjoy free time to browse before heading back to your awaiting ship.

Relax on one of Zanzibar’s famed white-sand beaches and discover the marine life offshore. Embark on a scenic island drive, admiring the sights and views along the way. You will arrive at the shore, where you will board a dhow, a traditional wooden boat. Receive a short safety briefing, then set off for a leisurely cruise to the enchanting island of Pange Sandbank. Here, you will while away a few hours, enjoying picture-postcard views and time here at your leisure. Perhaps take a stroll along the shore, soak up the sunshine or read a book. Or grab your snorkel gear and slip beneath the water’s surface to explore the diverse undersea life that inhabits a nearby coral reef. Later, enjoy a delicious seafood buffet before enjoying more free time to rejuvenate on the beach. Afterward, board your vessel and return to shore, then transfer to your awaiting ship.

Explore the Maruhubi Palace ruins, enjoy a sensory delight at a spice farm and visit the ancient Persian baths. Drive to the Maruhubi Palace, passing the house of Dr. David Livingstone, where the explorer lodged while planning his expeditions. Take a guided tour of the ruins of Maruhubi Palace, which served as the Sultan’s harem until it was decimated by a fire. Delve into the world of spices at a spice plantation and experience the aromas of its extensive collection. During your tour, you will learn how the spices and plants are used for food enhancement, cosmetics and natural medicines. Take the opportunity to purchase your favorite spices after savoring a selection of local snacks and beverages. Cap your tour with a visit to the ruins of the Persian baths at Kidichi, built by the first Sultan for his Persian wife. Afterward board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Discover rare red colobus monkeys of the Jozani Forest as you stroll across boardwalks over mangroves. Enjoy a scenic drive south to the Jozani Forest Reserve. This reserve is the biggest expanse of old-growth forest on the island and serves as a sanctuary for the endangered red colobus monkeys. Upon arrival, you will be guided through the forest’s trails as you immerse yourself in the beauty and splendor of the natural environment. During your walk, your guide will offer insight into the diverse array of animals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the various ecosystems of this tropical rainforest. Follow the boardwalk through a mangrove swamp and walk between towering eucalyptus and mahogany trees that provide an essential habitat for native birds and butterflies. Afterward, enjoy time to admire your tranquil surroundings, before returning to your ship.

Set sail on a traditional dhow to explore the history of Prison Island and encounter the majestic giant tortoises. Drive towards Stone Town, then board your vessel and embark on a leisurely sail to Prison Island. Pause to enjoy a snorkeling stop and marvel at the tropical fish that swim among the beautiful, live coral reef. At Prison Island, explore the ruins that served as a sanitation station for sailors suspected of carrying dangerous, contagious diseases. After a guided tour, take a stroll along a hiking trail, keeping your eyes peeled for the slow-moving giant tortoises that roam the Island, or you can choose to enjoy time relaxing as you admire your surroundings. Back on board your dhow, marvel at the ocean vistas during the return sail to shore.

Escape into tranquillity and embark on a captivating sunset cruise through the crystal-clear waters of Stone Town. During late afternoon, you will board a traditional wooden dhow and after a short safety briefing, set sail along the picturesque waterfront of Stone Town. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing sights of Stone Town from the water, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of Zanzibari musicians playing taarab, a genre of music from East Africa. As the golden rays of the setting sun warm the skies, indulge in a selection of delectable canapés, refreshing soft drinks and chilled beer. With the Zanzibar sunset as your backdrop, enjoy time to capture the sights on your camera, before a leisurely sail back towards the glimmering lights of Stone Town returns you to your awaiting ship.