Rather than a motorised speedboat, many operators running trips from Shimoni to Wasini Island and the surrounding Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park use traditional dhows, adding a slower, more atmospheric element to what's already one of the south coast's best marine excursions. The sail itself, powered by wind rather than engine noise, gives a genuinely different feel to the crossing compared to a standard powerboat transfer.
A typical full-day trip combines the dhow sail with snorkelling stops over the marine park's coral gardens, a chance at dolphin sightings in the channel, and often finishes with a fresh seafood lunch prepared on Wasini Island itself, sourced directly from the local fishing community.
What a dhow day trip includes
- A scenic sail between Shimoni and Wasini Island, typically combined with marine park snorkelling stops.
- A strong chance of dolphin sightings in the channel along the way.
- A fresh, locally prepared seafood lunch on Wasini Island as part of most full-day packages.
- Book through established operators in Shimoni or via your Diani accommodation.
It's one of the most complete single-day excursions on Kenya's south coast — sailing, wildlife, snorkelling and food all built into one relaxed, traditional-boat outing.
