Tamarind Dhow Cruise
Sail into enchantment on a traditional Swahili dhow, savoring exquisite cuisine and live music against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical sunsets & live music
Tamarind Dhow Cruise
Best Time
Magical sunsets & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sail into enchantment on a traditional Swahili dhow, savoring exquisite cuisine and live music against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
"This experience was so lovely it moved me to tears internally, and will hold a special place in my heart always."
🎯 Book Ahead for Lunch
Lunch cruises need 15+ pax. Book early to secure your spot or opt for the more reliable dinner cruise.
🎶 Request a Song!
The live band is fantastic and takes requests! Make your cruise even more special.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Indian Ocean, Mombasa
Sail into the sunset on a traditional Swahili dhow, enjoying breathtaking views and a magical atmosphere.
Live Entertainment
Onboard the Dhow
Enjoy a talented live band playing a mix of music, often taking requests and creating a lively ambiance.
Swahili Cuisine
Onboard the Dhow
Savor delicious Swahili-inspired dishes and fresh seafood as you cruise along the coast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance, Especially for Lunch
Embrace the Sunset Vibe
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Lunch
Lunch cruises need 15+ pax. Book early to secure your spot or opt for the more reliable dinner cruise.
🎶 Request a Song!
The live band is fantastic and takes requests! Make your cruise even more special.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Bring your camera for stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
🥂 Welcome Drink Included
Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink, often a 'Dawa' cocktail, to start your evening.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Lunch
Lunch cruises need 15+ pax. Book early to secure your spot or opt for the more reliable dinner cruise.
🎶 Request a Song!
The live band is fantastic and takes requests! Make your cruise even more special.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Bring your camera for stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
🥂 Welcome Drink Included
Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink, often a 'Dawa' cocktail, to start your evening.
🚢 Gentle Sailing
The dhow sails slowly, making it suitable even for those prone to seasickness.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Tamarind Dhow Cruise is widely praised for its beautiful coastal experience, delicious food, and excellent live entertainment. Many highlight the impeccable service and the magical ambiance, especially during sunset and evening sails. However, booking can sometimes be a hassle, and lunchtime cruises are dependent on reaching a minimum passenger count.
"The Tamarind Dhow is beautiful. You get the beautiful coastal experience, fresh sea food, a band! And 4hours of a trip. They have a daytime and night time trips. Friendly staff too. Minimum 15 pax for the show to sail"
Damaris Ndegwa
"The Tamarind Dhow is an unforgettable experience. The last time I was on it was 20 years ago and the service is still impeccable, as is the food. Our server Mercy was very attentive.
We had wanted the lunchtime cruise, unfortunately it didn’t happen since it requires at least 15 people to confirm. So the dinner cruise it was.
We had a welcome drink, soup, salad, mains, coffee and great live entertainment. The dhow moved slow enough so those with seasickness need not worry.
We got to meet the Captain and the Chef; all areas were accessible and there were numerous celebrations- from weddings to birthdays to high school graduations.
Where the service needs immense improvement is definitely when it comes to making a reservation. If I hadn’t been persistently calling, we may never have made it in the boat."
Rosebelle Otieno
"Great cruise and food with excellent attentive service. More than enough food to fill you up and the quality was also very good. There is a live band who plays nice music during the trip and are open to requests. It was my partner's birthday so they were also nice enough to sing happy birthday to her and give a slice of cake."
Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tamarind Dhow departs from the Tamarind Jetty in Mombasa. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available to take you to the departure point.
While specific parking details can vary, it's generally advisable to arrange for a taxi or drop-off, as parking might be limited in the immediate vicinity of the jetty.
Many tour operators and hotels in Mombasa can arrange transportation to and from the Tamarind Dhow departure point as part of your booking.
If you're coming from Diani, it's a significant drive. Consider booking a package that includes transport or arranging a private taxi for the journey to Mombasa.
The Tamarind Dhow is located near the Tamarind Restaurant, a well-known establishment in Mombasa. It's also a scenic cruise past historic Fort Jesus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tamarind Dhow rates vary, with dinner cruises typically ranging from USD 80-130 (Ksh 8,250). Prices can include a welcome drink, meal, and entertainment.
Tickets can be purchased directly through the Tamarind Mombasa website, or via tour operators and travel agents. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
The lunchtime cruise requires a minimum of 15 passengers to confirm sailing. Dinner cruises are generally more consistent.
Yes, there are typically daytime (lunchtime) and evening (dinner) cruises, each offering a unique experience.
The dinner cruise usually includes a welcome drink, a multi-course meal (soup, salad, main, dessert), and live entertainment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cruise typically lasts for about 3 to 4 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment.
You can expect live music from a talented band that plays a variety of genres, often taking requests and encouraging dancing.
Yes, the dhow sails at a slow pace, making it generally comfortable for individuals who are prone to seasickness.
Absolutely! The Tamarind Dhow is a popular venue for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations, with special arrangements often available.
Smart casual attire is recommended. While it's a cruise, dressing comfortably for a pleasant evening out is key.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The menu features Swahili-inspired cuisine, with options for fresh seafood and other delicious dishes. The prix fixe menu is highly praised.
It's best to inquire about dietary restrictions when booking. The kitchen is often accommodating if notified in advance.
A welcome drink is usually included. A bar is available onboard offering a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase.
Guests consistently report that there is more than enough food to be satisfying, with generous portions.
Reviews consistently praise the quality of the food, with many highlighting it as a significant part of the enjoyable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour just before sunset offers spectacular lighting for photos. The illuminated coastline at night also provides beautiful photographic opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require prior permission.
The upper deck offers panoramic views, the traditional dhow structure itself is picturesque, and the sunset over the ocean is a must-capture moment.
Yes, the food presentation is often appealing, and many guests enjoy capturing their delicious meals.
Experiment with aperture priority for depth of field and consider a tripod for sharper low-light shots as the sun dips below the horizon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on a relaxed dining experience, the novelty of sailing on a traditional boat and the beautiful coastal views can captivate younger imaginations. Ensure you book a cruise that aligns with your children's bedtime, as the evening cruises can extend late. The food is generally appealing, with options that might suit picky eaters, but it's always wise to check the menu beforehand.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Many couples choose this cruise to celebrate special occasions like anniversaries or proposals. The personalized attention from the crew, the stunning ocean views, and the opportunity to dance under the stars make it a truly enchanting experience. Booking a table with a good view is recommended for maximum romance.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Other Coastal Areas
Plan your day to allow ample time to reach the Tamarind Jetty by the departure time, usually around 6:30 PM. Consider booking your cruise in advance to avoid any last-minute issues, especially if you're on a tight schedule. The cruise provides a relaxing way to end your day before heading back to your accommodation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of a Traditional Dhow
Many visitors find the experience of being on a dhow incredibly romantic and serene. The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the vastness of the Indian Ocean, creates a tranquil atmosphere. It's a chance to disconnect from the everyday and immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of Mombasa.
Whether you're enjoying the sunset from the upper deck or the starlit sky at night, the dhow itself provides a stunning backdrop. The craftsmanship and history embedded in the vessel add an extra layer of appreciation to the overall cruise experience.
Culinary Delights on the Indian Ocean
Expect a multi-course dining experience that includes a welcome drink, often a signature 'Dawa' cocktail, followed by soup, salad, a main course, and a delightful dessert platter. The food is not only delicious but also beautifully presented, adding to the overall fine-dining ambiance.
+1Beyond the set menu, the Tamarind Dhow is known for its attentive service. Staff members are often praised for their friendliness and efficiency, ensuring a memorable dining experience. For special occasions, they can even arrange personalized desserts and celebratory songs, making your meal truly unforgettable.
Capturing the Coastal Charm
Beyond the sunset, the cruise offers diverse photographic opportunities. You can capture the iconic silhouette of the dhow against the horizon, the historic Fort Jesus from a unique vantage point, and the vibrant marine life if you're lucky. The twinkling lights of Mombasa as night falls also create a magical scene.
For the best shots, consider bringing a versatile lens that can handle both wide-angle ocean views and closer details of the dhow's architecture. Low-light photography skills will also come in handy as the evening progresses, allowing you to capture the ambiance of the live music and dining.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit