Bluewater Sailing Madagascar to Zanzibar Passage
Dreaming of sailing one of the Indian Ocean’s classic bluewater passages?
In 2027 you can take the helm on a remarkable 16-day adventure from the tropical islands of northern Madagascar to the historic streets of Zanzibar. Departing Nosy Be, the voyage begins with idyllic island hopping to Russian Bay and the dazzling white sands of Nosy Iranja before setting course on a rewarding 600-nautical-mile offshore passage. Carried by favourable trade winds and currents, expect exhilarating broad-reaching sailing, spectacular night skies and the chance to spot flying fish, dorado and even billfish as you settle into the rhythm of life at sea.
Reaching the Tanzanian coast, the adventure changes pace. Explore the peaceful anchorage of Mikindani Bay, wander through the remote Songo Songo Archipelago and cruise north towards Zanzibar, enjoying coral reefs, deserted beaches and fascinating Swahili culture along the way. The voyage finishes in the UNESCO World Heritage streets of Stone Town.
Perfect for solo travellers, couples and small groups, this is a genuinely hands-on sailing adventure where everyone becomes part of the crew. Whether gaining offshore experience or embarking on a first ocean passage, participants receive expert coaching in helming, sail trim, navigation and seamanship throughout the voyage.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Experience a genuine 1,000-nautical-mile Indian Ocean sailing adventure.
- Rare combination of bluewater passagemaking, tropical islands and Swahili culture.
- Small crews and exceptional skipper tuition make it ideal for sailors of every experience level.
Dates
Itinerary
This sailing adventure begins in Nosy Be, Madagascar, and concludes in the UNESCO-listed streets of Stone Town, Zanzibar. The first half of the voyage is dedicated to exhilarating offshore sailing, carried by trade winds across the Indian Ocean before reaching the sheltered waters of Tanzania's coastline. From there, the pace slows as the route threads through quiet island anchorages, coral reefs and the remote Songo Songo Archipelago. Every passage is shaped by the wind and sea, meaning no two voyages are ever the same. Some days are filled with rewarding bluewater sailing beneath star-filled skies, while others invite swimming, snorkelling and exploring fascinating coastal communities. It's an itinerary led by nature that perfectly balances offshore adventure with tropical exploration.
What's included
- All food and drink (non-alcoholic) on board
- Safety equipment including life-jackets
- All mooring and port entry fees for the boat
- Overnight accommodation onboard, your own bunk and bedding
Not included
- Meals ashore
- Entrance fees to visitor centres or distilleries
- Sailing & Travel Insurance is compulsory (be sure to get ‘offshore’ coverage)
Trip notes
Price
Accommodation
The voyage takes place aboard, a 40-foot Fontaine Pajot Lavessi catamaran designed for comfort and capable offshore sailing. With a generous cockpit and extended stern platform, she is well suited to relaxed socialising, easy snorkelling access, and long days under sail.
She makes offshore passages at an average of around 6 knots — fast enough to cover meaningful ground, yet leaving plenty of time to enjoy remote anchorages or explore ashore. A sturdy tender ensures smooth trips to the islands and bays visited along the way.
Accommodation is arranged in four private cabins, two in each hull, with a shared heads and shower per hull. Bedding is provided, and the thoughtful layout offers both comfort and privacy. Whether trimming sails offshore or unwinding at anchor, Synergy balances practicality with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Meals
This voyage is designed for you to take an active role – that means everyone will take turns in cooking (all the menus are planned already and step by step instructions given, so you don’t need to be a masterchef!)
Who is this trip for?
You do not need any previous sailing experience for this trip – it is a ‘hands-on’ sailing trip under the expert guidance of a very experienced Skipper who will ensure everyone gets the most out of the voyage learning or brushing up skills and being full immersed in the journey.
Tour operator
There are few places as wild and unexplored as the open ocean. And if you’re going to explore it you’ll want to do so with an accomplished and experienced skipper alongside you at the helm. The skippers bringing these small group (max 6 guests) ocean voyages to life have at least half a million nautical miles under their belts so you’ll be learning from the best. Think small groups, amazing destinations and incredible ocean experiences. Whether you want the mileage for an RYA Ocean qualification, the thrill of taking a small boat to incredible destinations or the privilege of a sailing masterclass with hugely experienced skippers by your side, they’ll make it happen.
Enquire today
Sail Madagascar to Zanzibar
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