Sail East Africa's Wild Blue Route: Zanzibar to Madagascar
Dreaming of sailing one of the Indian Ocean’s last great blue-water routes?
In 2027 you can take the helm on a 16-day voyage from the spice-scented streets of Zanzibar to the tropical islands of northern Madagascar.
Leaving historic Stone Town behind, the journey follows East Africa’s spectacular coastline before heading into remote ocean waters shaped by favourable trade winds and currents. Along the way there may be opportunities to explore the vibrant reefs of Pemba Island, relax at remote sandbar anchorages near Fanjove Island, discover the volcanic Comoro Islands, and swim from the dazzling white sand causeway linking the twin islands of Nosy Iranja.
The adventure finishes in Nosy Be, where whale sharks are seasonal visitors and local fishermen still paddle traditional pirogues laden with fresh lobster.
Perfect for solo travellers, couples and small groups, this is a genuinely hands-on sailing adventure where everyone becomes part of the crew. Whether building offshore miles or stepping aboard for a first ocean passage, participants receive expert coaching in helming, sail trim, navigation and passage making from one of the Indian Ocean’s most experienced professional skippers.
The voyage takes place aboard a comfortable 40-foot offshore catamaran, combining capable passagemaking with relaxed living afloat.
Why you'll love this adventure
- One of the Indian Ocean's great offshore sailing passages with over 1,000 nautical miles under sail.
- Incredible variety, from coral reefs and volcanic islands to whale sharks and traditional Swahili settlements.
- Small crew numbers and world-class skipper instruction make it ideal for learning offshore sailing.
Dates
This trip can be tailor made for your perfect travel dates. Please make a booking enquiry for more information.
Itinerary
This sailing adventure begins in historic Stone Town, Zanzibar, and concludes on the tropical island of Nosy Be, Madagascar. Along the way you'll leave East Africa behind for remote reefs, volcanic islands and long blue-water passages across the Indian Ocean. Every voyage is shaped by the wind, weather and sea conditions. Some days bring exhilarating offshore sailing beneath a canopy of stars, while others invite snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, exploring quiet anchorages or wandering ashore on islands rarely visited by travellers. No two crossings are ever the same. It's an itinerary led by nature, balancing rewarding ocean sailing with extraordinary wildlife, remote beaches and fascinating Swahili culture.
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 Zanzibar to Madagascar
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