About Prison Island & Giant Tortoises – Half-Day Local Boat Trip
Experience Prison Island (Changuu Island) the authentic way — traveling by traditional local wooden boat directly from Stone Town.
After meeting at the Stone Town departure point, sail across the channel to Prison Island, a journey of approximately 20–30 minutes. The island is best known as the home of the giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old.
Upon arrival, begin with a guided visit to the tortoise sanctuary, where you can walk among the tortoises, take photos, and learn about their history and conservation. Continue with a walk through the old prison and quarantine ruins, discovering the story behind the island’s name and its historical role.
After the guided portion, enjoy free time to swim in the shallow waters, relax on the small beach, or take photos of the island and surrounding sea. Snorkeling is possible only if you bring your own equipment, as snorkel gear is not provided.
During the tour, soft drinks and 2 bottles of drinking water per guest are included.
This is a no-frills local tour featuring a simple wooden boat, basic seating, and no toilet on board — ideal for travelers looking for a genuine Zanzibari experience rather than a luxury cruise.
Highlights
Travel to Prison Island by traditional wooden boat
Walk among the giant Aldabra tortoises
Explore historic prison and quarantine ruins
Free time for swimming, relaxing, and photos
Soft drinks and bottled water included
Authentic local Zanzibar experience
Ideal half-day tour from Stone Town
What’s Included
Shared local wooden boat (return Stone Town ↔ Prison Island)
Entrance to the tortoise sanctuary
Local English-speaking guide
Soft drinks
2 bottles of drinking water per guest
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
What’s Not Included
Snorkeling equipment
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food or snacks
Towels
Toilet on the boat
Tips for the crew (optional)
Departure Point
Stone Town – Livingstone House
️ The exact meeting point may change depending on tides.
Please arrive 20 minutes before departure.
The final meeting location will be shared after booking.
Duration
Approx. 3 hours
Typical schedule: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Group Size
Shared boat tour
Maximum 20 guests
Price Review :
$95 per person (Max 20 Pax)
Activities
Cruise
Discovery
Easy
Details
Rental conditions
Type of rental
With captain
Times of the beginning and end of the rental :
9:00 AM / 12:00 PM
Security deposit
No deposit required
Security deposit management
Security deposit management: Managed directly by the owner
The owner has chosen to handle the deposit directly during the rental. Do not pay a deposit before seeing the boat and the owner.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible
Fuel
Included
Boat
Type of boat
Sailboat (Other sailboat)
Model
Custom
-
Custom
Year of construction
2018
Year of renovation
2018
Licensed capacity
20
Number of cabins
1
Number of berths
1
Length (in ft)
26
(7,9 m)
Width (in ft)
33
(10 m)
Draught (in ft)
39
(12 m)
Power
200hp
(1 engine)
- 2 stroke
Fuel type
Unleaded
Fuel capacity
100 L
Pets allowed on board
No
Location
Port
secutity equipment
Basic
Other departure options
Zanzibar
Cancellation conditions of the renter
Cancellation Policy:
Flexible
Free cancellation until the day before departure (excluding SamBoat service fees).
At SamBoat, we guarantee to offer you the best price.
Did you find this offer elsewhere at a more competitive price? If so, please do let us know so that our dedicated team can look into it and get back to you.
By booking through SamBoat, you benefit from other exclusive advantages: a team of boating experts at your service, payment facilities, a loyalty program offering you multiple rewards.
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