In short
- Boats depart from the Stone Town beachfront near Forodhani Gardens.
- A private return trip costs $15 to $30 USD per boat.
- The boat ride takes 20 to 30 minutes one way.
In this article
Prison Island sits 5.6 km (3.5 mi) northwest of Stone Town. Since there is no public ferry, every visitor arrives by private motorized wooden dhow or speedboat.
Where do boats to Prison Island depart from?
You can hire boats directly from the beachfront in Stone Town.
Walk down to the beach near Forodhani Gardens or the Tembo House Hotel. You will find dozens of wooden dhows and motorboats moored in the shallow water. Captains wait on the sand to offer trips to visitors.
How much does a boat to Prison Island cost?
A private return boat trip costs between $15 and $30 USD in total.
You must negotiate this price directly with the captain. The fee covers the whole boat, not per person. Remember that the island entry fee (about $12 USD) for the island is separate and not included in your boat fare.
Should I book a pre-arranged tour instead?
Booking a tour removes the need to negotiate and often includes your entry fees.
Many packages combine the boat transfer, the island entry fee, and snorkeling gear. Guides handle the logistics, so you do not have to worry about finding a captain or queuing at the island entrance.
How long is the boat ride to Prison Island?
The crossing takes about 20 to 30 minutes one way.
The journey spans 5.6 km (3.5 mi) across the water. You will need to wade through shallow water to board the boat in Stone Town. Bring waterproof shoes or sandals.
When do boats leave for Prison Island?
Boats leave on demand throughout the day.
Because you are hiring a private boat, you set your own schedule. It is best to depart early, around 9:00 AM. This timing helps you avoid midday heat and large tour groups.
How do you pay the boat captains?
You pay the boat captains in cash.
Bring small bills in US Dollars or Tanzanian Shillings. Pay the captain only after you return safely to Stone Town. Do not pay the full amount upfront.
Questions travellers ask
Does the boat price include the entrance fee?
No. The $15 to $30 USD boat fee only covers transport. You must pay the island entry fee (about $12 USD) separately when you arrive at the island.
How many people fit in one boat?
Most standard wooden dhows comfortably hold 4 to 8 passengers. If you have a larger group, you can negotiate for a bigger boat on the beach.
Do I need to book a boat in advance?
No. If you want to hire a captain directly, you can walk to the beach and arrange it on the spot. If you prefer a guided tour, book that in advance.
