ZanCars

Going to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam

Thu - 24th Feb 2022

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off Tanzania's coast, and it's a perfect destination for your island holiday in East Africa.

Ride in Style with an Ultra-modern ferry having Multiple departure times throughout the day. The ferry from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar and the other way around are comfortable, reliable, and Fast Ferries.

Why Choose Ferry Travel to Zanzibar

Choosing a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar offers more than just transportation, it provides an authentic East African travel experience. As you cruise across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, you'll enjoy stunning coastal views, feel the refreshing sea breeze, and witness the gradual transformation from mainland Tanzania to the exotic island paradise. The ferry journey itself becomes part of your adventure, offering opportunities to meet fellow travelers, spot marine life, and capture incredible photographs of the ocean and approaching island landscapes.

The ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar route is also incredibly convenient for travelers who want to avoid the higher costs and time constraints of flying. With multiple daily departures, you can choose a schedule that fits your itinerary perfectly. The ferry terminals in both cities are easily accessible and well organized, making the boarding process smooth and straightforward even for first time visitors.

Fastest Ferry to Zanzibar from Dar Options

When time is of the essence, knowing about the fastest ferry to Zanzibar from Dar becomes crucial for efficient travel planning. Modern high speed ferries have dramatically reduced crossing times, making island hopping more convenient than ever. The journey typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the ferry service and sea conditions, which is remarkably quick considering you're crossing a significant stretch of ocean.

These express services utilize state of the art vessels equipped with powerful engines and advanced navigation systems. These modern ferries are designed for speed without compromising passenger comfort or safety. During calm weather conditions, the fastest crossings can be completed in as little as 90 minutes, allowing you to maximize your time exploring Zanzibar rather than spending it in transit.

Recommended Ferry Operators

The ones we usually recommend to our customers is Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries, It is operated by Azam Marine.

Although you can book a ticket with them Online but they are not considered confirmed until payment has been made 3 hours prior to departure.

On the other hand, we have Zanzibar Fast Ferries,
It is operated by the ZFF Group, The Group has high popularity and influence on the cross-border markets of high-speed passenger transport and terminal logistics amongst Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique.

With all of them considered,

Ferrying is considered the most convenient way to travel to Zanzibar, especially for those in love with the Island and Ocean.

Ferry Departure Schedule and Frequency

One major advantage of taking a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar is the flexibility offered by multiple daily departures. Ferry services typically operate from early morning around 7:00 AM until late afternoon, with departures scheduled every few hours throughout the day. This frequent schedule means you're not locked into rigid travel plans and can adjust your crossing time based on your arrival in Dar es Salaam or your accommodation check in time in Zanzibar.

Peak tourist seasons see additional ferry departures added to accommodate increased demand, ensuring you can always find a suitable crossing time. However, during holidays and weekends, ferries fill up quickly, so advance booking becomes even more important during these periods.

Booking Your Ferry Ticket

The Zanzibar ferries can get very busy, so it's advisable to book your ticket ahead of time, even if it's just a day or two before. You can either book online, go to either the Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar ferry terminal, or book through an approved agent. But be sure to Pay for it 3 hours before your trip.

Some hotels In Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar will also sort ferry tickets out for you too.

What to Expect Onboard

Modern ferries operating the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar route offer comfortable seating arrangements with both economy and VIP class options. Economy class provides standard airline style seating with air conditioning, while VIP class offers more spacious seats, complimentary refreshments, and priority boarding. All vessels are equipped with life jackets, safety equipment, and trained crew members who conduct safety briefings before departure.

Onboard amenities typically include restrooms, small cafeterias selling snacks and beverages, and entertainment systems showing movies or music videos. The air conditioned cabins protect passengers from the tropical heat, though many travelers enjoy stepping out onto open deck areas to feel the ocean breeze and take photos during the crossing.

Arriving at Zanzibar Ferry Terminal

Upon arrival at Zanzibar's main ferry terminal in Stone Town, you'll go through a quick immigration and customs process. The terminal is conveniently located near many hotels in Stone Town, and taxis are readily available outside for those staying elsewhere on the island. This is also the perfect time to collect your pre booked car rental from Zancars. and also read that Why Renting a Car in Zanzibar is the Best Way to Explore the Island?

Seamless Transition to Your Zanzibar Car Rental

After reaching Zanzibar, You can get your Car Rental with ZanCars as low as $25 per day, you can also check out their prices here

Alternative Travel Options

Although getting to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam is a breeze by ferry, which is the least expensive option. You can also get there by Flight.

It goes without saying that since Zanzibar is an Island, you can get there from Dar es Salaam by Car.

Surprisingly in the past, there were many questions regarding this. But We hope that we made it clear.