Ferry at a glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Journey time | About 2 hours (fast ferry) |
| Departures | Usually 3–4 a day each way, from early morning to mid-afternoon |
| Economy fare | Around US$35–40 for non-residents |
| Business / VIP | Higher; air-conditioned lounge seating |
| Dar es Salaam terminal | Kivukoni ferry terminal, city centre |
| Zanzibar terminal | Malindi port, Stone Town |
Fares in Tanzanian shillings rose in May 2026 after higher fuel costs, and schedules change seasonally. Check times and book on the official Azam Marine website.
How to book
- Online: book on the operator’s website and keep the e-ticket on your phone.
- At the office: buy from the official ticket office inside the terminal, not from people outside.
- Arrive at least an hour before departure for check-in and security.
What to expect
- Touts: the Dar terminal entrance is busy with people offering tickets and help with bags. Politely decline and go straight to the official office.
- Luggage: big bags are loaded separately; keep valuables with you.
- Seasickness: the crossing can be rough, especially from June to September. Sit in the middle of the boat and bring tablets if you’re prone to it.
- Immigration: Zanzibar is semi-autonomous, so you show your passport on arrival in Stone Town even when coming from the mainland.
Ferry or flight?
| Ferry | Flight | |
|---|---|---|
| Time | ~2 h plus check-in | ~20–30 min plus airport time |
| Cost | From about US$35–40 | Often US$60–120 |
| Arrives | Stone Town centre | Zanzibar Airport, 15–20 min from Stone Town |
The ferry is cheaper and arrives right in Stone Town; flights are faster and avoid rough seas. If you’re coming from a safari in Arusha, a direct flight to Zanzibar is easiest.
Arriving in Stone Town
Malindi port is on the edge of Stone Town. Many hotels are 5–15 minutes’ walk away; taxis wait outside for the beaches. See transfer prices and where to stay in Zanzibar.
More Zanzibar guides
- Zanzibar travel guide
- 15 best things to do in Zanzibar
- Zanzibar itinerary: 5, 7 or 10 days
- Where to stay in Zanzibar
- Best time to visit Zanzibar
- Zanzibar airport transfers
- Tanzania visa and Zanzibar insurance
FAQ: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry
How long is the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar?
About 2 hours on the fast ferries.
Do I need my passport for the Zanzibar ferry?
Yes. You need it to buy tickets and for immigration on arrival in Zanzibar.
Is the Zanzibar ferry safe?
The main fast-ferry operators are widely used by tourists. Avoid overcrowded or unofficial boats.
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