Planning to cross over to Zanzibar from the mainland? The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry is the most popular and affordable way to get to the island. Every day, hundreds of passengers make this crossing — tourists heading for white-sand beaches, locals commuting between the island and the city, and traders moving goods across the Zanzibar Channel.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you book: the ferry operators, schedules, ticket prices, travel classes, how to book online, and what to expect at the terminal. Read to the end — there is an FAQ section that answers the most common questions travelers ask before making this trip.
Where is Zanzibar and How Far Is It From Dar es Salaam?
Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. The main island, Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar Island), sits about 75 kilometres east of Dar es Salaam across the Zanzibar Channel. That short distance is what makes the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry such a practical option — you are not crossing a vast ocean. You are taking a fast catamaran across a calm channel that, on most mornings, feels more like a lake.
The crossing takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 2 hours depending on the ferry operator, vessel speed, sea conditions, and how promptly the ferry departs.
Ferry Operators on the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Route
There are two main operators running daily scheduled services on this route.
1. Azam Marine
Azam Marine is the largest and most popular ferry operator in Tanzania. It is a division of the Bakhresa Group, a well-established Tanzanian conglomerate. Azam runs modern high-speed catamarans that are air-conditioned and equipped with multiple passenger classes. The vessels are well-maintained and the operator has a strong reputation for punctuality and safety.
Azam Marine offers four classes of travel:
- Economy Class — Basic seating, lower deck, affordable
- Business Class — More comfortable seating with better views
- VIP Class — Premium cabin with extra legroom and refreshments
- Royal Class — Azam’s top-tier lounge experience on board
2. Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries
Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries (also operating under the Azam Marine brand for some vessels) is another reliable operator on this route. It runs high-speed vessels with similar classes and schedules. In practice, many travelers book through Azam and end up on a Kilimanjaro vessel depending on the departure time — both are considered safe and comfortable.
3. Zan Fast Ferries
Zan Fast Ferries is a newer player on the route. It offers competitive pricing and has gained traction with budget travelers. Tickets on Zan Fast Ferries can start from as low as $38 for economy class, making it the most affordable option for those watching their budget.
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Ferry Schedule 2025
Ferries depart daily from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar starting from early morning. Below is the typical daily schedule, though times can shift slightly by season — always confirm before travel.
| Departure Time | Operator | Journey Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 AM | Azam Marine | ~1 hr 45 min | Most popular morning slot |
| 09:30 AM | Azam Marine / Kilimanjaro | ~1 hr 45 min | Good for late arrivals |
| 12:30 PM | Azam Marine | ~2 hrs | Midday crossing |
| 03:45 PM / 04:00 PM | Zan Fast Ferries / Azam | ~1 hr 20 min | Fastest vessels on afternoon runs |
| 08:00 PM | Azam Marine (select days) | ~2 hrs | Evening departure, check availability |
Pro tip: The 7:00 AM ferry is the most heavily booked, especially on weekends and during peak season (June–October and December–January). Book that slot at least 2–3 days in advance.
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Ferry Ticket Prices 2025
Ticket prices vary by operator, travel class, and whether you are a resident or non-resident. Non-residents (tourists) typically pay a higher fare than Tanzanian citizens.
| Ticket Class | Non-Resident Price | Resident Price |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Class | $35 – $45 | TZS 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Business Class | $50 – $75 | TZS 30,000 – 50,000 |
| VIP Class | $80 – $120 | TZS 60,000 – 80,000 |
| Royal Class (Azam) | $120 – $150 | TZS 80,000 – 100,000 |
Prices are approximate and fluctuate based on season and demand. The average cost for a tourist traveling economy on the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry is around $40–$50.
Children under 2 years typically travel free. Children aged 2–11 may receive a discount depending on the operator — confirm when booking.
Where to Board: Dar es Salaam Ferry Terminal
The ferry departs from the Dar es Salaam Ferry Terminal, also known as the Kivukoni Ferry Terminal. It is located in the city centre, right on the waterfront along Sokoine Drive. The terminal is easily accessible:
- From Julius Nyerere International Airport: About 11 km away. Taxi takes 20–30 minutes and costs approximately TZS 50,000–60,000 ($15–$20). You can also take a local daladala (minibus) for much less, though it is slower and you may need to walk the last stretch.
- From central Dar es Salaam hotels: Most hotels in the city centre are within a 5–15 minute walk or a short taxi ride from the terminal.
Arrive early. The terminal gets crowded, especially for the morning ferries. Aim to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure if you already have a ticket, and 60–90 minutes if you are buying at the counter.
What to expect at the terminal: There will be porters, taxi touts, and vendors outside. Keep your luggage close and ignore unsolicited “helpers.” Inside, there is a boarding hall, ticket windows, and waiting areas separated by class.
Where You Arrive in Zanzibar: Stone Town Ferry Terminal
The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry docks at the Zanzibar Port in Stone Town. The port sits right at the edge of Stone Town’s historic waterfront — one of the most atmospheric arrivals in East Africa. As the ferry pulls in, you will see the Old Fort and the seafront buildings of the old city.
From the port, you can:
- Walk into Stone Town (5–10 minutes on foot)
- Take a taxi to your hotel (TZS 10,000–20,000 within Stone Town)
- Arrange a transfer to the beach resorts in Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, or Jambiani (1–2 hours by road)
Pre-arrange your airport or hotel transfer before departure to avoid being mobbed by taxi drivers at the port.
How to Book the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Ferry Online
Booking online is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel periods. Here are your options:
Option 1: Book via Azam Marine Directly
Visit azammarine.com to book tickets directly with the operator. You can choose your departure time, travel class, and pay using a card or mobile money. You receive an e-ticket by email that you present at boarding.
Option 2: Book via Third-Party Platforms
Platforms like Bookaway, Busbud, and DirectFerries aggregate ferry schedules and allow you to compare prices and times before booking. These are useful if you want to compare Azam Marine against Zan Fast Ferries side by side.
Option 3: Book at the Terminal
You can buy tickets at the counter on the day of travel, but this comes with risks — the morning ferries often sell out, especially on weekends. You may end up waiting for a later slot or paying a higher walk-up price.
Step-by-Step: How to Book the Ferry Online
- Go to azammarine.com or your preferred booking platform
- Enter Dar es Salaam as departure and Zanzibar as destination
- Select your travel date and number of passengers
- Choose your preferred departure time from the available schedule
- Select your travel class (Economy, Business, VIP, or Royal)
- Enter your passport details (required for all passengers)
- Pay via credit/debit card or mobile money
- Download or screenshot your e-ticket
- Present the e-ticket at the terminal gate — no printing required
Important: All passengers traveling between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar must carry a valid passport or national ID. This applies to both Tanzanian citizens and foreign nationals.
What to Expect on Board the Ferry
The modern ferries on the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar route are a comfortable way to travel. Here is what you can expect depending on your class:
Economy Class: Rows of aircraft-style seats on the lower deck. It gets crowded, noisy, and can feel stuffy if you are prone to motion sickness. The lower deck also tends to rock more in rough seas.
Business Class: A quieter upper deck with wider seats and better views through large windows. A much better option for a small price difference.
VIP/Royal Class: Air-conditioned lounges with refreshments, wider seats, and a calmer environment. Ideal if you are traveling with young children or have a low tolerance for crowded spaces.
Seasickness: The crossing is generally smooth in the morning. Afternoons can get choppy, especially from March to May (the long rains) and October to November (the short rains). If you are prone to motion sickness, take the earliest ferry and sit at the front of the upper deck. Carry medication just in case.
Luggage: Each passenger is allowed 25 kg of luggage. Excess baggage is charged. There is no space for bicycles or vehicles on the passenger ferries (Azam Marine does offer a cargo and vehicle Ro-Ro service separately).
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Ferry vs. Flying: Which Is Better?
Many travelers debate between the ferry and a short domestic flight. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
| Factor | Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hr 20 min – 2 hrs | 20–25 minutes |
| Cost | $35 – $150 | $50 – $150+ |
| Luggage | 25 kg included | 15–20 kg typically |
| Terminal location | City centre (convenient) | Airport (11 km from city) |
| Experience | Scenic, relaxed | Fast, less scenic |
| Availability | 4–5 departures daily | Multiple airlines, frequent |
| Best for | Budget travelers, those in the city centre | Travelers short on time |
For most tourists, the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry is the better value option and the more enjoyable experience. The scenic channel crossing, especially on a clear morning, is something you remember. A 25-minute flight is not.
Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam: Return Ferry Schedule
Returning from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam follows a nearly identical schedule. Ferries depart from Zanzibar Stone Town Port at:
| Departure Time | Operator |
|---|---|
| 07:00 AM | Azam Marine |
| 09:30 AM | Kilimanjaro / Azam |
| 12:30 PM | Azam Marine |
| 03:30 PM | Zan Fast Ferries / Azam |
Book your return ticket in advance, especially if you are leaving Zanzibar during a busy weekend or public holiday. Running out of ferry tickets and missing a connecting flight from Dar es Salaam is a common and avoidable problem.
Tips for a Smooth Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar Ferry Journey
- Book in advance — particularly for the 7:00 AM ferry and for travel between June and October (high season)
- Carry your passport — it is required for boarding. A photocopy will not be accepted
- Arrive early — 45–60 minutes before departure is the minimum
- Bring water and snacks — food and drinks on board are limited and overpriced
- Sit upper deck — better views, more airflow, less motion
- Take the morning ferry — seas are calmer and the heat is lower
- Watch your bags — the terminals are busy. Keep valuables in your carry-on, not in checked luggage
- Confirm times before travel — schedules occasionally change without advance notice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry take? The crossing takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 2 hours depending on the operator and vessel. Azam Marine’s fastest catamarans complete the journey in approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
How much does the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar cost? Economy class tickets for non-residents start from around $35–$45. VIP and Royal class seats can cost $80–$150. Resident prices are significantly lower.
Can I take a car on the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry? No. Passenger ferries do not carry vehicles. Azam Marine operates a separate Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) cargo service for vehicles, but this is not the same vessel as the passenger ferry.
Do I need a passport to take the ferry? Yes. All passengers — including Tanzanian citizens — are required to present valid identification. Foreigners must carry their passport. A photocopy or phone photo is not sufficient.
Is the Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry safe? Yes. The major operators — Azam Marine and Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries — run modern, well-maintained vessels with trained crews. Ferry travel on this route has a good safety record. Avoid unofficial or unmarked vessels offering cut-price crossings.
Can I book the ferry on the day of travel? You can, but it is risky. The 7:00 AM ferry regularly sells out, especially on weekends. If tickets at the counter are sold out, you may wait hours for the next departure. Always book at least 24 hours in advance.
What is the best time of year to travel? June to October (dry season) offers the calmest seas and best weather. December to January is also pleasant. Avoid March to May and October to November when the rainy seasons bring rougher sea conditions.
Is there an overnight ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar? There is an occasional 8:00 PM departure by Azam Marine, but it is not a regular overnight service. The standard ferries are daytime crossings. Confirm availability when booking.
What happens if I miss my ferry? Missed boarding is not automatically refunded. Most operators have a no-refund policy for missed sailings. You can usually transfer your ticket to the next available departure, but confirm this with the operator when booking.
How early should I arrive at the Dar es Salaam ferry terminal? Aim for 60 minutes before departure if you already have a ticket. If buying at the counter, arrive 90 minutes early.
Final Word
The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry is one of the most well-travelled short crossings in East Africa — and for good reason. It is affordable, convenient, and takes you straight from the city centre to the heart of Stone Town without the hassle of an airport. Whether you are a first-time visitor or making a return trip, book your ticket in advance, take the morning ferry, and sit on the upper deck. The view as Zanzibar rises from the horizon makes the crossing worth it every single time.
Ready to book? Use azammarine.com or a platform like Bookaway to secure your seat today.
