Prison Island & Giant Tortoises: Half-Day Boat Trip from Stone Town

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

You step off the low wooden boat and the city noise drops behind you—only the slap of small waves and a warm ocean breeze remain. Prison Island’s squat silhouette rises from turquoise water: a compact coral limestone outcrop ringed by reefs, sun-warmed sand and the slow shuffle of hundred-year-old Aldabra tortoises.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; expect short walks on sand and uneven stone.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the boat ride from Stone Town?

The shared wooden boat takes about 20–30 minutes each way depending on sea conditions and the exact pickup point in Stone Town.

Is entrance to the tortoise sanctuary included?

Yes—entrance to the tortoise sanctuary and a local English-speaking guide are included with the trip.

Can I swim and snorkel at Prison Island?

Yes—there’s free time to swim from the small beach; snorkeling is possible off rocky points but bring your own gear as rentals may be limited.

Is this trip suitable for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues?

The tour is generally easy but not recommended for pregnant travelers; there are uneven paths and boarding small boats may be awkward for those with limited mobility.

Local insights

Wildlife

Aldabra giant tortoise
Green sea turtle and tropical reef fish

History

Constructed in the late 19th century for quarantine and brief detention under the sultanate, the island later became home to tortoises relocated from the Seychelles.

Conservation

The tortoise sanctuary is managed locally; visitors should avoid feeding or disturbing animals and favor reef‑safe products to protect nearby coral habitats.

About Boat Trips Club

Boat Trips Club operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationStone Town, Zanzibar

Tours offered4+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Take the morning departureMornings usually mean calmer seas, cooler temperatures and better light for photos—plan for an early slot if you’re sensitive to heat.

Bring motion-sickness remediesThe boat ride is brief but can be choppy on windy days—if you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative meds or sit midboat.

Wear reef-safe sunscreen and shoesSandy stretches and sharp coral onshore make water shoes and reef‑safe sunscreen both comfortable and environmentally responsible.

Respect the tortoisesDo not chase, feed, or climb near tortoises; follow your guide’s directions to protect the animals and avoid fines.

Recommended gear

Reef‑safe sunscreen: Protects skin and local marine life while spending time on sunny beaches and in shallow water.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals: Protects feet on rocky shoreline and makes getting in and out of the boat easier.
Light sun hat and polarized sunglasses: Reduces glare and heat during the exposed island walk and on the boat deck.
Dry bag or waterproof pouch: Keeps phone, camera and small items dry on the wooden boat and during beach time.