About the Port
South of Zanzibar along the Swahili Coast, Mafia Island remains one of Tanzania's least developed destinations, its landscape shifting between coconut and cashew plantations, tidal mangroves, and open grassland studded with baobab trees. The surrounding waters, protected within a marine park, are known for their coral reefs and marine biodiversity, offering a slower, less commercial counterpart to the mainland's better-known coastal stops.
The island's calm channel waters draw travelers hoping to swim alongside whale sharks, gentle filter feeders that gather here seasonally to feed on plankton blooms. Beyond the water, Mafia's rural character and scattered fishing villages provide a glimpse of traditional coastal life. Facilities remain modest, so shore excursions are typically arranged in advance rather than found independently near the landing point.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Mafia Island.
Swim with Whale Sharks
Snorkel alongside these gentle filter feeders in the calm channel waters, arranged in advance through the marine park since boats and permits are limited.
Explore Mafia Island Marine Park
Snorkel or dive the coral reefs protected within Tanzania's oldest marine park, home to vibrant fish life and healthy coral gardens rarely crowded with visitors.
Visit a Fishing Village
Wander a scattered coastal settlement to see traditional dhow building and daily fishing life, a quiet counterpoint to the island's wilder landscapes.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Mafia Island
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 9, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 20 | $13,096 | |
| Nov 17, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 12 | $6,506 | |
| Nov 21, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 20 | $13,096 | |
| Nov 29, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 12 | $6,506 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 19 | $23,140 | |
| Feb 21, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 12 | $13,799 | |
| Mar 5, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 12 | $14,255 | |
| Dec 28, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 21 | $22,040 | |
| Jan 6, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 19 | $17,138 | |
| Jan 6, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $10,033 | |
| Jan 10, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 20 | $17,135 | |
| Jan 18, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $10,030 | |
| Jan 30, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $10,033 | |
| Feb 11, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 19 | $20,690 | |
| Feb 11, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $10,030 | |
| Dec 15, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 20 | $19,323 | |
| Dec 16, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 19 | $21,390 | |
| Dec 23, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $11,193 | |
| Jan 4, 2029 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 12 | $11,476 | |
| Jan 4, 2029 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Raiya | 19 | $21,890 |
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