Authentic Review: Prison Island, Lunch Break & Mnemba Snorkeling

Okay, so, you’re thinking about checking out Prison Island, maybe grabbing some lunch, and then, like, hitting up Mnemba for some snorkeling? As a matter of fact, that is exactly what I did. I want to share what the whole thing was like, minus any hype. This isn’t a sales pitch; it’s just my experience. So, maybe grab a drink, and let’s, you know, talk about Zanzibar!

Getting to Prison Island: A Boat Trip With a View

Right, the boat ride to Prison Island is part of the gig. Now, it is not, you know, a luxury yacht, so, but it is a boat that does its job. The waters can get a bit choppy, so, you might want to, you know, take some motion sickness meds if you tend to get seasick. It’s just a thought. You do get a pretty good look at Stone Town from the water, which is kind of neat. I mean, the view, is, you know, historic. It gives you some space to ponder how different travel was “back then”. Anyway, we were there in like half an hour, so, it really isn’t that long of a commute.

Meeting the Giants: Prison Island’s Tortoises

When you arrive, tortoises happen to be the main attraction, really. As a matter of fact, these aren’t just regular tortoises. I mean, they are huge. And very old. You can get up close. Some tour guides, you know, have leaves so you are able to feed them, if you want to. Which is kind of fun. As a matter of fact, you are able to actually touch them but should be aware to treat the creatures with some respect. I touched one that was supposedly over 100 years old. Let me tell you, that is way older than anything I’ve ever touched. So, just, you know, something to consider when you’re over there.

Lunch Break: What to Expect

Okay, lunch is normally part of the tour. So, depending on, you know, who you booked with, the menu might be pretty much whatever they serve that day. As a matter of fact, expect some seafood, of course, you know, like grilled fish or maybe some lobster if you are lucky. Now, it is not a Michelin-starred place. It’s normally pretty chill, but, basically, a decent spot to, you know, recharge before you head out for more adventuring. In short, nothing fancy, just good, basic eats.

Mnemba Atoll: Snorkeling in Clear Waters

Then we went to Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling. So, let me just say, that water there, is, like, super clear. So, apparently, the visibility, well, is really good. You’ll see fish of many varieties of different colours. As a matter of fact, I even saw a dolphin. Snorkeling gear is normally included, so, is that something that is also checked before booking if that’s something that you value.. Anyhow, you get some time to just swim around. The boat will usually drop anchor. Usually this whole process is about an hour or two.

Things to Keep in Mind

Okay, so, a few quick tips if you end up doing this tour. Sunlight! Like your mum says! It is strong here, as a matter of fact, bring sunscreen. Sunglasses are a must. So is that something you might forget? Also, it’s a good idea to, basically, bring some cash for, you know, tips or if you want to buy a drink or snack. As a matter of fact, and important: be, you know, respectful of the tortoises. I mean, they were there way before us, and they should also outlive all of us too. Just a thought. This should probably come first… Check reviews. To, pretty much, not find the cheapest tour that there is.