The Best Boat Rentals Near Mombasa

Most private sightseeing cruises around Mombasa run about $100–$150 per hour for a small motorboat or dhow with a licensed captain and fuel included, with many operators setting a two to three hour minimum. Half‑day outings usually land between $400–$600, while full‑day deep‑sea fishing boats commonly range from about $300–$600+ depending on the boat and season. Shared sunset or dinner dhow cruises are often $60–$90 per person, and glass‑bottom/snorkel trips to Mombasa Marine National Park tend to be $25–$40 per person. Snorkel gear and life jackets are usually provided; marine park entry fees are separate and paid on the day. Exact pricing varies by boat size, itinerary, and inclusions like snacks, soft drinks, or hotel transfers.

You’ll find a good mix for coastal cruising and reef trips: traditional wooden dhows for lunch or dinner sails on Tudor Creek, small motorboats and glass‑bottom boats for snorkeling over the coral gardens, sport‑fishing boats for offshore angling, and sailing options ranging from dinghies to crewed catamarans for day charters. Most options are captained, with a handful of club‑based sailboats available to experienced sailors in designated areas.

Captained charters are the norm and the easiest way to get on the water. To self‑operate a powered vessel in Kenya you generally need the appropriate Kenya Maritime Authority coxswain certification, and the boat must carry a valid safety certificate. Visitors without local qualifications should book with a captain. A few sailing clubs rent small sailboats to competent sailors within marked areas under on‑water safety support, but these are the exception rather than the rule for tourists.

Common pick‑ups include English Point Marina on the Nyali side for yacht and leisure charters, the Tamarind Jetty on Tudor Creek for daytime and dinner dhow cruises, beach launch points at Nyali, Bamburi, and Shanzu for glass‑bottom and snorkeling boats into Mombasa Marine National Park, and the La Marina jetty on Mtwapa Creek for calm‑water sunset cruises. Your captain will confirm the exact meeting point after you book.

On the creeks you’ll glide past mangroves, the Nyali Bridge, and skyline views of Old Town, with Fort Jesus standing watch above the channel. Out on the reef in Mombasa Marine National Park you’ll cruise over bright coral gardens with tropical fish and sandbars at low tide. Harbor routes may reveal big‑ship traffic in Kilindini Channel near Mama Ngina Waterfront. Day trips farther south often target dolphin watching and pristine reefs near Kisite‑Mpunguti—great if you’re planning a full‑day adventure.

Yes—family outings are common, especially on glass‑bottom boats and gentle creek cruises. Expect properly sized life jackets for all ages and a safety briefing before departure. Kenyan small‑vessel rules require appropriate safety gear on board, and crews will ask children to keep jackets on while underway. If you’re planning snorkeling, confirm minimum ages in advance and choose calmer morning departures for younger swimmers.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks and beverages, and many can arrange catering on request. Dinner dhow cruises include a set menu. For reef trips, reusable containers are encouraged and single‑use plastic bags are discouraged in Kenya, so pack in tote bags or coolers. If you plan to bring alcohol, check with your captain about glass policies and corkage.

Pet policies are captain‑by‑captain. Some private charters on the creeks may allow well‑behaved dogs with advance notice, but boats entering protected areas such as Mombasa Marine National Park typically do not permit pets. If traveling with a pet, request approval during your inquiry and plan for shore care on wildlife or reef‑focused trips.

Captains watch the coastal forecast and sea state closely. If wind or swell makes conditions unsafe, departures are usually rescheduled or refunded according to the operator’s policy. Seas are typically calmer in the morning and during the northeast monsoon months, while the southeast monsoon can bring breezier afternoons and occasional chop. If your plans are date‑sensitive, book an early‑day slot and keep a backup window for flexibility.

Absolutely. Dhows on Tudor Creek and trimarans on Mtwapa Creek are popular for celebrations, and many captains can help with décor, playlists, cake, or catered menus. For larger groups, ask about capacity limits and whether you prefer a private creek cruise, a sunset sail with city views, or a reef‑day with snorkeling. Confirm lead times for peak weekends and holiday periods.

The most settled sea and clearest water generally arrive from about October through March, which is great for snorkeling and leisurely cruising. June through September can be breezier with livelier seas but still offers wonderful morning outings and memorable sunsets on the creeks. Kenya doesn’t observe U.S. boating holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, or Labor Day, so those weekends usually book like any other; locally, December festive season and Easter weeks are the busiest. November often brings Mombasa Carnival street celebrations, and early October may feature ocean‑themed festivities around Tudor Creek, so plan ahead if your dates overlap. For calmer seas and fewer crowds, choose weekday mornings; for ambiance and photos, aim for a golden‑hour sunset cruise.

A classic half‑day combines a creek cruise past Old Town and Fort Jesus with time at the reef inside Mombasa Marine National Park for snorkeling over coral gardens and a stop at a sandbar if tides allow. Expect a relaxed pace, life jackets, snorkel gear if you’re getting in the water, and a cooler with cold drinks. If you prefer to stay dry, choose a scenic Tudor Creek or Mtwapa Creek cruise capped by a sunset over the mangroves and city lights.

With a captained boat, your crew manages navigation, safety, docking, and route timing, so you can focus on guests, photos, and the playlist. Self‑drive options are very limited for visitors and typically restricted to small sailboats in controlled club areas; they also require proof of competence and adherence to local safety rules. For stress‑free planning—especially with families or groups—book a captained charter and let your skipper tailor the route to sea conditions and your schedule.

Yes. Many travelers arrange a full‑day outing that departs by road to Shimoni, about 1.5–2 hours south of Mombasa depending on traffic and the Likoni Ferry. From the Shimoni jetty, you’ll board a dhow or motorboat for dolphin watching and snorkeling over the Kisite‑Mpunguti reefs, often with a Swahili lunch on Wasini Island. It’s a wonderful add‑on if you have a free day and want clear water, reefs, and a high chance of dolphin sightings—just start early and plan for a late afternoon return.