Mombasa Glass-Bottom Boat – Half Day Trip – Marine Life and Coral Reef
Coastal Tour
Beach holidays
Mombasa Marine National Park, north coast
Coastal Tour | Boat Tours | Marine Life
See the reef without getting in the water.
Our glass-bottom boat runs out from Mombasa's north coast to the reef, where viewing panels in the hull open onto the coral below. You sit in the shade, look down, and watch the reef pass underneath. Parrotfish, angelfish and butterflyfish move through the coral in good numbers, and turtles and rays turn up often enough that plenty of guests see one.
The trip suits almost everyone. Children handle it well because nobody has to swim. Older travellers and anyone uneasy about deep water get the same view as a snorkeller, from a dry and stable seat. If your group is split between people who want to be in the water and people who do not, this is usually the trip that keeps everybody happy.
Your guide explains what you are looking at as you go, so it lands somewhere between a boat ride and a short lesson on how a reef works.
Trips run in morning and afternoon slots. We set the exact time around the tide, because the reef shows best when the water is right.
Details
Summary information about this package
Mombasa Marine National Park, north coast
Mombasa
Flexible
Included
All Ages (For Kids & Adults)
Not included
Excluded
All year round, January, February, March, October, November, December
Costs
Kenyan Citizen
Ksh. 5000 per person sharing
Non-resident
$ 50 per person sharing
Transport
Options:
Duration and Timing
Half Day
Day Trip
About Package
More information about this package
Glass Bottom Boat Experience: Enjoy a clear view of Mombasa’s marine life through the glass bottom of the boat, offering a close-up view of the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish without getting wet.
Marine Life Observation: Spot a variety of marine species including exotic fish, sea turtles, and graceful rays as you glide over the underwater landscapes.
Guided Commentary: Learn about the local marine ecosystem and conservation efforts from our knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary throughout the trip.
Relaxing Cruise: Soak in the beautiful coastal scenery and enjoy a leisurely cruise on calm, turquoise waters, perfect for unwinding and taking in the natural beauty.
Family-Friendly: This tour is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal outing for families with children, couples seeking a romantic escape, or groups of friends.
Convenient Departure: Depart from a central location in Mombasa, ensuring easy access and a hassle-free start to your aquatic adventure.
Package Itinerary
The package itinerary is as follows
Meet at the beach. You make your own way to the departure point on the north coast. We confirm the exact spot and time once your booking is in, and it is a short walk or a few minutes by tuk-tuk from most Nyali, Bamburi and Shanzu hotels. If you would rather we collected you, add a transfer below.
Briefing. A short safety talk at the launch point, life jackets fitted, then onto the boat. Ten minutes at most.
Out to the reef. The run out takes around fifteen minutes. The water shallows over the coral and the guide slows the boat so the viewing panels come into their own.
On the reef. The main part of the trip. You move slowly across several sections of reef while the guide talks you through what is below. Midday light through the panels is the best for photographs.
Optional swim stop. If your group wants it, we anchor at a shallow section so people can get in. Anyone who prefers to stay dry simply stays on board. Snorkel gear can be added if you want to see the reef from the water.
Back to shore. Return across the lagoon and you are free for the rest of the day.
Add Ons
Families usually add the packed lunch and the snorkel gear, then stretch a half day into a full one at the beach.
Groups and corporate bookings tend to take the private boat and a photographer, which gives you the reef to yourselves and a set of images afterwards.
Couples often add the massage session for later the same day.
Anyone coming down from Nairobi can add accommodation and the safari extension and build a longer coast trip around the boat day.
+ Inclusions
Glass-bottom boat trip over the Mombasa reef
Snorkelling equipment available
Marine Park fees
Reef guide throughout
Life jackets for all passengers
- Exclusions
Transport to and from the departure point. Available as an add-on
Accommodation
Meals and drinks
Travel insurance
Tips for the boat crew and guide
Personal spending
What To Carry
Swimwear under your clothes if you plan to get in
A towel
Reef-safe sunscreen
A hat and sunglasses
A camera or phone, in a waterproof pouch if you have one
Motion sickness tablets if you are prone to it, taken before boarding rather than once you are on the water
ID or passport, since marine park staff verify residency status
Cash for tips
Book This Package
Reach out:
For enquiries or bookings, write to [email protected]. We’ll revert within 20 minutes during business hours.