Pemba Island
For a little sunshine
& East Africa's greatest fishing potential
Pemba Island
It is unfortunate that as a result of some very short-sighted new legislation and taxation rules in Pemba and Zanzibar we have had to put on hold our safaris to these beautiful islands.
North Kenya safaris
Instead we are offering a very exciting alternative with safaris to the far north of Kenya. Please see our North Kenya safaris page.
Pemba Island
The boats are comfortably fitted out for cruising, and can accommodate up to four guests on either "Broadbill" or "Kamara II". Both boats are equipped with toilet, galley, a fridge/freezer, shower and even a barbecue. Most people have dreamed of cruising to far-off tropical islands, at some point in their lives, and this might be just your chance ! In addition to our normal day-fishing charters based out of Shimoni, we also offer 3 to 10 day fishing safaris to the beautiful unspoilt island of Pemba. Or we can customize a fishing safari for you to such exotic destinations as Mafia Is. or Kilwa in Southern Tanzania or even Kiwayu in Northern Kenya.
Pemba Island
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This the only granitic continental island on the East Coast of Africa and is surrounded by exotic coral reefs of every form and description, beautiful smaller islands, deep channels and exotic white sandy beaches. In short…Paradise!
The main island is some 45 miles long by 20 miles across, and lies some 23 nautical miles offshore. The island itself is covered by dense rainforest in the north and rich fertile soil where huge bananas and mangoes grow like weeds, along with coconuts, lychees and of course cloves. With its extremely rich species biodiversity it is an island of considerable scientific importance.
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Sister Island
Pemba Island is the sister island to Zanzibar and both come under the Tanzanian flag. Our boats are amongst the only ones licensed to fish within Pemba waters.
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The West Coast
The West Coast is made up of a series of smaller islands enclosing an incredible inner sea with islands, reefs, mangrove creeks and deep-water channels. The south is very similar to the East Coast although less harsh.
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The East Coast
The East Coast is exposed to the full force of the Indian Ocean and the prevailing winds, hence the reefs are narrow, the drop-offs extremely steep and the shoreline harsh.
To the north there is a wide shallow bank extending some 12 miles north covered in coral reefs and with one of the most beautiful beaches in East Africa at Vuma Wimbi in Msuka Bay. This beach is only accessible from mid-March to mid-November during the SE-monsoon period.
Anchorages and places to stay
We choose one of several landlocked, calm anchorages, where little or no movement is felt, and we sleep aboard the game boat, or aboard the very comfortable yacht "Karibu" belonging to Pemba Afloat in the Njao Gap. There is something special about sitting on a boat, sipping a cool drink, watching the sunset with the smell of fresh fish cooking over the coals.
In the evening, you can explore ashore, taking a walk through the tropical rainforest or maybe snorkel the reefs to see the underwater life. In some of the anchorages it is possible to fish up the creeks in the evening for small trevallies, barracuda, etc using our rubber duck.
As the prime fishing grounds are on the Pemba side of the channel one can benefit considerably by basing oneself there. We can be in the best water in a matter of minutes rather than hours, which translates into about 4 hours more fishing time in the best spots. Marlin have often been encountered within 1 mile of the shore with dog-tooth tuna, giant trevally, kingfish, barracuda and wahoo all along the steep drop-offs.
During the yellowfin tuna season the best fishing is often within a couple of miles of the Pemba coastline, making it an ideal base at this time of year. In 2002-2004 as a result of a population explosion of mantis shrimps the best fishing was actually on the mainland side so it is best to check with us first. We shall of course advise you according to where we believe your best chances to be.
The best fishing for giant trevally, large wahoo, barracuda and narrow barred mackerels is along the Pemba drop-offs. Even in the billfish season of December through March the fishing is often best in close proximity to Pemba. If, as well as the excellent fishing you would like to see more of the island then we strongly recommend September through November and March when the sea is usually calmer and we are freer to cruise where we want. As Pemba Is. is in Tanzania you will require your passport and a valid yellow fever certificate. Visas may be obtained upon arrival, but are not included within our price. These trips are great fun, and as there are no telephones or faxes you can have a truly relaxing holiday away from all the pressures of every day life.
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Manta Reef Lodge
Another option is to stay at the Manta Reef Lodge (www.mantareeflodge.com) on the NW Coast just to the south of Ras Kigomacha Lighthouse. Manta Reef is very accessible to the best fishing areas in the Pemba Channel and in April 1996 Jonathan Bond caught a world record giant trevally from Kamara right in front of the resort. Enquire here ...
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Fundu Lagoon Resort
A further option is to stay at the luxurious Fundu Lagoon Resort on the beautiful Wambaa Peninsular to the east of Mesale Island, SW Pemba. Fundu Lagoon is a very beautiful resort with excellent food and friendly service.
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