Is this the dreamiest spot on the Kenyan coast for you and nine of your closest friends (or family)? Sun, sea, fresh fish lunches, salty plunges—we’re going with yes.
Tusitiri Dhow isn’t just a boat—it’s the adventure that makes all other beach resorts look terribly dull. By day, you drift through Lamu’s archipelago, past hidden coves and impossibly blue waters, stopping only for Swahili feasts and the occasional dip in the sea. The Dhow is a traditional wooden sailing boat. On board, it’s just you and up to nine others, plus a crew of ten for all your food, drink and guiding needs – oh, and to sail the boat.
You sleep up on deck, under a canopy of stars – you’d think that glittery night sky might be too much of a distraction to fall asleep, but the soft lull of the sea and a day of activities and fresh air will prove you wrong. In the morning, clamber down below deck to find a luggage and dressing room and a mirror room to prepare for your close-up (For us, a pair of sunglasses works as a treat.)
Meals are up on deck, deliciously simple and heavy on the seafood, as you might imagine. And a cold beer just hits differently when you’re sipping it from your own
private bar at the front of the boat (we know it has a technical name. The bow? There we go).
For active folks, the Dhow’s perfect. There’s never a dull moment. Kayak around tangled mangroves, snorkel on the reefs, fish for your supper, go paddleboarding or wakeboarding, and you can hop off and explore beaches through the Archipelago.
In between all the activities, you can snooze, read or chat on the daybeds (which later become your night beds). A warning or reassurance, depending on your viewpoint: There is surprisingly decent wifi on board.
