I’ve spent countless hours studying Vilanculos and its chain of islands on maps — dreaming of visiting one day. So when the chance came to stop there for a few days on our southward journey after more than three months on the road, it was a definite “yes.”
Boabab Beach Lodge — Camping by the Sea
We camped at Baobab Beach Lodge, a place recommended to us — and it didn’t disappoint. The lodge sits right on the water’s edge, and when the owner lives on the property, you can feel that personal touch.
Old Friends and New Faces
It was great reconnecting with Linda, who manages the Green Safaris Reservations Department. She and her husband Jaques, who works with African Parks Vilanculos, invited us for drinks at their home.
Linda also introduced us to Kerry, who runs Sailaway Safaris — “the best person to talk to about exploring the bay,” she said. She was right.
Sailing with Sailaway Safaris
As both a fan of African travel and a lifelong sailor, this turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
We met the Sailaway team at 8:30 a.m. at their Vilanculos base. After a short briefing and loading up the boat, we set off into the morning sun bound for Magaruque Island. The calm sea and rhythmic motion instantly made me feel at peace.
Our captain, Manual, navigated the sandbanks and channels perfectly. We cruised about seven nautical miles under power at six knots and arrived at a sheltered beach beside a great snorkeling spot.
Snorkeling and Island Life
Visibility was fair, but the marine life was rich — we spotted pufferfish, parrotfish, angelfish, lionfish, and black-nose tangs among many others.
After an hour in the water, we relaxed under shade on the island while reading about the conservation work managed by African Parks at the small visitor center.
Lunch was prepared on board — freshly grilled fish and chicken, Mozambique-style, and served with generous portions. By the time we finished, the tide was perfect, and Manual suggested we head back.
The Sail Home
As we cleared the shallows, crewman “Black Pins” hauled on the sheet, and our dhow sail opened wide like a spinnaker on a racing yacht. For the next five nautical miles, we cruised home on a perfect broad reach, gliding back to the Sailaway base with the wind in our favor and smiles all around.
It was the perfect day out — thanks to the Sailaway Safaris team for showing us the magic of Vilanculos Bay.
