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Unforgettable aquatic adventures for kids – Go underwater and discover the wonder of Snorkel, Scuba, Mermaid, and Freediving Explorer programs
The SSI Classified Diving program has been created to enable persons with disabilities who might not be able to earn full certifications the ability to dive and get certified with different safety parameters. Learn to work with disabled divers.
Book a private boat charter in Diani to explore the surrounding area up to Tiwi or Chale Island and Msambweni. Enjoy your trip at your pace.
You can charter one of our dive boats for private diving and go out on your own schedule without having to worry about other divers.
A custom private charter can begin at whatever time you choose and can include either:
Having a flexible schedule for your dive group allows us to plan the sites at your own pace, repeating & getting a variety of dive sites of your preferred choice.
Should any guests in the group not already be certified divers, an additional charge will apply for any instructor-led activities (such as SSI Try Scuba Diving, SSI Open Water Diver Course, or SSI Advanced Adventurer Course)
We offer our family-style brand of personal service starting with transportation to and from a hotel or beach villa. We can bring everything you might need from fresh towels and sunscreen to music and a BBQ. Because when you book your charter you have the entire boat to yourselves which offers the flexibility and relaxation you need on your dream holiday.
(Price per boat for Diani Dive Sites)
$800
Surcharges
Chale Island– $100 (Includes Beach BBQ)
Msambweni- $60
Kisite National Marine Park- $100 + $25/ Person Marine Park Fees
PSSI Try Scuba Diving Experience with Instructor $100/person
Extra tank making it a three dive day- $30/tank
(Price per boat for Diani/ Tiwi Area)
2 Hours $400
4 Hours $600
Surcharges
Chale Island- $100 (Includes Beach BBQ)
Msambweni- $60
Kisite National Marine Park- $100 + $25/ Person Marine Park Fees
Scuba Tanks for Certified Divers $30/tank
Dive Guide if Diving Requested $80
SSI Try Scuba Diving Experience with Instructor $100/person
PLEASE NOTE FOR THE 2025/26 SEASON OCEAN TRIBE IS NOT RUNNING THE WHALE SHARK SAFARIS BUT REFERRING TO A PARTNER OPERATOR.
Our whale shark safari in Diani offer you the chance to get in the water with the largest fish in the Ocean, the Whale Shark. Whale shark season in Diani generally runs from October through to March with the peak stage being January and February. However, that is not to say that there are no chances of seeing them at other times of the year.
Whale Shark safaris in Diani are run during January, February, and March. The tours typically consist of meeting up at the dive base at Baobab Beach Resort & Spa or Alliance Safari Beach Hotel. The boat tours will then go up and down the Diani coast searching for whale sharks. When they locate whale sharks, the boat captains will then take you to hopefully snorkel close to these magnificent creatures.
If you can swim then the answer to this question is yes. Of course, you can swim with the whale sharks on the whale shark safaris in Diani.
The chance to be in the water with the world’s biggest fish can be both exhilarating and serene all in one feeling. You will feel tiny compared to these giants who can grow up to several metres in length. Size isn’t something to worry about.
Whale sharks are curious around people but this has absolutely nothing to do with lunch. Their diet typically consists of plankton, copepods, krill, and fish eggs.
When it is time to jump into the water, an Ocean Tribe Divemaster will be in the water with you as your guide, ensuring you swim a safe distance with the fish. You’ll be dropped in the water close to the whale shark, and your guide will tell you when to put your head in the water and start swimming. Check out the marvel of the large white spots on the whale sharks’ backs and the distinctive ridges which one might even mistake for stripes. Be awed by the Papa Shillingi.
Obviously, on the whale shark safaris in Diani, we are out to find the main event. The world’s largest fish, is the whale shark. However other common sightings seen by our guests include the local dolphins, turtles, other common coral reef life as well as big game fish.
While we have experienced and knowledgeable crews and tour leaders on our whale shark safaris in Diani with solid success rates in tracking the local sharks, whale shark sightings can never be guaranteed 100%. After all, these are wild-elusive animals who are not running to a theme park schedule or your particular timings.
That being said, when we do find whale sharks on marine safaris, there are often likely to be many other species of marine life in the same area. This can include dolphins, porpoises, turtles, seabirds, larger big game fish, and more.
On board, we will provide fruit and snacks during the adventure and another water bottle-filling facility.
The duration of a whale shark safari in Diani depends entirely on the regularity of sightings, environmental conditions, and the Captain and crew. Trips typically have been lasting 2-3 hours but can be shorter than that if you get lucky quickly.
Ocean Tribe dolphin-watching safaris in Diani give everyone the opportunity to see dolphins, up-close and personal in their natural environment.
This is a completely different opportunity to those who have seen them in dolphinariums and theme parks such as SeaWorld. These are tiny swimming pools where the dolphins are expected to perform circus tricks in exchange for small fish scraps.
The ocean where the dolphins are supposed to be and our dolphin-watching safaris in Diani take you to dolphin hotspots. There we hope to be able to see dolphin pods on the surface and if conditions allow, and depending on swimming abilities, to get in the water with these awesome mammals.
In the open ocean, it is not unusual for a dolphin to swim up to 65km each day. They are also highly social animals with extremely advanced fishing techniques.
The dolphin-watching safaris in Diani will take you up and down the Diani coastline trying to locate dolphin pods to give you a sighting of them. The boat ride in itself on our comfortable dolphin safari catamarans is a thrill as we go out over the outer reef of Diani and begin the cruise.
Wild dolphins are sociable speedy ocean creatures. The experience you will get on your dolphin-watching safari in Diani really depends on them, and of course the weather and environmental conditions.
Dolphins do tend to be visible in the same locations for much of the year, however, our tours are only run during certain months to give you optimal viewing conditions and avoid choppy seas, wind, and rain. We rely on our skippers to decide whether a dolphin-watching tour goes ahead and the departure times and trip durations.
Enjoy a Diani snorkelling trip on your Kenya vacation. Ocean Tribe runs short trips to local coral reefs around Diani where you get to snorkel with thousands of tropical colourful fish, and beautiful coral gardens. You also might even get the chance to spot turtles, manta rays, dolphins or even whale sharks at certain times of the year.
Equipment, drinks and snacks are provided along with our professional in-water guides for extra safety. Diani snorkelling trips depart from our base at Alliance Safari Beach Hotel.
The reefs inside the lagoon for the Diani snorkelling trips have a wide range of tropical fish and are protected from the surge by the main lagoon fringing reef, to enhance snorkeller safety and comfort. Life jackets are available for those who are not that confident with their swimming.
For those of you with little or no snorkel experience, we have the opportunity to do snorkel training with our SSI Divemasters for no additional price*. Knowing the correct way to kick with your fins when snorkelling or how to easily clear the snorkel of water can enhance your enjoyment of the activity and make you more efficient when moving. A great extra to have.
*- Complimentary snorkel training is SSI Snorkel Diver
Note: We reserve the right to alter or cancel specific dives/tours/courses without notice due to weather, sea conditions, minimum numbers or other factors. We always recommend that you travel with flexibility in your itinerary and with travel insurance – please contact your local travel agent for details on the best travel insurance for your travel needs. Ocean Tribe recommends Divers Alert Network insurance for your water sports insurance needs and they also do a favourable travel package.
The Kisite snorkelling trip to Kisite-Mpunguti National Marine Park is a full-day trip out from Diani. We will travel to a couple of sites around the coral reef on the far side of Wasini Island. You will get to snorkel with thousands of gorgeous colourful fish. Plus have opportunities to spot turtles, dolphins and more.
Included in the Kisite snorkelling trip package is: A full set of snorkelling equipment. A delicious lunch following the snorkelling. Soft drinks and snacks on the boat. You will have professional in-water guides for extra safety and aid in spotting underwater marine life.
We depart from Diani at around 7:30 am headed down to the port of Shimoni. Shimoni is infamous in history as the loading point for slaves bound for the markets of Zanzibar. From Shimoni, the voyage to the marine part is on a traditional Swahili-style dhow. It involves a slow cruise around Wasini Island to the snorkel sites. During which you can admire the scenery and catch some rays.
After snorkelling we take a leisurely cruise around Wasini Island and have lunch. Then it back to Shimoni before the transfer back to your hotel in Diani.
Commonly encountered bigger animals at Kisite include dolphins and green turtles, in addition to the common coral reef fish inhabiting the area.
Please Note – This Is NOT an Exclusive Snorkel Only Tour. There may be scuba divers onboard too. Snorkelling is in the open ocean on coral reefs rising from various depths and reaching within 2 to 8M from the surface.
We reserve the right to alter or cancel specific dives/tours/courses without notice due to weather, sea conditions, minimum numbers or other factors. We always recommend that you travel with flexibility in your itinerary and with travel insurance – please contact your local travel agent for details on the best travel insurance for your travel needs. Ocean Tribe recommends Divers Alert Network insurance for your water sports insurance needs and they also do a favourable travel package.
Kinondo dive site dive briefing located right at the south end of the Diani dive sites level with Kinondo on land. Large pinnacle dive site with coral plateau at 12m and an eastern drop off down to 40m. Shallow mooring buoys available. Great to dive when mild to no current. View Dive Site coordinates on MyDiveSSI
Located south of Galu and away from the busiest sections of Diani Beach, Kinondo Reef offers a peaceful and scenic underwater experience. The reef begins at around 8 metres and slopes gently to 18 metres, where sandy patches and coral bommies create a mix of habitats. This site is known for its relaxed conditions and rich variety of marine life.
Kinondo’s coral gardens are a blend of hard and soft species. You’ll find staghorn coral, brain coral, and colourful sea fans scattered across the reef. Small schools of snapper, goatfish, and fusiliers patrol the area, while parrotfish and angelfish graze on the reef.
Macro lovers will enjoy searching for nudibranchs, mantis shrimp, and well-camouflaged scorpionfish. Turtles often rest on sandy ledges, and blue-spotted stingrays can be found partially buried in the sand.
With gentle currents and good visibility for most of the year, Kinondo is excellent for training dives, fun dives, and underwater photography. Its slightly more remote location means fewer divers, giving you a calmer, more intimate experience with the reef. The combination of healthy coral, varied marine life, and easy diving makes it a favourite for repeat visits.
FOR LOGGING YOUR DIVES IN THE MYSSI APP– QR CODE FOR KINONDO
Dzinani dive site dive briefing located on the southern end of the Diani dive sites level with Kinondo on land. Three coral islands. Mooring buoy available. View Dive Site coordinates on MyDiveSSI
FOR LOGGING A DIVE IN YOUR MYSSI APP– DIVE SITE DETAILS FOR DZINANI
Mwanyaza dive site dive briefing located south of the Baobab Mango end of the Diani dive sites level with Pinewood hotel on land. Long fringing reef dive site with corals running from 9-18m. Mooring buoy available. Normally a very good one way drift dive to take in the best of the dive site. View Dive Site coordinates on MyDiveSSI
Mwanyaza is a vibrant inshore reef known for its healthy coral cover and abundant fish life. The reef begins at around 8 metres and slopes gently to 20 metres. It offers a colourful, easy-going dive suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
The reef is a mix of hard corals, such as staghorn and brain coral, alongside patches of soft coral. These create hiding places for a variety of reef fish. Schools of fusiliers and snapper sweep over the reef, while parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish feed among the corals.
Look closer and you may find nudibranchs, mantis shrimp, and scorpionfish blending into the background. Turtles are regular visitors, often seen resting on sandy patches between coral heads.
Mwanyaza usually has gentle currents, making it excellent for training dives and relaxed fun dives. The shallow profile allows for longer bottom times and plenty of time to explore. Its bright corals, lively fish schools, and easy conditions make it a dependable choice year-round.
FOR LOGGING DIVES WITH MYSSI APP- QR CODE FOR MWANYAZA
Galu dive site dive briefing located south of the Baobab Mango end of the Diani dive sites level with Blue Marlin and Salty Squid on land. Pinnacle dive site with coral plateau at 10m.
Located just south of Diani Beach, Galu Reef is a colourful and relaxed dive site. The reef starts at around 6 metres and slopes gently to 18 metres, where sand patches meet scattered coral bommies. Conditions here are calm, making it ideal for all experience levels.
The reef features a mix of hard and soft corals, including staghorn, brain, and leather corals. These form a vibrant habitat for a variety of species. Schools of yellow snapper, fusiliers, and sergeant majors cruise above the reef. Meanwhile, parrotfish and butterflyfish weave in and out of coral heads.
Look closely and you may spot scorpionfish, leaf fish, or nudibranchs camouflaged against the rocks. Turtles are frequent visitors, often resting under ledges or gliding past divers. On the sandy bottom, you can sometimes see blue-spotted stingrays or a reef octopus changing colours.
With gentle currents and good visibility for most of the year, Galu is popular for Open Water courses, photography dives, and relaxed reef exploration. The mix of marine life, colourful coral, and easy access makes it one of Diani’s most enjoyable shallow reef dives.
FOR LOGGING A DIVE IN YOUR MYSSI APP– DIVE SITE DETAILS FOR GALU
Tiwi Wall dive site dive briefing located south of the Baobab Mango end of the Diani dive sites at the mouth of the Kongo River. Wall dive site with coral plateau at 6m. Mooring buoys available. Best dives at drier times of the year so that the flooding river Kongo does not cloud visibility. View Dive Site coordinates on MyDiveSSI
Located just north of Diani Beach, Tiwi Reef is a shallow and sheltered site perfect for relaxed diving. The reef starts at around 5 metres and slopes gently to 16 metres, meeting sandy areas dotted with coral bommies. Its calm conditions and easy access make it popular with beginners, snorkellers, and photographers.
Tiwi’s coral gardens are a mix of hard corals, such as staghorn and brain coral, alongside patches of soft coral. The reef attracts schools of fusiliers, sergeant majors, and yellow snapper. Parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish can be seen grazing and darting between coral heads.
Macro hunters will find nudibranchs, flatworms, and pipefish tucked into sheltered spots. Occasionally, hawksbill turtles pass through, and blue-spotted stingrays rest on the sandy bottom.
With minimal current and good visibility for most of the year, Tiwi is ideal for training dives, check dives, and easy reef exploration. Its bright coral gardens and rich fish life make it a favourite choice for relaxed, long dives close to shore.
Ocean Tribe Dive Team
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