The Dhows of Nungwi

Nungwi is on the northern tip of the main Zanzibar island. Although prime real estate of the beach are occupied by enormous 200+ room luxury resorts (filled predominantly by Italian tourists), it's actually a traditional dhow building village. Dhows are traditional Arab sailing vessels.



The beaches of Nungwi were dotted with dhows either being built or repaired.

"Spirit of Africa"-



Some were beautifully painted.


Despite all the tourists, Nungwi is still a conservative Muslim fishing village.

Drying nets-


Boats and nets-


And of course, the euro speedos and bikinis don't exactly go over too well in the conservative villages. Constant reminders are needed I guess, hah!


There's something serene about watching dhows set sail. I can't even imagine all the hours of labor that went into ensuring it's seaworthy.

Fishermen on dhows setting sail at sunset-



Maasai and Dhow-