Buccaneer Diving
Buccaneer Diving
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Buccaneer Diving is East Africa's ONLY PADI CDC Centre and offers diving on the uncrowded South East coast of Zanzibar. Paje, Bwejuu and Jambiani is a location known for its pristine corals on the outer reef and excellent critter diving (including seahorses) in its protected 18M deep lagoon. We offer daily two dive days from our main base in Paje and take regular trips to the famous Mnemba atoll marine park.
Paje, Tanzania
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
779 reviews
Excellent
654
Very good
88
Average
15
Poor
8
Terrible
14
T Jacobs UK
Dubai, United Arab Emirates122 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
My wife and I booked a "discover scuba diving" course with buckaneer, this included a pool training/ safety session followed by two dives on the reef of paje. We arranged the package through Riana who was based at our hotel, The Sands. Riana accompanied us through every step from selecting the best equipment, the training sessions which she patiently delivered to ensure our understanding and comfort, to finally leading the dives. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were it not for my wife's seasickness would have perused the "open water diving" course. I would highly recommend this company for their customer care, staff experience and quality of equipment. Thankyou again!
Written August 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your review and we do hope you will continue your diving adventures in the future.
Written August 12, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ramie L
4 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
My husband and I came to Africa for our 25th wedding anniversary. We haven’t been diving for 22 years, but really wanted to see below the water during our time in Zanzibar. Our dive master Doula was very good: obviously experienced, careful, considerate, attentive, and his explanations were clear and concise during our refresher course this morning. Then we went out and had two fantastic dives! What a super experience! We can highly recommend Buccaneer Diving.
Written February 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Milly T
London, UK21 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We chose our hotel without thinking about diving location, so scouted around a bit before coming across these guys. We what’s apped the team on Saturday evening and a taxi arrived for us on Sunday morning!
We were staying on the South West so the pick up wasn’t free but they organised it all and it was good value.
Dula was great - I’m a nervous diver despite being PADI qualified so we did a quick refresher in the pool and we were off! We did one dive outside the reef and one in the lagoon because it was too stormy! The visibility wasn’t excellent but was as good as I’ve ever had when diving, and we saw several stingray swimming with us! Lots of different fish to see as well as some amazing starfish!
It was a drift dive which I wasn’t sure about but it was great, and the team on the boat, as well as Dula were professional and helpful - I felt in safe hands!
Thanks team, we would come back if we are ever back in Zanzibar!
We were staying on the South West so the pick up wasn’t free but they organised it all and it was good value.
Dula was great - I’m a nervous diver despite being PADI qualified so we did a quick refresher in the pool and we were off! We did one dive outside the reef and one in the lagoon because it was too stormy! The visibility wasn’t excellent but was as good as I’ve ever had when diving, and we saw several stingray swimming with us! Lots of different fish to see as well as some amazing starfish!
It was a drift dive which I wasn’t sure about but it was great, and the team on the boat, as well as Dula were professional and helpful - I felt in safe hands!
Thanks team, we would come back if we are ever back in Zanzibar!
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Colin John
Scotland, UK6 contributions
Nov 2020 • Friends
Situated on the south east coast of Zanzibar on an endless stretch of beautiful white beach, buccaneer diving is a professional dive operation taking you to the most stunning dive sites around the island. You can stay onsite at the paje beach apartments. Here you will find tasteful clean air conditioned rooms with a well run beach bar and restaurant serving wonderful fresh dishes all very reasonably priced. There is also a popular kite surfing operation based here . A great little place to come and hang out. Highly recommend.
Written November 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tereza
Pardubice, Czech Republic27 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Me and my dad wanted to send a big thank you to the best diver in Zanzibar - Dixon. He made our stay truly unforgettable. We were diving with him for 9 days straight and each dive was absolutely stunning and unique. Night dive especially! His hospitaly and kind heart knows no measures. I stand behind my statement that he is the best diver in the whole Zanzibar and one of the best guides as well. Once again, thank you for the perfect experience. YOU ARE THE BEST!
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Claude T
1 contribution
Oct 2022 • Family
We dived with my 2 sons (13 and 16). First experience for them, for a scuba baptism. 3rd time for me (in other places, with other clubs).
The shop is a bit more expensive than some others around for 2 dives, but it includes first an experience in swimming pool, that is not included with the others. A bit more than one hour to chose and try the material, get familiar wit basics, and, most important, stay under water to experiment everything. You learn to breathe correctly, empty your mask, and all security gestures such as catching back your hose in cas you lose it.
In my opinion, for a first experience, this is necessary to aboard the first sea diving with full confidence. During your diving, you won't lose time in discovering how it works. No stress, no surprise, you can enjoy from the moment you dive. Good point.
Everything was very serious, clear, and done with the usual amazing kindness and warmness of Tanzanian people.
We have been on 2 different sites to see different environments. Lots of things to see there under water!
Very good experience, that I can only recommend.
Thanks guys!
The shop is a bit more expensive than some others around for 2 dives, but it includes first an experience in swimming pool, that is not included with the others. A bit more than one hour to chose and try the material, get familiar wit basics, and, most important, stay under water to experiment everything. You learn to breathe correctly, empty your mask, and all security gestures such as catching back your hose in cas you lose it.
In my opinion, for a first experience, this is necessary to aboard the first sea diving with full confidence. During your diving, you won't lose time in discovering how it works. No stress, no surprise, you can enjoy from the moment you dive. Good point.
Everything was very serious, clear, and done with the usual amazing kindness and warmness of Tanzanian people.
We have been on 2 different sites to see different environments. Lots of things to see there under water!
Very good experience, that I can only recommend.
Thanks guys!
Written November 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom P
2 contributions
Sep 2020 • Solo
During my time in Zanzibar I decided to try some diving using the highly recommended Buccaneer diving school. I did my basic open water qualification with instructors Willie and Lucy, I soon realised why it is such a highly regarded diving school. Situated on the most stunning beach, doing the most stunning dives it’s impossible not to fall in love with the place. Both Willie and Lucy were fantastic making me feel completely safe and comfortable, encouraging me to take everything my own pace. I enjoyed it so much I extended my stay at Paje and completed my advanced open water course with them!!
Written September 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim A
Haarlev, Denmark5 contributions
Sep 2021
I am AOWD with 75 dives. I contacted them via email. After 3 days without a reply I went there in person. Staff was friendly and helpful.
First my wife and I went on a snorkeling trip to Dongwe. Well organised, and a good spot (calm seas, nice corals, not too crowded) but not huge amounts of fish.
Then I had a refresher course with Ibrahim, which was excellent.
I needed to rent a regulator. Their website don't have a pricelist, but another diveshop website on the island charges 7$. Buccaneer charges 11$.
The first dive safari at outer reef I was buddied up with a newbie who had just gotten his certificate, and was now doing AOWD course. He was all over the place. I lost sight of him after half an hour. Got hold of one of the other diveguides and was "told" he was out of air and the instructor had surfaced with him. So I buddied up with the other diveguide.
I think my buddys instructor should have informed me when he could see that newbie was running low. I think this is quite important as it is related to safety, which is why this review is only 3 stars.
On the surface we was served tea and fruit and a biscuit, while sailing to second site.
Again my buddy ran out of air early. I saw them near the surface, and again buddied up with the other group.
The second dive safari I was again buddied up with a newbie before sailing, but on the boat the diveguides discussed and I was switched to an AOWD buddy (and Ibrahim as guide). This was a much better dive as we kept close, and pointed interesting stuff out to eachother
Both divesites were ok. Nice colourful corals. Not a lot of marine life, not unlimited visibility, but overall a good diveday. Lot of triggerfish, some lobsters, 2 octopus, 2 nudibranch, some lionfish, one small black moray eel, a yellow ribbon eel, and the usual varied reef fish.
First my wife and I went on a snorkeling trip to Dongwe. Well organised, and a good spot (calm seas, nice corals, not too crowded) but not huge amounts of fish.
Then I had a refresher course with Ibrahim, which was excellent.
I needed to rent a regulator. Their website don't have a pricelist, but another diveshop website on the island charges 7$. Buccaneer charges 11$.
The first dive safari at outer reef I was buddied up with a newbie who had just gotten his certificate, and was now doing AOWD course. He was all over the place. I lost sight of him after half an hour. Got hold of one of the other diveguides and was "told" he was out of air and the instructor had surfaced with him. So I buddied up with the other diveguide.
I think my buddys instructor should have informed me when he could see that newbie was running low. I think this is quite important as it is related to safety, which is why this review is only 3 stars.
On the surface we was served tea and fruit and a biscuit, while sailing to second site.
Again my buddy ran out of air early. I saw them near the surface, and again buddied up with the other group.
The second dive safari I was again buddied up with a newbie before sailing, but on the boat the diveguides discussed and I was switched to an AOWD buddy (and Ibrahim as guide). This was a much better dive as we kept close, and pointed interesting stuff out to eachother
Both divesites were ok. Nice colourful corals. Not a lot of marine life, not unlimited visibility, but overall a good diveday. Lot of triggerfish, some lobsters, 2 octopus, 2 nudibranch, some lionfish, one small black moray eel, a yellow ribbon eel, and the usual varied reef fish.
Written October 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nancy
1 contribution
Oct 2021
How do I begin to explain a place that was far more than just aa great diving experience to me and my friends. It was my first time diving and I know I will be back for sure. My friends and I visited at different times but we all had the same incredible things to say about Buccaneer Diving.
The equipment is high class, you feel safe, secure, protected and know that you are being taught by the best of the best.
The second I stepped into their reception it was continual laughter, it was a friendly environment that understood my concerns and feelings with the ocean. They made me feel safe in the ocean, were willing to work with me and at my pace. The staff is incredibly friendly, kind and sincere so much so that they became friends by the end of the trip.
Everything was so well explained. When I was in the ocean I felt a lot more confident because they explained everything clearly. I saw the most beautiful coral and fish it was honestly such an incredible experience.
They are very accommodating, they are concerned about safety first but also fun and making sure that all guests have an astoundingly great experience. My experience in Zanzibar was largely enhanced due to my scuba diving experience at Buccaneer Diving.
The recommendations my friends gave made me travel all the way to Zanzibar from Zambia. I highly recommend that you make your first stop in Zanzibar at Buccaneer Diving.
I was sad to leave but had such an unbelievable experience which will soon be repeated.
The equipment is high class, you feel safe, secure, protected and know that you are being taught by the best of the best.
The second I stepped into their reception it was continual laughter, it was a friendly environment that understood my concerns and feelings with the ocean. They made me feel safe in the ocean, were willing to work with me and at my pace. The staff is incredibly friendly, kind and sincere so much so that they became friends by the end of the trip.
Everything was so well explained. When I was in the ocean I felt a lot more confident because they explained everything clearly. I saw the most beautiful coral and fish it was honestly such an incredible experience.
They are very accommodating, they are concerned about safety first but also fun and making sure that all guests have an astoundingly great experience. My experience in Zanzibar was largely enhanced due to my scuba diving experience at Buccaneer Diving.
The recommendations my friends gave made me travel all the way to Zanzibar from Zambia. I highly recommend that you make your first stop in Zanzibar at Buccaneer Diving.
I was sad to leave but had such an unbelievable experience which will soon be repeated.
Written November 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sophia Schmidt
7 contributions
Nov 2022 • Friends
I am happy to devote my time to this review. My friend and I had our very first diving experience at buccaneer Diving. After 2 days and 2 dives in the open sea we were the happiest people in the world! We felt in very good hands of the team right from the start. Big big kudos to Didi and Abduli, who explained everything to us with so much empathy, calm, knowledge and humor. I had problems with panic attacks during the pool session. Didi and Abduli actually managed to calm me down with their great manner and I was able to do my first dives the next day. You guys are the best! Who ever hired them, good job, don't let them go! Everything was explained again on the boat, and in the water we always felt safe and comfortable with Didi and Abduli. Also the whole crew on boat is just fantastic! You can feel they like each other, the mood and vibes were always great. The equipment was also in a very good condition. Price-performance great! I found my love for diving through the Buccaneer crew and would encourage everyone to dive with them. Asanteni Sana
Written November 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
François G
Meaux, France
Bonjour, je pense venir 2 semaines à l’hôtel Ras Michamvi Beach Resort en août 2020. Est il facile de se rendre à votre centre depuis l’hôtel ? Merci.
Written December 3, 2019
ils viennent vous chercher à l'hotel...
Written December 5, 2019
bonjour, est ce que vous connaissez les prix pour une journée débutant ?
Written September 29, 2019
comme le plupart des club de plongée maintenant, on est sur les mêmes tarifs qu'en Europe: autour de 50€ je crois : aller voir sur leur site
Written September 30, 2019
Hi
I planing holiday in April 2019 for 2 week
How is scuba diving at that period ( visibility, good places to dive ...)?
What is you princes?
Can I hire car or mean with car?
What is the price?
Can you recommend any hotels to stay and places to see and dive, please.
Many Thanks
Arek
Written November 3, 2018
Hi Arek
The conditions for diving is good in April with only few days of shower but that doesn't affect the diving.
Visibility is around 15 meters and we do arrange free pick ups when one stays in the south east coast of Zanzibar.
We always go out for a double dive and we charge $130 including full gear.
I remain at your disposal if you need any other information.
Feel free to get in touch through WhatsApp +255778676701.
Regards
Diving team
Written November 4, 2018
Hello,
Visiting paje 12-14 September. I believe I had contact previously with you but cannot find the email. I also cant get to your website. I’m not sure if its down temporarily. In any case I am staying at Zanzibar Ocean Blue and and am traveling solo. I’d like to get a few dives in but may need a refresher. Can you buddy me up with another diver and is it possible to do some dives?
Written August 31, 2018
Bruce P
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Hi
Thank you for reaching us and apologies about our website. We are currently upgrading and we are down for few days.
We will gladly do the refresher and buddy you with another diver.
All you need to do is request the hotel to phone us when you arrive and we will communicate the timing for both the refresher and the dives.
Regards,
Diving team
Written September 2, 2018
yoanadilova
Montreal, Canada
Hello, i'm interested in doing my padi diving lessons in few weeks. Could you tell me how much does it cost and what the price includes please! Thank you very much!!
Written June 19, 2017
Hi,
I will be in Zanzibar between 16-19 Oct. I am considering scuba diving one day. I have a professional Dive License certified by SSI. Though I haven't done any diving for over a year now, so might need a small refresh.
What can you offer me?
Thank you.
Written September 6, 2016
Hi
We will be delighted to have you dive with us during your holiday and we will gladly arrange for the refresher before the dives. We always go out for a double tank dive and we charge $130 including full gear. The refresher is 1 hour training in the pool and we charge $50.
We are at your disposal if you need any other information.
Kind regards
Wycliffe Mainye
Written September 16, 2016
Maria G
Moscow, Russia
Hello! My husband and I are going to visit Paje from 27 to 31 of May, 2016, i would like to know could we try diving in April ( it would be our first trial) and how much will it cost? Thank you in advance
Written April 14, 2016
Dear Maria G,
Thanks so much for getting in touch, we would be delighted to have you both come and dive with us while you're here in holiday.
The Discover Scuba Diving programme would be perfect for you guys, it's important to note that there's no formal certification with this option and that it acts like a try dive. The programme will see you spending some time in the pool with one of our instructors prior to going out into the open water for two dives at a maximum depth of 12 metres. The cost for this is $180 per person inclusive of full equipment hire.
I hope I've covered everything for you, please do let me know if you would like to get booked in or if you would like any further information.
Best,
Lauren
Written April 16, 2016
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