A final Zanzibar post from me before we set sail south down the coast. Our trip finishes either on Mozambique or all the way down to the southern cape. Where we go really depends on weather conditions and our appetite for soaking up the African cultures that we meet along the way!

My final post from here – perhaps predictably for those readers I have already – is on a bit of Zanzibar history again (sorry – there will be more about sailing in due course I promise!)

A bit of History about a Welshman called William Lloyd Matthews – a military officer based in Zanzibar towards the end of the 19th century when slavery was (sadly still) rife and he was enlisted by the Sultan to create an army to stop it:

“the new army contained 500 Africans, with a uniform of red caps, short black jackets and white trousers. The Arab officers wore dark-blue frock coats and trousers, with gold or silver lace, possibly modelled on uniforms of the British Royal Navy”
(taken from http://www.zanzibar-travel-guide.com/bradt_guide.asp?bradt=1919)

Matthews was ultimately successful – capturing slaving ships and their crew, and promoted as a result. He was eventually knighted in 1894.

Slavery and spices have shaped this wonderful island over the centuries, and I couldn’t recommend a sailing trip here more – As with any trip - just be aware of and prepared for the various risks of sailing out here beforehand. Now it’s time to head south down the coast with our friends (one of whom – photo credit to Sarah - took the departing picture above as we sailed away from the island)

More to follow on our wonderful East African sailing journey!