Kenya

Dates available throughout 2008

Whilst all itineraries are ‘tailor made’ to suit each group of anglers specific requirements, a deep sea fishing enthusiast will thoroughly enjoy the unique experience of “living aboard” a luxurious “Riviera 42” boat for an exhilarating 5 day package in search of many giants that abound in the Indian ocean. The boat is moored in view of the white sands of Watamu, near Malindi. The powerful 540 hp turbo diesel engines are ideal for exploring the stunning, blue waters off the Kenyan and Tanzanian coast lines whilst the interior provides quality home comforts.

Prime season & target species
From the beginning of August through to sometime in May. The southeast wind (Kusi) blows from mid March to sometime in November and is cooler than the northeast (Kaskazi) which blows the rest of the time. The seas are warmer and calmer during the Kaskazi months.

The main billfish (sailfish and marlin) season runs from November to mid/late March but sailfish and black marlin often come inshore in numbers in August (and this month has been fantastic for black marlin these last few years).

Sailfish (known locally as 'suli suli') are by far the most numerous of the Billfish in the locality. Experienced anglers will know this spectacular acrobat is more fun on light tackle - ask for it! Sails will jump and slither across the surface of the water in a never to be forgotten display. Relatively easy to bring in when hooked (that's the tricky part) the sailfish is a milestone in any anglers' early fishing experience.

Then there is the Royal Family: the Marlin: Striped, Blue and Black.

Striped Marlin tend to run offshore in cleaner water and can travel in packs. Smaller and slimmer than the other two, this fish will still give a good account of itself.

A big Blue Marlin is a privilege to see and they are found usually in the deep water following the yellowfin or other tuna shoals. Some very big Blue Marlin can be expected mid February to mid March.

Black Marlin come closer to shore and are often encountered in very shallow water. The buffalo of the species, this guy is tough. If you haven't done your homework he'll find you out and be gone. Often fighting deep, using his pectoral fins to hold him down in the water they are worthy adversaries (especially little ones!). Medium size blacks can be expected around August to September, but the main season is from December to mid/late March.

Sharks - three species of Caraharinus here - hammerheads, tigers and the high leaping mako. These are often caught while fishing for tuna, they also take marlin baits fished live.

Big Yellowfin tuna (up to 200 lb.) migrate past here between August and November (and sometimes come back again) and the 'schoolie' small yellowfin are around virtually year round. Very strong fish and, with a big one being a good test of character, yellowfin always give a powerful performance, invariably going deep.

Wahoo are renowned for their searing first run (being one of the fastest fish in the sea) and when there are a lot of them around, chaos reigns.

A unique fishing holiday for 3 dedicated anglers on a 5 day “live aboard” safari would include:

Day 1: Depart UK.

Day 2: Arrive Nairobi and fly on to Mombasa or Malindi where you will be met and transferred to a luxurious house close to the ocean – afternoon at leisure – bed and breakfast accommodation.

Day 3: Board the fishing boat and troll en-route to Lamu.

Day 4: Continue trolling North to reach Kiwayu.

Day 5: Start making your way back to Lamu – fishing all the way.

Day 6: To head South back to Watamu. Overnight B/B in your thatched accommodation.

Day 7: Morning at leisure. PM flight back to Nairobi and take the overnight flight to London.

Top quality tackle and the highest standard of safety equipment provided. Call Christine for a customised itinerary – there are so many options available to accommodate your every personal, social and fishing need - in true comfort and style!!

Passports: Full 10 year passport with validity of at least six months after return date of safari.
Visas Required: purchase on arrival
Insurance: Travel insurance is essential.