Banana Boat tour in Zanzibar

The banana boat is the cheap, silly one, and it is usually the highlight for anyone travelling with teenagers. Up to six people straddle an inflatable towed behind a speedboat, and the driver's job is to tip you off.

Runs last about 15 to 20 minutes and everyone wears a life jacket. You do not need to swim well, but you do need to be comfortable going in the water, because you will end up in it repeatedly.

It works best with a full group, so it is worth combining with other people at the beach. Mornings are calmer; afternoons are rougher and more of a ride. Leave glasses, watches and anything loose on the boat.