Indian Ocean Cruises
Discover the idyllic islands and stunning coastlines on Indian Ocean cruises, visiting the Seychelles, Maldives, Mauritius, and the captivating shores of India and Sri Lanka. Our expertly curated cruises in the Indian Ocean offer an intimate small-ship experience, allowing you to explore remote beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and charming coastal towns at a relaxed pace.
The islands of the Indian Ocean are the ultimate getaway – no news, no shoes, just palm trees, white-sand beaches, and tranquil turquoise waters. Enjoy world-class snorkelling and diving, encounter unique marine life, and soak up the warm tropical climate on unforgettable cruises in the Indian Ocean designed for relaxation and discovery.
Beyond the islands, our itineraries also feature a variety of Asia cruises, from cultural journeys along the coast of India to a once-in-a-lifetime Ganges River cruise. Experience the vibrant markets, temples, and spice-scented streets on immersive India cruises, or set sail on a cruise to the Seychelles for breathtaking natural beauty.
Discover golden beaches and ancient heritage on a Sri Lanka cruise, or venture further to explore unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes on Madagascar cruises. Each voyage blends cultural encounters with serene days at sea, ensuring a truly enriching travel experience.
Ready to find your perfect Indian Ocean Cruise? Explore our full collection of Indian Ocean Cruises below or speak to a cruise specialist for tailored advice and availability.
Indian Ocean Cruise Collection
Special OfferSave up to 25% PLUS included flights from the UK!
Mahé Island – Sainte Anne Channel, Sainte Anne Channel - Cousin Island - Praslin Island, Praslin Island , Praslin Island - La Digue Island - Curieuse Island, Curieuse I
Mumbai (ex Bombay), Mormugao (Goa), Colombo, Sri Lanka, Male, Maldives, Praslin and La Digue, Seychelles, Mahé, Seychelles
Mahe - St Anne , St Anne - Curieuse , Cousin Island - Anse Lazio , Aride - St Pierre Island - Baie St Anne , Baie St Anne - Felicite - La Digue , La Digue - Moyenne I
Special OfferSave up to 25%!
Port Louis, Pointe des Galets, Nosy Ve, Sarodrano, Tuléar, Belo sur Mer, Majunga (Mahajanga), Nosy Tanikely - Nosy Komba , Nosy Hara, La Digue, Victoria, Mahé, At Sea
Special OfferFREE Pre-Cruise or Post-Cruise Land Programme
UK - Cape Town (South Africa), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Port Elizabeth (South Africa), Durban, Maputo (Mozambique), Richards Bay (South Africa), Mossel Bay , Cape Town - U
Special OfferUp to $500 OBC per stateroom on selected sailings!
Singapore , Kuala Lumpur , Sabang, Weh Island , Hambantota , Colombo , Cochin , Mumbai (ex Bombay) , Muscat , Doha , Abu Dhabi , Dubai , At Sea
Special OfferNo Single Supplement on Selected Dates!
New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Barrackpore, Chandannagar, Kalna, Mayapur, Matiari, Murshidabad, Farakka Barrage, Bhagalpur, Munger, Mokama, Barh, Patna, Onward Travels
Special OfferNo Single Supplement on Selected Dates!
Guwahati, Mayang, Sutar Gaon, Kaziranga National Park, Biswanath Ghat, Mājuli Island, Jorhat, Sibsagar
Special OfferNo Single Supplement on Selected Dates!
Paro (Bhutan), Thimpu, Punakha (Bhutan), Paro (Bhutan), Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery) (Bhutan), Guwahati, Sutar Gaon, Silghat, Kaziranga National Park, Nameri
Special OfferUp to $500 OBC per stateroom on selected sailings!
Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Mumbai (ex Bombay), Goa, Mangalore, Cochin, Colombo, Hambantota, Sabang, Singapore
Special OfferUp to $500 OBC per stateroom on selected sailings!
Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Sabang, Hambantota, Colombo, Cochin, Mumbai (ex Bombay), Muscat, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Dubai
Special OfferNo Single Supplement on Selected Dates!
Patna, Barh, Mokama, Munger, Sultanganj, Bateshwar Sthan, Farakka Barrage, Murshidabad, Khushbagh, Matiari, Mayapur, Kalna, Chandannagar, Kolkata (ex Calcutta), Kochi
About Indian Ocean Cruises
Our collection of Indian Ocean cruises showcases some of the world’s most exotic destinations, from pristine coral atolls to vibrant cultural ports. Sail to the Maldives, a ribbon of idyllic islands scattered across the warm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, diving, fishing, and snorkelling among colourful marine life. Enjoy informal beach BBQs under the stars, sip cocktails as the sun sets, and explore hidden lagoons teeming with tropical fish on unforgettable cruises in the Indian Ocean.
The Seychelles offer a blend of perfect white-sand beaches, postcard-worthy villages, and unique flora and fauna. Choose a cruise to the Seychelles for laid-back island charm, crystal-clear waters, and incredible nature reserves.
Mauritius, a volcanic gem in the heart of the Indian Ocean, delights with dramatic mountain ranges, soft sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. For adventure and wildlife, Madagascar cruises reveal the 'perfumed island' and its highlights, including Nosy Be and Diego Suarez.
A Sri Lanka cruise brings you to this captivating island off the southern coast of India. Wander Colombo’s bustling streets, steeped in Dutch and Portuguese heritage, and explore Galle’s 17th-century fort. Many of our itineraries also connect with India cruises, including the chance to experience a remarkable Ganges River cruise or other culturally rich Asia cruises, combining history, scenery, and relaxation in one unforgettable voyage.
Ready to find your perfect Indian Ocean Cruise? Explore our full collection of Indian Ocean Cruises below or speak to a cruise specialist for tailored advice and availability.
Indian Ocean Highlights
Chennai
Chennai, formerly Madras, is India's fourth-largest city and the capital of Tamil Nadu, often included on India cruises and cultural Asia cruises. In the tree-lined district of Mylapore, the 7th-century Kapaleeshwarar Hindu temple dominates with its richly decorated tower, while nearby Mahabalipuram is famous for magnificent temples, statues and carvings that showcase South India’s heritage.
Cochin
The Keralan port of Cochin is a highlight of many cruises in the Indian Ocean, known for the striking Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi and St Francis Church, the burial place of Vasco da Gama. Just outside the city, Mattancherry Palace offers murals from Hindu mythology, while evening performances of the Kathakali dance bring Kerala’s traditions to life for those on India cruises.
Colombo
Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, has long been a trading hub and is today a vibrant stop on many Sri Lanka cruises. The Pettah Market area is filled with heritage landmarks such as the Jami-ul Alfar Mosque and Khan Clock Tower, while the city’s blend of cultures makes it one of the most fascinating ports on Indian Ocean cruises. Many Muslim traders specialising in gold and jewellery sell their wares here.
River Ganges
A Ganges River cruise offers an unforgettable way to experience the cultural heart of India. Sailing along this sacred waterway, you’ll discover riverside temples, bustling markets, and historic cities steeped in tradition. From the vibrant ghats of Varanasi to the colonial architecture of Kolkata, each stop reveals a new facet of Indian life. Whether combined with a wider India cruise or taken as a standalone journey, a Ganges River cruise promises an immersive blend of history, spirituality, and local charm.
Goa
Goa is India’s most famous beach resort and a favourite on India cruises, with 100km of palm-fringed coastline and golden sands. Panjim, the capital, features elegant colonial mansions and Anjuna Beach, once a hippy haven in the 1960s, while Old Goa showcases 16th-century churches and Hindu temples. South Goa’s waterfalls and plantations make it a lush addition to cultural Asia cruises.
Malé
Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is the principal port for most Maldives cruises and the gateway to the atolls. The compact city mixes markets, old mosques and modern buildings, with highlights including the 17th-century Hukuru Mosque with its carved coral walls. Surrounded by coral reefs and turquoise lagoons, Male is a classic starting point for diving and snorkelling on Indian Ocean cruises.
Mauritius (Port Louis)
Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a lively multicultural city often visited on a Mauritius cruise. From bustling street markets to the Caudan Waterfront shopping district, it reflects the island’s blend of Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Chinese and Creole heritage. Beyond the city, Mauritius offers sandy beaches, mountains and lush landscapes, making it one of the most scenic destinations on cruises in the Indian Ocean.
Mayotte
The French overseas territory of Mayotte, between Mozambique and Madagascar, is a rare stop on cruises in the Indian Ocean. Its white-sand beaches attract French holidaymakers, while sea turtles nest in the south and humpback whales visit the lagoon in summer. Most shops and restaurants are found in Mamoudzou, the island’s main commercial centre.
Mormugao
Mormugao is Goa’s key port and is often included on India cruises for its unique blend of Portuguese and Indian architecture. The town features golden beaches, the historic Arch of the Viceroys commemorating Vasco da Gama’s arrival, and the grand St Catherine’s Cathedral. Mormugao Fort and nearby Varca beach add to its appeal on Asia cruise itineraries.
Mumbai (India)
Mumbai is the largest port in Western India and a bustling stop on many India cruises. Known as the home of Bollywood and India’s financial hub, it features the Gateway of India arch, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, and the UNESCO-listed Victoria Terminus. Its mix of bazaars, restaurants and colonial architecture makes it a lively highlight of Indian Ocean cruises.
New Mangalore
New Mangalore, located north of the Gurupura River, is a scenic city shaded with coconut palms and crossed by hills and streams. Frequently visited on India cruises, it is known for Tanniru Bhavi beach, the Nandaneshwara temple, and the Shir Sharavu Mahaganapathy temple, where festivals draw large crowds.
Nosy Be
Nosy Be, Madagascar’s most famous island, is a highlight of many Madagascar cruises. Known for its clear waters, outdoor restaurants and fragrant ylang ylang fields, the island also offers excursions to Lokobe Nature Reserve, home to lemurs, chameleons and unique bird species. Its unspoiled character makes it a favourite on wildlife-focused cruises in the Indian Ocean.
Reunion (France Overseas Territories)
Reunion, a French island east of Madagascar, offers dramatic volcanic scenery and is included on many luxury cruises in the Indian Ocean. St Denis, the capital, is home to botanical gardens, modern art galleries and the Notre Dame church, while inland the island features forested peaks, lava fields and hiking trails around the Pitons Le Fournaise and des Neiges.
Seychelles (Victoria, Mahé)
The Seychelles archipelago, made up of 115 islands, is one of the most iconic destinations on cruises to the Seychelles. Visitors often stop at Victoria on Mahé, with its Botanical Gardens and giant tortoise enclosure, before exploring Praslin and La Digue, famous for white-sand beaches and rare wildlife. The Seychelles combine tropical beauty and biodiversity, making them a crown jewel of cruises in the Indian Ocean.
St Denis
St Denis, the capital of Reunion Island, is a cultural stop on many cruises in the Indian Ocean. The city features a museum of modern art with works by Picasso and Gauguin, and the hillside Notre Dame church. The island’s interior is dominated by volcanic peaks and tropical forests filled with unique flora, adding natural beauty to this French territory.
Tulear
Tulear, also known as Toliara, is a rewarding port on Madagascar cruises. The nearby Ifaty Beach, Isalo National Park with its sandstone pinnacles and canyons, and the Tulear Reef are highlights for wildlife and nature lovers. Brightly painted rickshaws, bustling markets, and the sacred banyan tree of Miary add local colour to this vibrant stop on Indian Ocean cruises.
Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, on India’s east coast, is a growing stop on India cruises and Asia cruise itineraries. With sandy beaches, a ropeway cable car offering sweeping views, and the hilltop Simhachalam temple, it combines natural beauty with spiritual heritage in the Eastern Ghats region.
Ready to find your perfect
Indian Ocean Cruise?
Explore our full collection of Indian Ocean Cruises below or speak to a cruise specialist for tailored advice and availability.
Indian Ocean Wildlife & Nature Highlights
Marine Life Encounters
The Indian Ocean is a sanctuary for some of the world’s most iconic marine species. On your voyage, you may find yourself sharing the water with gentle whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea, or gliding alongside elegant manta rays.
Pods of playful dolphins frequently accompany ships, leaping in the wake and delighting guests with spontaneous acrobatics. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are often spotted grazing in seagrass beds or nesting on quiet beaches.
These close-up encounters are a highlight of many Indian Ocean cruises, especially in regions such as the Maldives, the Seychelles, and off the coast of Sri Lanka. Knowledgeable guides and onboard naturalists help interpret these sightings, ensuring you understand not only what you’re seeing, but also how these creatures fit into the broader marine ecosystem of the Indian Ocean.
Coral Reefs & Diving
The Indian Ocean’s coral reefs are among the richest and most colourful on Earth. The Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius boast pristine reef systems that are ideal for both snorkelling and scuba diving.
On these cruises in the Indian Ocean, you’ll have the chance to float above coral gardens bursting with life, from clouds of shimmering anthias to curious parrotfish, delicate sea fans, and the occasional reef shark.
Many itineraries include dedicated snorkelling stops or optional dive excursions, making it easy to explore these underwater worlds at your own pace. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeller, the warm, clear waters and abundant marine biodiversity make every swim a highlight. These reef systems also play a vital role in sustaining Indian Ocean marine life, offering shelter and food to countless species.
Unique Island Wildlife
Beyond the sea, the islands themselves are havens for unusual and often endemic wildlife. Madagascar cruises are particularly prized by nature lovers: this biodiversity hotspot is home to more than 100 species of lemurs, each with its own distinct behaviour and habitat. You may also encounter colourful chameleons, rare orchids, and baobab-lined landscapes straight from a storybook.
In the Seychelles, nature reserves such as Vallée de Mai and Aride Island protect rare bird species, including the Seychelles warbler, the black parrot, and the white-tailed tropicbird. Giant Aldabra tortoises roam freely on certain islands, offering a glimpse into an ancient lineage that dates back millions of years.
These experiences, whether hiking through rainforest trails, bird-watching in protected reserves, or visiting local conservation projects, give Indian Ocean cruises a depth of discovery that extends well beyond the beach.
Types Of Indian Ocean Cruises
Explore the diversity of Indian Ocean cruises, from intimate yacht-style voyages to indulgent luxury journeys. Whether you prefer small ship cruises in the Indian Ocean or expansive itineraries on premium vessels, there’s an option to suit every traveller.
Small Ship & Yacht Cruises
Perfect for travellers seeking exclusivity, small ship cruises in the Indian Ocean offer access to secluded bays and hidden beaches. With fewer guests on board, you’ll enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, more snorkelling and diving stops, and authentic experiences close to nature.
Luxury Ocean Cruises
Indulge in comfort on luxury Indian Ocean cruises, complete with all-inclusive dining, spa facilities, larger suites, and personalised service. These voyages blend tropical escapes with refined experiences, ideal for travellers who want relaxation with elegance.
Expedition Itineraries
For adventurers, expedition-style cruises in the Indian Ocean focus on wildlife-rich destinations like Madagascar and rarely visited archipelagos. Guided by expert naturalists, these itineraries highlight the region’s biodiversity and pristine ecosystems.
River & Ocean Combinations
Pair your ocean journey with an inland adventure, such as a Ganges River cruise or Kerala backwaters trip. These combinations offer the best of both worlds – the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean with the cultural depth of India’s rivers.
Indian Ocean Cruises FAQs
Customer Reviews
Seychelles Megayacht Holidays
by L.RossA huge thanks to blue water holidays for organising a great holiday. All round great experience, great itinerary but still flexible in as much as you can still do as you wish throughout the week; I was allowed to go off and explore the islands if I chose not to partake in the organised day trips ?? all the staff were great and couldnt do enough for you; and were pleasant throughout and always smiling - wouldnt hesitate to book with these guys again
Really helpful staff this end too; great communications and no delays in answering my many emails!
Maldives Paradise Cruise Review
by M.SowerbyWe have just returned from an amazing 2 weeks cruising on yasawa princess around the south ari atoll and the south male atoll, stopping off at sandbars and small islands for swimming and snorkelling (or diving if you wanted this). Although, for the price, we expected few frills actually we were pleasantly surprised: Captain Ahmed and his crew could not have done more to make our stay special and enjoyable; from the chef who cooked our eggs each morning, to the bar staff, the room boy, the dhoni crew who helped us on and off the boats (and sorted out the messy bits whilst night fishing) and especially Sophie the tour rep who paced up and down the beaches watching out for the snorkellers safety, making sure we drank enough water, and arranging quizzes, crab racing ( yes, we did return them to the beach we collected them from!) and other entertainment.
Although not guaranteed of course, we saw amazing (Im running out of superlatives!) coral gardens and all the fish on our list wed seen before and were favourites and some that were new to us (I found Nemo!). One evening night fishing we saw flying fish, a turtle, two manta rays, dolphins and a beautiful sunset; my husband caught 3 fish -some caught were eaten at the beach barbecue!
We also met some lovely, fun people, which meant we had a great time; about 30% were repeat bookings, some meeting up with friends made in previous years, which speaks volumes. Guests were mainly British, aged between 50 and 65 but for one of our weeks there were 2 swedish girls (what a great laugh they were) and an Australian couple.
Maldives Paradise Cruise
by Christine.GourleyBrillint holiday on Yasawa Princess...amazing varieties of fish and coral on the reefs around little islands and sandbanks,best we have seen and we have been to Barrier reef and Red Sea.
Nothing was too much trouble for the crew and captain..beach picnics and BBQ`s great fun..very good food...good selection and freshly cooked Action Fish and Chicken.
Not luxury but exactly right for a relaxing holiday swimming snorkelling or diving. Great company of like minded people there to enjoy everything.