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Adventure in Madagascar

PONANT invites you on an expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean to discover "the island continent" of Madagascar.

Cruise Only
15 nights from £7520pp

Luxury Holiday
Seascape Near Nosy Be Island Northern Madagascar
Port Louis
Pointe des Galets
Nosy Ve

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CP

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Adventure in Madagascar Special Offer

From Mauritius to the Seychelles, set off for 16 days aboard Le Champlain, between beaches, dives, encounters with local populations and the discovery of endemic fauna and flora in rarely visited places of stunning natural beauty. From Port Louis, on the island of Mauritius, you will first sail to Réunion, before reaching the shores of Madagascar.

Out at sea await turquoise waters, the magnificent coral reefs and the natural pools of Nosy Ve, an islet of white sand that shelters a large colony of red-tailed tropicbirds. You will discover the wild expanses of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the south-west of Madagascar. Along the immense beaches edged with dunes in Sarodrano, you will experience an exceptional encounter with one of the planet’s last “sea nomad” people, the Vezo. You will discover their fishing villages and ancestral maritime know-how. Near the mouth of the river Onilahu, Tulear enjoys an exceptional flora that will delight botanical lovers.

After exploring the picturesque and sumptuous city of Belo sur Mer, you will join Majunga where you will visit Ankarafantsika National Park, home to numerous bird and lemur species. Your ship will then set sail for the northern tip of Madagascar. You will be dazzled by the beauty of the deserted beaches and preserved coral reefs of the idyllic islets in the Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Komba and Nosy Hara marine parks, renowned for their fabulous underwater life. Le Champlain will then sail for the island of La Digue, a veritable post card of the Seychelles: palm trees, granite rocks, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Finally you will reach Victoria on the island of Mahé, where your fabulous trip in the Indian Ocean ends.

CP805 Operated by Ponant Luxury and Expedition

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Adventure in Madagascar Itinerary

Day 1 - Port Louis

On the north-west coast of Mauritius, discover Port Louis, the country’s multicultural capital. Constantly in movement, the city, which was once a port of call on the route to India, is home to many cultural and historic treasures. In addition to the city’s market where you will be able to discover all the local flavours and many handicrafts, make sure that you visit Fort Adelaide. Nestling on the heights of Port Louis, this citadel built in the 16th century, classified as a national heritage monument, offers sumptuous views over the surroundings. Not far from there, the Pamplemousse Botanical Garden will reveal to you its countless plant species, coming from all four corners of the world.

Day 2 - Pointe des Galets

At the end of the 19th century, the construction of the port of Pointe des Galets lasted seven years, with the town called Le Port emerging in its wake. You’ll also hear the name “Port-Réunion” used to designate the Pointe des Galets, which is the main port on the island of La Réunion. In fact, it is the only port in France that has five functions: naval base, passenger terminal, commercial port, fishing port and marina. The old town of the Port conjures up the area’s rich history, which is connected to transport. Here you’ll be able to discover the former house of the Réunion Railway and Port Company (1878), its marine cemetery and its teeming covered market.

Days 3-4 - At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 5 - Nosy Ve

Five kilometres out to sea from the Malagasy village of Anakao, Nosy Ve is an unspoilt paradise of exceptional wild beauty. Located on a two-kilometre (1.2 miles) long coral bank, this island is unique in that it is home to a colony of endemic birds commonly called red-tailed tropicbird. This nature reserve, a nesting site for rare birds, is unique because it is this species’ only reproduction site. The duckboards installed on the island will enable you to observe the birds hidden from view under the forest of Madagascar jewel. This Eden dotted with natural pools is also a setting for coral, fish and sea turtles you can discover while snorkelling.

Day 6 - Sarodrano

Sarodrano is a small village in the south-west of Madagascar in the province of Atsimo-Andrefana, at the mouth of the Onilahy River. This village of Vezo fishermen possesses the authentic and unspoiled charm of remote places. You will be surprised by the dexterity with which these “nomads of the sea” steer their outrigger canoes to fish, or keep up their ancestral traditions like seaweed cultivation. If the tide allows it, you will also have the possibility of discovering the sacred cave of Sarodrano, a natural fresh water pool separated from the sea by just 10 metres (33 feet) of rocks.

Day 7 - Tuléar

Located to the south-west of the island of Madagascar, near the mouth of the River Onilahy, Toliara is a port town that opens onto the Mozambique Channel. Inhabited for several centuries, becoming prosperous during the colonial period in the 19th century, Toliara is a cheerful town with unspoilt nature and exceptional flora that will certainly appeal to fans of botany. The Antsokay Arboretum botanical garden with nearly 1,000 Madagascar plant species, 90% of which are endemic, is worth a fragrant and charming detour. Cultural heritage will not be outdone, with the interesting museums of Mahafaly ethnology and the Museum of the Sea.

Day 8 - Belo sur Mer

In the south west of the Menabe Region, in the district of Morondava, you will marvel at the picturesque beauty of Belo sur Mer. This peninsula edged with mangroves alternates fine sandy beaches with rocks plunging into a sea whose shades fall between deep blue and crystal-clear green. This fishing village is renowned for its dhows, the traditional sailing boats of Madagascar, which are built in situ, in the local artisanal boatyard. The choreography of these vessels coming and going on the beach sets the pace of life in the village, bestowing it with a unique charm.

Day 9 - At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 10 - Majunga (Mahajanga)

A lively and cosmopolitan town on the west coast of Madagascar, Majunga, also called Mahajanga, will be a port of call rich in discoveries. The former capital of the Sakalava kingdom, then a significant interchange due to its prime position between Africa and the Middle East, the city displays an interesting cultural patchwork. Also renowned for its outstanding natural sites, this port of call will provide you with the opportunity to discover Ankarafantsika National Park, home to many endemic animal and plant species, or the Cirque Rouge, immense red sandstone formations classified as national heritage.

Day 11 - Nosy Tanikely - Nosy Komba

In the heart of the Nosy Be archipelago, discover Nosy Tanikely, nicknamed the “island of little earth.” In addition to a magnificent white sand beach bordering a lagoon of crystal-clear waters, the island, which is uninhabited, has exceptional marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Thanks to this, the area has been classified as a “marine and coastal protected area” since 2010. It is a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. Hiking fans won’t be left out either: a stunning walk that climbs to the summit of the island will enable them to discover the old lighthouse built at the beginning of the 20th century and enjoy superb views over the ocean and surrounding islands. During your cruise, your ship will stop in Nosy Komba, otherwise known as “lemur island”. Not far from the Madagascar mainland, this volcanic island shaped like a gigantic turtle shell is covered in dense tropical rainforest. This vegetation is home to amusing black lemurs – furry orange-brown and black creatures that are surprisingly agile and call to each other from amongst the trees. The many small beaches and the emerald-coloured water make Nosy Komba a natural gem that only a select few visit.

Day 12 - Nosy Hara

Its limestone rock formations rising from the waters, or marine “tsingies” typical of Madagascar, make Nosy Hara both exceptional and immediately recognisable. Located to the north-west of Madagascar, the island is a protected area due to its incredible biodiversity. It is a veritable open-air aquarium inhabited by around 280 marine species. The rocky columns edged with gorgeous white-sand and pebble beaches fading into shades of deep blue make an idyllic place cut off from the world. Succumb to the charms of this untouched jewel that will welcome you into its stunning decor for a special experience. This is an ideal location for snorkelling.

Days 13-14 - At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 15 - La Digue

La Digue Island is a veritable concentration of all the beauty of the Seychelles. Located 6 km south-east of Praslin, this small piece of land that looks like paradise is the third-largest island in the Seychelles, despite its modest size (5 km by 3 km)! Turquoise waters just asking you to swim in them, lush vegetation sheltering giant tortoises, beaches of fine sand fringed with coconut trees and surrounded with those emblematic large granite rocks with their pink highlights like at the famous Anse Source d’Argent: the perfect picture postcard… Authentic and preserved, the island follows a peaceful rhythm, with the only means of transport along its little roads being bikes or traditional oxcarts.

Day 16 - Victoria, Mahé

Discover Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles and also the largest of the archipelago, home to the capital, Victoria. Mahé has almost 70 beaches of fine sand, framed by the emblematic granite rocks, and whose crystal clear waters are renowned for their rich underwater life. The island is also famous for its splendid mountain panoramas accessible on hikes, such as the Morne Seychellois, which is 905 metres high and overlooks the Indian Ocean. Mahé is also an island full of history where fine colonial properties rub shoulders with Creole houses - and don’t forget the marvellous Botanical Gardens in Victoria.

Price Includes

  • 15-night full-board cruise
  • 24-hour room service
  • French gourmet cuisine and wine with meals
  • Open bar
  • Choice of open-seating restaurants
  • Sophisticated French design and interiors
  • Carita Spa
  • Themed cruises and entertainment
  • Elegant casual wear in evenings
  • Unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi on board
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2023 Departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing

  • December
    • Dec 20th - Port Louis to Victoria, Mahé - Sailing on: Le Jacques Cartier From: £7520
      Deluxe Stateroom Prestige Stateroom Deck 4 Prestige Stateroom Deck 5 Prestige Stateroom Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Deluxe Suite Deck 4 Deluxe Suite Deck 3 Prestige Suite Deck 5 Prestige Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
      Blue Water Price from: £7520 Blue Water Price from: £8340 Blue Water Price from: £8750 Blue Water Price from: £9240 Blue Water Price from: £12840 Blue Water Price from: £12840 Blue Water Price from: £12840 Blue Water Price from: £12840 Blue Water Price from: £17340 Blue Water Price from: £18230 Blue Water Price from: £19130 Blue Water Price from: £19130 Blue Water Price from: £21010 Blue Water Price from: £21010
    • Dec 29th - Port Louis to Victoria, Mahé - Sailing on: Le Champlain From: £7980
      Deluxe Stateroom Prestige Stateroom Deck 4 Prestige Stateroom Deck 5 Prestige Stateroom Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Deluxe Suite Deck 4 Deluxe Suite Deck 3 Prestige Suite Deck 5 Prestige Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
      Blue Water Price from: £7980 Blue Water Price from: £8850 Blue Water Price from: £9280 Blue Water Price from: £9810 Blue Water Price from: £13650 Blue Water Price from: £13650 Blue Water Price from: £13650 Blue Water Price from: £13650 Blue Water Price from: £18440 Blue Water Price from: £19400 Blue Water Price from: £20350 Blue Water Price from: £20350 Blue Water Price from: £22360 Blue Water Price from: £22360

2024 Departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing

  • January
    • Jan 13th - Sailing on: Le Champlain From: £8130
      Deluxe Stateroom Prestige Stateroom Deck 4 Prestige Stateroom Deck 5 Prestige Stateroom Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 6 Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Deluxe Suite Deck 4 Deluxe Suite Deck 3 Prestige Suite Deck 5 Prestige Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 6 Privilege Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5 Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
      Blue Water Price from: £8130 Blue Water Price from: £9030 Blue Water Price from: £9480 Blue Water Price from: £10020 Blue Water Price from: £13980 Blue Water Price from: £13980 Blue Water Price from: £13980 Blue Water Price from: £13980 Blue Water Price from: £18940 Blue Water Price from: £19920 Blue Water Price from: £20920 Blue Water Price from: £20920 Blue Water Price from: £22980 Blue Water Price from: £22980

Price Information

  • Please note prices are updated regularly from a third party price feed and may fluctuate from those shown. Please contact us for latest prices
  • Prices shown usually include all available discounts
Map for Adventure in Madagascar