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Peregrine Travel Centre

Jewels of Madagascar Luxury Cruise

Jewels of Madagascar Luxury Cruise

From AUD $13,100

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Description

Beneath an infinite sky in which the azure flirts with the horizon, set off to discover the enchanted shores of Madagascar and marvel at the treasures of these wild lands whose exceptional biodiversity flourishes in harmony with centuries-old traditions. During this journey, each port of call will reveal itself like a pristine Eden: coral islets inhabited by colonies of endemic birds, tropical forests sheltering mischievous lemurs, idyllic beaches edged with turquoise water, coastal tsingy formations shaped by the wind, home to teeming, secret sea life. You will also dive into the living heritage of the local communities, guardians of an ancestral maritime know-how passed on from generation to generation. An unforgettable journey, discovering spectacular nature and fascinating heritage.

Trip Name
Jewels of Madagascar Luxury Cruise
Days
12
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2017/2018 Le Dumont d’Urville is one of PONANT’s state-of-the-art Explorer-class yachts, designed to combine refined French sophistication with immersive expedition travel. Hosting a maximum of 184 guests across 92 elegantly appointed staterooms and suites, the ship offers an intimate cruising experience defined by comfort, style, and innovation. Expansive lounge areas, a panoramic theatre, and multiple bars create inviting spaces to relax and socialise, while the infinity pool seamlessly blends into the sea views. From the marina platform, guests can easily embark on Zodiac excursions or enjoy water activities in serene surroundings. Every detail aboard Le Dumont d’Urville reflects a celebration of nature and discovery. Guests enjoy world-class gastronomy, a serene spa and fitness area, and advanced technology that supports environmentally responsible exploration. Purpose-built for navigating diverse destinations — from Nordic fjords and Mediterranean coastlines to Caribbean islands and Arctic waterways — this sleek, modern vessel embodies the art of travel at sea: luxurious, sustainable, and deeply connected to the natural world.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Richards Bay
A simple fishing village in the past, Richards Bay is now South Africa’s second port. Despite the significant development of industrial activity, particularly in terms of mineral extraction, Richards Bay is one of the country’s cleanest and most environmentally responsible towns. Bordering the Indian Ocean, the town is a haunt for water sport enthusiasts. In the heart of the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, nature lovers will be able to observe the wild fauna, made up of crocodiles, hippos and different bird species, as well as rich subtropical flora. Richards Bay is the departure point for many excursions heading off to discover Zulu country.
Day 2 - Days 2 - 3 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 3 - Day 4 - Toliara
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 4 - 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 5 - 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 6 - Day 7 - Morondava
To the south-west of Antananarivo lies a peaceful city on the Mozambique Channel: Morondava, capital of the kingdom of Menabe, and departure point for many discoveries in the surrounding area. Bordered by the Mozambique Channel, the city is crossed by two rivers: the Mangoky and the Manambolo. Its many forests are full of abundant fauna and flora, especially the Kirindy Mitea National Park and its famous baobab alley.
Day 7 - Day 8 - 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 8 - Day 9 - Majunga
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 the Cirque Rouge, immense red sandstone formations classified as national heritage.
Day 9 - Day 10 - Nosy Komba
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 10 - Day 11 - 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.
Day 11 - Day 12 - Nosy Be
Nosy Be (from the Malagasy: Nosy meaning island and Be meaning large), in the Mozambique Channel, is located near the north-eastern coastlines of Madagascar. A former French protectorate, known under the promising name of “the scented island”, of volcanic origin, it is located on a maritime route with access to India and Asia. Cosmopolitan, a boulevard of encounters, its mixed-race and multicultural population still remembers its past as a significant trading post. Today, its 321 km² enchant lovers of nature and idyllic beaches. Its sumptuous primary forest is home to animals that are endemic to the island as well as surprising flora.
Day 12 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $13,100Deluxe Stateroom
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $14,320Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $30,450Privilege Suite Deck 5
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $30,450Privilege Suite Deck 6
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $33,260Grand Deluxe Suite
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $45,560Owner's Suite
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $14,940Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $15,670Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $21,040Deluxe Suite Deck 6
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $21,040Deluxe Suite Deck 4
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $21,040Deluxe Suite Deck 3
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $21,040Deluxe Suite Deck 5
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $27,760Prestige Suite Deck 5
27-12-202707-01-2028AUD $29,110Prestige Suite Deck 6

Inclusions

    • New Year discovering the precious and unique biodiversity of Madagascar as well as its living traditions.
    • Preserved wildlife (green turtles, radiated tortoises, the lemurs of Nosy Komba, the red-tailed tropicbirds of Nosy Ve, a UNESCO Biosphere), discovering local traditions (Vezo fishermen, one of the last “sea nomad” communities).
    • Possible activities led by naturalist-guides or local guides: outings and shore visits in a rubber dinghy, forest hikes, walks, etc.

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