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Choose Cruise ExpertMadagascar Cruises
Discover Madagascar's unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes on a cruise.
Cruise Offers for Madagascar
Travel Tips for Madagascar
Discover the Wonders of Madagascar on a Cruise
Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, is renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, captivating landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. A cruise to Madagascar offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, such as lemurs and the iconic baobab trees. Fun fact: over 90% of Madagascar’s wildlife is endemic, meaning you’ll find creatures here that you won’t see anywhere else! Embarking on a cruise is one of the best ways to witness Madagascar’s stunning beauty and rich culture firsthand while enjoying the adventure of sailing along its pristine coast.
Top Harbours in Madagascar
When cruising to Madagascar, these five harbours should be on your must-visit list, offering fascinating experiences and memorable sights:
Nosy Be is a rainforest-covered island famous for its incredible beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. While your cruise is docked, take the chance to snorkel or dive in the Coral Garden, where you’ll encounter colourful fish and coral reefs. You can also visit the Ylang-Ylang distillery to learn how essential oils are produced. For a quick bite, try some delicious local seafood at a beachside restaurant before returning to your ship!
Known for its stunning bay, Antsiranana offers a rich historical backdrop and diverse activities. When your ship docks, explore the beautiful Amber Mountain National Park, known for its waterfalls and endemic wildlife. Alternatively, take a quick trip to the nearby Emerald Sea for a refreshing swim. The local market is also worth visiting for unique handicrafts and local delicacies, so be sure to carve out some time if possible!
Toliara is a gateway to stunning coral reefs and picturesque landscapes. On arrival, consider visiting the nearby Ifaty beach to enjoy snorkelling in the abundant marine reserves or exploring the unique spiny forests. If you’re short on time, relax on the beach while indulging in fresh seafood from a local vendor, or take a leisurely stroll by the beautiful coastline before heading back to the cruise.
Tolagnaro, historically known as Fort Dauphin, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and intriguing history. Once your cruise docks, take a trip to the Lavenoch nature reserve for a chance to see various species of birds or explore the stunning Anakao beach. Be sure to visit the local markets where you can find handcrafted goods, and enjoy some freshly made Malagasy dishes.
Known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibes, Nosy Boraha is a paradise for those looking to unwind and explore. Don’t miss the chance to visit the fascinating pirate cemetery, a nod to the island’s privateering history. For a unique experience, you could also take part in a whale-watching tour if visiting from July to September, or simply relax on its idyllic beaches while enjoying the tropical scenery before re-boarding your cruise.
Best Times to Visit Madagascar
The ideal time to cruise Madagascar is during the dry season, from April to November, when temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C. This period is perfect for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes while avoiding the heavy rainfalls that occur from December to March. If you’re looking for milder temperatures and fewer tourists, consider cruising in April or October. These months generally feature pleasant weather and vibrant wildlife activity, making them ideal for visitors!
Cruise Costs Overview for Madagascar
What can you expect in terms of pricing for cruises to Madagascar? A 1-week cruise typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500 for standard packages and upwards of $4,500 for luxury offerings. If you’re considering a longer, 2-week cruise, prices can range from $2,500 to $5,500 for standard options, and as much as $9,000 or more for luxury experiences. Generally, the best time to secure budget-friendly cruises to Madagascar is during the shoulder months of April to June and late September to November, when demand is lower compared to the peak season. Dining in Madagascar generally costs about $15-$40 for a meal, with drinks priced at about $3-$10.
Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Madagascar
- Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruises operates a fleet of 20 ships, with two—Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky—offering itineraries to Madagascar. Most cruises depart from Port Louis or Doha. Norwegian is known for its freestyle cruising concept, providing flexibility in dining and entertainment options to ensure a luxurious experience with every journey. - MSC Cruises
With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has two that sail to Madagascar: MSC Magnifica and MSC Opera. Departures commonly occur from Melbourne or international ports like Valparaíso (Santiago) or Bari. MSC offers family-friendly experiences and excellent onboard amenities, catering to cruisers of all ages.
Luxury and Small Ship Options
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent operates a fleet of 6 ships, with three offering itineraries to Madagascar, including Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Navigator. Departures typically happen from Cape Town or Port Louis. Renowned for its all-inclusive luxury cruises, Regent provides exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail to ensure a truly memorable experience. - Oceania Cruises
With a fleet size of 8, Oceania features three ships that visit Madagascar, mainly Nautica and Insignia. Common ports of departure include Cape Town or Singapore. Oceania is celebrated for its culinary excellence, with gourmet dining options that showcase local flavours at every destination. - Seabourn
Seabourn boasts a fleet of six ships, with one offering visits to Madagascar—Seabourn Sojourn. Common departure ports are Mahe or Cape Town, and Seabourn offers an ultra-luxury experience, with a strong emphasis on personal service and unique destination experiences. - Silversea
This line operates a fleet of 13 ships, with one, Silver Spirit, providing itineraries to Madagascar. Departures typically occur from Mahe or Cape Town. Silversea is known for its all-suite accommodations and exceptional onboard experiences, ensuring an indulgent journey for its guests. - Ponant
Ponant’s fleet includes 11 ships, with two—Le Dumont-D’Urville and Le Laperouse—offering visits to Madagascar. Departures often occur from Port Louis or Colombo. Ponant focuses on intimate cruising experiences and expert-led excursions that immerse guests in the local culture of every destination.
Alternative Regions for Your Cruise Consideration
If Madagascar has piqued your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:
- Azores: With stunning volcanic landscapes and rich marine life, the Azores offer diverse opportunities for hiking, whale watching, and exploring charming towns, making it perfect for nature lovers.
- Caribbean: Renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, the Caribbean presents many islands, each with unique experiences and opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike.
- South Africa: South Africa’s diverse landscapes, exciting wildlife experiences, and rich history make it a fantastic cruising destination. Explore vibrant cities like Cape Town and indulge in thrilling safari adventures!
- Indian Ocean: The Indian Ocean hosts idyllic islands with stunning beaches and clear waters. It’s an excellent choice for relaxing escapes, scuba diving, and exploring local cultures in places like Mauritius and Seychelles.
- Eastern Africa: Dive into rich cultural experiences and incredible biodiversity with destinations that offer adventure in natural parks, stunning coastlines, and opportunities to see extraordinary wildlife up close.
Ready for an adventure? Embark on a remarkable cruise to Madagascar with CruiseAway and explore this unique paradise filled with exceptional experiences!
Harbours for Madagascar
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