Under an endless sky where the azure blue flirts with the horizon, sail away on a magical journey between South Africa and Madagascar. Navigate between wild lands and ancient traditions, where every moment whispers the secrets of spectacular nature and ancestral stories, where every landscape is an invitation to contemplation and wonder. In these lands full of wonders and surprises, you will be captivated by the unique biodiversity, including lush tropical forests where mischievous lemurs roam, majestic baobabs that stand like silent giants, and pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters.
Inclusions
- 11 nights cruise from Durban to Nosy Be aboard Le Dumont d’Urville (PONANT)
- Airfare from Nosy Be to Mauritius
- All onboard meals—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and complimentary 24-hour room service
- Open Bar: a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served at your discretion and at any time of the day. Some premium alcoholic drinks presented on the menu are not included in the Open Bar
- Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
- Included shore excursions as stated in the itinerary
- Departure transfer from the pier to Nosy Be airport
| December 17, 2025 | Cruise Only |
| Deluxe Balcony | $8089 |
| Prestige Balcony | $8919 |
| Deluxe Suite | $13509 |
| Prestige Suite | $18089 |
| Taxes & Fees | $750 |
| Rates in USD. Per person based on double occupancy. |
|
New bookings only. Space and price are limited and subject to availability when booking. Cruise Only prices do not include airfare, transfers or hotel. The cost of airfare varies from other city gateways; please call to inquire. The prices listed are for lead-in categories (oceanview or balcony cabins may be obstructed), but upgrades are available. Promotional offers may be withdrawn at any time. Depending on the promotion, the deposit for the cruise may be non-refundable; however, we also provide a refundable option at a slightly higher price, ensuring flexibility in your booking.
Ready to set sail? Call us now to inquire for more information or other sailing dates. We're here to help you plan your dream cruise.
Highlights
- Explore the Madagascan and South African coastlines with an overnight stay in Richards Bay, for a combination of spectacular wildlife and unforgettable encounters with local traditions.
- Protected wildlife (Nosy Komba lemurs, Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park), unique ecosystems (Nosy Hara marine tsingy, etc.), Zulu traditions (Phezulu Reserve).
- Activities planned: among these are included excursions* led by expert local guides and activities conducted with your naturalist guides.
*Advance bookings open approximately two months prior to the start of the cruise and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
December 17, 2026 – Durban
Embarkation 12/17/2026 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 12/17/2026 at 10:00 PM
Situated in the Kwazulu-Natal region, the cradle of Zulu culture, Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and one of Africa’s major ports. Between long beaches rocked by the rollers of the Indian Ocean and the skyscrapers dominating the avenues lined with jacarandas, in this multicultural city with African, Indian and colonial influences, the term “rainbow nation” takes on its full dimension. With a rich cultural and historical heritage, with its museums, colonial buildings and picturesque neighborhoods, it is also known for the fauna and flora that surrounds it.
December 18 to December 19, 2026 – Richards Bay
Arrival 12/18/2026
Departure 12/19/2026
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.
December 20 to December 21, 2026 – At sea
Arrival 12/20/2026
Departure 12/21/2026
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.
December 22, 2026 – Toliara
Arrival 12/22/2026
Departure 12/22/2026
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.
December 23, 2026 – Morondava
Arrival 12/23/2026
Departure 12/23/2026
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.
December 24, 2026 – At sea
Arrival 12/24/2026
Departure 12/24/2026
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.
December 25, 2026 – Majunga
Arrival 12/25/2026
Departure 12/25/2026
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.
December 26, 2026 – Nosy Komba
Arrival 12/26/2026
Departure 12/26/2026
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.
December 27, 2026 – Nosy Hara
Arrival 12/27/2026
Departure 12/27/2026
Its limestone rock formations rising from the waters, or marine “tsingies” typical of Madagascar, make Nosy Hara both exceptional and immediately recognizable. 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 snorkeling.
December 28, 2026 – Nosy Be
Arrival 12/28/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 12/28/2026 at 8:00 AM
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.
Why choose PONANT?
An attentive crew, expertise, fine dining and more. Within a fully 5 star setting, we take you to discover exceptional destinations while offering you a travel experience that is both authentic and high end.
- Travelling the French way
PONANT is an exponent for the French way of life across every sea on the globe. On board, this is translated through exceptional services, a multilingual crew and bringing French know-how to the fore. - Exceptional destinations
From secluded ports to secret seas, from forgotten beaches to remote lands, our experts choose itineraries that take you away from major tourist routes so you can enjoy unique cruises and shorelines that few have seen before. - Ships on a human scale
Thanks to our small capacity ships, we can dock in private ports and offer stopovers in preserved locations. On board, the limited number of passengers means that everybody can enjoy special moments and feel as though they are on a private yacht. - Our commitments
PONANT aims at becoming a world reference in the field of sustainable development in the cruising industry. The environment and ethics are among our main concerns, both in the regions we visit and in our relationships within the company and with our partners.
