Seychelles to Mauritius Expedition Cruise

This itinerary includes 2 days at sea to reach these destinations. During sea days, relax or join our Expedition Team for a program of interactive workshops and presentations..

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.

Day 1 Mahe, Seychelles

Board Coral Geographer at Port Victoria, Mahe Seychelles at 2:00pm for a 4:00pm departure. We set sail overnight for Desroches, while you meet and mingle with your fellow guests.

Poivre Island, Seychelles

Named in 1771 after Pierre Poivre, the governor of Reunion, Poivre is a small island atoll home to a handful of caretakers and conservationists. Poivre Island has had a grandiose history, which is seen in the ruined buildings standing amongst the modern homes. Once used for farming vanilla, nuts, maize and livestock, the island is an important breeding area for turtles as well as supporting numerous birds such as blue herons, Chinese herons, whimbrels, noddies, and greater frigatebirds.

Here we will enjoy a day of snorkelling in the beautiful lagoon surrounding the island. Swim with turtles and schools of fish or spend time birdwatching on the peaceful island.

Alphonse Islands

Today, if conditions allow, we will experience the reefs at the Alphonse Islands.  The three pristine islands of Alphonse, St. François and Bijoutier boast miles of spectacular beaches, and lagoons brimming with marine life and brilliant coral. They are considered to be some of the most spectacular islands in Seychelles.

Farquhar Group

An Important Bird Area, the Farquhar Group provides incredible birdwatching. Green sea turtles and Hawksbill Turtles nest around the edges of the lagoon and snorkelling or nature walks are the order of the day, should conditions allow.

Cosmoledo & Picard Islands, Aldabra Group, Seychelles

Considered to be the second-largest coral atoll in the world, Aldabra Atoll is UNESCO World Heritage protected and due to its isolation, has remained untouched by human intervention. It is home to an estimated 152,000 giant tortoises and abounds with other marine and birdlife.  With two days in the Aldabra Group, we have flexibility in our exploration and will adapt to prevailing conditions, spending our time walking in nature, spotting wildlife, snorkelling, or relaxing on one of the many beaches.

Assumption Island, Seychelles

Arrive at Assumption Island, in the Outer Islands of Seychelles. This single coral island has a history of plantation and mining, leaving exposed rock and caves, with low growing vegetation. The 5km long white beach is a lovely base for snorkelling and Scuba diving, should conditions allow.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

Nosy Be means Big Island is Malagasy. This is one of the primary locations in Madagascar for travellers, but still sleepy enough to intrigue, and we have no shortage of options for our visit.

Guests may choose between the below options:

1. A tour of Nosy Be takes us to the Ylang Ylang distillery, where essential oils are made from the star-shaped flowers of the Cananga odorata genuina plant. Further on, a private park is home to lemurs, chameleons and tortoises, along with a plantation of tropical delights such as ylang ylang, coffee, pepper, and vanilla. The colonial buildings and colourful bazary be or grand marché main market of Hell-ville are next. Easy to stroll through, the city provides a glimpse of real Madagascan life.  On a drive north to Mount Passot, we will see 7 of the 11 volcanic lakes on the island, before enjoying a splendid view over Nosy Be, the Radama and Mitsio Islands.

2. An option for our time here is a trip to Nosy Tanikely, which is famous for its marine reserves teeming with spotted stingragys, turtles, puffer fish, grouper, and angelfish. Nosy Komba also tempts a visit. This volcanic island just southeast of Nosy Be is known for the ‘lemur’s garden’ where black lemurs congregate.

Antisiranana (Diego Suarez)

Antisiranana, the largest city in northern Madagascar, is a gateway to some of the wonders of this region. The vibrant cultures of Antankarana and Skalava, Indians, Arabs, Creole, Chinese and French combine, surrounded by a beautiful and unusual landscape.

Guests have multiple options for exploration here.

1. A tour to Montagne d’Ambre (Amber Mountain National Park) is one of the most biodiverse places in Madagascar. Here we will enjoy walks and tours in the refreshingly cool mountain air. This is one of the best places to observe chameleons.

2. We also may tour the city of Antisiranana, gaining an insight into the fascinating history, colonial impacts, and local cultures. Shop in the Rue Colbert or visit Ramena Beach.

3. Another option, for those who are physically fit, is to embark on a journey to Ankarana.  This National Park is known for its incredible Tsingy formations, made as limestone is eroded. Visit caves used by the Antankarana people (the people of the tsingy) and learn about their fascinating culture. You may also have the opportunity to hike to a dramatic whirlpool, where the rivers of the region converge.

Nosy Mangabe & Masoala National Park, Madagascar

Visit Nosy Mangabe, a 520-hectare island reserve and one of the most diverse areas of virgin rain forest in Madagascar. This island has also been an important research centre since the 1960s, when several aye-ayes and lemurs were released into the forest. Embark on a series of nature walks looking at the varied trees, plants and ferns, and hope to spot chameleon, lizards, and black-and-white ruffed lemur. For the birders we will keep an eye out for Madagascar buzzard, kingfisher and paradise flycatchers.

Masoala National Park, Madagascar’s largest protected area, is comprised of a combination of coastal rainforest, marshes and mangroves. This afternoon, be lured by the chance to spot red-ruffed lemur, red-fronted brown lemur, and ring-tailed mongoose, as well as a multitude of extraordinary chameleons. A refuge for endangered species such a the Madagascar red owl and Madagascar Serpent eagle, this region provides a variety of walks and hikes for all fitness levels. You may also have the opportunity to swim from the beach and visit the local village.

Nosy Boraha (Ile Sainte-Marie), Madagascar

Île Sainte-Marie, or Nosy Boraha, is an island off the east coast of Madagascar. Its lush vegetation is interspersed with many small villages, sandy beaches shaded by coconut palms, and its bays and coves are protected by coral reefs. Historically, it was a popular home for pirates, providing a safe haven for more than a thousand pirates at one time. Maps from that era call it ‘the island of pirates’.

Disembark at Ambodifotatra for a 3 hour walking tour. Walk the botanical trail to the Catholic church, before visiting the colourful fruit and vegetable market, with free time to purchase handicrafts and marvel at the entire sperm whale skeleton on display.

In the afternoon, stop at the beautiful island beach for swimming and snorkelling.

Saint-Denis, Reunion Island

Known for its dramatic natural wonders, Réunion is formed by a massive submerged volcano. An overseas department of France, the Creole culture is a vibrant combination of French, African, Chinese, Malagasy, and Indian.

The island was deserted until the 16th century, and is home to one of the world’s most active volcanos,  Piton de la Fournaise.  A collapsed dormant volcano, Piton des Neiges, creates spectacular canyons and gorges in the northwest of the island.

Arrive in Réunion at breakfast, with options to explore. A full day tour visits the huge volcanic amphitheatres known as cirques, with mountains towering overhead, and waterfalls plummeting hundreds of feet.  Be surrounded by tropical plantations with spices, vanilla, and fruits. Enjoy the views from Nez des Boeufs and see Piton de la Fournaise. We will enjoy a Creole lunch before visiting a vanilla plantation. Enjoy free time in St Denis in the afternoon.

Our second morning in Réunion gives us time to explore the city of St Denis, or perhaps take a helicopter tour over the volcanic Piton des Neiges.

Day 16 Port Louis, Mauritius

This morning, we arrive in Port Louis, Mauritius, to disembark at 8:00am.

Please note prices are subject to availability at time of booking or until sold out.

This cruise departs Seychelles on 3 February 2023 and arrives in Port Louis, Mauritius on 18 February 2023.

• Coral Deck Stateroom - from $14,720 pp twin share / from $22,080* sole use
• Promenade Deck Stateroom - from $17,320 pp twin share / from $25,980* sole use
• Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom - from $21,690 pp twin share / from $32,535* sole use
• Bridge Deck Balcony Suite - from $28,590 pp twin share / Solo not available

*Limited sole use occupancy available.

Freecall our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to secure your bookings as cabins are selling fast on this amazing journey. We can also assist with booking international flights, accommodation and arrange your travel insurance.

As a sister ship to Coral Adventurer (launched April 2019), the Coral Geographer (arrived in 2021) remains true to the nature of authentic expeditions. When designing this next generation of ships, we stubbornly resisted the trend to go large and glitzy so we can remain small enough to go to untouched places, focusing on bringing small numbers of like-minded guests closer to nature and cultures with personal attention and professional Australian service. The 120-passenger ship features the same state-of-the-art specifications and expedition features, however due to popular demand, she will have an increased number of 6 bridge deck suites with horizon bathtubs.

CORAL DECK STATEROOM:

Coral Deck Staterooms are located below the Promenade Deck and are identically furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles.A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included.A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage.A porthole window gives you views of the world outside. Coral Deck Staterooms are 17 square metres

PROMENADE DECK STATEROOM:

Promenade Deck Staterooms are located below the Explorer deck and furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles.A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included.A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage.A large picture window gives you wide views of the world outside. Promenade Deck Staterooms are 17 square metres

EXPLORER DECK BALCONY STATEROOM:

Our Explorer Deck staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior King size bed which can be separated into two singles.A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included.A compact en-suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage.Your private balcony has seating for two from which to view the passing coastal vistas.These staterooms are located on the Explorer deck. Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms are 21.4 square metres

BRIDGE DECK BALCONY SUITE:

There will be 6 spacious and elegant suites featured on the Coral Geographer.They will be equipped with a lounge area, minibar and personal coffee machine.Along with special King sized beds which can be separated into two singles.An 3.5 square metre private balcony has an outdoor daybed and lounge chair for two.The unique outside-facing bathroom with floor to ceiling windows will be the feature of the suites, with an infinity bathtub with sky views.A complimentary minibar is replenished daily. Bridge Deck Balcony Suites are 37.5 square metres

Coral Expeditions require mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for all guests and crew. To prepare for your voyage, ensure you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and provided details to the Coral Expeditions team. Medical exemptions are accepted in line with Australian standards. Vaccination for children will follow Federal Health and AHPRA guidelines.

Before you sail, you will also receive detailed pre-departure documents providing a range of information on your packing, your destination, and your ship.

Embarkation: Arrive at Port Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles at 2:00pm for departure at 4:00pm
Disembarkation: Arrive in Port Louis, Mauritius at 8am, to disembark at 9:00am

What level of fitness is required?

A cruise on the Coral Geographer is suitable for guests of all fitness levels, however a reasonable level of mobility is required to travel and enjoy all your cruise itinerary has to offer. All guests should be in good general health, able to walk reasonable distances over sometimes uneven terrain, and stand during excursions. Hikes and walks do vary in intensity and where possible groups will be split to suit easy and moderate walkers. For most activities a relatively low level of exertion is required.

You will need to climb into and out of zodiacs and other excursion tenders for excursions ashore: there will be staff and crew members on hand to assist. Ashore, you must be able to walk moderate distances over sometimes rough terrain. Although the Coral Geographer features a lift, it is still essential that all guests have reasonable agility to use the steep stairways between decks. Participants will most enjoy the remarkable opportunities these expeditions offer if they travel with a spirit of adventure.

Getting on and off the ship for shore excursions?

Your small ship is equipped with a fleet of excursion tenders to make travelling ashore as simple and comfortable as possible. The unique excursion tender ‘Xplorer’ ensure that even the least intrepid adventurer can explore ashore with ease. Our excursion boats board directly from the ship’s main deck, before the hydraulic platform gently lowers into the water, avoiding the need to clamber aboard or get your feet wet.

The unique Xplorer tenders, comfortably appointed with shading and on board toilet facilities, enable penetration inland, with explorations up shallow rivers and streams, to waterfalls and other amazing landscapes. Our inflatable Zodiacs and kayaks enable guests an up-close-and-personal view of reefs, islands and atolls and allow peaceful explorations to out of the way places.

Tipping not required:

Other cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your account and service charges to your bar invoices. On this vessel, your crew has no other agenda than your delight.

Is there a Doctor or Nurse onboard?

While senior crew are trained in remote area first aid, it is important to note that we do not employ doctors or nurses on board our cruises. As our itineraries cover remote regions, they are not suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

What should I pack?

We recommend that you pack simply and lightly. Clothing that you can layer will prepare you for all kinds of weather. More specific information regarding clothing and the weather conditions in your destination are included in your Cruise Documentation which you will receive prior to your cruise.

If I want to Scuba Diver onboard, do I need to prepare anything?

For persons who wish to participate in either Certified diving or Introductory diving (also referred as Resort diving) you must be in good health for diving. A medical history of heart or lung disorders, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy or narcolepsy shall prevent you from diving unless a medical certificate that addresses the condition is produced. To avoid disappointment on your cruise Coral Expeditions highly recommends you complete a dive medical prior to your journey and encourages certified divers who may not have dived in recent years to complete refresher courses.

Do I need a passport?

Please ensure your passport has 6 months’ validity from the time the expedition commences plus two free pages. It is the responsibility of all guests to ensure they meet visa requirements prior to travel. At least 4-6 weeks prior to departure, guests should contact the relevant country’s local Embassy / High Commission / Consulate with entry/exit details to confirm visa requirements based on their nationality. Entry and exit dates/points will be noted on your cruise itinerary.