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Peregrine Travel Centre

Madagascar & Seychelles – From Mauritius to Seychelles

Madagascar & Seychelles – From Mauritius to Seychelles

From AUD $11,650

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Description

Explore Madagascar and Seychelles on board Coral Geographer as we undertake a voyage of 13 nights from Mauritius to Mahe. With a maximum of 99 guests, Coral Geographer’s comfortable and intimate atmosphere provides the perfect home-base for this unforgettable expedition.

Explore the majestic Island of Reunion, where guests will be immersed in dramatic volcanic scenery, enjoying highland tours and savour delicious Creole cuisine. Explore the small coastal island of Île Sainte-Marie, learning about the island’s intriguing pirate history. Continue your journey to the shores of Madagascar – the 8th continent. Renowned for its diverse wildlife, as 90% of the species are found nowhere else on Earth, and incredibly unique landscapes. Enter pristine national parks to spot the ubiquitous lemur, explore through ylang ylang, coffee, pepper and vanilla plantations, admire colonial buildings and visit colourful and bustling marketplaces. Visit the world’s second-largest coral atoll, the Aldabra Atoll, and encounter the largest colony of wild giant tortoises. Enter a bird watchers paradise at Desroches, with multitudes of species to spot. Then cross to La Digue and spend time on the ‘world’s most beautiful beach’, Anse Source d’Argent before arriving in Mahe.

This exciting voyage explores some of the most remarkable locations in Madagascar and Seychelles, and is an in-depth discovery of the wildlife, unique landscapes and friendly local cultures of these Indian Ocean islands.

Trip Name
Madagascar & Seychelles - From Mauritius to Seychelles
Days
14
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Passenger Capacity: 120 Built: 2020 Expedition capabilities > Two trademark Xplorer tenders seat all passengers and facilitate comfortable shore excursions > Six zodiacs for more intrepid exploration > Lecture lounge for daily expedition briefings and expert presentations > Small onboard library featuring books on destinations and wildlife > Shallow draft and advanced navigation and propulsion systems allowing access to locations closed to large cruise ships Marine immersion > Navigator lounge in the bridge > Over 1000 square metres of open deck space including a wrap-around promenade deck with panoramic views > Engine room tours and a high level of crew interaction with guests Food and wine features > Single seating dining with communal table serves buffet breakfast and lunch, and multi-course table d’hote dinners > Showcase galley with viewing window creating fresh small-batch cuisine featuring Australian and local produce > Multiple indoor and outdoor bars, including our Explorer bar on the sundeck for sunset drinks > Curated wine cellar featuring boutique wines and exceptional vintage Australian reds Guest comfort > All outside-facing guest cabins with en-suite bathrooms; the majority have a private balcony > Active stabilisers to dampen sea motion > Well-equipped gym > Passenger elevator > Wi-Fi available in all guest areas

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1: PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS
Board Coral Geographer in Port Louis, Mauritius at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure.
Day 2 - SAINT-DENIS, RÉUNION
Reunion is the tip of a massive submerged prehistoric volcano. Known for its dramatic natural wonders, the island is verdant and lush. The island is run as an overseas department of France; however the French atmosphere of the island has a firmly tropical twist.Join a morning tour to a vanilla plantation in St Andre where we learn about the history and culture of this integral part of Reunion’s heritage. Then enjoy a panoramic tour of the islands with dramatic landscapes visiting waterfalls and possibly craters.
Day 3 - NOSY BORAHA (ÎLE SAINTE-MARIE)
This island off the east coast of Madagascar has lush vegetation interspersed with many small villages. The bays and coves are protected by coral reefs and historically, it was a popular home for pirates. Walk the botanical trail to the 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 a beautiful island beach for swimming and snorkelling.
Day 4 - NOSY MANGABE & MASOALA N.P.
Nosy Mangabe is a 520-hectare island reserve and one of the most diverse areas of virgin rain forest in Madagascar. Embark on a series of nature walks hoping to spot wildlife. For the birders we will keep an eye out for Madagascar buzzard, kingfisher and paradise flycatchers. At Masoala, 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.This area provides walks and hikes for all fitness levels, and we may also swim from the beach and visit the village.
Day 5 - ANTISIRANANA, MADAGASCAR
Antisiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is the largest city in northern Madagascar and a gateway to the wonders of this region.Our day includes a choice of expeditions – travel to Montagne d’Ambre National Park to experience the wildlife and nature.
Day 6 - ASSUMPTION ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
This afternoon we arrive at Assumption Island, in the Outer Islands. This single coral island has a history of plantations 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.
Day 7 - ALDABRA ATOLL, SEYCHELLES
The second-largest coral atoll in the world, Aldabra Atoll is UNESCO World Heritage protected and due to its isolation, has remained untouched by humans. It is home to an estimated 152,000 giant tortoises, and abounds with other bird and marine life. In this special destination, we will spend our time on guided nature walks, spotting wildlife, snorkelling, or relaxing on one of the many beaches.
Day 8 - ALPHONSE ISLANDS, SEYCHELLES
Today, if conditions allow, we will stop at the island of Alphonse, St. François and Bijoutier, which 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. We will swim and snorkel in the crystal blue water and enjoy nature walks exploring the islands.
Day 9 - DESROCHES, SEYCHELLES
This morning, arrive at the Amirante Group of islands, considered to be among the most untouched islands in the world. If conditions permit, we will explore Desroches Atoll. With the island’s conservation team and our naturalists, we will take nature walks to observe the giant tortoises, as well as the unique plants that grow here. Birdwatching is rewarding, and frigatebirds, Blue Herons, and Crested Terns abound. Snorkelling may be possible over the coral reef.
Day 10 - LA DIGUE & PRASLIN, SEYCHELLES
La Digue is known for spectacular beaches and huge granite boulders. Visit L’Union estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation, and gain an insight into the colonial history of the island.Relax on ‘the most beautiful beach in the world’, Anse Source d’Argent. Later, visit Praslin Island and drive the scenic coastal road through quaint fishing villages and dense forest to the UNESCO World Heritage Vallee de Mai Nature Reserves. Here, marvel at the forest of 6,000 Coco de Mer palms, with their enormous fan-shaped fronds and famously suggestive seeds.In the afternoon, Cote d’Or is perfect for a swim or walk.
Day 11 - DAY 14: MAHE, SEYCHELLES
Arrive at Port Victoria, Mahe to disembark at 8:00am.
Day 12 - Please Note:
The above itinerary is indicative. No two cruises with Coral Expeditions will be the same, with each expedition crafted by our experienced Masters and Expedition Leaders. 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. This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. This trip is suitable for passengers of all fitness levels, though reasonable mobility is required to enjoy all it has to offer. For shore excursions, our hydraulic lowering Xplorer tenders permit easy boarding without climbing any stairs. Where possible we split groups to suit easy and moderate walkers. Guests are welcome to opt-out of any excursion and relax onboard. As the itinerary covers remote regions, it is not suitable for passengers with serious medical conditions.
Day 13 - DAY 12: TORAJALAND
Disembark at Palopo for our overland trip to Tana Toraja. The drive is through an enchanting landscape of rice fields and local villages. As you limb into the highland enjoy marvelous views of pine trees, rainforests and plantations.During your time in Toraja, you will see the local lifestyle and traditional houses at Marante, visit the stone grave with Tau-tau effigies at Lemo, and visit the famous traditional stone and hanging burial sites of Bori Parinding. We will also visit a Torajan market, where buffalo and pigs are for sale to those who will purchase them for funerals or other ceremonies. W will also visit Kete Kesu, a quaint traditional village conceals in the mountains. The village is over 400 years old and functions as a living museum, where one can experience first-hand the culture and tradition of the ancient Torajan people.Overnight at the best hotel in the area, Misiliana Hotel, and enjoy a buffet dinner accompanied by local music and dancing.
Day 14 - DAY 13: TORAJALAND
Continue your time in Tana Toraja before making the overland trip back to the Coral Adventurer.
Day 15 - DAY 14: TANA BERU
This is is the famous place where Phinisi boats have been crafted by the Bugis boat builders since the 14th century. There are ceremonies involved in each stage of the boat building, and the boats are scattered along the coast in various stages of construction. Learn about the traditional construction methods, unchanged for centuries, and climb into a boat to explore its size and the craftsmanship of the boat-builders. Phinisi boats were used by the Makassans to travel as far as Australia and Madagascar.In the afternoon, enjoy a village visit and water activities at Liukang Island.
Day 16 - DAY 15: MAKASSAR
Arrive in Makassar to disembark at 8:30am. Dependent on charter flights (additional cost), a city tour may be included.
Day 17 - Please Note:
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.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
25-11-2024AUD $0-
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $11,650Coral Deck
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $13,650Promenade Deck Stateroom
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $16,990Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $17,475Coral Deck
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $20,475Promenade Deck Stateroom Solo
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $22,490Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
28-05-202210-06-2022AUD $25,485Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom Solo
25-11-2024AUD $0-

Inclusions

    • Have the chance to see the iconic lemurs of Madagascar, as well as multitudes of other species, in habitats at Nosy Mangabe and Masoala National Park
    • Learn of the fascinating pirate history of Île Sainte-Marie
    • Be immersed in Réunion’s dramatic volcanic scenery, and taste delicious creole cuisine
    • Witness the immense diversity of cultures throughout your voyage and get close to the local people and lifestyle
    • Encounter the Aldabra giant tortoises of Seychelles
    • Enter a bird watcher’s paradise at Desroches and the Farquhar Group, with multitudes of species to spot
    • Marvel at a Coco de Mer palm forest on Praslin, and see the iconic giant seeds, known for their suggestive shape
    • Explore the beautiful island of La Digue, and spend time on ‘the world’s most beautiful beach’, Anse Source d’Argent

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