Le Bougainville, 10 Night Madagascar and Seychelles: Natural Treasures of the Indian Ocean – with Smithsonian Journeys ex Nosy Be, Madagasc

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

The western reaches of the Indian Ocean contain some of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world, and this 11-day voyage aboard Le Bougainville introduces the very best of them, as you sail from northern Madagascar through more than 1,000 miles of the Seychelles Archipelago. Along the way, you will encounter coral reefs teeming with fish, colonies of seabirds breeding and nesting on jagged volcanic cliffs, lush vegetation, unbelievably picturesque beaches, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of an expansive open sea.

From Nosy Be in northern Madagascar, spend your first day exploring two islands: Nosy Tanikely, a tiny islet with a magnificent white sand beach on an unbelievably blue lagoon with an exceptional diversity of marine and terrestrial life; and the "lemur island" of Nosy Komba, covered in dense tropical rainforest that is the ideal habitat for the small mammals that are emblematic of Madagascar.

Le Bougainville arrives next at Nosy Hara, a marine protected area and national park remarkably rich in wildlife: 279 species of coral fish, 108 species of corals, 5 species of sea turtles, whales, dolphins, 31 species of birds, and 18 species of reptiles including the smallest chameleon in the world.

Rounding the northern tip of Madagascar, your experience continues with two full days in Diego Suarez, the second-largest bay in the world, after Rio de Janeiro. The city (renamed Antsiranana in 1975), was an important naval outpost for the French until the late 20th century, and their influence remains clearly evident in the colonial architecture of the old town. But the primary attraction of the region is the bay itself. Comprising several smaller bays, including the famous Emerald Sea Lagoon and Andovazaha Bay, home to emblematic Sugarloaf Island, Diego Suarez offers splendid beaches, panoramic views, and an inviting, laid-back approach to life.

Your ship sails next towards Seychelles and two pristine atolls in the heart of the Outer Islands of the Seychelles. From the beaches of Assumption Island, watch for sea turtles which use its pristine beaches to breed and lay eggs. Saint-François, covered in coconut trees, provides ideal habitat for myriad birds and is a splendid location for both hiking and snorkeling. You head next to Remire Island, prized for its extraordinary biodiversity, especially its rich marine life.

Le Bougainville continues north to a group of small granite islands, where you spend a day immersed in the essence of a tropical paradise—turquoise waters inviting you to swim, vegetation sheltering native fauna, and beaches of fine sand fringed with coconut trees. Explore the bird sanctuary of Aride Island, where more than 1.25 million seabirds breed, and La Digue, home to the iconic picture-postcard beach at Anse Source d'Argent.

Your cruise ends the following day in Victoria, the capital of Seychelles on the island of Mahé.

The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 cabins and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

As the first ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Bougainville will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.

Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.

To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment - a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared - and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.

To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.

Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege...

Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.

In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.

Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax - we take care of everything...