For those looking for something a little different, this voyage from Muscat to Mahe offers a wonderful opportunity to explore in some depth a region which has fascinated travellers for centuries and some places which have thankfully been mostly neglected by the tourism world.
After two days of exploration in the Arabian Gulf, you can enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we head for Indian shores, our journey mirroring countless past voyages of Arab dhows that have sailed from all points of Arabia to India, trading spices, materials and all manner of luxurious and exotic goods. We explore some fascinating places in the state of Gujarat, places which are off the well-trodden tourist path and difficult to explore independently including Porbandar from where you can choose to visit the Gir National Park with its diverse wildlife and the former Portuguese island of Diu. Continuing along the Indian coast we call into Mumbai where we have allowed for an overnight stay given all there is to see and experience in the energetic city. In contrast to bustling Mumbai we will moor overnight for a two day visit in Cochin, an ancient city of islands which has for centuries attracted traders and adventurers from Europe and the Orient and where we will spend time in the serene backwaters of Kerala. Our next port of call is Trivandrum before a final relaxing afternoon is spent onboard crossing to Sri Lanka in preparation for the second part of our trip amongst the islands and atolls of the Indian Ocean.
The Maldives and the Seychelles are two of the worlds most pristine and picturesque archipelagos. With our purpose built Zodiacs we will land on otherwise inaccessible beaches, explore vast lagoons and coral reefs and encounter some extraordinarily beautiful tropical scenery. Our small ship is ideal for such a region, allowing us to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this paradise. After all, it would be disappointing to find yourself in the company of hundreds on what was a deserted beach. From the luxury of the MS Island Sky, we can enjoy great food, good company and an expert team which makes travellers cruise on her time and time again.
Combination Cruise
This voyage is a combination of two shorter journeys on Island Sky "In the Wake of the Dhows" and "Sri Lanka to the Seychelles" you may have to change your cabin on day 15, this will be advised at the time of booking.
Sur: visit a dhow yard where vessels are still made without a plan or blueprint
Porbandar: discover Kirti Mandir, the family house where Mahatma Ghandi was born and enjoy a tuk tuk ride to visit the Hindu temple dedicated to Sudama, a friend of Lord Krishna
Mumbai: on a city tour we will drive past the prominent landmarks of the city visiting the Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, Iskon Krishna Temple and Dhobi Ghat where we can observe the vast open air Indian laundry. We will travel to Gharapuri Island, better known as Elephanta Island and view the remarkable caves designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cochin: explore the curious mix of cultures and religions that together, with its strong trading past in spices and silks, make a fascinating city
Maldives: have four days to explore the whole archipelago. It offers some of the finest lagoons, beaches and coral reefs in the world
Praslin: explore the Vallee de Mai, the last remnant of the original high-canopied Seychelles palm forest and home to the coco de mer
Enjoy Christmas Day and New Years Eve celebration onboard
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Island Sky
| Length: | 90 Metres |
|---|---|
| Built/Refurbished: | 1992/2018 |
With a maximum passenger capacity of only 116, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
There is a high ratio of crew to passengers- the friendly crew of 75 crew and Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Your SuiteOnboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD player which can also play CDs and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be.
Your SpaceThe spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck. There is also a small hairdressers on board with appointments made on request.
Your DiningAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus.
