Innumerable adjectives are used to describe Madagascar, as anyone who travels to this island-continent is inevitably enchanted and filled with wonder. They are most likely drawn to it for its unusual geology that forms majestic landscapes where extraordinary plant life thrives. Baobabs, kalanchoes and the aloes of Madagascar create a veritable botanical paradise for the many species of animals that live here.
Over 15 days, aboard Le Dumont-d’Urville, explore the red island during an expedition cruise combining encounters with the local communities, geological discoveries, and the opportunity to observe the native fauna and flora.
To the north of Madagascar, from the shores of Nosy Be - whose nickname used to be ‘the island of perfumes’ - you will begin your odyssey with a stop to discover the welcoming community of Nosy Komba.
In Mahajanga, you will explore Ankarafantsika National Park, home to numerous species of birds and lemurs, before heading to the picturesque and stunning Belo sur Mer. Here, enjoy a first encounter with the Vezo people, who are among the world’s last ‘sea nomads’, and learn more about how they make their dugout canoes, used for trade.
Toliara, formerly Tuléar, comes into view at the mouth of the Onilahy River. Nearby, the wild expanses of southwestern Madagascar form UNESCO biosphere reserves thanks to their exceptional flora that will delight botany enthusiasts.
Along the vast beaches lined with dunes in Sarodrano, you will have the unique privilege of meeting and interacting with a small community of Vezos. You will visit their charming fishing village and sit with them in their authentic dugout canoes with square sails, to learn about their age-old seafaring skills.
Out at sea await turquoise waters and the natural pools of Nosy Ve, an islet of white sand that shelters a large colony of red-tailed tropicbirds.
It is now time to discover the fascinating Fort-Dauphin. More commonly called Tolagnaro, it is fascinating for its past marked by colonisation and for its natural environment where exceptional plant life has created a breathtaking décor.
After calling at Pointe des Galets on Réunion island, Le Dumont-d’Urville will reach Port Louis in Mauritius, where this unforgettable cruise will come to an end.
- An expedition cruise along the shores of Madagascar to Réunion Island, to experience unforgettable encounters with the Vezo people, explore this island-continent’s exceptional geology, and explore the abundant endemic wildlife and plant life.
- Outings and shore visits in a zodiac dinghy with an experienced team of naturalist guides and local Malagasy guides.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Biosphere Reserves in the south-west of Madagascar (Belo sur Mer, the coastline of Toliara and Sarodrano, Nosy Ve), the area of Pitons, cirques and remparts of Réunion Island.
- A variety of idyllic landscapes: lagoons, rainforests or thorny forests, white-sand beaches, volcanoes.
- In Madagascar, a rich and preserved endemic flora and fauna: ring-tailed and red ruffed lemurs, baobabs, chameleons, red-tailed tropicbirds.
- An exceptional encounter with one of the planet’s last ‘sea nomad’ people, the Vezo.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Le Dumont d'Urville
| Built | 2018 |
|---|
Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed staterooms, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 staterooms 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 Dumont d'Urville 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.
RESTAURANTS
As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship. Through its two restaurants, Le Dumont d'Urville will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism.
In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts.
To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.
PUBLIC AREAS
Like Le Boréal and its sisterships, Le Dumont d'Urville has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.
A 140 m² reception area includes: A reception/concierge desk, An excursions desk, The ship’s administrative services, The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer, Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories, Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.
A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides: Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship, Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions, Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.
A pool deck offering: A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system, A pleasant solarium, An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas. A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.
Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with: The latest sound and lighting technology, A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.
Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
