Deckplan
Wildlife & Wonders of the Indian Ocean
A voyage from Mauritius to Tanzania including Madagascar & the Outer Seychelles aboard the MS Caledonian Sky
- 26 October 2020
"For many the highlight of this voyage will be our time spent exploring the Aldabra Islands, the breeding ground of the giant tortoise and in addition to seeing some of these endearing creatures we should also encounter dolphins and turtles as well as countless birds including the flightless rail."
Join us aboard the MS Caledonian Sky for this island hopping expedition through the Indian Ocean which will appeal to those who enjoy the natural world and all its wonders, travelling aboard a small ship and staying clear of the well-beaten tourist tracks. The all-suite MS Caledonian Sky with her fleet of Zodiac landing craft is the perfect vessel for such an enterprise. Carrying just over 100 guests, she is a far cry from the latest breed of cruise ships and can visit small islands and backwaters that are denied to larger vessels. Your experience will be made all the more memorable by the expert crew and officers, who along with our expedition team of marine biologists, ornithologists and botanists have many years of experience in the Indian Ocean and will provide commentary on all we see.
Setting sail from Mauritius we will land on its nearest neighbour, Reunion, a little bit of France in the Indian Ocean and a truly stunning place. We will spend the day exploring its awesome and dramatic landscape before continuing to Madagascar where over a period of three days wewill explore the incredible verdant and beautiful island and its unique flora and fauna.
Continuing to the Seychelles, for many the highlight of the voyage will be our time spent exploring the Aldabra Island Group, the breeding ground of the giant tortoise and in addition to seeing some of these endearing creatures we should also encounter dolphins and turtles as well as countless birds including the flightless rail, the last flightless bird in the Indian Ocean. To explore the abundant crystal clear waters of the vast lagoon and to set foot on atolls which have never been exploited by the hand of man is a rare experience. Our final days are spent in Tanzania exploring Kilwa Kisiwani, a site of exceptional historical interest and we have a full day to explore atmospheric Zanzibar.
This itinerary is a veritable feast of beauty and combines the natural world with cultural discovery. You will witness the bounty of the islands, the wildlife from the lemurs of Madagascar to the giant tortoises of Aldabra, an amazingly prolific birdlife and mesmerising underwater life.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
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What To Expect…
Flexibility is the key to an expedition cruise; sometimes the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience, something that would not be possible on a large cruise ship. Each day holds something new and below are some extracts from the ship’s log from last season which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Aldabra: We set off soon after breakfast dropping some of our party at the research base for guided walks, while the rest continued into the lagoon to explore. Beneath our boats eagle rays sped away and small schools of coloured fish seemed to be everywhere. At one point we entered a narrow channel deep into the red mangroves, with sunbirds twittering around us and at a sunny bend at the end a huge green turtle swam around, its back fuzzy with green algae. Then along the mangrove edge we came to the best patch of all: a mixed nesting colony of red-footed boobies and both lesser and greater frigatebirds. Some nests had chicks almost 12 months old which will soon fledge. Others were sat tight on tiny white fluffy chicks. The strangest thing was to see boobies fast asleep in the branches, their bright red feet clutching hard, their head and beak hanging down below their feet, and their eyes closed tight. That afternoon we saw why they get so tired. Watching from the decks, we passed through some large flocks of birds scanning for fish at the surface, while the most agile individuals queued up alongside our ship to plunge down in split second dives to try and catch flying fish bursting out of the water.
Nosy Mangabe: This morning we were anchored off the Masoala Peninsula which is covered in primary rainforest. Our destination Nosy Mangabe is a small island in the national park. We disembarked the long and ‘Birder’ walks first followed by the medium and short walks on a beautiful golden beach backed by primary rainforest and a dugout canoe drawn up on the close by. Once ashore we split into our various groups and headed off into the forest in search of wildlife. We were on the lookout for creatures big and small, and we found them. The lemurs appeared, racing through the treetops and there were frogs everywhere. There were the green-backed mantellas, quite brash in their black and green colours, tiny nondescript frogs laying their single egg in the stumps of bamboo. There were a number of leaf-tailed geckos which were so well camouflaged that they were almost impossible to see even at close range. Near the landing site, the lemurs came down to check us out and allowed for some great close up photographs. On walks inland we saw some huge boulders of 3.2 billion year old granodiorite that formed akin to how tors formed in the UK. This afternoon we had the opportunity to land at the camp for a second time and embark on an afternoon exploratory walk or enjoy a long Zodiac cruise along the peninsula. Both options were rewarded with excellent wildlife sightings. We were all back on board for a quick recap followed by dinner. Those who chose to dine outside were rewarded with a lovely sunset and the noises of the rainforest.
Caledonian Sky
The MS Caledonian Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky and MS Hebridean Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London Gatwick to Mauritius.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Mauritius.
Arrive this afternoon and transfer to our hotel (Trou aux Biches Beachcomber or similar) for an overnight stay. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel facilities before we meet for dinner in the hotel this evening.
Day 3 Mauritius.
Enjoy breakfast in the hotel. After checking out our island tour will include the Trou-aux-Cerfs Volcano, the Grand Bassin Lake and Black River Gorges before transferring to the MS Caledonian Sky in the late afternoon. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail tonight.
Day 4 Reunion.
We arrive at breakfast in Port Est, Reunion where we have a choice of excursions. On a full day tour we will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of dormant or extinct volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet. We will enjoy views from the Nez des Bouefs and see the Piton de la Fournaise crater. After enjoying a Creole lunch in a local restaurant, we will visit the “Cite du Volcan” museum. Alternatively enjoy 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. We will also enjoy some free time in St Denis before returning to the MS Caledonian Sky for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure before we set sail this evening.
Day 5 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge, enjoy a book in the library or spend time on deck as we cross to Madagascar.
Days 6 & 7 Nosy Mangabe & Masoala National Park, Madagascar.
Spend a day and a half in Antongil Bay area. We discover Nosy Mangabe, a 520-hectare island reserve and one of the most diverse areas of virgin rain forest in Madagascar which has also been an important research centre since the mid-1960s when several aye-ayes and lemurs were released into the forest. We will use our Zodiacs to land on the beach next to the forest and organise a series of nature walks looking at the varied trees, plants and ferns and we 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. We also explore Madagascar’s largest protected area, the Masoala National Park, which comprises of coastal rainforest, flooded forests, marsh and mangroves. Mammal species encountered include the red-ruffed lemur, the red-fronted brown lemur and the ring-tailed mongoose. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs, all manner of extraordinary chameleons and is a refuge of the endangered Madagascar red-owl, Madagascar serpent eagle and many endemic bird species. A series of walks for all levels will operate whilst there will also be the option to swim off the beach or perhaps visit the local village.
Day 8 Diego Suarez.
Over lunch, we will enter dramatic Diego Suarez, a stunning natural harbour with a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. This afternoon choose from a city tour visiting the Commonwealth Cemetery and Place Joffre, or the Malagasy Rain Forest at the Mount Amber National Park. Dividing into short and long walk parties we will go in search of lemurs and chameleons as we explore the rain forest. In the towering vegetation, we may spot several species of lemurs and chameleons as well as endemic birds, including parrots.
Days 9 to 11 Aldabra Island Group, Seychelles.
Spend a relaxing morning at sea before arriving at the Aldabra group of islands where we have two and a half days to explore. Our itinerary will be in the hands of our Expedition Leader and Captain who will monitor the local conditions to ensure we maximise our time here. Whilst our itinerary is flexible, we hope to call at the island of Assumption which was ruthlessly plundered for its vast deposits of guano in the early 20th century. Happily, peace has returned, and the wildlife of rare birds and green turtles are once again in abundance. Our time here will be spent beachcombing, on a nature walk or snorkelling. We also hope to reach Cosmoledo where a huge ring of twelve islands circle a lagoon. Many of the atolls are still to be surveyed and we will explore some of them by Zodiac. This is an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area with all three species of booby found in the Seychelles including the last breeding site for the brown booby. Also spot sooty terns and great frigate birds. We will also spend time on Aldabra, the island referred to by Sir Julian Huxley as “One of nature’s treasures and should belong to the whole world”. Aldabra is unique and every time we call at what is believed to be the world’s largest atoll we find something new of interest. Sightings have been made of the extremely rare white throated rail and the atoll is also home to the world’s second largest colony of frigate birds and to the largest crab, the coconut crab. Whilst exploring by Zodiac it is difficult to know in which direction to look. The clear blue seas abound with life, the skies are alive with varied birdlife and ashore giant land tortoises forage as they have done for millions of years. We hope to explore Picard Island with a short walk to see some of the thousands of tortoises and numerous robber crabs or swim in the lagoon, a vast 17 mile stretch of shallow clear water. From our Zodiacs we can watch the ever-changing undersea world and snorkel in colourful coral waters.
Day 12 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea.
Day 13 Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania.
This morning we anchor off Kilwa Kisiwani, a site of exceptional historical interest, where the atmospheric ruins represent a wide sweep of East African coastal history, from the heights of the Swahili and Shirazi trading civilisation to the darker days of slavery and the uprisings against German rule. Once one of Africa’s wealthiest towns, Kilwa Kisiwani is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the world’s most extensive and best-preserved Swahili ruins. We will spend the afternoon on a walking tour and see the prominent fort and the Great Mosque which stood at the heart of this ancient city which was once the largest in East Africa. This afternoon we continue our cruise across the Indian Ocean.
Day 14 Zanzibar.
Here the colourful harbour, crowded with dhows, very much sets the scene for our visit to this Arab-style city with its long Masoala National Park narrow streets, bazaars, houses with overhanging balconies and intricately carved doorways. On a morning walking tour, soak up the timeless atmosphere of Stone Town including Livingstone House, Sultan’s Palace, the slave market and the Old Fort. The afternoon is free to relax and explore independently or join a tour to a spice farm to experience the various fruits and spices cultivated on the island. Alternatively, travel to Jozani Forest which sustains a variety of wildlife and birds, including the rare red colobus monkey, indigenous to the island.
Day 15 Dar Es Salaam to London Heathrow.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 16 London Heathrow.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 26 October to 10 November 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Castle Deck Standard Suite | £9495 | £8995 |
| Caledonian Deck Superior Suite | £9795 | £9295 |
| Promenade Deck Premium Suite | £9995 | £9495 |
| Bridge Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £10995 | £10495 |
| Promenade Deck Premium Balcony Suite | £11295 | £10795 |
| Promenade Deck Owner's Corner Suite | £12495 | £11995 |
| Castle Deck Standard for sole use | £11495 | £10995 |
| Caledonian Deck Superior for sole use | £11795 | £11295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCCSK261020
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Mauritius on a half board basis • 12 nights aboard the MS Caledonian Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner on board • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas.
Caledonian Sky
The MS Caledonian Sky is one of our three flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky and MS Hebridean Sky. All three vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world.
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Your Dining
Your Dining
It is quite a task to create a dining experience as that found on board our Sky vessels when you are cruising in far-flung corners of the globe, indeed it takes a team of highly talented chefs to deliver fresh, varied dishes no matter where you are at sea. Fortunately, our catering teams are well adapted to the world of small ship cruising where no two days are the same and the menus are often scheduled and tailored around the days’ excursions. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine on board is of a consistent superior quality that befits such vessels. Where possible and when it meets their high standards, our accomplished chefs will obtain local produce in markets. Such purchases enhance the well-stocked larders and enable the chefs on board to exhibit their culinary skills and bring a local touch to the varied menus, emphasising the international expertise of the chefs on board. Afternoon tea and pre-dinner canapés take place every day in either the comfort of the Lounge or out on the Lido Deck when the weather is favourable. Tea and coffee are also available 24 hours a day. Special diets can be catered for with sufficient notice.
In keeping with the informal atmosphere on board, when dining you are able to choose your seating arrangements at your leisure. Whether that be joining a table of four to six other passengers outside on the Lido Deck in the evening’s sunshine or whether you prefer to enjoy meals in the à la carte restaurant. For those travelling alone, our onboard friendly restaurant staff will take care to ensure you are seated with other like-minded travellers. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order on request. Lunch and dinner are à la carte with an excellent choice of dishes, with the menu reflecting the daily catch or local delicacies. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with both meals and there is also a comprehensive wine list with a wide selection of new and old world wines from which to choose.
The onboard catering and restaurant staff are experienced at sea and enthuse a passion for superb service. Whether it be ensuring you have an outdoor blanket as you enjoy the crisp sea breeze on the Lido Deck or sharing their knowledge of the characteristics of the days’ wine selections, you will experience a service on board like no other. You may also enjoy sumptuous barbeques on deck whilst at times, the chef will make your dish to order at special pasta or stir fry stations.
Click on image above to view a sample menu.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Caledonian Sky for your upcoming voyage. The 114-passenger, all-suite vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually spacious accommodation, public areas and outside decks.
You will find the atmosphere on board akin to a private yacht or country hotel with a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from our onboard team and informative port briefings from your Cruise Director or Expedition Leader. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Along with the Captain and officers and the Noble Caledonia team, our crew of 70 are dedicated to offering you the best possible experience during your time on board. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
ADAPTORS
Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise and are the property of the MS Caledonian Sky.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All cabins feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air-conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The vessel has 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed cabins. All feature a sitting area, en-suite bathroom with marble topped vanity unit and walk-in shower, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Bridge Deck (Deck 5) and selected cabins on the Promenade Deck (Deck 4) have private balconies.
All cabins have the following facilities:- Dressing gowns and slippers
- TV
- Electrical outlet
- Hairdryer
- Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
- Mini bar & fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin.
- Safe
- Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
- Telephone
Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin daily.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. During good weather, early riser’s coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner may also be served on The Lido Deck. Afternoon tea is served in The Caledonian Lounge. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Caledonian Lounge. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner.MS Caledonian Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has +44 (0)20 7752 0000 7 table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. Room service is not available on board. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Water is safe to drink onboard and is treated with chlorine. A complimentary bottle of water is provided in your cabin upon embarkation and can be replenished upon request. An eco-friendly, reusable water bottle is also available in the cabin for your use throughout the cruise.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is a lift on board but the ship does not have facilities for disabled or wheelchair dependent passengers. Additionally, most shore excursions involve some walking and some excursions are walking tours only. There is no chairlift on board and access to the ship is by gangway.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director / Expedition Leader will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you should have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director / Expedition Leader as soon as possible after embarkation.DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is defined as casual. During the day casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual. Jackets and ties are not required. However, we kindly ask you to refrain from wearing shorts during evening meals in the Restaurant. You may wish to wear something a little dressier for the Welcome and Farewell Dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and a dress for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary. It is recommended to wear footwear at all times whilst on board.ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110V/60Hz (American standard) and a 220V razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. We recommend that you bring a two pin American adaptor for the 110v plug. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the cabins is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservation Department as soon as possible.GOING ASHORE
Wait in public areas or in your suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced over the PA System if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
MS Caledonian Sky has a hairdresser providing haircuts and hairstyling. Some beauty treatments and massage are also available. Appointments for hair styling can be made on board at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your onboard account. Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitizers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your cabin. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items to be laundered on your bed. Your laundered items will be returned within 24 hours. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board.
In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
All passenger decks can be reached by lift. Please do not use the lift in the case of a fire or an emergency.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. On board the ship, any liquids, cosmetics, paper(s) and perishable items left behind will be disposed of immediately. Any books left on board the ship will be incorporated into the ship’s library or donated to charity. Other items left behind on the ship will be kept on board for 1 month or 2 cruises (whichever is the longer period), and after this time, any unclaimed items will be given to a local charity at the next main port the ship visits. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Medical services are available 24 hours a day. There is a Doctor on board, and crew members are trained in first aid. Cabin visits by the ship’s Doctor are available. Please note that all consultations and services are charged for. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s Doctor please contact Reception by dialing 300. It takes some people longer to find their sea legs. Sea sickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR
For your convenience a mini bar facility has been set up in your suite on a chargeable basis. Items consumed during the cruise will be charged to your onboard account. Your Steward/ess will restock your mini bar on a daily basis and replenish consumed items. The mini bar price list is placed in the cabinet of your mini bar. The final statement will be delivered to your cabin in the early morning of your disembarkation.
NEWS
News channels are available on your cabin TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at Reception and in The Library.
NOBLE CALEDONIA TEAM
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests you may have.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a receipt for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. You will need to register your card at Reception shortly after sailing. If you are sharing a suite with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown in British Pounds. All final accounts will be presented in British Pounds. Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).
• Cash (British Pounds, Australian Dollars or US Dollars).
• Travellers’ Cheques (British Pounds, US Dollars or Euros).
Debit cards and prepaid credit cards may not automatically be accepted. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use one.
PASSPORTS
All Passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
The Panorama Lounge – Located on the Panorama Deck (Deck 6). Here you can find a comfortable area to relax in with as well as the Library and the Panorama Honesty Bar. Outside you can enjoy the forward facing observation platform and comfortable sun loungers.
The Library – Located on the Panorama Deck (Deck 6 aft). In The Library you can find a well stocked selection of reference books pertaining to the destinations. Fiction books, games and playing cards are also available for your pleasure. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library. Should you wish to donate any books which you may have brought with you, we will be happy to add these for the pleasure of future guests. Reference books may not be removed from the ship. Please return all borrowed materials as soon as you have finished using them. Facilities to access the ship's Wi-Fi and Internet are also available here.
The Lido Deck – Located on the Bridge Deck (Deck 5 aft). Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here outside (weather permitting). Sample the delicious barbeques and eye catching displays prepared by your chefs.
The Gym – Located on the Promenade Deck (Deck 4 aft). A small gym features a treadmill, bicycle cross trainer, weights and yoga mats.
The Caledonian Lounge – Located on the Caledonian Deck (Deck 3 aft). Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Caledonian Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here. The Caledonian Lounge features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. In the evening our onboard resident pianist plays before and after dinner.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
There is a safe in every suite located in the closet. The safe can be programmed with your own code, instructions can be found inside the closet door and cabin staff will be available to assist upon embarkation. We recommend that you leave money and other valuables in the safe. Kindly remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the ship at the end of your cruise.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite’s door. Life jackets are located in your suite. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the life jacket. It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
• Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks.
• Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck.
• Footwear should be worn at all times.
• Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please ensure you remember to check in and out at the gangway with the crew member on duty in order to ensure that you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
The MS Caledonian Sky offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, including the balcony areas. Smoking is only permitted in the designated area outside on Deck 4 aft. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard – the breeze could carry the smouldering end back on board and start a fire. We thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Calls to other cabins can be made free of charge by dialing the cabin number. Lift the handset and dial the cabin number. If you wish to make an outside call, please check at Reception to purchase a prepaid telephone card and instructions. Costs are available from Reception and charges are automatically billed to your onboard account.
TOILETRIES
Molton Brown shampoo, conditioner, hand soap and shower gel are provided in your bathroom. If you have forgotten anything ie. toothpaste, please ask Reception, who have a selection of items available for purchase.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
At times Bridge visits may be possible. If visiting the Bridge, please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted.
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk by dialling 300 before 11.00 pm.
WATER
Previously the MS Caledonian Sky used 54,000 bottles of water a year. In order to reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we replaced plastic bottled water where possible with eco-friendly reusable water bottles. The water bottles are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your cabin at the end of the cruise. The bottles can be filled from the tap – the tap water is safe to drink – or from the water station in The Caledonian Lounge. Some bottled water will be available in your cabin on arrival and can be replenished upon request.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO TENDER ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ship’s Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat to go ashore. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew on board the MS Caledonian Sky when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please Note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Cabin Plan
Cabin Plans
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Videos
Videos
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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What To Expect…
Flexibility is the key to an expedition cruise; sometimes the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience, something that would not be possible on a large cruise ship. Each day holds something new and below are some extracts from the ship’s log from last season which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Aldabra: We set off soon after breakfast dropping some of our party at the research base for guided walks, while the rest continued into the lagoon to explore. Beneath our boats eagle rays sped away and small schools of coloured fish seemed to be everywhere. At one point we entered a narrow channel deep into the red mangroves, with sunbirds twittering around us and at a sunny bend at the end a huge green turtle swam around, its back fuzzy with green algae. Then along the mangrove edge we came to the best patch of all: a mixed nesting colony of red-footed boobies and both lesser and greater frigatebirds. Some nests had chicks almost 12 months old which will soon fledge. Others were sat tight on tiny white fluffy chicks. The strangest thing was to see boobies fast asleep in the branches, their bright red feet clutching hard, their head and beak hanging down below their feet, and their eyes closed tight. That afternoon we saw why they get so tired. Watching from the decks, we passed through some large flocks of birds scanning for fish at the surface, while the most agile individuals queued up alongside our ship to plunge down in split second dives to try and catch flying fish bursting out of the water.
Nosy Mangabe: This morning we were anchored off the Masoala Peninsula which is covered in primary rainforest. Our destination Nosy Mangabe is a small island in the national park. We disembarked the long and ‘Birder’ walks first followed by the medium and short walks on a beautiful golden beach backed by primary rainforest and a dugout canoe drawn up on the close by. Once ashore we split into our various groups and headed off into the forest in search of wildlife. We were on the lookout for creatures big and small, and we found them. The lemurs appeared, racing through the treetops and there were frogs everywhere. There were the green-backed mantellas, quite brash in their black and green colours, tiny nondescript frogs laying their single egg in the stumps of bamboo. There were a number of leaf-tailed geckos which were so well camouflaged that they were almost impossible to see even at close range. Near the landing site, the lemurs came down to check us out and allowed for some great close up photographs. On walks inland we saw some huge boulders of 3.2 billion year old granodiorite that formed akin to how tors formed in the UK. This afternoon we had the opportunity to land at the camp for a second time and embark on an afternoon exploratory walk or enjoy a long Zodiac cruise along the peninsula. Both options were rewarded with excellent wildlife sightings. We were all back on board for a quick recap followed by dinner. Those who chose to dine outside were rewarded with a lovely sunset and the noises of the rainforest.
Travelling with You
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Ian Bullock
Ian Bullock is a British biologist who lives in St.Davids, Pembrokeshire, on the south-western seaboard of Wales. Since 1978 he has specialised in seabird surveys, habitat management for endangered species and the conservation of remote island nature reserves. For 25 years he worked for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds as both research biologist and warden, establishing new reserves for conservation and managing offshore islands.
In spare moments since 1990 he has worked as guide and lecturer on board expedition ships in the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans, as well as Arctic and Antarctic environments. He loves the sea, wildlife and wilderness and relishes any opportunity to share this enthusiasm with fellow adventurers.
He loves the sea, wildlife and wilderness and relishes any opportunity to share this enthusiasm with fellow adventurers.
Ian Bullock will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020 -
Pierre Malan
Pierre is an all round naturalist who trained as an oceanographer and marine biologist and has more than forty years of experience in the field. He lives in Hout Bay, near Cape Town, South Africa. He is a former Naval Officer who holds certificates of competence in sail and power. He worked at the Sea Fisheries Research Institute in Cape Town for more than thirty years, specialising in the acoustic stock assessment of small pelagic fish and krill.
He participated in numerous research cruises in the South-East Atlantic Ocean, the South-West Indian Ocean, the Pacific and Southern Ocean, often as chief scientist. Since 2001 he has worked as a fisheries consultant specialising in combatting illegal fishing, working mainly in Southern and East Africa and the islands of the Indian Ocean, as well as doing research cruises in the Antarctic, the Eastern Tropical Pacific and North Pacific. During this time he lectured at several Universities in South Africa as well as teaching at the Fisheries Development Centre in Mbegani, Tanzania. In 2005 he started working in the expedition cruising industry as a lecturer, zodiac driver, and later as assistant expedition leader.
He has worked on board ships in the Antarctic, the Western Indian Ocean, South and Central America, the Canary and Azores Islands, Great Britain, Norway and Spitsbergen. In addition to marine biology and oceanography he is a competent all-round naturalist and photographer as well as having an interest in history and in traditional boats and working boats around the world. During 2008 he was technical adviser and presenter for a TV documentary series on the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic.
Pierre Malan will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020 -
Rear Admiral John Lippiett
John Lippiett had a 36 year career in the Royal Navy, serving in a large number of ships from aircraft carriers to minesweepers and deployed to all of the world’s operational theatres. He was second-in-command of the frigate HMS Ambuscade throughout the Falklands War, and his book “War and Peas; Intimate letters from the Falklands War” was broadcast on BBC’s Today programme for the 25th anniversary. John commanded three ships, a Frigate Squadron, and then the School of Maritime Warfare. On promotion to Rear Admiral, he flew his Flag at sea as Flag Officer Sea Training before serving in Naples as Chief of Staff of the NATO maritime forces in the Mediterranean. His final posting was as the Commandant of the Joint Services Command and Staff College. John retired and for nearly 13 years was the Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust, during which time he led the project to build the award-winning new museum and ensure Henry VIII’s flagship is conserved and displayed for future generations. John retired from the Mary Rose Trust in 2016 and spends much time back at sea as a speaker on maritime history - and this time with his wife Jenny. He much enjoys telling the stories both of exploration, often using old maps, and of naval ventures that have taken place on the world’s oceans over the last two thousand years.
Rear Admiral John Lippiett will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020 -
Sue Forbes
Sue has been creating wildlife, landscape and travel photos for 20+ years, traveling to over 90 countries on all 7 continents. She has combined this passion with an unusual career including everything from the Royal Air Force to various executive roles in Silicon Valley, California. Eight years ago, she managed to escape to focus solely on wildlife & travel photography and her award-winning work has been published in newspapers, magazines & books in the UK and US since then. She spends most of the time on various Noble Caledonia ships as a member of the expedition staff helping passengers take home great photos and learn more about their cameras / smartphones.
Sue is an avid naturalist looking at wildlife behaviour from a photographer’s perspective and has taught about wildlife and photography on expeditions ships around the world. She can also be found driving the odd zodiac!
You can find Sue’s images on her website at sueforbesphoto.com or Instagram @sueforbesphoto
Sue has a BSc in Electronic Engineering from Warwick University, UK and an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, California.
Sue Forbes will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020 -
Wendy Malan
Wendy trained as a classical ballet dancer and teacher at the University of Cape Town. After dancing professionally for ten years, she taught at the same university before setting out on her own. She has run her own successful exercise studio and produced several ballets for the Cape Youth Ballet. Together with her oceanographer husband she has taken part in research cruises off the West Coast of Southern Africa and travelled to some of the Earth’s more interesting places, including the Namibian Skeleton Coast, Mozambique and the Antarctic.
Her first visit to the Antarctic was in 2003, aboard the SA Agulhas, supervising a group of scholars who accompanied the vessel on a relief cruise to Queen Maud Land. She has worked on small expedition cruise ships in many places in the world for the past eight years.
Wendy Malan will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020 -
Guy Esparon
Guy Esparon was born in the Seychelles and migrated to Australia in 1971, where he spent 30 years living between many of Australia’s cities and the outback. However, his heart never left the Seychelles. Guy lived his dream when he worked on the Aldabra World Heritage Site as Chief Warden. He has an incredible passion and love for Aldabra. He has worked on various expedition ships calling at the Seychelles, and has shared his love for nature and Aldabra with those fortunate enough to visit.
Guy Esparon will be on the following tour dates: 26 October 2020 to 10 November 2020
Tour Extensions
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9th to 13th November 2020
Before returning home, we are offering an extension to the Selous Game Reserve which is home to over 1,000,000 large animals and over half of Tanzania’s elephant population. However, one of the major attractions must be the mighty Rufiji river, home to one of the largest crocodile and hippo populations in Africa, swarming with fish which in turn bring about some of the world’s best water birding. The river has also formed several large lakes on its northern bank, navigable by boat and Siwandu Camp is situated on one of these lakes. All safari tents at the camp are widely spaced along the lake shore ensuring maximum privacy and wonderful views. Each tent sits atop its own raised timber platform with two large verandas. The spacious tents are luxuriously appointed, with en-suite bathrooms and open air hot-water showers. The camp has its own swimming pool, enabling guests to cool off in the heat of the day. The dining area and bar areas are raised on viewing platforms, with large comfortable sofas and a wildlife reference library.
Giraffe
The Itinerary
Day 1 Dar es Salaam to Selous.
After breakfast we will disembark and transfer to the airport for our 45-minute scheduled flight to Mtemere Airstrip in the Selous Game Reserve. On arrival transfer to the Siwandu Camp and this afternoon enjoy your first game experience with a boat safari looking for hippos, crocodiles and birdlife.
Days 2 & 3 Siwandu Camp, Selous Game Reserve.
Enjoy two full days in the Reserve with included game drives each day. Maybe enjoy a full day game viewing with a picnic lunch or a half day walking safari through the bush with a ranger. Alternatively join another boat safari or simply relax in your tent.
Day 4 Selous Game Reserve to Dar es Salaam to London.
Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and a final safari option before transferring to the airstrip for your flight to Dar es Salaam where we connect with our onward scheduled flight to London.
Day 5 London.
Arrive this morning.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
9 to 13 November 2020 Category Price Twin £3295 Single £4295 Price Includes: Internal flights between Dar es Salaam and Selous Game Reserve, three nights accommodation at the Siwandu Camp on a full board basis, game drives, transfers, gratuities, storage of main cruise luggage at hotel in Dar es Salaam, taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Tanzania visa.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000