The term ‘unique’ is an often overused description in the travel world but certainly applies to the island of Madagascar. The animals, plants, landscapes and people that make up this thousand mile long island are unlike anywhere else in the world. This extraordinary country long remained obscure as a destination and is still relatively unknown amongst even the most serious of travellers. There is minimal infrastructure in many parts of the island and for those wishing to explore in some depth, doing so by small ship, especially one as well-suited as the MS Island Sky is far preferable to exploring by any other means.
Our unique voyage focuses on the wonders of the island of Madagascar with opportunities to explore forests full of wildlife including lemurs, chameleons and indigenous birdlife as well as witnessing the underwater world and village life. Our days will be spent exploring ashore, often traversing over rugged terrain and walking through spectacular forests and each evening we will have the benefit of returning to our comfortable ship to relax and look forward to the next adventure. With the vessel’s fleet of Zodiacs for forays ashore, allowing access to some wonderful places denied to larger ships, you can enjoy encounters with fabulous endemic wildlife in this immensely rich and timeless corner of the Indian Ocean. Our onboard experts will greatly enrich your experience and ensure that we make the most of our time on the world’s “eighth continent”.
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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 is an extract from the ship’s log of a previous expedition which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Nosy Tanikely: Coming ashore after lunch, some of us headed off for a naturalist walk with the expedition team and local guides. We soon learned that the timing of our visit was perfect: the weather was excellent, but recent rain had brought out all the wildlife. As a result, the leaf litter in the island’s forested interior was crawling with skinks, plated lizards, millipedes, hermit crabs and land snails. In the trees, we discovered huge blue panther chameleons, bright day geckos and common brown lemurs feeding on fruit. Bird life was in evidence too, with white-tailed tropicbirds, Malagasy kestrels and a Humblot’s heron amongst the main highlights. Dating back to 1908, a small lighthouse at the island’s 200 metre peak provided some historical interest before we turned and headed back down to the beach for refreshments. Several sampled the excellent local rum or sipped fresh juice from freshly harvested coconuts. Many donned their snorkelling gear and headed into the sea, where they were treated to a kaleidoscope of corals interspersed with sponges and anemones, all augmented with myriad colourful reef fish. Even a few rays and turtles were seen during an afternoon of world-class snorkelling in calm waters that offered excellent visibility.
Nosy Hara: Before breakfast, the ship entered the picturesque Nosy Hara archipelago and anchored just off one of the dozen or so stunning rocky islands. Impressive formations of jaggedly eroded limestone karst, known locally as tsingy, towered above picture-postcard beaches of white sand. As the tides were not in favour of going ashore at the main island of Nosy Hara before lunch, we landed in the early part of the morning on Nosy Anjambavola instead, where most people snorkelled or swam off a small beach of alluring soft sand. Others enjoyed the sun and explored the coastline. The remainder of the morning was spent Zodiac cruising around the nearby small islands with sightings of white-tailed tropicbirds and Madagascar black swifts soaring in the sky, not to mention the cherry on the cake: good views of the incredibly rare Madagascar fish eagle. Straight after lunch, snorkelling from a Zodiac platform in a different part of the reef was on offer. The coral here turned out to be some of the healthiest and most diverse seen so far on the trip, with many colourful reef fish weaving in between. Mid-afternoon, we landed on Nosy Hara for wildlife walks. Top of the list of target species here was the Nosy Hara stump-tailed chameleon, Brookesia micra, and we were successful in locating a specimen of this extraordinary minute creature, which measures 29mm fully grown. Amongst other wildlife found were a variety of geckos, several kinds of crabs, the Madagascar coucal, souimanga sunbirds, a scorpion, a young Madagascar ground boa, and countless green mantella frogs. Plants of note included Suarez aloes, flame trees, orchids, and Amorphophallus ankarana.
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
2nd December Itinerary
Day 1 London to Mauritius.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Mauritius.
Arrive this morning and transfer directly to the MS Island Sky. Settle into your suite and spend a leisurely day on board. This evening enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we set sail this evening.
Day 3 Reunion Island.
We arrive at breakfast in Reunion where we have a choice of excursions. On a full day tour we will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet. The rich soil and mellow climate produce a lush and verdant landscape which is dotted with villages and towns with a uniquely French atmosphere. Fields of sugar cane and plantations of tropical fruits, vanilla and all manner of spices perfume the air. We will enjoy views from the Nez des Boeuf and see the Piton de la Fournaise crater. After enjoying a creole lunch in a local restaurant we will visit ‘La Cite du Volcan’ museum. Alternatively enjoy a morning tour to a vanilla plantation in Saint Andre where we learn about the history and culture of this integral part of Reunion’s heritage. Continue to Salazie, a verdant landscape and home to many waterfalls including the ‘Voile de la Mariee’ before spending some free time in Saint Denis on the way back to the ship. This afternoon is at leisure before we set sail this evening.
Day 4 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we sail towards Madagascar. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax.
Day 5 Toamasina, Madagascar.
Our first call in Madagascar is Toamasina, the country’s main port and second largest city as well as the gateway to the Ivoloina Zoological Parc, a 282 hectare property combining a small zoo where we will see up to a dozen species of lemur as well as indigenous tortoises and chameleons. In the surrounding forest we can see free roaming wild lemurs and other wildlife along the various lakeside walking trails. We return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon cruising.
Days 6 & 7 Masoala National Park & Nosy Mangabe.
We will spend two days exploring from our anchorage in Antongil Bay. We discover Nosy Mangabe, a 520-hectare island reserve and one of the most diverse areas of virgin rainforest in Madagascar which has also been an important research centre since the mid-1960s when several aye-ayes and other 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 will also explore Madagascar’s largest National Park, the Masoala Peninsula, which comprises of coastal rainforest, flooded forests, marsh and mangroves. We may be lucky enough to encounter a group of locally endemic red- ruffed lemur. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs, all manner of extraordinary chameleons and is a refuge for the endangered Madagascar red owl, Madagascar serpent eagle and many endemic bird species. A range of walks will be on offer, as well as a visit to the local village.
Day 8 Domaine de Bobangira.
After a morning at sea we arrive over lunch at the port of Vohemar, our base for an afternoon at the Domaine de Bobangira. This reserve on the Indian Ocean has wild, unspoiled beaches and forests rich in biodiversity having about 40% of endemic flora to the region. Declared as a protected private nature reserve in 2017 by the national forestry department, it is home to fat-tailed dwarf lemurs, the diurnal whiteheaded lemur, Brookesia and various species of chameleons. There are also large centenarian canarium bujiga trees in the park, locally known as mandrirofo, a type of tree used in Madagascar to build fishing pirogues.
Day 9 Diego Suarez.
This morning we will enter the dramatic harbour of Diego Suarez. Also known as Antsiranana, the town has a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. This morning, choose from a city tour taking in the Commonwealth Cemetery, the faded colonial grandeur of Place Joffre, and a baobab viewpoint at French Mountain; or alternatively, drive up to Amber Mountain National Park at an elevation of 3,200ft, where we will divide into short and long walking parties to explore the pristine rainforest. In the towering vegetation, we may spot Sanford’s brown and crowned lemurs, as well as chameleons, stunningly well camouflaged leaf-tailed geckos, and an array of endemic birds.
Day 10 Nosy Hara.
Having sailed around the northern tip of Madagascar we start our journey along the western coast of Madagascar where we will find a number of strangely shaped limestone islets that dot the aquamarine sea. The expedition team will decide on the most suitable island for landing, such as Nosy Hara with its abundant birdlife and great places to swim off the beach. We will spend the day exploring the island on foot or alternatively join a Zodiac cruise around the islands with a chance to snorkel over the coral.
Day 11 Nosy Tanihely.
We spend the morning at the Nosy Tanihely Island Marine Reserve, an uninhabited island which offers snorkelling opportunities and wonderful beaches. We will take the opportunity to either swim in the clear waters or snorkel over the corals keeping an eye out for reef fish, turtles and morays. Alternatively explore the island where we may see the resident lemurs, skinks, fruit bats and hermit crabs and enjoy fantastic views from the 1908 lighthouse on the island’s highest point.
Day 12 Mahajanga.
Mahajanga is a major port in northwest Madagascar situated on the Betsiboka River and is our base for a full day tour of the surrounding area. We will commence with a drive to Lake Mangatsa, a sacred site of many legends where we will learn about local traditions as we search for lemurs, chameleons and birds in the trees. Lunch will be served at the Antsanitia Resort, set in 22 hectare of grounds and located on a stunning section of coastline, and there will be an opportunity to swim or enjoy a walk along the beach, see the local fishing boats and visit the village before we return to the MS Island Sky.
Day 13 At Sea.
Spend a leisurely day on board as we continue our journey around the Madagascan Coast.
Day 14 Morondava.
From our anchorage off the town of Morondava, capital of the Menabe region, we will use the Zodiacs to land on the local beach. From here there will be a choice of excursions to explore the local region. This morning we will explore Zazamalala Forest, a protected area that is home to a number of species of lemurs, birds, reptiles and plants, and also the base for a breeding centre for critically endangered species of turtles and tortoises. It was initially set up in 2000 as a reforestation project and to promote sustainable use of the forest. We will then head to the Avenue des Baobabs. Of the eight baobab species in the world, six are endemic to Madagascar and here we will marvel at the majestic Grandidier’s baobabs, a couple of dozen of which form a natural avenue. We will learn about the trees and their spiritual significance, as well as having the opportunity to contribute to local reforestation efforts by planting a young baobab ourselves. Alternatively, join a full day excursion to Kirindy Forest (subject to road conditions at time of visit). Situated approximately a two hour drive from Morondava, we will pass the Avenue des Baobabs as we travel north. Kirindy is a 10,000 hectare, dry deciduous forest, one of the most endangered in the world where the flora and fauna includes many endemic species. Here we find three species of baobab, many birds and reptiles including snakes, tortoises and lizards. Eight species of lemur reside here including the pale form marked lemur.
Day 15 Andavadoaka & Nosy Hao.
The vessel will anchor this morning off the small fishing community of Andavadoaka, home to the Vezo fishing people. The area offers the most diverse marine ecosystem on the southwest coast. It is also the flagship project for Blue Ventures, a marine conservation society that has helped the local villagers invest in their community. We hope to learn more about the local projects before sailing over lunch to Nosy Hao to discover the sandy white beaches where we can enjoy a swim in the warm waters.
Day 16 Tulear.
Our final call will be at Tulear from where we have a choice of tours this morning. Maybe visit the Antsokay Arboretum which is entirely devoted to the conservation of the plants from the southwest of Madagascar and, after more than 30 years of hard work, offers a densely kept selection of flora presenting a typical sub-arid thicket with baobab trees towering over the smaller plants. We will see the four hectare botanical garden which comprises over 900 species of plants of which 90% are endemic to the region. Alternatively, visit the Reniala Private Reserve, a small area of just 60 hectares but containing a spiny forest which is unique to southeastern Madagascar. The park is home to 200 plant species including baobabs as well as being a haven for birders with sightings of paradise flycatchers, Madagascar hoopoe and Madagascar crested drongo. This afternoon is free for independent exploration as we moor overnight.
Day 17 Tulear to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Johannesburg. Connect here with our scheduled flight to London.
Day 18 London.
Arrive this morning.
16th December Itinerary
Day 1 London to Johannesburg, South Africa.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Johannesburg.
Arrive today and transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 3 Johannesburg to Tulear, Madagascar.
Return to the airport this morning for our specially chartered flight to Tulear. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Island Sky. Enjoy welcome dinner and drinks as we moor overnight.
Day 4 Tulear.
There will be a choice of tours this morning as you may like to join the tour to the Antsokay Arboretum which is entirely devoted to the conservation of the plants from the southwest of Madagascar. After more than 30 years of hard work, it offers a densely kept selection of flora presenting a typical sub-arid thicket with baobab trees towering over the smaller plants. We will see the four hectare botanical garden which comprises over 900 species of plants of which 90% are endemic to the region. Alternatively, visit the Reniala Private Reserve, a small area of just 60 hectares but containing a spiny forest which is unique to southeastern Madagascar. The park is home to 200 plant species including baobabs as well as being a haven for birders with sightings of paradise flycatchers, Madagascar hoopoe and Madagascar crested drongo. This afternoon is free for independent exploration.
Day 5 Andavadoaka & Nosy Hao.
The vessel will anchor this morning off the small fishing community of Andavadoaka, home to the Vezo fishing people. The area offers the most diverse marine ecosystem on the southwest coast. It is also the flagship project for Blue Ventures, a marine conservation society that has helped the local villagers invest in their community and preserve their resources by setting up the largest Locally Managed Marine Protected Area in the western Indian Ocean. We hope to learn more about the local projects before sailing over lunch to Nosy Hao to discover the sandy white beaches, where we can enjoy a swim in the warm waters.
Day 6 Morondava.
From our anchorage off the town of Morondava, capital of the Menabe region, we will use the Zodiacs to land on the local beach. From here there will be a choice of excursions to explore the local region. This morning we will explore Zazamalala Forest, a protected area that is home to a number of species of lemurs, birds, reptiles and plants, and also the base for a breeding centre for critically endangered species of turtles and tortoises. It was initially set up in 2000 as a reforestation project and to promote sustainable use of the forest. We will then head to the Avenue des Baobabs. Of the eight baobab species in the world, six are endemic to Madagascar and here we will marvel at the majestic Grandidier’s baobabs, a couple of dozen of which form a natural avenue. We will learn about the trees and their spiritual significance, as well as having the opportunity to contribute to local reforestation efforts by planting a young baobab ourselves. Alternatively, join a full day excursion to Kirindy Forest (subject to road conditions at time of visit). Situated approximately a two hour drive from Morondava, we will pass the Avenue des Baobabs as we travel north. Kirindy is a 10,000 hectare, dry deciduous forest, one of the most endangered in the world where the flora and fauna includes many endemic species. Here we find three species of baobab, many birds and reptiles including snakes, tortoises and lizards. Eight species of lemur reside here including the pale form marked lemur.
Day 7 At Sea.
Spend a leisurely day on board as we continue our journey around the Madagascan Coast.
Day 8 Mahajanga.
Mahajanga is a major port in northwest Madagascar situated on the Betsiboka River and is our base for a full day tour of the surrounding area. We will commence with a drive to Lake Mangatsa, a sacred site of many legends where we will learn about local traditions as we search for lemurs, chameleons and birds in the trees. Lunch will be served at the Antsanitia Resort, set in 22 hectare of grounds and located on a stunning section of coastline, and there will be an opportunity to swim or enjoy a walk along the beach, see the local fishing boats and visit the village before we return to the MS Island Sky.
Day 9 Nosy Tanikely.
After a morning at sea we arrive at the Nosy Tanikely Island Marine Reserve, an uninhabited island which offers snorkelling opportunities and wonderful beaches. We will take the chance to either swim in the clear waters or snorkel over the corals keeping an eye out for reef fish, turtles and morays. Alternatively, explore the island where we may see the resident lemurs, skinks, fruit bats and hermit crabs and enjoy fantastic views from the 1908 lighthouse on the island’s highest point.
Day 10 Nosy Hara.
As we continue our journey along the western coast of Madagascar we will find a number of strangely shaped limestone islets that dot the aquamarine-coloured sea. The expedition team will decide on the most suitable island for landing, such as Nosy Hara with its abundant birdlife and great places to swim off the beach. We will spend the day exploring the island on foot or alternatively join a Zodiac cruise around the islands and have a chance to snorkel over the coral. This evening we will enjoy a Christmas dinner on board.
Day 11 Diego Suarez.
This morning we will enter the dramatic harbour of Diego Suarez. Also known as Antsiranana, the town has a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants including Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Comorans and Arabs. This morning, choose from a city tour taking in the Commonwealth Cemetery, the faded colonial grandeur of Place Joffre, and a baobab viewpoint at French Mountain; or alternatively, drive up to Amber Mountain National Park at an elevation of 3,200ft, where we will divide into short and long walking parties to explore the pristine rainforest. In the towering vegetation, we may spot Sanford’s brown and crowned lemurs, as well as chameleons, stunningly well camouflaged leaf-tailed geckos, and an array of endemic birds.
Day 12 Domaine de Bobangira.
Over breakfast we arrive at the port of Vohemar our base for a morning at the Domaine de Bobangira. This reserve on the Indian Ocean has wild, unspoiled beaches and forests rich in biodiversity having about 40% of endemic flora to the region. Declared as protected private nature reserve in 2017 by the national forestry department, it is home to fat-tailed dwarf lemurs, the diurnal white-headed lemur, Brookesia and various others small as well as large species of chameleons. There are also large centenarian canarium bujiga trees in the park, locally known as mandrirofo, a type of tree used in Madagascar to build fishing pirogues. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon cruising.
Days 13 & 14 Masoala National Park & Nosy Mangabe.
We will spend two days exploring from our anchorage in Antongil Bay. We discover Nosy Mangabe, a 520-hectare island reserve and one of the most diverse areas of virgin rainforest in Madagascar which has also been an important research centre since the mid-1960s when several aye-ayes and other 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 will also explore Madagascar’s largest National Park, the Masoala Peninsula, which comprises of coastal rainforest, flooded forests, marsh and mangroves. We may be lucky enough to encounter a group of locally endemic red-ruffed lemur. The park is also home to various species of brightly coloured Mantella frogs, all manner of extraordinary chameleons and is a refuge for the endangered Madagascar red owl, Madagascar serpent eagle and many endemic bird species. A range of walks for all levels will be on offer, as well as a visit to the local village.
Days 15 Taomasina.
After a morning cruising we make our final call in Madagascar at Taomasina, the country’s main port and second largest city as well as the gateway to the Ivoloina Zoological Parc, a 282 hectare property combining a small zoo where we will see up to a dozen species of lemur as well as indigenous tortoises and chameleons. In the surrounding forest we can see free roaming lemurs and other wildlife along the various lakeside walking trails.
Day 16 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we sail towards Reunion. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax. This evening we will celebrate New Year’s Eve on board.
Day 17 Reunion Island.
We arrive at breakfast in Reunion where we have a choice of excursions. On a full day tour we will visit the central highlands where spectacularly rugged peaks of volcanoes cradle huge amphitheatres known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet. The rich soil and mellow climate produce a lush and verdant landscape which is dotted with villages and towns with a uniquely French atmosphere. Fields of sugar cane and plantations of tropical fruits, vanilla and all manner of spices perfume the air. We will enjoy views from the Nez des Boeuf and see the Piton de la Fournaise crater. After enjoying a creole lunch in a local restaurant we will visit ‘La Cite du Volcan’ museum. Alternatively enjoy a morning tour to a vanilla plantation in Saint Andre where we learn about the history and culture of this integral part of Reunion’s heritage. Continue to Salazie, a verdant landscape and home to many waterfalls including the ‘Voile de la Mariee’ before spending some free time in Saint Denis on the way back to the ship. This afternoon is at leisure before we set sail this evening.
Day 18 Mauritius to London.
Spend a leisurely final morning on board. After lunch, transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 19 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
2 to 19 December 2025 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £11795 | £11295 |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £11995 | £11495 |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £12295 | £11795 |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £12795 | £12295 |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £14295 | £13795 |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £14795 | £14295 |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £15495 | £14995 |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £13795 | £13295 |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £13995 | £13495 |
16 December 2025 to 3 January 2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £11795 | £11295 |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £11995 | £11495 |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £12295 | £11795 |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £12795 | £12295 |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £14295 | £13795 |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £14795 | £14295 |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £15495 | £14995 |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £13795 | £13295 |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £13995 | £13495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK02122025/SCISK16122025
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled international air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Johannesburg with breakfast (16th Dec departure only) • Specially chartered flight between Johannesburg and Tulear • 15 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
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Deckplan
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Skys Video Tour
Video Library
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 is an extract from the ship’s log of a previous expedition which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Nosy Tanikely: Coming ashore after lunch, some of us headed off for a naturalist walk with the expedition team and local guides. We soon learned that the timing of our visit was perfect: the weather was excellent, but recent rain had brought out all the wildlife. As a result, the leaf litter in the island’s forested interior was crawling with skinks, plated lizards, millipedes, hermit crabs and land snails. In the trees, we discovered huge blue panther chameleons, bright day geckos and common brown lemurs feeding on fruit. Bird life was in evidence too, with white-tailed tropicbirds, Malagasy kestrels and a Humblot’s heron amongst the main highlights. Dating back to 1908, a small lighthouse at the island’s 200 metre peak provided some historical interest before we turned and headed back down to the beach for refreshments. Several sampled the excellent local rum or sipped fresh juice from freshly harvested coconuts. Many donned their snorkelling gear and headed into the sea, where they were treated to a kaleidoscope of corals interspersed with sponges and anemones, all augmented with myriad colourful reef fish. Even a few rays and turtles were seen during an afternoon of world-class snorkelling in calm waters that offered excellent visibility.
Nosy Hara: Before breakfast, the ship entered the picturesque Nosy Hara archipelago and anchored just off one of the dozen or so stunning rocky islands. Impressive formations of jaggedly eroded limestone karst, known locally as tsingy, towered above picture-postcard beaches of white sand. As the tides were not in favour of going ashore at the main island of Nosy Hara before lunch, we landed in the early part of the morning on Nosy Anjambavola instead, where most people snorkelled or swam off a small beach of alluring soft sand. Others enjoyed the sun and explored the coastline. The remainder of the morning was spent Zodiac cruising around the nearby small islands with sightings of white-tailed tropicbirds and Madagascar black swifts soaring in the sky, not to mention the cherry on the cake: good views of the incredibly rare Madagascar fish eagle. Straight after lunch, snorkelling from a Zodiac platform in a different part of the reef was on offer. The coral here turned out to be some of the healthiest and most diverse seen so far on the trip, with many colourful reef fish weaving in between. Mid-afternoon, we landed on Nosy Hara for wildlife walks. Top of the list of target species here was the Nosy Hara stump-tailed chameleon, Brookesia micra, and we were successful in locating a specimen of this extraordinary minute creature, which measures 29mm fully grown. Amongst other wildlife found were a variety of geckos, several kinds of crabs, the Madagascar coucal, souimanga sunbirds, a scorpion, a young Madagascar ground boa, and countless green mantella frogs. Plants of note included Suarez aloes, flame trees, orchids, and Amorphophallus ankarana.
Also of Interest
Madagascar - The Eighth Continent
A circumnavigation of Madagascar aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius / Reunion / Taolagnaro / Tulear / Andavadoaka / Nosy Hao / Morondava / Mahajanga / Nosy Tanikely / Nosy Hara / Diego Suarez / Nosy Mangabe / Masoala National Park / Taomasina / Mauritius
Passage through the Seychelles
Island Hopping through the beautiful Seychelles aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Dar es Salaam / Zanzibar / Kilwa Kisiwani / Aldabra / Farquhar Islands / Alphonse Islands / Amirante / Aride / Curieuse / Praslin / Grande Soeur / Mahe
Passage to India
A voyage from the Seychelles to Chennai including the Maldives & Sri Lanka aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mahe / Aride / Curieuse / Grande Soeur / Praslin / Maldives / Colombo / Galle / Bundala National Park / Yala National Park / Kataragama / Trincomalee /Pigeon Island National Park / Polonnaruwa / Chennai
South Africa & Namibia by Sea
A voyage around Southern Africa from Richards Bay to Walvis Bay aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Richards Bay / Durban / Gqeberha / Mossel Bay / Cape Town / Luderitz / Walvis bay / Johannesburg
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000