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
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 2 to 19 December 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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.
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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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Cabin Plans
Cabin Plan
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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 Island Sky for your voyage. The 118-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 75 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.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 118
Length: 90.60 metres
Width: 15.30 metres
Registered: Bahamas
Crew/Staff: 75
Year built: 1992
Language: English
Gross Tonnage: 4200 tonnes
Net Tonnage: 1262 tonnesADAPTORS
There is a small supply of adaptors that can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise. There is also an adaptor extension box with USB ports in the suite.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All suites 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 suites.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
If you wish to contact the ship, please call +1 954 6726785. This is a US number so calls will be charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your suite which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make suite to suite calls free of charge. The ship can be contacted by email at rec@is.salenship.com. Please indicate the passenger name and suite number in the subject field.
Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi
Connectivity is now an important feature in our lives and we do our best to bring this service to you on board. Complimentary Wi-Fi provided by Starlink is available in the public areas and passenger suites. You will need to bring your own device to connect in these areas. Wi-Fi details, including your unique log in, will be available in your suite. The service provided on board uses direct satellite technology and has a certain amount of bandwidth available. The same level of connectivity and speed that we enjoy at home through cable or fibre-optic based infrastructures cannot be expected on board.
As you traverse the seas and ports, the ship’s antennae have to re-establish connection with the transmission satellites. Signal may also be blocked by mountains, buildings or even local radio frequency regulations. Remote locations out of satellite range, weather on earth or in space can also affect signal strength. Please also bear in mind that the network is shared by everyone on board so congestion can be anticipated which will slow down speeds especially at peak times. The bandwidth available to the ship means that connectivity is best served using text-based communications and simple social media. Some applications which involve downloading large files may not be available on board.
Here are some tips for using satellite Wi-Fi on board:
• Avoid peak times such as the return to the ship after an excursion.
• Always log off the system when not in use to free up bandwidth space for other passengers and to pause your usage allowance.
• Work offline.
• Download any apps you need before leaving home.
• Turn off or disable background app data services and updates – apps that sync in the background can quickly eat up data without your knowledge.
• Disable push notifications as these use a lot of data.
• Remember to bring any charging or data cables required.
• Your Network provider may offer a cruise package but be careful, once the land signal is lost, this will transfer to the satellite signal which will incur greater costs.
• Cruise Terminals ashore often have good land based internet to supplement your connectivity.
• Put your phone on Airplane Mode when not in use to avoid roaming charges from your Network Provider.
• Be careful not to access private accounts such as bank accounts on public Wi-Fi systems.
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 suite 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. MS Island Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Whether we have a morning at sea or you choose not to partake in an excursion, breakfast times have been extended, where possible, for your convenience. Times may vary and will be indicated on the Daily Programme. 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 Club or in The Lounge depending on activities. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Club. For those guests who may prefer more flexibility with regards to their meals we are delighted to offer an additional menu on board between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm. Details are available in The Club.
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 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, comfortable and 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 occasion wear for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary.
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 flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the suites is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations 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 Island Sky has a hairdresser providing haircuts and hairstyling. Some beauty treatments and massage are also available. Appointments 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 suite is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
We have comprehensive plans in place to protect the health and hygiene of our passengers and crew. These are kept up to date in line with new advice and guidance and are continually evaluated. The ventilation system provides all suites and communal areas with fresh non recycled air. There is no recirculation of air on board. UV technology has been installed to ensure no risk of transmission via ventilation units. Hand sanitisers are present throughout the vessel particularly at entrances to dining venues and at the gangway. We kindly ask that you ensure to use these regularly. When it is required to bring in enhanced procedures you will be advised in either your pre cruise documentation or on board.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your suite. 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 suite 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. Suite 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. 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/FRIDGE
This is stocked with complimentary soft drinks and beer and will be replenished daily/on request.
NEWS
News channels are available on your suite 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:
Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
• Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).
If you intend to settle your shipboard account using your credit card, please provide Reception with an imprint of your card at your convenience during the cruise. As a standard procedure, a GBP10.00 pre-authorisation hold for settlements is made via credit card. Please note that this is only a temporary hold placed on your funds and released several days after the final onboard settlement is made. Debit cards and pre-paid 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 Club – Located on the Marco Polo Deck, The Club features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. A quiet place to meet friends or relax during the day. In the evening our onboard resident pianist plays before and after dinner.
The Library – Located on the Marco Polo Deck. 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. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library.
The Lounge – Located on the Columbus Deck. Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here.
Lido Deck – Located on the Erikson Deck aft. The Lido Deck is an alternative venue to the restaurant for meals, weather permitting. Outside of meal times it is an area where you can relax outside. Enjoy a drink from the bar or something to eat from the all day menu.
Observation Deck – Located on the Explorer Deck. There is an area for sun loungers which is ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing observation platform.
Promenade Deck – Located on the Marco Polo Deck. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose suites are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between the hours of 08.30 am and 9.00 pm only.
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 housekeeping 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 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:
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 Island 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 Columbus Deck. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard.
SUITES
On board there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting area, en-suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Suites on Explorer (Deck 6) and Erikson (Deck 5) have private balconies. Suites on Marco Polo Deck (Deck 4) have tinted sliding doors for enhanced views and quick access to the deck if any wildlife is spotted.All suites have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet & USB ports
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar/fridge
• Safe
• Toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• TelephoneEach suite 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. Suites are serviced each morning by housekeeping and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that on MS Island Sky, all suites have a shower but none have baths.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a television. There is a selection of channels available including news, films and documentaries.
TOILETRIES
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 before 11.00 pm.WATER
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 and water carafes. These are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your suite at the end of the cruise. The bottles and carafes can be filled from the tap in your suite or from the water station outside The Club. Alternatively your Steward/ess can refill your carafe daily. Should you prefer to use plastic bottled water then please just let your Steward/ess know.
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 Island 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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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.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000