Africa, East Africa
Madagascar, Zanzibar and the Jewels of the Indian Ocean
The softness of the trade winds, the turquoise of the ocean, the shimmer of the verdant vegetation… the incredible beauty of the islands in the Indian Ocean is striking. During an 11-day expedition cruise aboard Le Champlain, time stands still and, between the island country of Madagascar, Seychelles and Tanzania, nature will plunge you into a dream.
The shores of Mauritius grow distant as you arrive in flamboyant Madagascar. To the north-east of the largest island in the Indian Ocean, the island of Île Sainte-Marie appears on the horizon. The days of pirates, who occupied the territory for almost two centuries, seem long gone now, as peace prevails in this tropical paradise. To the far south, the island of Île aux Nattes is a treasure just asking to be discovered. Its coral reef lies in the translucent waters of its lagoon, dotted with natural pools. You will spend your time here swimming, meeting the local population and discovering the abundant fauna and flora. Before leaving the 'Great Red Island', you will visit Nosy Hara, renowned for its incredible marine wildlife, with over 280 different species.
Sheltered from the world, take the time to wonder at the splendour of the Seychelles. On Astove Island, in the mythical Aldabra Atoll, the underwater world fascinates experienced divers, who come here to explore the “Wall of Astove“, a 40-metre (130-foot) deep underwater fault covered in coral and teeming with fish and green turtles.
Your next ports of call will be an opportunity to discover several of the wonders of Tanzania. You will explore the ruins of the 13th-century Swahili trading post of Kilwa Kisiwani, the small coral island of Misali as well as Pemba Island and its clove plantations and fantastic scuba diving.
This fabulous trip will draw to an end in Zanzibar, a city with superb UNESCO-listed buildings, blending African, Arab, Indian and European influences over more than a millennium.
The shores of Mauritius grow distant as you arrive in flamboyant Madagascar. To the north-east of the largest island in the Indian Ocean, the island of Île Sainte-Marie appears on the horizon. The days of pirates, who occupied the territory for almost two centuries, seem long gone now, as peace prevails in this tropical paradise. To the far south, the island of Île aux Nattes is a treasure just asking to be discovered. Its coral reef lies in the translucent waters of its lagoon, dotted with natural pools. You will spend your time here swimming, meeting the local population and discovering the abundant fauna and flora. Before leaving the 'Great Red Island', you will visit Nosy Hara, renowned for its incredible marine wildlife, with over 280 different species.
Sheltered from the world, take the time to wonder at the splendour of the Seychelles. On Astove Island, in the mythical Aldabra Atoll, the underwater world fascinates experienced divers, who come here to explore the “Wall of Astove“, a 40-metre (130-foot) deep underwater fault covered in coral and teeming with fish and green turtles.
Your next ports of call will be an opportunity to discover several of the wonders of Tanzania. You will explore the ruins of the 13th-century Swahili trading post of Kilwa Kisiwani, the small coral island of Misali as well as Pemba Island and its clove plantations and fantastic scuba diving.
This fabulous trip will draw to an end in Zanzibar, a city with superb UNESCO-listed buildings, blending African, Arab, Indian and European influences over more than a millennium.
On the north-west coast of Mauritius, discover Port Louis, the country’s multicultural capital. Constantly in movement, the city, which was once a port of call on the route to India, is home to many cultural and historic treasures. In addition to the city’s market where you will be able to discover all the local flavours and many handicrafts, make sure that you visit Fort Adelaide. Nestling on the heights of Port Louis, this citadel built in the 16th century, classified as a national heritage monument, offers sumptuous views over the surroundings. Not far from there, the Pamplemousse Botanical Garden will reveal to you its countless plant species, coming from all four corners of the world.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
The Île aux Nattes lies surrounded by a coral reef, to the far south of Nosy Boraha (previously known as Île Sainte-Marie) in the Madagascar region of Tamatave. Its lush vegetation contrasts with the white sand and crystal-clear and turquoises waters of its lagoon whose sea beds you can explore snorkelling or diving. Its fringed shores are home to natural pools that will invite you to relax or swim. Or you may prefer to walk along its coastal paths dotted with welcoming little villages.
Off the east coast of Madagascar, discover the island of St. Mary. A real Garden of Eden, this peaceful land will offer you landscapes of stunning beauty, with lush vegetation, enormous waterfalls and sumptuous natural pools. In addition, the island is home to a very large variety of orchids. An idyllic natural setting that contrasts with the eventful past of the island, which once played host to pirates and prisoners. This port of call will also provide you with privileged access to the Île aux Nattes, renowned for its wild beauty.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Its limestone rock formations rising from the waters, or marine “tsingies” typical of Madagascar, make Nosy Hara both exceptional and immediately recognisable. Located to the north-west of Madagascar, the island is a protected area due to its incredible biodiversity. It is a veritable open-air aquarium inhabited by around 280 marine species. The rocky columns edged with gorgeous white-sand and pebble beaches fading into shades of deep blue make an idyllic place cut off from the world. Succumb to the charms of this untouched jewel that will welcome you into its stunning decor for a special experience. This is an ideal location for snorkelling.
Closer to Madagascar than to Victoria, Astove is the southernmost island in the Seychelles. It is part of the Aldabra group, in the Outer Islands of the Seychelles. Now uninhabited, this coral island covered in coconut trees was once home to the employees that worked on the coconut plantations. Renowned for the richness of its seabeds, Astove Atoll is now a top destination for fishing enthusiasts. It also attracts experienced divers, who visit the atoll to explore the “Astove Wall”, where the sea floor drops to a depth of about 40 metres. The wall is covered in coral and many fish and green sea turtles can be found there.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Near the Tanzanian coast, around 300 km south of Dar es Salaam, the island of Kilwa Kisiwani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Occupied from the 9th century to the 11th century, it reached its heights in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was described by the Moroccan explorer Ibn Battouta as “one of the most beautiful cities in the world.” A former Swahili trading city, the island prospered from the trade of gold and ivory from the inland regions. The remains of its former port city cover a large part of the island. Those of its superb Great Mosque, the oldest mosque remaining on the coast of East Africa, are well worth a visit.
Renowned for its underwater world, Misali became a protected conservation area in 1998. So, it’s possible to admire its sea beds and swim there, but not to fish. If conditions allow, you’ll perhaps have the chance to see varied underwater fauna. To the north-east of the island, a white sandy beach, bathed in stunningly transparent turquoise water, is an ideal place to relax.
The second-largest island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, edged with fine sand and bathed in a sea in infinite shades of turquoise, Pemba Island astounds with the whiteness of its shores and its abundant tropical forest. It is mountainous with hills full of fertile land and has the nickname “the Green Island”. You’ll fall in love with its quiet shores, full of authenticity. Banana trees, coconut trees, clove trees, nutmeg trees… its lush vegetation ensures the local production of spices that has made its reputation (essentially cloves but also nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, etc.).
Once a mythical post along the legendary Indian Ocean trade route, today a certain whiff of adventure still pervades in Zanzibar. Located off the coast of Tanzania, this place often referred to as “spice island” is brimming with natural treasures, such as Jozani Forest, the last remains of the huge primeval forest that once covered the island, home to a unique ecosystem. This port of call will also be the moment to discover ”Stone Town”, the historical centre of Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A veritable labyrinth of narrow streets lined with houses made from coral stone, it is home to sumptuous buildings in a multitude of architectural styles, the result of the blending of African, European and Indian cultures.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Deluxe Stateroom
$11,810 AUD pp
Area : 19 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² Private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
$13,220 AUD pp
Area : 19 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi
2 cabins of 27
5 m² with a private balcony of 6 m² for people with reduced mobility.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
$13,900 AUD pp
Area : 19 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
$14,750 AUD pp
Area : 19 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
4m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Deluxe Suite
$20,910 AUD pp
Area : 27 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
6m² Private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Prestige Suite Deck 5
$28,620 AUD pp
Area : 38 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
8m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet access wifi.
Prestige Suite Deck 6
$30,160 AUD pp
Area : 38 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
8m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet access wifi.
Privilege Suite
$31,700 AUD pp
Area : 32 m²
Capacity : up to 4 passengers per cabin
8m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Bathtub
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet access wifi.
Grand Deluxe Suite
$34,930 AUD pp
Area : 45 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
30m² private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed or twin beds
Bathtub
Minibar
Flat screen
Satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
Safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Owner's Suite
$36,750 AUD pp
Area : 45 m²
Capacity : up to 2 passengers per cabin
30m2 private balcony
Individually-controlled air-conditioning
King-size bed
or twin beds Shower
Minibar
Flat screen
satellite TV
Desk with stationery
Ipod(TM) players
Video on demand
safe
Hairdryer
Bath robes
Satellite direct line telephone
110/220 volts outlet
French bath products
24hr room service
Internet acces wifi.
Additional charges:
Port Taxes and Fees: 740 AUD pp
Vessel Type: Luxury
Length: 127 metres
Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins
Built: 2017/2018
Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 cabins and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.
As the first ship in a new series, Le Champlain will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.
Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.
Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.
RESTAURANTS
As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship. Through its two restaurants, Le Champlain will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism.
In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts.
To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.
PUBLIC AREAS
Like Le Boréal and its sisterships, Le Champlain has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.
A 140 m² reception area includes: A reception/concierge desk, An excursions desk, The ship’s administrative services, The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer, Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories, Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.
A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides: Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship, Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions, Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.
A pool deck offering: A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system, A pleasant solarium, An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas.
A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.
Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with: The latest sound and lighting technology, A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.
Special Offers
Up to 30% OFF! Prices online do not show the discounted rates. Terms and Conditions apply, special offer is subject to availability, please contact us for more details.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• Non-alcoholic and Alcoholic beverages included (Excluding Premium Brands)
• Free wifi (Subject to coverage)
Exclusions
• Flights other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Premium beverages package (Can be purchased on board)
• Optional Excursions where applicable
• Spa treatments on board
• Pre and post cruise accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Transfers unless specified
• Gratuities
Small Ship Cruise
11 Days from
$11,810 AUD pp
Highlights
• A cruise discovering the natural treasures of Madagascar, the Seychelles and Tanzania.• Outings in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides and landings on idyllic beaches.
• UNESCO sites: the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, and Zanzibar’s Stone Town (disembarkation port).
• In Madagascar, a rich and preserved endemic flora and fauna.
• The possibility of observing the sumptuous underwater world of Astove.
• Flora, coral reefs and marine fauna of the archipelago of Zanzibar, the “Spice Island”.
• Possibility of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.
Our Associates Include
