Madagascar Cruises

Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, offers an extraordinary blend of unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, making it a top destination for cruise enthusiasts. Known for its biodiversity, approximately 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth! From the magnificent baobab trees to the playful lemurs, Madagascar is a haven for nature lovers. Embarking on a cruise to Madagascar allows you to explore its pristine beaches, engage with local communities, and discover the island’s rich history, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your cruise liner.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Madagascar

• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries to Madagascar. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky are particularly popular, offering exciting onboard activities such as rock climbing, Broadway-style entertainment, and various dining options that highlight local flavours. These ships typically depart from Miami or Cape Town, ensuring easy access to this beautiful island and its diverse offerings.
• Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 ships, with 1 that includes itineraries that feature Madagascar. The Nieuw Statendam is known for its luxurious amenities and premium dining options that reflect the areas you’ll visit. The cruise line’s focus on cultural immersion through its onboard programs helps enrich the journey. Most departures occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, providing a seamless start to your adventure in this exotic destination.
• MSC Cruises features 23 ships, with 7 that navigate the waters around Madagascar. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside are renowned for their vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, ensuring fun for all ages. The MSC Virtuosa boasts an outdoor movie theatre and beautiful oceanfront promenades. Departures usually happen from Miami or Port Canaveral, providing a convenient launch pad for your tropical exploration.
• Carnival Cruise Line operates a fleet of 27 ships, with 3 featuring itineraries that include Madagascar. The Carnival Miracle and Carnival Luminosa are particularly loved for their lively entertainment and casual dining options, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike. Most departures occur from Miami or Galveston, offering seamless access to embark on your journey.
• P&O Cruises has a fleet size of 7 ships, with 5 focused on itineraries that feature Madagascar. The Britannia and Arvia are popular for their wide array of onboard activities, from culinary demonstrations to musical performances. Departures generally happen from Barbados or Liverpool, ensuring patrons can easily access the beautiful island vibes.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for Madagascar

• Oceania Cruises has a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries that include Madagascar. The Marina and Insignia are known for their refined atmosphere and culinary excellence, showcasing menus crafted by world-renowned chefs. Most departures usually take place from Miami or Cape Town, providing smooth transitions into the stunning landscapes of this unique destination.
• Azamara Cruises consists of 4 ships, with 1 dedicated to stops in Madagascar. The Azamara Quest is praised for offering immersive local experiences and late-night stays that allow guests to enjoy local nightlife and culture. Departures are typically from Miami or Barbados, ensuring easy access to the beautiful island’s allure.
• Seabourn operates a fleet of 5 ships, with 2 serving itineraries that include Madagascar. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest are renowned for their luxurious service, spacious suites, and all-inclusive experiences, promising a serene cruising experience tailored to guests. Departures generally occur from Cape Town or Barbados, creating a refined ambiance as you transition to exploring Madagascar.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both of which feature itineraries that highlight Madagascar. The EXPLORA I and II focus on wellness and upscale amenities, ensuring a luxurious atmosphere onboard. Most departures take place from Barcelona or Miami, offering a plush start to your adventure in this beautiful region.
• Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries to Madagascar. The Bolette is appreciated for its classic cruising experience and personal touch. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, providing excellent access for UK cruisers wishing to explore this unparalleled destination.

Top Harbours to Explore in Madagascar

• Tana (Antananarivo) – The capital city, Antananarivo, is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about Madagascar’s unique cultural heritage. Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional Malagasy restaurant, where you can sample dishes like ravitoto (pork with cassava leaves).
• Nosy Be – This beautiful island is famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, making it a great destination for diving and snorkelling. Visit the Lokobe Reserve to see endemic species like lemurs and mangrove trees or relax on the beautiful beaches while enjoying fresh coconut water from a local vendor.
• Diego Suarez (Antsiranana) – This northern city is known for its stunning bay and unique landscapes. Explore the nearby Amber Mountain National Park, home to fascinating flora and fauna, or take a tour to the picturesque Emerald Sea for breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss the chance to try local street food, particularly fresh seafood dishes.
• Morondava – Known for the famous Avenue of the Baobabs, Morondava provides a stunning view of these iconic trees, especially during sunset. Discover the local fishing culture at nearby beaches or consider a guided tour to the Kirindy Forest to encounter lemurs and other wildlife. It’s a perfect stop for nature lovers!
• Nosy Komba – Known as the “Lemur Island,” Nosy Komba is home to a local population of friendly lemurs. Enjoy hiking through the lush hills and visiting local artisan workshops. You can also relax on the beaches, soak up the sun, and experience the island’s authentically laid-back atmosphere.

The Best Times to Cruise to Madagascar

The climate in Madagascar varies throughout the year, providing unique experiences depending on the season. From January to March, the weather is warm and can be quite humid, averaging temperatures of 25°C to 35°C, which is ideal for experiencing lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Spring (April to June) brings milder temperatures averaging 20°C to 28°C and is an excellent time for exploring the natural wonders of the island with fewer tourists. The winter months (July to September) are cooler, typically between 15°C and 25°C, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. As autumn approaches (October to December), temperatures begin to rise again, ranging from 20°C to 30°C, and this season welcomes the lush vegetation before the rainy season begins.

Costs of Cruising to Madagascar

The cost for a one-week cruise to Madagascar usually ranges from £800 to £1,400 depending on the cruise line and the accommodations selected. Luxury cruises typically start around £3,500 and may increase based on the level of service and amenities provided. While exploring the island, budget around £15 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks tend to range from £2 to £10, allowing you to fully enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

The captivating landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Madagascar await your exploration. Now is the time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and set sail for an unforgettable adventure in this extraordinary destination!