Madagascar and South Africa: Nosy Be and Durban
French elegance and the spirit of discovery
When the sun sinks into the sea and steeps the sky in colours no evening repeats.
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Nosy Be to Durban
Le Dumont-d'Urville, a 184-guest Ponant Explorer-class vessel, sails eleven nights from Nosy Be in northern Madagascar down the west coast and across the Mozambique Channel to Durban. The programme features marine protected areas, baobab avenues and Creole and Arab-influenced ports. Sixteen Zodiacs reach remote bays and reefs, while the Blue Eye underwater lounge reveals life beneath the surface. The marina, premium all-inclusive service and intimate onboard atmosphere round out the experience. The itinerary combines Madagascar's natural highlights with arrival on South Africa's Indian Ocean coast.
Route highlights
- Nosy Be: Tropical opening in the north with ylang-ylang plantations and quiet beaches.
- Nosy Hara: Marine protected area of limestone islets and clear water for snorkelling landings.
- Nosy Tanikely: Small lighthouse island with a fringing reef off Madagascar's north-west coast.
- Mahajanga: Port at the mouth of the Betsiboka River, shaped by Creole and Arab influences.
- Morondava: Gateway to the Avenue of the Baobabs and the western Tsingy karst country.
- Toliara: South-western Madagascar with spiny forest and offshore coral reefs.
- Richards Bay: South African harbour on the edge of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
- Durban: Journey's end on South Africa's east coast, with Indian and Creole flavours ashore.
Early booking advantage: Voyages in 2027 fill quickly - premium cabins are often reserved 18-24 months in advance. An early booking enquiry is non-binding and secures your preferred cabin category.
The Route
Nosy Be
11 nights
Durban
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Nosy Be · Embarkation
Off Madagascar's north-western coast in the Indian Ocean lies Nosy Be, the country's most popular holiday island with a subtropical climate. It is known for its extensive ylang-ylang plantations, which supply much of the world demand for the famous perfume oil, as well as for its coral reefs and the sacred banyan tree of Mahatsinjo.
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Nosy Hara
In northern Madagascar lies Nosy Hara as an uninhabited island within a marine national park in the Mozambique Channel. Distinctive limestone formations like tsingy spires, clear water and sea turtles make the islet a natural highlight; the island is also home to the world's smallest known chameleon, Brookesia micra, just under three centimetres long.
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Nosy Komba
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Nosy Tanikely
Off Madagascar's north-western coast lies Nosy Tanikely as a small uninhabited island between Nosy Be and Nosy Komba in the Mozambique Channel. The marine national park of the same name protects coral gardens, turtle habitats and a biodiverse snorkelling area regarded as one of Madagascar's best dive sites, while lemurs also live on the island itself.
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Majunga
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At sea
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Morondava
On Madagascar's west coast in the Menabe region lies the coastal town of Morondava on the Mozambique Channel facing the open sea. Just outside town stretches the world-famous Avenue of the Baobabs with monkey-bread trees up to 800 years old, which form red silhouettes against the Malagasy sky at sunset.
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Toliara (Madagascar)
Toliara lies on the south-west coast of Madagascar on the Mozambique Channel and is the gateway to the Ifaty coral reef. The port city is marked by a colourful blend of Vezo fishing culture and Creole influences.
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At sea
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Richards Bay
On the east coast of South Africa in KwaZulu-Natal on a large natural lagoon, this port is the southern hemisphere's largest coal-export harbour. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi rhino reserve lie close at hand.
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Durban · Disembarkation
Le Dumont d'Urville
Le Dumont d'Urville has sailed since 2019 as the fourth Explorer ship. 184 guests, Blue Eye Lounge, Zodiac fleet. Named after the explorer who claimed Adélie Land for France in 1840.
In the Indian Ocean, Le Dumont d'Urville opens up the islands off Madagascar and the Seychelles - tropical paradises with French savoir-vivre onboard.
The Ship
Cabins
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
Deck plan · Le Dumont d'Urville
Cabin prices
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Stateroom - 3 | € 10.158 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 - 4 | € 11.181 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 - 5 | € 11.687 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 - 6 | € 12.303 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 - 3 | € 16.780 | On request | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 - 4 | € 16.780 | On request | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 16.780 | On request | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 16.780 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite - | € 22.379 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite - | € 23.501 | On request | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 24.623 | On request | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 24.623 | Available | Enquire |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 26.966 | On request | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - 6 | € 28.286 | On request | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.06.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Full board in gourmet and À-la-carte restaurants
- Afternoon tea and pastries
- Open bar: water, soft drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, beers, coffee and tea
- Minibar in cabin, regularly refilled
- 24-hour cabin service
- All gratuities for crew and service staff
- Complimentary WiFi onboard (standard usage)
- Butler service (in higher suite categories on select ships)
- Zodiac excursions with experienced guides (on Expedition voyages)
- Expert lectures by scientists, marine biologists and historians
- Water sports equipment: kayaks, stand-up paddling, snorkelling gear (subject to weather and region)
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from ship (transfers, pre- or post-programmes)
- Some special shore excursions
- Spa treatments
Frequently asked questions
How do I book this voyage?
Send us a non-binding enquiry via the form on this page. Our team replies personally within 24 hours with availability, cabin options and a tailored offer. No enquiry fee, no upfront payment.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 11 nights from EUR 10.158 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the Le Dumont d'Urville?
A maximum of 184 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
