Seychelles & Tanzania Cruise
From Aldabra’s mesmerizing coral atoll to Zanzibar’s historic spice routes, discover the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets on a cruise to Seychelles & Tanzania
The uncharted shores of East Africa
Rare wildlife encounters along an ancient maritime silk road
Off the coast of East Africa lies a hidden eden – vibrant coral reefs, enchanting seascapes, and sun-kissed beaches spread across the islands of perpetual summer. Discover the remote archipelagos of Seychelles and Zanzibar, Tanzania on board the luxurious Aqua Lares, the region’s first superyacht to offer both charter and individual cabin bookings.
Led by expert naturalist guides, sail to the vast coral atoll of Aldabra, a biodiversity hotspot home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises. Head out on active excursions designed to uncover each destination’s best-kept secrets – from kayaking through Assumption’s tidal channels and diving at Astove’s underwater grand canyon to flyfishing in the pristine flats of Farquhar, alive with bonefish and giant trevally. Wander through Praslin’s legendary Vallée de Mai forest, where black parrots and fruit bats roam the skies, sharks and rays patrol the surrounding waters, and the rare Coco de Mer palm trees line the shores.
Over in Tanzania, discover a fascinating blend of nature and culture across the Zanzibar archipelago where ruins of a once-mighty sultanate are hidden among lush green hills and rich mangrove forests. Uncover the history of a spice route dating back to the Middle Ages, whose influence continues to shape the archipelago today. Aqua Lares brings the unforgettable Aqua experience to East Africa and in signature fashion, leaves no stone unturned.
The Indian Ocean’s Remote Wilderness
Trip highlights and excursions
AldabraDesignated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this coral atoll harbors one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. Aldabra is home to the world’s largest populations of giant tortoises, with more than 100,000 of them roaming the atoll’s four islands. An exploration of the atoll’s lagoon and mangrove forests aboard our private tenders reveals a thriving population of marine life, including sharks and illusive manta rays. Equally impressive, discover unique flora and rare bird species such as the red-footed booby on expert-led walks along the coast. Discover Aldabra's best-kept secrets on the finest luxury cruise Seychelles has to offer.
AlphonseFramed by powdery white-sand beaches and a lush coconut forest, this remote atoll is part of the Seychelles’ outer islands. Just offshore, a vibrant coral formation provides a thriving habitat for tropical marine life, while a tranquil lagoon offers mesmerizing kayaking experiences. Alphonse’s seclusion also makes it a hotspot for migratory birds such as the sociable lapwing and tufted duck. Apart from Aldabra, Alphonse boasts the highest number of recorded species visiting its shores out of anywhere in the Seychelles archipelago.
RemireLocated 245 kilometers southwest of the capital, Remire Island is part of the Coralline Seychelles. This small coral island has a rich history as a Guano mining settlement and a presidential retreat. Today, this island presents an ideal scuba diving and snorkeling spot courtesy of the abundant marine life and the island’s proximity to the Remire Reef. Inland, a substantial population of land and sea birds, as well as the occasional giant tortoises, can be observed around the coastal vegetation.
Kilwa KisiwaniOnce a significant trading port in East Africa, Kilwa Kisiwani now holds the distinction of being both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Tanzania National Historic Sites. As part of our Tanzania cruise, explore this island which was once the heart of the Kilwa Sultanate, boasting deep Arabian influences that date back almost 800 years. It features ruins of ancient structures, such as the Great Mosque and the Palace of Husuni Kubwa, among lush green hills and rich mangroves teeming with life.
PraslinNorth of Seychelles’ capital lies Praslin, the second-largest island in the archipelago and one of the stops in our Seychelles cruise. Historically a refuge for pirates and Arabic merchants, this granitic island is also home to an impressive array of endemic flora and fauna, with highlights inhabiting the ancient “Vallée de Mai” forest. Once believed to be the Garden of Eden, this forest is the exclusive habitat of wild Coco de Mer palm trees that bear the largest seed in the world.
AstoveThis raised coral atoll lying in the Seychelles’ Outer Islands is renowned as one of the Indian Ocean’s premier snorkeling and diving spots, courtesy of the Astove Wall. Often regarded as an underwater Grand Canyon, this four-mile-long wall is covered in soft corals and hosts an abundant variety of marine life including rays, sharks and green turtles. Featuring plunging depths and incredible visibility for up to 40 meters, Astove is surely a bucket-list destination for avid underwater explorers.
MisaliOn our cruise to Tanzania, discover Misali – an island surrounded by stunning coral reefs and unique rock formations. Unwind on its untouched beaches or go snorkeling in its clear blue waters where you’ll witness an incredible variety of fish and marine species. Else, a hike through the island presents a rare opportunity to spot a subspecies of Vervet Monkeys that call the island’s forest home.
Getting there
Embarkation
Mahe
Embarkation Point: L'Escale Marina
Embarkation Time: 2:30pm - 3:00pm
Zanzibar
Embarkation Point: Azam Marine
Embarkation Time: 3:00pm
Madagascar
Embarkation Point: Crater Marine (Nosy Be)
Embarkation Time: 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Disembarkation
Mahe
Disembarkation Point: L'Escale Marina
Disembarkation Time: 9:00am - 10:00am
Zanzibar
Disembarkation Point: Azam Marine
Disembarkation Time: 9:00am
Madagascar
Disembarkation Point: Crater Marine (Nosy Be)
Disembarkation Time: 8:00am - 9:00am
Our superyacht sailing Seychelles & Tanzania
FAQs
Have a question? Don’t be shy. We’re here help you make the most of your adventure. Find answers to our most frequently asked questions below. If you still need help contact us.
Seychelles and the Tanzanian islands are both located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, lies east of mainland Africa, northeast of Madagascar. Known as the land of perpetual summer, it is home to Aldabra — a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with biodiversity, Praslin with its Garden of Eden, Vallée de Mai, and Astove, a bucket list destination for avid explorers with its stunning underwater Grand Canyon. The Tanzanian islands lie just off the coast of mainland Tanzania, including the culture-rich Zanzibar, Kilsa Kisiwani, and Misali. Each island offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, remarkable endemic wildlife, and timeless heritage.
Ths island jewels of Seychelles are home to some of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife and marine life. Encounter the world’s largest population of giant tortoises in Aldabra, along with rare species such as red-footed boobies, hawksbill turtles, vervet monkeys, coconut crabs, and blacktip reef sharks. Showcasing pristine landscapes and vibrant coral reefs, Aqua Lares' expedition offers unparalleled opportunities to witness a remarkable array of biodiversity wonders in their purest form.
Aqua Lares expedition rates include all meals on board, non-alcoholic beverages, selected house wines and beer, small-group excursions led by expert local guides, use of snorkeling and diving equipment, wet suits, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, entrance fee to national parks, onboard lectures, evening entertainment, high-speed satellite internet, and laundry service. A key benefit of our all-inclusive rates is that guests know exactly how much their expedition will cost upfront. The only non-inclusive expenses for the expedition are flights, cocktails, massage services, and gratuities.
Life aboard Aqua Lares is relaxed and casual, with a no-shoes policy. We recommend packing:
• Comfortable walking shoes and extra socks
• Comfortable reef shoes
• Quick drying and lightweight clothing, including long pants and long-sleeved tops
• Plenty of bathing suits, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent containing DEET or citronella as a natural alternative
• Your camera, with charger, extra batteries, and memory cards
• Underwater camera for snorkelling
• Casual attire for meals in the dining area
• Pre-download your favorite TV shows on your laptop or tablet for your entertainment
Yes, unlimited access to high-speed Wi-Fi is available on board Aqua Lares.
Citizens of most countries can enjoy visa-free access to Seychelles for up to 90 days. On the other hand, Tanzania requires citizens of countries including the US, UK, and Australia to obtain a visa prior to arrival. For the most up-to-date information on visa and vaccination requirements, guests are advised to contact their nearest Seychelles or Tanzanian embassy or consulate. Our Guest Relations Coordinator is also available to address any questions guests may have.
Guests are strongly advised to purchase trip cancelation insurance, which will reimburse the cost of air tickets and other non-refundable trip payments. International medical, baggage loss, and delay insurance are also recommended. Insurance companies such as Travel Guard and Allianz are options that guests may consider. Please note that we are unable to offer a booking refund should guests miss their vessel departure for reasons including but not limited to weather-related flight cancellations. If Aqua Lares is unable to sail (i.e. due to force majeure or mechanical failure), Aqua Expeditions reserves the right to substitute another vessel. Should guests choose not to proceed with this option, Aqua Expeditions reserves the right to cancel their trip upon a refund pro rata per cruise night not used or, as an alternative, offer credit toward a future Aqua Lares expedition.
The minimum recommended age to travel on Aqua Lares is 5 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to travel without their parents or guardians. If any occupant in the suite is under 18, a guest of at least 18 years old must be booked in the same suite. There is no minimum age requirement on private charters.
Aqua Lares features 15 elegant design suites across five categories, including three Owner’s Suites sized between 419 and 710 sqft (39 and 66 sqm). The remaining suites are sized between 139 and 322 sqft (13 and 30 sqm), each one individually designed and custom-furnished down to the smallest detail. Every room features warm interiors, creating an inviting atmosphere, complemented by solid wood veneers, as well as wallpaper and fabrics sourced from Italian renowned Dedar. Bedding configurations are customizable depending on the selected suite. All suites are designed for exceptional comfort with minimal exposure to noise. With a maximum of 30 guests onboard, Aqua Lares ensures a tranquil and relaxing environment throughout the journey.
Guests with special dietary requests are encouraged to inform Aqua Expeditions at the time of booking, during online check-in (where they can specify their preferences), or at least 30 days prior to embarkation. We are committed to crafting exceptional culinary experiences that are tailored to our guests’ needs. Our talented chefs are skilled in a variety of preparations and can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other specialized diets. Whether due to allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle choices, every effort is made to curate world-class meals that align with individual preferences.
