Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Madagascar & South Africa
Durban - Nosy Be
Dates:
17/12/2026
to
28/12/2026
Other available dates
days
nights on board
TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT OF NOSY BE + FLIGHT NOSY BE/MAURITIUS
Under an endless sky where the azure blue flirts with the horizon, sail away on a magical journey between South Africa and Madagascar. Navigate between wild lands and ancient traditions, where every moment whispers the secrets of spectacular nature and ancestral stories, where every landscape is an invitation to contemplation and wonder. In these lands full of wonders and surprises, you will be captivated by the unique biodiversity, including lush tropical forests where mischievous lemurs roam, majestic baobabs that stand like silent giants, and pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters.
The vivid reds of the rock formations, the region's unique wildlife and the spectacular relief of the marine tsingy will captivate you. Here, time seems to stand still, leaving room to contemplate and marvel at the unspoilt nature and an infinitely rich heritage.
Ref : DN065 - EU171226
Your itinerary
Explore the Madagascan and South African coastlines with an overnight stay in Richards Bay, for a combination of spectacular wildlife and unforgettable encounters with local traditions. Protected wildlife...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
2/4/2026 to the 12/4/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
3/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/5/2026 to the 24/5/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
This cruise can include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Naturalist team may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Explore the Madagascan and South African coastlines with an overnight stay in Richards Bay, for a combination of spectacular wildlife and unforgettable encounters with local traditions.
- Protected wildlife (Nosy Komba lemurs, Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park), unique ecosystems (Nosy Hara marine tsingy, etc.), Zulu traditions (Phezulu Reserve).
- Activities planned: among these are included excursions* led by expert local guides and activities conducted with your naturalist guides.
*Advance bookings open approximately two months prior to the start of the cruise and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
17 December 2026 - Durban
Embarkation 17/12/2026 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 17/12/2026 at 10:00 pm
Situated in the Kwazulu-Natal region, the cradle of Zulu culture, Durban is the third largest city in South Africa and one of Africa's major ports. Between long beaches rocked by the rollers of the Indian Ocean and the skyscrapers dominating the avenues lined with jacarandas, in this multicultural city with African, Indian and colonial influences, the term "rainbow nation" takes on its full dimension. With a rich cultural and historical heritage, with its museums, colonial buildings and picturesque neighbourhoods, it is also known for the fauna and flora that surrounds it.
18 December 2026 19 December 2026 - Richards Bay
Arrival 18/12/2026
Departure 19/12/2026
A simple fishing village in the past, Richards Bay is now South Africa’s second port. Despite the significant development of industrial activity, particularly in terms of mineral extraction, Richards Bay is one of the country’s cleanest and most environmentally responsible towns. Bordering the Indian Ocean, the town is a haunt for water sport enthusiasts. In the heart of the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, nature lovers will be able to observe the wild fauna, made up of crocodiles, hippos and different bird species, as well as rich subtropical flora. Richards Bay is the departure point for many excursions heading off to discover Zulu country.
20 December 2026 21 December 2026 - At sea
Arrival 20/12/2026
Departure 21/12/2026
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.
22 December 2026 - Toliara
Arrival 22/12/2026
Departure 22/12/2026
Located to the south-west of the island of Madagascar, near the mouth of the River Onilahy, Toliara is a port town that opens onto the Mozambique Channel. Inhabited for several centuries, becoming prosperous during the colonial period in the 19th century, Toliara is a cheerful town with unspoilt nature and exceptional flora that will certainly appeal to fans of botany. The Antsokay Arboretum botanical garden with nearly 1,000 Madagascar plant species, 90% of which are endemic, is worth a fragrant and charming detour. Cultural heritage will not be outdone, with the interesting museums of Mahafaly ethnology and the Museum of the Sea.
23 December 2026 - Morondava
Arrival 23/12/2026
Departure 23/12/2026
To the south-west of Antananarivo lies a peaceful city on the Mozambique Channel: Morondava, capital of the kingdom of Menabe, and departure point for many discoveries in the surrounding area. Bordered by the Mozambique Channel, the city is crossed by two rivers: the Mangoky and the Manambolo. Its many forests are full of abundant fauna and flora, especially the Kirindy Mitea National Park and its famous baobab alley.
24 December 2026 - At sea
Arrival 24/12/2026
Departure 24/12/2026
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.
25 December 2026 - Majunga
Arrival 25/12/2026
Departure 25/12/2026
A lively and cosmopolitan town on the west coast of Madagascar, Majunga, also called Mahajanga, will be a port of call rich in discoveries. The former capital of the Sakalava kingdom, then a significant interchange due to its prime position between Africa and the Middle East, the city displays an interesting cultural patchwork. Also renowned for its outstanding natural sites, this port of call will provide you with the opportunity to discover the Cirque Rouge, immense red sandstone formations classified as national heritage.
26 December 2026 - Nosy Komba
Arrival 26/12/2026
Departure 26/12/2026
During your cruise, your ship will stop in Nosy Komba, otherwise known as “lemur island”. Not far from the Madagascar mainland, this volcanic island shaped like a gigantic turtle shell is covered in dense tropical rainforest. This vegetation is home to amusing black lemurs – furry orange-brown and black creatures that are surprisingly agile and call to each other from amongst the trees. The many small beaches and the emerald-coloured water make Nosy Komba a natural gem that only a select few visit.
27 December 2026 - Nosy Hara
Arrival 27/12/2026
Departure 27/12/2026
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.
28 December 2026 - Nosy Be
Arrival 28/12/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 28/12/2026 at 8:00 am
Nosy Be (from the Malagasy: Nosy meaning island and Be meaning large), in the Mozambique Channel, is located near the north-eastern coastlines of Madagascar. A former French protectorate, known under the promising name of “the scented island”, of volcanic origin, it is located on a maritime route with access to India and Asia. Cosmopolitan, a boulevard of encounters, its mixed-race and multicultural population still remembers its past as a significant trading post. Today, its 321 km² enchant lovers of nature and idyllic beaches. Its sumptuous primary forest is home to animals that are endemic to the island as well as surprising flora.
Le Dumont d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, an underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Decks
TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT OF NOSY BE + FLIGHT NOSY BE/MAURITIUS
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Disembarkation Day – Nosy Be/Mauritius
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Nosy Be/Port Louis selected by PONANT.
Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 2 h 30.
We highly recommend you stay one night in Mauritius after this flight.
This programme includes:
- Flight Nosy Be/Mauritius selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance. This programme does not include:
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class.
- For passengers in transit in Mauritius, we recommend staying one night in Mauritius after this flight.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Christmas Cruise
Christmas celebrations in an exceptional environment: change of scenery guaranteed.
Discoveries
Embark on a journey where every destination is approached with fresh wonder and refined curiosity. Included excursions (one per day, per guest) and carefully curated optional experiences alternate with outings led by your team of expert naturalist guides. A bespoke approach to exploration, ensuring every stopover is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Activities guided by our team of naturalists (depending on the destination) are included and organised directly on board.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, local boats, or Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The team of naturalist guides.
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
DISCOVER DURBAN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Durban
Meet at Durban Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel located on Umlanga area at the north of Durban (transfer time approximately 40 minutes).
Check-in in your room at official check-in or early check-in included for guests with an early flight arrival..
The day is at leisure.
Dinner served at the hotel.
Day 2 - Durban
Breakfast and time at leisure until check-out procedures.
Before check out formalities, you have time of having a relaxing morning either sleeping in or exploring the hotel facilities or the 5kms of beachwalk in front of the hotel.
Meet your local guide at noon for a short road transfer to the Durban Botanic Gardens.
Walk in the beautiful garden settings of the Botanic Gardens. The Durban Botanic Gardens is currently Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden and remains a national and local asset contributing to plant conservation and education. This 15-hectare botanic garden curates major collections such as cycads, palms, orchids both indigenous and exotic in nature.
Enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant.
Thereafter, a short drive to the Phanzi Museum.
Their exhibitions deal with prejudice, myth, collective memory, histories, customs, traditions, power and loss. And of course, skill and craft and the materials that come to hand.
Then, you will be transferred to the pier, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Beverly Hills hotel in uMhlanga has set the standard for luxury, hospitality, and intuitive service since 1964. The hotel takes centre stage on the uMhlanga Rocks beachfront and offers guests uninterrupted ocean views from every room, boutique spa treatments, culinary excellence, and access to our iconic outdoor pool. Positioned between uMhlanga’s famous pier and lighthouse, the accommodation at the Beverly Hills makes the most of the Indian Ocean vistas with private balconies in every room. Classically elegant interiors are complemented by modern luxury amenities like unlimited WiFi, Nespresso machines, pillow choices, and flatscreen DStv.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Standard room at the The Beverly Hills hotel 5* (local standards) or similar, halfboard included (dinner and breakafast).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (1 mineral water, 1 glass of beer or 1 local glass of wine or 1 soft, tea or coffee).
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
- Early check-in included.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
This program requires to be able of walking outside (windy and humid weather). We recommend wearing lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen.
Official check-in at 2:00 pm. Early check-in included for guests with an early flight arrival.
Optional early check-in proposed in supplement upon availability.
Check out time is 11: 00 am.
Contact of your hotel:
The Beverly Hills hotel
1 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Phone number: +27 31 561 2211
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €1,259
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.