Cruising the Seychelles and Coastal Tanzania

Also known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar boasts a vibrant culture borne of deep-rooted trade traditions and an eclectic mix of Moorish, Middle Eastern, Indian, African and colonial European influences. This heritage is best reflected in the lanes and markets of Stone Town, Zanzibar’s UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Stone Town is a maze of narrow alleys lined with houses, shops, bazaars and mosques constructed of the island’s ubiquitous reddish warm coral stone. Here, the lanes teem with locals on bicycles and motorbikes going about the day’s business in the faded shadows of merchants and traders from ancient civilizations. Dive into this hotbed of culture and history with visits to Christ Church Cathedral, built on the site of a former slave market; the Palace of the Sultans, adorned with treasures and rich carvings; the old Arabic Fort; and Forodhani Park, a shaded respite from the energy of the city. Afterward, visit a rural spice farm or trek through the mangroves of Jozani Forest Nature Reserve, home to the red colobus monkey.

Looking out to sea from the sleepy fishing village of Kilwa Kisiwani, the ocean breezes and relaxed vibe belay this site’s history as a former crossroads of sultans and royalty. Only ruins remain to tell the tale of a vast trade network that once linked the Shona kingdoms and Zimbabwe’s goldmines with the empires of Persia, India, China and beyond. Delve into this hidden history with visits to the Malindi Mosque and cemetery, the Gereza Fort and the Makutani Palace.

As your expedition vessel sails toward the Seychelles, relax in the spa and take in a series of enriching lectures.

Assumption Island marks your arrival in the Seychelles, a 115-island paradise of azure waters, white sands and verdant mountains, all harboring diverse wildlife. Your discovery begins at Assumption Island, part of the Aldabra group of islands situated in the southwest of the Seychelles.

Your vessel drops anchor off of Aldabra Atoll, the largest raised coral atoll in the world. Take the opportunity to snorkel the lagoons and stunning reefs offshore.

Spend another day amid this perfect island paradise. Go ashore to explore local preservation efforts and look at daily life on the island. Or, take some quiet time to relax in the sun and take it all in.

Cruise to the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, coming ashore to explore historic Astove, an island renowned for its large inner lagoon and jaw-dropping underwater sea cliff. Dive in to explore these aquatic wonders, or stay on dry land to visit an abandoned coconut plantation, embark on a birding walk in search of the endemic souimanga sunbird or relax on the island’s spectacular beaches.

Continue your Outer Seychelles adventure on the remote Aldabra Group’s Cosmoledo Atoll, home to vast wadable sand flats and an incredible lagoon. Cosmoledo is also the realm of the giant trevally, a powerful predatory fish prized by anglers the world over. Aside from its explosive saltwater fly fishing, the atoll is also renowned as a seasonal sea turtle nesting site. Suit up to snorkel offshore and glimpse the marine life firsthand.

Explore Farquhar, the southernmost atoll in the Seychelles and another important nesting site for sea turtles. Embark on Zodiac excursions, snorkel the lagoon or relax on the beach.

Today, explore Rémire Island, another remote enclave of the Outer Seychelles renowned for its marine biodiversity and lumbering giant tortoises. Here, wade in emerald waters teeming with luminous fish and relax on yet another gorgeous beach.

Come ashore to visit Aride Island Nature Reserve’s incredible granite cliffs and seabird colonies. Then, cruise by Curieuse Marine National Park, where you take in the views of its lush forest and undisturbed beaches. Conditions permitting, snorkel offshore.

Cruise to Praslin Island, a palm-fringed paradise of tropical forests and exotic birdlife. Head ashore to trek through the giant palms of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Then, sail onward to the port of La Digue, where you tour the island via rugged camionette (covered truck), visit a vanilla plantation or lounge on one of the island’s beaches. Afterward, return to your ship for a farewell dinner.

Disembark in the island of Mahé’s port of Victoria, where you tour the town and its bustling local market. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight.