Madagascar Marvels: 15-Night Regent Africa & Indian Ocean Cruise

Madagascar Marvels is a 15-night voyage for travelers who have done the classic routes and want wildlife, island cultures and a real sense of distance. Seven Seas Voyager departs Cape Town on February 1, 2027, follows South Africa’s coast east with two-day stays in two cities, then crosses toward the French island of Mayotte and northern Madagascar before finishing in Mauritius on February 16. February is summer in southern Africa and the warm, humid season in the Indian Ocean islands.

Two days in Port Elizabeth, now officially called Gqeberha, make it practical to visit Addo Elephant National Park, known for its large elephant herds, without rushing back to the ship. Durban, also with two days alongside, has a long Indian Ocean beachfront and a strong Indian South African food culture; curries and bunny chow are local staples worth trying.

The island half of the trip is why many guests choose this sailing. Mayotte is a French overseas department ringed by a vast lagoon that is popular for snorkeling and sea turtle sightings. Nosy Be, off Madagascar’s northwest coast, is known for ylang-ylang plantations and for lemurs in nearby protected forest. Antsiranana, near Madagascar’s northern tip, sits on a huge natural bay and is a base for Amber Mountain National Park. Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, closes the voyage with another two-day stay, enough time for the waterfront, the botanical garden at Pamplemousses and the island’s southwest coast.

Seven Seas Voyager is an all-suite ship, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises is known for including a great deal in the fare: most fares cover shore excursions, fine wines and spirits, specialty dining, prepaid gratuities and Wi-Fi, and many include round-trip air. Six sea days give you time to rest on a route with long distances between ports. Inclusions vary by fare, so we will spell out yours.

Thinking about a few days in Cape Town before you sail or a beach stay on Mauritius afterward? Tell us your ideas and we will price the cruise, check suite availability and look for current offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is February a good time to visit Madagascar and Mauritius?
February is warm and humid with a chance of heavy rain, and it falls within the southwest Indian Ocean cyclone season. Cruise lines monitor the weather and may adjust the itinerary if a storm develops, which is one reason we recommend travel insurance.

Do I need a visa for Madagascar on a cruise?
Many nationalities need a visa for Madagascar, and South Africa, Mayotte and Mauritius each have their own entry rules. Requirements depend on your citizenship, so we will confirm what you need well before departure. It is also wise to ask your doctor about recommended vaccinations and malaria precautions.

How many sea days are on the Cape Town to Mauritius cruise?
There are six sea days, including a three-day stretch as the ship crosses from Durban toward Mayotte. They are a good chance to enjoy the ship’s restaurants and spa between busy port days.