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Cruise region

Indian Ocean

An Indian Ocean cruise visits tropical islands such as Mauritius, Réunion, the Seychelles and Madagascar's Nosy Be, with beaches, lagoons and unusual wildlife. Some voyages start in Durban and sail north through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean. It is a voyage for travellers with time to relax at sea.

Best time to go

April to November is generally drier and less humid. December to March is hotter, with a cyclone risk.

Season

Mainly the southern autumn to spring.

Typical daytime highs

  • Drier season (May to October). Typical daytime highs around 24 to 28°C in the drier season (May to October). Warm and less humid.
  • Hot season (November to April). Typical daytime highs around 29 to 32°C in the hot season (November to April). Hot and humid, with a cyclone risk.

These are typical ranges, not a forecast.

How long

Usually 14 nights or more.

Fly-cruise airports

  • Durban King Shaka (DUR). usually one connection, around 13 to 15 hours
  • Mauritius Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (MRU). about 12 hours
  • Seychelles International (SEZ). about 10 to 11 hours

Who it suits

Honeymooners, beach lovers and experienced cruisers who enjoy long voyages and remote islands.

Questions

When is the best time for an Indian Ocean cruise?

April to November, when it is drier and less humid.

Which islands are visited?

Mauritius, Réunion, the Seychelles and Madagascar, including Nosy Be.

Do these voyages pass through the Suez Canal?

Some do, sailing from Durban to the Mediterranean via the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

Show every Indian Ocean cruise

Ports and places