This is an extraordinary cruise for those who love the natural world and all its wonders. The star is Madagascar, a thousand-mile island boasting an impressive variety of spectacular landscapes from pristine coral reefs and coastal mangroves to virgin rain forests and native baobab trees. Geographically isolated for millions of years, nearly all of Madagascar’s intriguing animals and plants are found nowhere else on Earth, including nearly 100 varieties of lemurs.

To maximize the time in Madagascar, this expedition begins with a private charter flight from Johannesburg, South Africa to Toliara, Madagascar. In the company of a top zoology professor and expert local guides, spend eleven days exploring Madagascar’s marine reserves and national parks traveling in comfort aboard the all-suite Hebridean Sky. Then, leaving the wonders of Madagascar behind, arrive at Réunion Island, a paradisiacal French outpost, to explore its white-sand beaches, spectacular dormant volcanoes, and vibrant Creole character. Disembark on the island of Mauritius, the perfect ending to our voyage, taking in this island’s cultural riches and geologic wonders before flying back to the U.S.

Travelers will have the option of extending near Kruger National Park, South Africa and/or Mauritius.