Madagascar Cruising

25 May 2027 - 10 Jun 2027

(17 days)

The call of the wild west coast of Madagascar awaits. Embark on a truly unique 800 nautical mile expedition that few sailors ever experience. Our adventure, round-tripping from Nosy-Be, is a journey into a land of dramatic contrasts—a global biodiversity hotspot where life flourishes in every direction. On shore, discover a sanctuary where vast mangrove swamps lead to the legendary forests of towering baobab trees, home to an array of endemic wildlife. Below the surface, the vibrant turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean reveal a world teeming with graceful sea turtles and gentle whale sharks, a living tapestry of life.

What to Expect: Madagascar Cruising

The Eighth Continent by Sea

Cruising the coastline of Madagascar is like sailing back to the beginning of time. While the mainland is known for its rugged terrain and difficult roads, the view from the deck of Wind Shift offers a seamless, front-row seat to the island's most pristine wilderness. We focus our exploration on the Northwest coast, where the water is calm, the wind is steady, and the biodiversity is unparalleled.

Life on Board

The Daily Rhythm

Who is this for?

• Exploring the Archipelagos: This leg is all about "The Secret North." We navigate between the basalt "Organ Pipes" of the Mitsio Islands and the white-sand atolls of the Radamas. As an active crew member, you’ll help with coastal pilotage, learning to read the reef patterns and manage the sails for short, idyllic daylight hops.

• Adventure & Seamanship: While the sailing is sheltered compared to our ocean crossings, you remain a vital part of the team. You’ll take the helm as we navigate turquoise channels and assist with the "hook and line" as we fish for giant trevally or tuna to serve for dinner on deck.

• A Floating Basecamp: Our 70ft yacht is your gateway to the uninhabited. We use our tender and paddleboards to reach hidden mangroves, limestone caves, and beaches where the only other tracks in the sand belong to sea turtles.

• Morning in the Wild: Start your day with a swim in the warm waters of a protected bay before we weigh anchor. In Madagascar, the mornings are often glass-calm, perfect for spotting dolphins or the occasional migrating whale.

• Wildlife & Lemurs: We go ashore at remote reserves where Lemurs frequently come down to the water’s edge. You’ll hike through forests filled with chameleons and baobabs, guided by the scent of wild vanilla and ylang-ylang.

• Sakalava Culture: We often share the water with traditional "Vezo" and "Sakalava" fishermen in their hand-carved outrigger dhows. Visiting these remote fishing villages offers a rare, respectful glimpse into a seafaring culture that has remained unchanged for centuries.

This leg is for the nature lover and the true explorer. It is perfect for those who want to experience Madagascar’s legendary wildlife without the logistical stress of inland travel. If you want to wake up in a new, prehistoric landscape every morning and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle from the safety of an expedition yacht, this cruising leg is for you.

What’s Included

• Expedition aboard Wind Shift with skipper and crew

• Meals prepared with local ingredients, served and shared onboard

• All non-alcoholic beverages; tea/coffee always available

• Guided hikes, snorkelling, scuba tanks *, paddleboards, and tenders

• Bedding, towels, hot showers, and safety equipment

• Storytelling meals and authentic expedition atmosphere

* For your safety and enjoyment, all diving excursions are at the discretion of the skipper and require a valid PADI certification and demonstrated ability.

What’s Not Included

• Flights or transfers to and from Nosy-Be, Madagascar

• Alcohol (available as a paid upgrade)

• Travel insurance (required)

• Optional add-ons (e.g., fly-out, wine pairing, guided hike)

Our Yacht

Sail aboard Wind Shift, our expertly equipped 70-foot ocean-going yacht. With a legacy of global voyages and competitive pedigree, Wind Shift is the perfect platform to tackle this amazing adventure.

Investment

Shared Bunk Berth (Main Cabin – 8 guests): AUD 11,250 pp

Shared Twin Cabin (2 guests): AUD 12,375 pp

Early Bird Discount: Save $1,100 pp if you book before 9th January 2027.

This adventure qualifies for Frequent Sailor Discount (Learn More)

Why You’ll Love This Adventure

• Authentic Exploration: Remote anchorages, rare hiking trails, silent reflections, incredible wildlife and fauna.

• Comfort & Camaraderie: Small group, big boat—deep connections, plenty of space.

• Safety & Heritage: Sail aboard an MCA-certified expedition yacht built for ocean journeys.

Reserve Your Place

Spaces limited to 10 guests

Secure your spot with a 10% deposit

Madagascar Cruising