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Nosy Be
Madagascar Expedition
Sitting off the southeast coast of Africa is Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, and one of the great sailing locations worldwide. The island evolved in isolation separated from mainland Africa--its famed for its largely endemic array of wildlife and biodiversity. Nosy Be is a small archipelago located along the northwest coast of Madagascar and by far the most popular sailing destination in the country. While world cruisers get to set their eyes on a diverse landscape dotted with archipelagos and a rich agricultural land, it is the mix of culture and nature that brings this itinerary to life.
The Madagascar Expedition - limited to three private double cabins with a 6 guest capacity aboard a premier 48' - 53' catamaran with a crew of 3 comprised of a Malagasy captain and Sailing Collective chef & translator.
All-inclusive price range: $22,000 - $35,000 ranging from 7 to 12 day departures
Location
Nosey Be
Madagascar
Season
May through December
Itinerary
Crater Bay
As both the capital and the largest city, Hell-Ville is the hub of commerce here and is rather pleasant despite its name. The roads are lined with zebu, a local cattle carting goods from one market to another. After departing Crater Bay, it’s common to sail counter-clockwise around Nosy Be with the first leg of the itinerary sailing towards Nosy Amariovato. From there, sailing along the east side of Nosy Be en route to Nosy Mitsio.
La Grande Mitsio
La Grande Mitsio is the largest island, with a few small farming villages dotting the landscape. There are no stores or even a supply shop ashore. A five kilometer long white sand beach lines the main cove. Upon arrival, you will find a very different and traditional way of living. Nosy Mitsio is completely isolated and the few villages on the island trade only minimally outside of their communities
Tsarabanjina
After spending a few days exploring the various islands in the northern archipelago, most sailors turn their itinerary south towards Nosy Be. Along the way is the small island of Tsarabanjina. Surrounded by coral reefs and covered in layers of thick greenery, this small island is located between Nosy Be and Nosy Mitsio, perfectly suited for an afternoon stopover to swim off your boat.
Nosy Iranja
South of Nosy Be located a few nautical miles from mainland Madagascar is Nosy Iranja. The island is home to some of the most tranquil turquoise waters sitting off the Baramahamay River and surrounded by mangrove trees that feed into an electric blue colored sea.
Baramahamay River
Along the shores of mainland Madagascar and to the south of Nosy Be is the rivermouth inlet Baramahamay. You’ll sail past unspoiled natural lands with lush greenery and empty white sand beaches that stretch for nearly thirty miles. Sailing up towards the river basin are a few remote villages living in similar isolation as Nosy Mitso.
Travel Info & FAQ
What airport do I need to fly into?
Fascene Airport NOS. Nosy Be, Madagascar. Common flight options: USA to Paris then separate flight Paris to Nosy Be on Air Austral. There are numerous flights with a layover in Addis Ababa Mole International Airport, Ethiopia. Additional flights have layovers in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo with layovers in Johannesburg.
What is the average flight cost from New York City to Madagascar?
$1600 to $2200 round trip and the average flight time is 24 hours. Take your time for a layover in South Africa, Paris, or Antananarivo.
When should I arrive?
We recommend you arrive in Nosy Be, Madagascar one-day in advance to acclimate to the climate and environment.
What style of travel should I expect with Sailing Collective in Madagascar?
It's not about luxury in this itinerary, it's about experience. We'll be sailing in some of the most remote areas on earth and resources can be limited. For example, the catamarans you'll be living on will be older than the normal catamaran used during the Sailing Collective voyage. It is difficult to get new parts being so remote. But we're here not for luxury - you can book a 5-star hotel after charter and life aboard is all about the experience, community, and joys of travel. This is adventure travel - you should be prepared for it.
What kind of traveler is a good fit for this voyage in Madagascar?
Sailing Collective provides a high level of customer service and we work diligently to make sure you are fully prepared and ready for the voyage. With that said, we do expect you to be a seasoned traveler who is easy-going and amenable to change in an unpredictable journey.
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