Central Africa
Yacht charter guests looking to sail as far as possible from the beaten track will be awe-struck by the lush lowlands and colonial coastal towns that etch out...
Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to Madagascar
Cracked vanilla pods, ring eyed lemurs, and towering baobab trees, yacht charter guests will be hard pressed to find a destination as exotic and enticing as Madagascar. A staggering five percent of the worlds wildlife can be found in the dense rainforests, wild coastline, and sculpted desert dunes. For nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who adore stepping far from the beaten track and into the most majestic landscapes – Madagascar has it all.
Reasons to Charter a Yacht in Madagascar
Offbeat Wildlife
Lemurs, fossa cats, floating rays, turtles, and the gargantuan splash of a humpback whales tail – Madagascar is a living, breathing nature documentary. Beneath the baobab trees you will find a plethora of animals and for those yacht charter guests who spend their time out on the waters of Madagascar you will be greeted with an endless colourful array of tropical sea life.
Lush Landscapes
From pure island bliss to the craggy peaks of the Tsingy National Park, Madagascar is one of those fascinating yacht charter destinations that can showcase a whirlwind of different landscapes. The diverse landscapes cover everything from deep cut canyons to rich fir forests, humid canopies, glowing white beaches, jagged limestone karsts, towering mountains and cultural soaked cities.
Cultural Cool
Ancient burial ceremonies, sacred spots tucked away deep in the hills, and epic pirate lore on the stunning shores of Ile Sainte Marie - Madagascar offers so much more than beaches and sun bronzing. The capital of Tana is a cultural melting pot scattered across the slopes of the sacred mountains. You can witness a kaleidoscope culture that beautifully blends Austronesian and African influences. You can witness Malay palaces, a pinch of French finesse, and fascinating festivals.
Unesco Splendour
National Parks and UNESCO heritage sites can be found scattered across Madagascar. In the Ranomafana National Park you will stumble upon families of lemurs chewing bamboo and gripping the trees with their curious wide eyes. The regal hills of Ambohimanga was the once upon a time home of Madagascan royalty and makes for a fabulous visit for yacht charter guests wanting to explore the country’s most sacred spot.
Where to Visit in Madagascar
Nosey Be
Yacht charters sailing through Madagascar are sure to be pulled towards the allure of the archipelago where Nosy Be sits. Boasting some of the best beaches in the whole of Madagascar, this is where you will see the sparkling white sands and endless turquoise hues flanked by towering coconut trees. Wandering the forest canopies invites rare encounters with colourful chameleons and sleepy lemurs. This island is also home to plenty of coffee and sugar cane plantations meaning the air is ever permeated with a sweet scent.
Nosey Tanikely Marine Park
Yacht charter guests looking for whales, turtles, schooling jacks and blue-ribbon eels should be sure to drop anchor in one of Madagascar’s most famous diving spots. The Nosey Tanikely Marine Park is an ocean lover’s oasis where protected waters ensure that sea-life blooms beautifully. Across the Malagasy Archipelago you will find immaculate deep seas filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and award-winning diving and snorkelling spots.
Morandava
A highlight on any yacht charter itinerary of Madagascar, visitors head to the laid-back seaside town of Morandava to witness the ancient wonder of the Avenue of the Baobabs. These towering trees boast a strange and iconic shape making them a photographer’s dream and some are almost a thousand years old. Along with tree spotting, off-road adventures are popular here, with 4X4 vehicles careering through the National Parks. Finally, there is always the warm lapping waters for afternoon bathing and a sun-drenched yacht charter deck for catnaps in the quiet sun.
Ile Sainte Marie
Pirate lands and folklore set the mise en scene at Ile Sainte Marie. Located just a stone’s throw from the mainland of Madagascar, yacht charter guests are sure to swoon over the cascade of hidden bays, secret creeks, and scattered coves. With over 57km of coastline, you can cruise at your leisure, stopping only to hit the tropical clad beaches and beautiful thatched roof resorts that populate the way.
When to Charter a Yacht in Madagascar
Never losing its tropical touch, Madagascar makes for a sun-drenched sailing destination. There are two major seasons – November to March when the summer rains bring the humidity, and winter when the dry breezes keep things wonderfully cool. July and August and across the seasonal period, the crowds swell so those seeking peaceful waters may want to charter during the quieter months of April and May. The best time to experience the abundant wildlife is during October and November when the baby lemurs nestle into their mothers and the jacarandas are in bloom.
