ADVENTURE YET
MOVE IT!”
WELCOME TO A PREVIEW OF VACAYA’S 2026 MADAGASCAR TO SEYCHELLES CRUISE!
We invite you to explore this all-new holiday getaway from VACAYA, then gather your friends from every corner of the globe, put in that time off request, set a calendar reminder for your booking window, and finally, get ready for all the fun!
New Year’s has never been this WILD, so we anticipate rooms will sell very quickly. We encourage you to make your reservation as soon as your booking window opens.
GENERAL PUBLIC SALES BEGIN IN
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE 2026 WITH YOUR FRIENDS FROM VACAYA ON OUR MOST EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE YET!
MADAGASCAR + SEYCHELLES: A First-of-its-kind Bucket-List Expedition
Ring in New Year’s 2027 with VACAYA and set sail on a journey as bold, luxurious, and unforgettable as you are, and for up to 38% less than PONANT’s rates for the same non-LGBT+ itinerary!
We’re heading back to our most beloved destination ever – Seychelles – but this time, we’re upping the ante with two exhilarating twists…
We start our adventure on the wildly enchanting island of Madagascar, where nature runs untamed, and magic feels real. It’s raw, it’s rare, and it’s unlike anywhere else on Earth. Towering baobabs.* Surreal landscapes. And creatures so unique they seem imagined – like the lemurs who just might be dancing in the treetops (yes, we “like to move it, move it,” too). With 90% of its wildlife found nowhere else, Madagascar is a wondrous world begging to be explored.
Then, we glide across the Indian Ocean aboard the stunning Le Dumont d’Urville, and welcome 2027 beneath a sky full of stars on one of the most exquisite ships afloat. This isn’t your average New Year’s countdown. No, this is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration set against the endless blue!
And then… Seychelles. Oh, beautiful Seychelles. The destination that stole Vacayans’ hearts in 2022 returns in all its glory. Think powdery white sands, emerald mountains, secluded coves framed by giant Jurassic-era granite boulders, giant tortoises, and coral reefs that burst with life and color. It’s not just beautiful, it’s transformational – the kind of place that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Now, here’s the kicker: VACAYA’s rates are 5% to 38% less than PONANT’s retail rates for the same journey, and yet you get so much more – VACAYA’s signature entertainment, curated social experiences, unmatched energy, a joyful, welcoming community, and spontaneous moments destined to become core life memories.
*Also known as “The Tree of Life”
BEAUTIFUL SUPER YACHT
MYSTERIOUS MADAGASCAR
EXOTIC SEYCHELLES
EXPEDITION EXCURSIONS INCLUDED
BEVERAGES INCLUDED
SIGNATURE ENTERTAINMENT
UNBRIDLED JOY
SPECIAL EVENTS
BATHROBE NIGHT!
THE FRIENDLIEST CREW AT SEA
STAY SHIP SHAPE
WHERE EVERYONE BELONGS
Our 2026 Madagascar to Seychelles Cruise isn’t just a trip. It’s your moment. Your escape. Your celebration of life, love, and the thrill of discovery in one of the most stunning corners of the world imaginable.
Space is limited, and we expect demand to be high. So, book early. Book boldly. And let your next great story begin right here!
CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO PREVIEW!
AN UNMISTAKABLE VALUE FOR HOLIDAY LUXURY
VACAYA’s super yacht cruises are unapologetically exclusive – welcoming to all, of course, but built for discerning travelers seeking intimate experiences, splendid accommodations, and unparalleled comfortable service. Of course, savvy travelers recognize “value” rarely means “low price.” Instead, value is defined as getting something extraordinary for a great price. And that’s exactly what VACAYA’s 2026 Madagascar to Seychelles Cruise over New Year’s Eve 2026 delivers. Let’s be frank… in this particular case, “value” actually does mean lower prices when compared to PONANT’s retail pricing for the same itinerary. For example, Prestige Staterooms with VACAYA are 15% less expensive and our Grand Deluxe Suites are a whopping 38% cheaper – an extraordinary value, especially when you factor in all the VACAYA extras that are layered on top of the standard 5-star PONANT experience.
Ultimately, your V Team is dedicated to providing you with the very best. That’s what drives us, journey after journey. And it’s amazing all that’s included:
- Luxury accommodations for 10 Nights
- All meals onboard
- Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Expedition Excursions
- Daily afternoon tea and pastries
- Coffee & tea throughout the day
- 24×7 Room Service
- 24×7 Stateroom Service
- 24×7 Reception Desk
- Onboard Satellite WiFi (One device at a time per person)*
- The VACAYA Touch
- Your V Team Hosts
- Signature Entertainment
- Themed Cocktail Parties
- Social Activities
The following services are available for an additional charge:
- Spa Treatments/Massages
- Salon Services
- Non-Expedition Team-Led Shore Excursions
- Laundry
- Satellite Telephone Services
- Medical Services
*Please note that we travel to some remote areas where the limits of satellite WiFi are certainly felt. Your patience at those times is greatly appreciated. With all satellite service at sea, we will occasionally encounter limited connection and reduced bandwidth. Streaming is rarely supported.
The French Touch
As the only French cruise company, PONANT is an ambassador of the “French Touch” around the world. With French crew, discrete service, refined cuisine, and partners that embody the same spirit of excellence and refinement, PONANT does their utmost to maintain a unique cruising philosophy. And now led by former Four Seasons executive Samuel Chamberlain, we anticipate great things for PONANT from his new direction.
French crew
The French Touch means, above all, a French crew to welcome you and ensure your comfort and well-being throughout your cruise. In an atmosphere of elegant luxury, you’ll find 5-Star Service onboard. It’s a unique travel experience that’s simultaneously authentic and refined.
A French Way of Living
A French Way of Living
The French Touch also means a way of living in which gastronomy takes pride of place. Every day you’ll discover fragrant flavors, carefully selected cheeses and wines, and delicious specialty breads & pastries from Maison Lenôtre. Maison Taillevent provides its fine selection of vintage wines by the glass, Maison Veuve Clicquot champagne is served at our gala cocktails, and delicious sweets from Ladurée bakery are on offer during afternoon teatime.
Prestigious partners
Prestigious partners
Finally, the French Touch is also evident in PONANT’s choice of partners whose expertise and passion for their work is in line with VACAYA’s quest for excellence: interior design by Jean Philippe Nuel, fabrics by Pierre Frey, delicate flavours from Le Palais des Thés, Hermès bath products in all staterooms and suites, spa care products by Sothy’s, and signature perfumes from Fragonard.
Award-Winning
Award-Winning
PONANT is regularly awarded for the quality of its services and its unique cruising concept. From Travel & Leisure and Cruise Critic to NABU and Berlitz, the list of award presenters reads like a who’s who in travel and sustainability. A growing list of French and international awards can be viewed HERE.
GET CLOSE… RESPONSIBLY
GET CLOSE… RESPONSIBLY
Our intimate, yacht-style ships realize the possibilities of environmental stewardship with hybrid power management and propulsion systems, maximizing fuel efficiency and consuming lower amounts of fuel compared to conventional cruise-ship systems, reducing PONANT’s and VACAYA’s impact on the environment. We minimize underwater noise that stresses marine wildlife by using a hydro-jet propulsion system that allows our ships to cruise virtually silent up to five knots for incomparable, up-close encounters while keeping the sensitive ecosystem in mind. It’s also our responsibility to prevent damage to the fragile ecosystems on ocean floors. That’s why we avoid using anchors to maintain ship position by using a GPS-based Dynamic Position System.
Cruise with Confidence
Cruise with Confidence
On land or onboard, your safety is our top concern. This means we uphold strict health and safety measures. PONANT has robust protocols that continually adapt to optimize all the technological, human, and material measures that ensure the provision and maintenance of a healthy onboard experience. This reinforced protection is based on three “shields” designed to guarantee onboard conditions, sanitary protocols, and daily monitoring (guests, equipment, and ships). For your added safety and peace of mind, doctors and nurses are present on every ship. Find PONANT’s detailed protocols HERE.
Le Dumont d’Urville, like fellow Explorer Class sisters Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Jacques Cartier, Le Bellot, and Le Laperouse, epitomizes the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy, and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer her guests both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquility and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Her exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the PONANT’s groundbreaking Explorer Class ships have been designed.
Le Dumont d’Urville was built in 2019, the fourth of six Explorer Class ships from PONANT. She’s decidedly upscale and unashamedly French, guaranteed to take your breath away.
Meet PONANT super yacht Le Dumont d’Urville…
RESTAURANTS, BARS, & OTHER VENUES
SUPER YACHT ADVANTAGE
The upside of going on smaller vessels like the super yachts of PONANT is that you can visit seaside cities and towns that don’t have ports or harbors constructed with enormous ships in mind. This allows you to get right to the heart of the culture of your chosen destination, and you won’t find yourself hampered by all of the Duty-Free outlets that characteristically dominate the larger ports. It’s one thing to explore a busy and thriving metropolis. It’s quite another to witness the extraordinarily intimate atmosphere of a smaller port of call. On your journey with VACAYA, you’ll get to go to places big-ship cruisers can only dream of!
STATEROOMS
STATEROOMS
POOL DECK
POOL & NATURE VIEWING DECK
The ship’s heated pool offers a panoramic view of our surroundings and is equipped with a counter-current swimming system for those who wish to maintain their lap swimming regimen while on vacation (or show off your physical endurance for the entire shipboard community). This is THE spot for daytime relaxation. There’s also an outdoor bar and loungers, chairs, and sofas, perfect for our organized events and cocktail parties or simply meeting up with your friends.
3-POSITION MARINA
3-POSITION MARINA
Restaurants
Restaurants
BLUE EYE LOUNGE
BLUE EYE LOUNGE
LOUNGES & BARS
LOUNGES & BARS
THEATER
THEATER
WELLNESS
WELLNESS
“A place dreams go to live in color!”
trip highlights
New Year’s Celebrations!
10 Incredible Nights
11 Unique Ports of Call
Friends from around the World
Included Beverage Package
Included Expedition Excursions
Included WiFi
Day 1 – Mon 28 Dec 2026
Nosy Be, Madagascar – Depart 5:30am Tomorrow
Day 2 – Tue 29 Dec 2026
Nosy Tanikely, Madagascar – Arrive 7am / Depart 12pm
Nosy Komba, Madagascar – Arrive 1:30pm / Depart 6:30pm
Day 3 – Wed 30 Dec 2026
Nosy Hara, Madagascar – Arrive 8am / Depart 6pm
Day 4 – Thu 31 Dec 2026
Diego Suarez (Antsiranana), Madagascar – Arrive 7am / Depart 8am on 1/1
Day 5 – Fri 1 Jan 2027
NEW YEAR’S DAY! Relaxing Day at Sea
Day 6 – Sat 2 Jan 2027
Assumption Island, Seychelles – Arrive 6am / Depart 5pm
Day 7 – Sun 3 Jan 2027
Rejuvenating Day Crossing the Indian Ocean
Day 8 – Mon 4 Jan 2027
Saint François Atoll, Seychelles – Arrive 7am / Depart 5pm
Day 9 – Tue 5 Jan 2027
Rémire Island, Seychelles – Arrive 7:30am / Depart 5pm
Day 10 – Wed 6 Jan 2027
Grande Soeur, Seychelles – Arrive 7:30am / Depart 6:30pm
Day 11 – Thu 7 Jan 2027
Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles – Disembark by 9am
NOSY BE, MADAGASCAR 13°S 48°E
MONDAY 28 DEC 2026
BOARDING 3PM
DEPART 5:30AM TOMORROW
Starting our LGBT+ expedition in Nosy Be, Madagascar is a dream opportunity to explore one of the world’s most breathtaking island paradises! Known as the “Perfume Island,” Nosy Be will enchant Vacayans with its turquoise waters, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life. Here, you can enjoy secluded beaches, world-class diving, and encounters with rare lemurs and chameleons. The island’s warm hospitality, diverse culture, and stunning sunsets make it an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable start to our cruise. Tonight, onboard, we’ll all come together for the first time at our THIS IS ME Welcome Party!
NOSY TANIKELY, MADAGASCAR
NOSY KOMBA, MADAGASCAR
TUESDAY 29 DEC 2026
ARRIVE TANIKELY 7AM
DEPART TANIKELY 12PM
ARRIVE KOMBA 1:30PM
DEPART KOMBA 6:30PM
Famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Nosy Tanikely, Madagascar, is a stunning marine reserve not too far from Nosy Be. Vacayans can snorkel with sea turtles, explore colorful fish, and dive among rich marine life. The island also boasts white sandy beaches, a historic lighthouse, and lush tropical scenery.
After lunch onboard, we’ll arrive at Nosy Komba. Nosy Komba is a lush volcanic island known for its friendly black lemurs, dense rainforests, and pristine beaches. Here, you can explore lemur sanctuaries, hike scenic trails, visit traditional Malagasy villages, and shop for intricate handicrafts. The island’s crystal-clear waters also offer fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities.
NOSY HARA, MADAGASCAR
WEDNESDAY 30 DEC 2026
ARRIVE 8AM
DEPART 6PM
Nosy Hara, Madagascar is a breathtaking archipelago known for its towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity. A paradise for adventure seekers, here, you can enjoy rock climbing, snorkeling, and diving among vibrant coral reefs. The island also shelters rare birds, lemurs, and unique flora, making it a nature lover’s dream.
DIEGO SUAREZ (ANTSIRANANA), MADAGASCAR
THURSDAY 31 DEC 2026
ARRIVE 7AM
DEPART 9:30PM
Diego Suarez (Antsiranana), Madagascar, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning bays, turquoise waters, and diverse landscapes. Here, you can explore Ramena Beach, go kitesurfing in Sakalava Bay, or simply marvel at the Emerald Sea’s crystal-clear waters. The city’s French colonial charm blends with Malagasy culture, offering lively markets and rich history. Nearby, Tsingy Rouge showcases striking red limestone formations, while Montagne d’Ambre National Park offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and unique wildlife encounters.
Tonight, we’ll ring in the New Year as we sail toward Seychelles!!!
CELEBRATORY (AND RELAXING) DAY AT SEA – NEW YEAR’S DAY 2027!
FRIDAY 1 JAN 2027
After last night’s celebrations, we will ALL enjoy a relaxing day at sea! Le Dumont d’Urville is pure luxury and relaxation. You can soak up the sun on the infinity pool deck, unwind in one of the elegant lounges, or enjoy a fabulous treatment at the spa. If you haven’t yet explored The Blue Eye (the ship’s underwater lounge), today’s the day! Whether indulging in watersports or simply savoring ocean views, every moment today will be unforgettable.
ASSUMPTION ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
SATURDAY 2 JAN 2027
ARRIVE 6AM
DEPART 5PM
Our first stop in Seychelles is Assumption Island, a remote paradise known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Today, you’ll enjoy snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish, sea turtles, and rays. The island’s untouched landscapes make it ideal for nature walks and birdwatching, offering sightings of rare seabirds. As a secluded getaway, Assumption Island provides a serene escape, perfect for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
REJUVENATING DAY CROSSING THE INDIAN OCEAN
SUNDAY 3 JAN 2027
Our final sea day takes us into the heart of Seychelles! While you’re relaxing today, prepare yourself for all the beauty that lies ahead. You’ll soon experience pristine beaches, unique biodiversity, and a sense of exclusivity that’s become so rare. Seychelles’ is home to come of earth’s most dramatic granite rock formations, creating truly breathtaking landscapes. Its protected nature reserves are home to rare wildlife, including the Aldabra giant tortoise and the legendary Coco de Mer palm.
SAINT FRANÇOIS ATOLL, SEYCHELLES
MONDAY 4 JAN 2027
ARRIVE 7AM
DEPART 5PM
Saint François Atoll, Seychelles, is a hidden gem among a treasure chest full of them, offering pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and untouched natural beauty. A paradise for snorkeling, diving, and fly-fishing, its waters teem with tropical fish, manta rays, and sea turtles. Birdwatchers can spot rare seabirds nesting on the atoll’s lush sandbanks. With its secluded, unspoiled landscapes, Saint François provides an exclusive escape where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, far from the crowds, in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
RÉMIRE ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
TUESDAY 5 JAN 2027
ARRIVE 7:30AM
DEPART 5PM
Rémire Isand, Seychelles, is a tiny, untouched paradise offering crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and lush coconut groves. This secluded haven is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching, with vibrant coral reefs and rare seabirds adding to its charm. The island’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an idyllic escape for nature lovers seeking peace and serenity. With its raw, unspoiled beauty and breathtaking ocean views, Rémire Island captures the true magic of Seychelles’ remote tropical wonders.
GRANDE SOEUR, SEYCHELLES
WEDNESDAY 6 JAN 2027
ARRIVE 7:30AM
DEPART 6:30PM
Today is a day like no other. Today, you will be taken to one of the most beautiful spots on earth. How beautiful is it? In 2022, we loved this island so much that after our first visit, we completely re-worked the remaining itinerary to allow us to return to this island paradise a SECOND TIME! The softest sand, the warmest and clearest water you’ve ever seen, and iconic granite boulders you can climb on will make this one of your best days EVER!
VICTORIA, MAHÉ, SEYCHELLES
THURSDAY 7 JAN 2027
DISEMBARK BY 9AM
It’s hard to believe our cruise has come to an end, but the adventures certainly don’t have to stop! In Victoria, you’ll be greeted by lush green mountains, turquoise waters, and a vibrant harbor. The scent of tropical flowers and fresh ocean air fills the breeze as you disembark, stepping into a city where Creole culture meets island charm. Wander through the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, visit the iconic Victoria Clock Tower, or stroll the botanical gardens, home to giant tortoises and exotic plants. With Mahé’s pristine beaches and lively waterfront cafés, your journey ends in paradise, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Madagascar’s and Seychelles’ stunning beauty and warm hospitality. We hope you’ll enjoy this island paradise for at least 2 or 3 days more.
While we work tirelessly to craft the perfect itinerary for each trip, it’s always subject to change based on weather, sea, and myriad other conditions. This is an Expedition Cruise, and the itinerary can shift each day based on recommendations by our Expedition Leader. PONANT partnerships (Taillevent, Veuve Clicquot, Ladurée, etc.) are subject to change at any time.
Ship’s Registry: Mata Utu
ROOMS & PRICING
When you book online directly with VACAYA, you’ll enjoy 24×7 access to your booking information, no-interest monthly payments, Airline Discounts, Recommended Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Hotels, and our Best Rate Guarantee.
SOLO TRAVELERS NOTE
If you’re a Solo Traveler, we offer some great recommendations for finding a roommate HERE.
FIND THE PERFECT HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME
You’ve chosen to embark on a fantastic journey with VACAYA and PONANT. No matter which of our 92 staterooms or suites you choose, you’ll love the adventure.
Buy early and save!
Balcony Stateroom
Suite
Important Information
PORT & ADMIN FEES
Port taxes and admin fees are 427 USD per person.
PRE-PAID GRATUITIES
Pre-Paid Gratuities are 227 USD per person. 100% of these gratuities go to onboard staffers, including your stateroom attendant, the culinary services staff, the behind-the-scenes hotel services staff, and the myriad department heads who work with their teams around the clock to create a flawless VACAYA experience for you.
SOLO TRAVELERS
Solo guests in their own stateroom pay double gratuities and single port taxes/admin fees.
ADDITIONAL GUESTS
The fare for third guests in staterooms with occupancy of three starts at 3997 USD plus port taxes/admin fees and gratuities.
ROOM DESCRIPTIONS
Room descriptions, sizing, and view specifics have been provided to us by PONANT and VACAYA is not responsible for incorrect information. Room layouts and views (including obstructions) can vary within the same category.
Be “In The Know” about Obstructions: The standard cruise industry definition of an obstruction or partial obstruction is if the view of the horizon is interrupted when an average height person (170cm or 5’7”) is standing at the balcony’s handrail. If the horizon line is blocked in its entirety, the view is considered fully “obstructed.” If any part of the view of the horizon line is blocked by a lifeboat, overhang, support beam, or any other fixed apparatus (not including moveable cleaning equipment), the view is considered “partially obstructed.” If the horizon line can be viewed in its entirety when standing at the handrail, the view is not considered to be obstructed in any way.
INITIAL DEPOSIT SCHEDULE
- Upon booking outside of 300 Days – 10%.
- At 300 Days (March 3, 2026) – 25%.
- At 240 Days (May 2, 2026) – 50%.
- At 180 Days (July 1, 2026) – 75%.
- At 120 Days (August 30, 2026) – 100%.
CANCELLATION PENALTIES
- Upon booking through 300 Days (March 3, 2026) – 10% of total.
- From 299 (March 4, 2026) to 240 Days (May 2, 2026) – 20% of total.
- From 239 (May 3, 2026) to 180 Days (July 1, 2026) – 40% of total.
- From 179 (July 2, 2026) to 120 Days (August 30, 2026) – 60% of total.
- From 119 (August 31, 2026) to 90 Days (September 29, 2026) – 80% of total.
- From 89 (September 30, 2026) to 0 Days (December 28, 2026) – 100% of total.
ITEMS NOT INCLUDED
- Flights from your home city to Nosy Be, Madagascar
- Flights from Victoria, Mahé back to your home city
- Airport Transfers to/from Le Dumont d’Urville
- Onboard Spa/Salon Services
- Gift Shop Purchases
- Optional Excursions
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Be sure to read VACAYA’s Terms & Conditions, which include the Payment/Cancellation/Refund Policies for all reservations. Please note that cancellation fees apply from the time of booking.
JOIN WAITLIST
UPGRADES
Don’t see your first choice in room category? Upgrades that become available will be prioritized to guests who’ve already booked their second choice. To jump on our upgrade waitlist, book your second choice and then email your desired category to info@myvacaya.com. Be sure to include your reservation number and full name. We’ll reach out to you if your name reaches the top of the upgrade availability list. Subject to upgrade charges.
PAY IN FULL OPTION
You may pay in full at the time of booking. Unless you later modify your reservation, no further payments will be necessary.
MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN
Your initial deposit is due at time of booking. Then, your remaining monthly payments will be calculated using the number of months between your booking and the final payment due date. Payments will be charged on the 15th or the last day of each month (determined automatically depending on the day of the month you book). Payments will be charged to your credit card on file. If your credit card details change at any time, simply update the info in our system prior to your next month’s payment date. Please note declined payments are subject to a convenience fee. For more information, explore our Automatic Billing FAQs and our Terms & Conditions.
TRIP INSURANCE: GET IT!
Nothing breaks our heart more than hearing from guests who elect not to purchase insurance, but then something tragic – a death, the loss of a home, etc. – happens and they’re unable to attend the event. As painful as it for us, VACAYA is unable to be your insurance in those moments. And as sad as the stories are, we’re unable to break our Terms & Conditions with you. The reason for that is because to maintain our Seller of Travel licenses and to comply with all regulations, we must administer our Terms & Conditions equitably across all guests. Failure to do so risks VACAYA’s very existence.
We recommend a “Cancel For Any Reason” or CFAR policy for everyone, and for good reason: if you decide you don’t want to travel after the cancellation penalty period has begun, this type of insurance covers you against total loss. It’s also a great way to help honor your Social Contract with VACAYA.
So go ahead and buy that bucket list trip, but protect your health and your investment by purchasing Trip Insurance. ❤️