Indian Ocean

The Indian Ocean offers cruising along the coasts of Arabia, India, Sri Lanka and on to Singapore or exploring the coral atolls of the Maldives and Seychelles. The size of the region and the vast distances cruised make for more relaxed cruising with many days at sea. Geographically diverse from desert to mountains and tropical rainforest, the area also offers guaranteed sunshine and great beaches. 

Arabia and India
Most cruises in the region are passing through on repositioning or world cruises. Many cruises can be joined at an Egyptian or Mediterranean port and will sail through Red Sea along the coast of Arabia, calling at Salalah or Muscat in Oman, or modern Dubai in the Persian Gulf, then down the west coast of India to bustling Mumbai. From Mumbai cruises continue south to the canals & lagoons of Cochin, the beaches of Goa to Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka India East
After exploring the temples, tea plantations and Elephant Orphanage of Sri Lanka, some cruises continue round the coast of India to Madras and its Dravidian temples. Others sail southeast across the Indian Ocean to the west coast of Thailand, Malaysia or Singapore and may call at the Andaman Islands (great snorkelling) on the way.

Maldives and Seychelles
In the Southern Indian Ocean a few cruises will sail from India out to the 2000 coral islands of the Maldives and back again. Many are world voyages on their way to South Africa and will call at the Maldives and Seychelles on the way. Most cruises to the Seychelles will depart from or return to East African ports like Mombasa and visit Madagascar and perhaps Mauritius or Reunion en route.

WHEN TO CRUISE?

The Indian Ocean offers a diverse range of destinations, including the Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar, and coastal regions of Africa and India. The best time to cruise depends on your chosen destination and preferred activities.

Winter (November to February):

• Why Go?
• Mild and dry weather across most destinations, ideal for beach vacations and outdoor exploration.
• Perfect for cruising the Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius with calm seas and sunny skies.
• Great for wildlife spotting in Madagascar and safaris in coastal Africa.
• Comfortable temperatures for exploring Indian coastal cities like Mumbai or Kochi.

Spring (March to May):

• Why Go?
• Warm weather, with lush greenery as many areas experience brief rains.
• Great for diving and snorkeling in destinations like the Maldives, as marine life thrives during this season.
• A quieter time with fewer tourists compared to the peak winter season.
• Stunning sunsets and vibrant landscapes in the Seychelles and Mauritius.

Summer (June to August):

• Why Go?
• Cooler temperatures in the southern Indian Ocean islands like Madagascar, Seychelles, and Mauritius.
• Whale watching in Madagascar and coastal South Africa during their winter season.
• Ideal for exploring the highlands of Réunion and Madagascar with temperate weather.

Autumn (September to October):

• Why Go?
• Warm weather with less humidity, perfect for beach and water activities.
• Excellent for diving and snorkeling in the Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius as waters remain clear and calm.
• The best time for seeing migrating whales in Madagascar and South Africa.

Recommendations:

• Best Overall: November to April for sunny skies, warm temperatures, and calm seas, especially in tropical islands like the Maldives and Seychelles.
• For Wildlife Enthusiasts: June to October for whale watching and safaris in Madagascar and South Africa.
• For Fewer Crowds: March to May for a quieter experience with lush landscapes and good weather.