Detailed Port Descriptions

Day 1 – February 19         Mombasa, Kenya

Today you will arrive in Mombasa, Kenya and will be greeted at the International Airport to be transferred to your hotel. The Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa is a deluxe hotel in an idyllic setting on the shores of the Indian Ocean. The hotel, located on the North Coast of Mombasa, is nestled amongst lowering palms and lush gardens with five pools including a quiet pool, a pool bar. This hotel has a modern Swahili twist to all the facilities. Tonight, you will enjoy a welcome reception and dinner with the group. (D) Hotel: Whitesands Beach Resort-Sea Facing Room  

Day 2- February 20 Mombasa, Kenya

Morning conference at the hotel for the CME attendees. Spouses at leisure. Lunch will be provided for CME Attendee’s. (B,D)  

Day 3– February 21 Mombasa, Kenya

Morning conference at the hotel for the CME attendees. Spouses at leisure. After the CME in the morning, we will immediately transfer to the ship. (B)  Note: This cruise is scheduled to depart at 2:00pm.  

Day 4—February 22 Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of East Africa. It's part of Tanzania and consists of several islands, with Unguja (often referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba being the largest. Known as the ‘Spice Islands’, Zanzibar has a rich history in the spice trade and it's still a major producer of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. ‘Stone Town’ is the historical heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage site — the narrow streets lined with coral-hewn houses blend African, European and Indian influences.

Day 5—February 23 Mafia Island, Tanzania

Mafia has an incredibly diverse landscape, dotted with coconut and cashew nut plantations, palm trees, tidal mangroves and plump baobab trees standing in vast African savannah grasslands. The island is also famous for its population of whale sharks, attracting tourists who wish to swim with these gentle giants. The best time to see whale sharks is usually between October and February.

Day 6—February 24 Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania

Kilwa Kisiwani is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site, off the southern coast of Tanzania. The island was a significant trade hub from the 13th to the 16th centuries, due to its control over the gold trade. One iconic structure is the Great Mosque, the oldest standing mosque on the East African coast. With its sixteen domed and vaulted bays, the mosque’s grand architecture reflects the city's golden age.

Day 7— February 25 At Sea

Relish the nautical adventure of a lifetime with some relaxing time at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your luxury yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the water seems to touch the horizon; ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views or relax in the Observation Lounge.

Days 8-10— February 26, 27, 28 Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles

We will arrive to Aldabra Atoll late in the morning. Aldabra Atoll is a remarkable and remote atoll in the most south westerly part of the Seychelles, closer to African coast than to Mahé. It's one of the largest atolls in the world and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding natural beauty and significant biodiversity. The marine life around Aldabra is also distinct and plentiful. The atoll's lagoon provides a habitat for numerous species of fish, molluscs, crustaceans, and various types of corals. Hawksbill and green turtles nest on the atoll's beaches, and the surrounding waters are frequented by manta rays, sharks, and dolphins. The atoll comprises four large coral islands which enclose a shallow lagoon; this ecosystem supports a variety of flora and fauna, many of which are unique to the atoll. Notably, Aldabra is home to the world's largest population of giant tortoises, with an estimated 100,000 individuals living there. Today, access to Aldabra is strictly monitored to minimise human impact on the environment.

Day 11— March 01 Farquhar Atoll, Seychelles

Enjoy your morning out to sea as we cruise to the Farquhar Group, made up of ten islands and atolls covering an area of 370 square kilometres. You will explore the sparkling lagoon encircled by this ringed-shaped atoll dotted with coconut and casuarina trees. Hawksbill and green sea turtles come to the atoll to nest and several of the Farquhar Group’s islands are important biodiversity regions.

Day 12— March 02 Alphonse Atoll, Seychelles

Spend another morning at sea as we cruise the Alphonse group of atolls. Whether you're an angler, diver, birdwatcher, or simply a lover of nature and tranquillity, the Alphonse Group of Atolls offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It has one of the world’s healthiest climates, which creates an incredible biome of diversity.

Day 13— March 03 Amirante Islands, Seychelles

The Amirante Islands are known for their pristine beauty, the perfect haven for nature lovers and adventurers. Their isolated location and untouched environment make them an ideal destination for diving, fishing, and wildlife observation. You could take a stroll or hike under the canopy of exotic palm trees, where various bird species can be spotted.

Day 14— March 04 Praslin Island-La Digue, Seychelles

Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles, is visually stunning with tropical jungle-fringed beaches, emerald waters and powdery sand. Anse Lazio beach has been voted one of the world’s best beaches several times and there’s a dazzling reef just offshore brimming with coral and marine life. On land, coconut palms and granite boulders create a picture-postcard landscape. In the centre of the island, discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. We cruise to La Digue Island after lunch. La Digue Island, the smallest of the three populated islands in the Seychelles. Like Praslin Island, it also possesses world-famous beaches, with one of the most recognisable being Anse Source d'Argent. It has pink-hued sands contrasting with granite boulders and aquamarine waters.

Day 15— March 05 Mahè Island

Your time aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end in Mahè island. From the yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday. Note: Please book your flight to depart out of Mahé, Seychelles after 12:00 PM.