Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is placing the Indian Ocean at the center of its expedition season for the first time, with 10 expeditions aboard Hanseatic nature sailing between October 2027 and March 2028. The itineraries will explore the Seychelles and Madagascar, with an emphasis on scientifically guided exploration and deeper engagement with the region’s natural and cultural environments.
With small expedition ships, interdisciplinary expert teams and a science-based travel concept, the company aims to move beyond scenic beauty to provide meaningful understanding of fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Each voyage is accompanied by an expedition team of up to 16 experts, including marine biologists, geologists, botanists and ethnologists. Daily briefings and lectures prepare guests for landings and Zodiac excursions, while on-board discussions deepen insights gained during exploration.
Highlights include visits to the UNESCO-protected Aldabra Atoll, home to giant tortoises, and Madagascar’s eastern and northern coasts, known for their biodiversity, including endemic lemurs, chameleons and rare plant species. Guests also explore the coral reefs and lagoon systems of the Seychelles, learning about marine biodiversity and climate dynamics.
Designed for remote exploration, the expedition ships Hanseatic nature, Hanseatic inspiration and Hanseatic spirit carry a maximum of 230 guests and feature a marina, shallow draught and a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling flexible landings in remote locations that are inaccessible to larger ships.
In winter 2027/28, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will operate 10 expeditions in the Indian Ocean, complementing its Antarctic program with a tropical expedition focus.
Sample itineraries include:
Expedition Seychelles: NAT2725 (December 8-20, 2027)
- From Mahé (Seychelles) to Mauritius, visiting the Inner Islands, St. François Atoll, Aldabra and Farquhar.
- Platinum fare from €9,480 ($10,925) per person (double occupancy), including early booking discount valid until January 31, 2027, and travel package.
Expedition Madagascar – NAT2802 (January 15-30, 2028)
- From Mahé (Seychelles) to Mauritius via Madagascar’s east and north coasts, Mayotte and Réunion.
- Platinum fare from €11,890 per person (double occupancy), including early booking discount valid until February 28, 2027 and travel package.
Additional voyages between Cape Town, the Seychelles, Madagascar and Mauritius will operate through March 2028.
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