World maps have little to say about Seychelles and the Tanzanian islands – tiny little dots which you must squint to find off the Eastern Coast of Africa. Within these remote islands, however, lie some of the most remarkable sights found anywhere on the planet. At first glance, the landscapes come into view: pristine white-sand beaches with postcard-worthy palms and majestic rock formations. Overhead, the tropical sun – even in the winter months of November and December – shines through the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, revealing the secrets within. There lie underwater reefs with depths akin to the Grand Canyon and raised coral atolls, harboring limestone cliffs and mangrove lagoons.
A closer look reveals why the leaves rustle and waters ripple across the archipelago, even on a day without any wind. Giant tortoises graze in the wilderness, hawksbill turtles nest in the sand, and blacktip sharks swim right up to the shore without a care in the world. For millions of years, life across the Seychelles has evolved isolated from the rest of the world. As such, many of the species here are both entirely unique and unafraid of humans. The flora is equally impressive, from jellyfish trees found exclusively on Mahe to the double coconuts of Praslin which take as long as seven years to grow.
Dive even further into the details – as we’ve always done at Aqua Expeditions – and a treasure trove of culture and heritage unravels. The Tanzanian Islands showcase their Arabian influence – dating back to the Middle Ages – through ruins of the Great Mosque and Palace of Husuni Kubwa, both keystones of a once-mighty sultanate. Over on Pemba and Misali, an enchanting history, defined by mysticism and witchcraft, continues to prosper through local rituals.
East Africa presents a compelling blend of familiar sights and unexplored frontiers. The giant tortoises of Seychelles are reminiscent of those we see in Galapagos on board Aqua Mare, while Tanzania’s rich history of spice trade bears reminiscence to our Spice Islands expeditions on board Aqua Blu. At the same time, we are treated to rock formations, coral reefs, and beaches unlike any other on the planet – the best of both worlds, so to speak.
The newest addition to our fleet of five will soon bring the signature Aqua experience – built and refined in the waters of South America and Southeast Asia – to the shores of East Africa. We cannot wait to welcome you on board.
