Land & Sea: Cape Town to Seychelles

Begin your trip in Cape Town, a city of staggering natural beauty. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for the next two nights which offers an excellent base for experiencing the wonders of the Mother City. Once you’re settled in, take in the views of the iconic Table Mountain and get ready for a myriad of exciting excursions over your two days in the city. These include a cable car trip up Table Mountain for incredible panoramic views, and a guided drive to Blouberg Beach for postcard-worthy views of the city across the bay. You’ll also enjoy a scenic guided trip along one of the world’s most spectacular driving routes: Chapman’s Peak Drive. This half day scenic tour is completed with a visit to Groot Constantia Wine Estate where you’ll delve into the tastes and history of South African wine. Your time in Cape Town also includes an elegant high tea at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, one of Cape Town’s most iconic luxury hotels.  

In addition to these, you’re free to explore at your leisure. Explore the rugged coastline at Cape Point, see the charming colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach, sip South African wine in exquisite vineyards, dine in acclaimed restaurants and stroll along the shore in lively seaside suburbs.

Day 3: Board Silver Spirit & Day at Sea 
Departing from Cape Town, you’ll embark on the first leg of this cruise on board the Silver Spirit and enjoy your first full day at sea. This is the original Silversea flagship and it offers a luxury cruising along with a “home from home” feel. On board, you’ll find gourmet dining, butler service, superb entertainment including a spa and fitness centre and premium beverages that are all synonymous with Silversea cruises.
   

Day 4: Mossel Bay, South Africa 
Arrive and dock at Mossel Bay, the first cruise stop of this trip. Mossel Bay boasts a fascinating history reaching back millennia and there are many experiences to choose from while here. You could explore the city’s history and landmarks with local guides, making visits to the Point of Human Origins archeological site and the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex (outside of which you’ll find the famed Post Office Tree). Mossel Bay is also a great base from which to explore the Garden Route’s scenic mountain passes on a half-day sightseeing tour. Additionally, this area is a hub for adventures like hikes, snorkeling, bungee jumping, skydiving and more. It’s set to be a day of memorable adventures before reboarding the Silver Spirit.  

 

Days 5 – 6: Cruise Day at Sea 
Enjoy two days at sea and unwind and enjoy the Silver Spirit’s superb facilities as the cruise makes its way along the Southern African coast. The attentive crew will be on hand to ensure your cruise is as seamless and relaxing as possible. 

 

Day 7: Maputo, Mozambique 
As the Silver Spirit docks in Mozambique’s capital city, it’s time for you to experience the buzz of Maputo. The city boasts a distinct character, with a mix of Mediterranean-style architecture, lively culture and bustling markets. On city tours, local guides will reveal Maputo’s storied past, including the influence of centuries of colonial rule under the Portuguese. Enjoy an afternoon tea, an art tour or even a foodie tour which highlights street food staples and Mozambique’s fiery piri piri flavours.

   

Days 8 – 10: Cruise Days at Sea 
Back on the open water, you’ll have three days of cruising out at sea. This is the perfect chance to balance out the days on land which are full of activities and exploration with the chance to totally relax. Take a dip in the pool, sunbathe on deck, dine at one of the eight dining venues on board – the choice is yours.  

 

Days 11 - 12: Nosy Be, Madagascar  
Following a few days at sea, the beguiling shores of Madagascar are next up on the itinerary. Arrive at Nosy Be, a remote and exotic archipelago just off Madagascar’s northern coast. During your two days here, you can explore the palm-fringed beaches and swim in the warm turquoise waters or venture away from the shore to uncover the island's history.   

 

Day 13: Antisiranana, Madagascar  
Antisiranana is located in the northern reach of Madagascar. The city and surrounding Bay of Diego are overflowing with colonial and wartime history. Stroll the streets and take in the picturesque highlights at your leisure, spend the day exploring Montage d’Ambre National Park or join a guided excursion for insight into Antisiranana’s storied past.  

 

Days 14 – 15: Cruise Day at Sea 
Another few days to unwind at sea. Feel the fresh breeze skimming off the Indian Ocean and admire the endless shades of blue as the ship glides across the waves.  

 

Day 16: Praslin, Seychelles  
It’s time to switch pace as the cruise arrives in the Seychelles. Take in the picture-perfect scenery of the Seychelles atolls before docking in Praslin. At only 12km long and 4km wide, Praslin is the second largest of the Seychelles islands. During a day spent here, you could see the fabled coco de mer in Vallée De Mai, enjoy the old-world beauty and charm of La Digue island or swim and sunbathe at Anse Lazio, often lauded as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.  

Day 17: La Digue, Seychelles  
With the main modes of transport being either bicycle or ox cart, you can look forward to truly slowing down amongst the beaches and verdant green forests. If you’re in the mood for something different, you could take a journey back in time on a half day excursion visiting L'Union Estate for a glimpse at bygone days. This will be followed by a trip to Anse Source d'Argent – another magnificent beach – and a picturesque drive through La Passe village. After a day filled with sun, sea and sublime sights, you’ll head back to the ship for one last night

After spending just over two weeks cruising along Africa’s coast, it’s time to bid farewell to the Silver Spirit. You’ll be transferred to Anantara Maia, a beautiful collection of villas nestled in the secluded cove of Anse Louis on the south west coast of Mahé. Here, you can embrace the highly attentive service and pure relaxation in whatever way best suits you. Relax on a daybed on the deck of your private villa taking in the sweeping views. Indulge in a treatment at the Anantara spa and take a yoga or Qi Gong class in the meditation pavilion. Sip a signature cocktail at the Pool Bar. Enjoy the hotel’s “beyond all inclusive” concept and dine on divine dishes using fresh local ingredients at Tec Tec Restaurant, at the pool bar, in your villa or on the beach. Wander along the powder white sand beaches which are dotted with massive granite boulders and swaying palms. Explore the marine life and snorkel through turquoise water surrounding the atolls and see more of the archipelago on day trips – the choices feel endless!  

After nearly a week enjoying this paradise setting, you’ll end your trip in Mahé and catch a flight home.