Hapag-Lloyd Plans Indian Ocean Expeditions for 2027

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has announced a new series of warm-weather expedition voyages in the western Indian Ocean aboard the Hanseatic Nature for the winter 2027/28 season.

Between October 2027 and March 2028, the vessel will operate ten itineraries that explore isolated islands, atolls, and coastal areas stretching from West Africa to South Africa, including destinations such as the Seychelles and Madagascar.

“For us, expeditions are not defined by temperature, but by mindset,” said Isolde Susset, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises managing director. “Madagascar and the Seychelles offer extraordinary biodiversity, remote regions, and sensitive ecosystems, ideal conditions for authentic expedition-style travel.”

According to the company, the itineraries will give travelers access to two of the planet’s most biologically diverse regions. These include Madagascar, known for its unique endemic wildlife, and the Seychelles, home to remote atolls and protected conservation areas.

Among the highlights of the winter 2027/28 schedule is “Expedition Seychelles: Premiere – A Warm Winter on Tropical Islands,” which will sail from Mahe to Mauritius from December 8 to December 20, 2027. Another featured voyage, “Expedition Madagascar: One of Evolution’s Most Beautiful Gifts,” will travel from Mahe to Mauritius via Madagascar from January 15 to January 30, 2028.

During the voyages, passengers will take part in small-group zodiac landings designed to provide closer encounters with the natural environment. Additional itineraries linking Cape Town, Madagascar, the Seychelles, and Mauritius will run through March 2028.

Before the new season begins, two earlier expeditions to Madagascar aboard the Hanseatic Spirit are scheduled for November and December 2026, meanwhile, Hapag-Lloyd’s two remaining expedition ships will continue operating in Antarctica.