Helpful Tips To Know Before You Go

• While individual destinations in the Indian Ocean may have their own best times to visit, the overall best time to cruise in the northern Indian Ocean is from November to April. In this period there will be very little rain, and any poor weather will tend to be short-lived, with warm and sunny days prevailing more often. May to December sees the highest incidence of cyclones and monsoons, so it is best to avoid cruising during these months. Areas in the Southern Indian Ocean may differ from this. Speak to one of our experts to help decide when is best to cruise your favoured itinerary.
• Pick your itinerary according to your interests. Anywhere in the Indian Ocean is great for enjoying watersports and the natural world, but if you’re searching for a more civilisation-oriented itinerary, you will want to favour more time spent at places like Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Zanzibar, where vibrant local cultures and towns offer plenty of activities.
• Prepare for the sun. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time in the sunlight, and bringing a good marine-safe suncream is a must. Given that snorkelling and other water activities are such a draw in the Indian Ocean, it’s also a good idea to bring clothes that you can wear into the water, to protect your skin where suncream is doomed to wash away.
• Local currencies and tipping customs will vary across the ports of call in the Indian Ocean, making it a good idea to bring some of the appropriate cash for your itinerary ahead of time, as well as do a little research. In some places like Madagascar, locals may even prefer trading to simply receiving currency – if you’re interested in engaging with the culture, you could bring a ‘barter bag’ of items to exchange for the goods that interest you. Used clothing, old diving and snorkelling gear, hats, sunglasses and other such things may make helpful trade goods here.
• Bring a waterproof camera. There are so many water-based activities to enjoy on an Indian Ocean cruise, and it would be a crying shame to not be able to come home with photo evidence of the amazing things you see beneath the ocean’s surface.

Things To Do

• Kick back and relax. The Indian Ocean is well-known for its serene surroundings, with perfect beauty and a calming atmosphere perfect for soothing the spirit. The white sand beaches are an ideal place to settle in with a sunbed and a good book, taking in the sun and cooling off in the refreshing turquoise waters whenever it suits you. A cruise to the Indian Ocean is an opportunity for true rejuvenation.
• Explore the underwater world. The Indian Ocean is world-famous for the incredible marine life to be found beneath the waves. Though very beautiful from above the surface, once you peer beneath the sea you’ll discover reefs teeming with life and colour, fish and turtles and corals all forming scenes of an enchanting saltwater paradise. Some of the best dive sites in the world can be enjoyed on your Indian Ocean cruise, and divers and snorkellers alike will never tire of the wonders to be seen.
• Marvel at scenes of outstanding natural beauty. The gorgeous landscapes of the Indian Ocean are perhaps its greatest draw, with the pristine white sands and jewel-bright oceans standing as the quintessential image of this region. But that’s not all there is to discover: from the famous Seven-Coloured Earth of Mauritius to the vibrant rainforests and mangroves of various islands, there’s breathtaking beauty to be found in every corner.
• Discover a vast wealth of wildlife. Rich in flora and fauna alike, the Indian Ocean overflows with biodiversity. Much of it is below the seas, with opportunities to see incredible animals like endangered species of turtles, whale sharks, manta rays and more depending on time of year. Above the water, you’ll discover the lemurs of Madagascar, rare and fantastic birds alight with song and colour, and so much more.
• Enjoy history and culture. From the temples and museums of Sri Lanka to the bustling markets of Zanzibar’s Stone Town, there’s landmarks and monuments in abundance for you to discover. UNESCO heritage sites will provide a look into the storied pasts of the ports you visit, and friendly locals in places like Mauritius will give you plenty of opportunity to experience the life and culture of the inhabitants of the Indian Ocean. Whether you prefer to party or partake in the local history, there’s certainly no shortage of things to explore.

Why Book With Kenwood Travel

At Kenwood Travel we’re proud to provide cruises that our customers will treasure for the rest of their lives, and you’ll be no exception. We’re excited to help you plan an Indian Ocean cruising itinerary that’s everything you could have dreamed of, fine-tuned and perfectly tailored to your needs. With ATOL and ABTOT protection for your cruise to the Indian Ocean, you can enjoy your voyage with total peace of mind, and rest easy knowing we’ll be available to help you every step of the way. Get in touch today, and let us make your Indian Ocean cruise dreams into a reality.