The 2024-25 cruise season has officially begun in the Vanilla Islands of the Indian Ocean, the development group representing Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, La Réunion and the Seychelles announced in a press release.

From November 2024 to May 2025, more than 35 ship calls are expected in the region.

Norwegian Cruise Line stands among the most frequent operators with its ships, the Dawn and the Sky. Other operators include Ponant, Crystal Cruises, Silversea, Noble Caledonia, AIDA, TUI Cruises, Princess, MSC, Hapag Lloyd, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Fred Olsen, Phoenix Reisen and NYK.

An example is the inaugural call of the AIDAprima in Réunion Island (pictured), following a stop in Mauritius before heading to Dubai. Réunion Island authorities presented a welcome plaque to the ship’s captain during this first visit.

Pascal Viroleau, director of the Vanilla Islands, said: “AIDA is a reliable partner that contributes to passenger satisfaction and the development of the territories visited. Cruise operators trust us and offer their clients a unique diversity worldwide, combining culture, escape, and quality services.”

Sustainability lies at the heart of the Vanilla Islands’ ambitions for this season. Authorities and partners, such as Indian Ocean Ports Association, are committed to adopting more responsible practices, they said in a statement.