Cruise Advice
Duration
14 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
9 Ports
4 April
Setting sail from Mombasa
On Kenya's coast is Mombasa, the city of salt and spice. Lots of history here, not least as this was a strategic trading post for Europeans making for Arabia, India and the Orient, and their counterparts in the other direction. Add to that the influence of the British, the influx of tourists in recent years, and of course the great African tribes, and you have a vibrant and colourful city of contrasts. Mombasa is gateway to some of the extraordinary national parks of East Africa, as well as being an appealing beach destination with some beautiful hotels.
Our tip
If you have never been to East Africa, take the opportunity to go on safari – it is the most magical experience, and you will be captivated both by the animals (you should see the big five) and the people, particularly the Masai.
5-6 April
At sea
7 April
Seychelles: Mahé
Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles, home to the diminutive capital, Victoria, and 90% of the country’s population. It’s the quintessential tropical paradise, a sun-drenched landscape of granite mountains, lush jungle and heavenly white sand beaches.
8 April
Seychelles: La Digue
Lovely little La Digue is every inch the desert island idyll, and with less tourist development than Mahé or Praslin to impinge on your Robinson Crusoe fantasies. This is a place where many locals still get around by ox cart, and the beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Seychelles.
8 April
Seychelles: Mahé
Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles, home to the diminutive capital, Victoria, and 90% of the country’s population. It’s the quintessential tropical paradise, a sun-drenched landscape of granite mountains, lush jungle and heavenly white sand beaches.
8 April
Seychelles: Praslin Island
The island of Praslin is home to some of the Seychelles’ top attractions, including the Vallée de Mai, a protected forest where you’ll see the rare coco de mer, a tree that produces the world’s largest seed and palm flower. The grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been compared to the Garden of Eden.
9-10 April
At sea
11-12 April
Maldives: Malé
The low-lying reef-protected atolls of the Maldives, set in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, are the perfect place to relax and unwind. A great choice for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, the Maldives also appeal to active travellers who love watersports, snorkelling and diving.
13 April
At sea
14 April
Sri Lanka: Colombo
Colombo may be a little chaotic, but there is plenty to recommend Sri Lanka's colourful capital. Faded colonial architecture and beautiful Buddhist temples hint at the city's considerable history, while the excellent restaurants, lively bars and characterful streets provide the perfect introduction to contemporary Sri Lankan culture.
15 April
At sea
16 April
India: Goa
17-18 April
Arriving in Mumbai
We love Mumbai! Formerly known as Bombay, this amazing city is larger than life and packed to bursting with things to see and do. Here people of all religions and nationalities live cheek by jowl, thriving communities from all over the world with the foods, smells, languages and rituals maintained at top volume - here in Mumbai, everything really is turned up to 11! For many people, the seething rush of humanity is too much, and we quite understand why some tell us they will never go back. But we think you could return time and again, and never get to grips with this thriving city. Be prepared to be overwhelmed!
Don't miss
The outdoor laundry, Dhobi Ghat, has to be one of the most extraordinary sights in the world – an expanse of soapy tubs with wringers, clothes lines, coal heated irons and frenzied activity.
Your home from home
Arguably one of the finest ships at sea returned to the ultra-luxury cruise sector in 2023, newly refurbished and enhanced.
What we love
Following extensive refurbishment, Crystal Serenity has emerged reinvigorated with contemporary, spacious accommodations and an industry-leading space to guest ratio. The array of social areas, wide-ranging entertainment and world-class dining options deliver the ultimate in luxury cruising.
| Capacity | 740 Guests |
|---|---|
| Style | A new era of Crystal: Reduced guest capacity means nearly one staff member per guest and together with enhanced contemporary accommodations, award-winning cuisine and extensive entertainment options means this is a true luxury experience. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Mombasa
Beach-lovers will like the Sands at Nomad, though at Mundy we would rather be travelling inland in Kenya than staying on the beach.
Take a private tour around Mumbai
Get a guide to take you away from the tourist hotspots, exploring instead the many different communities and markets, for a taste of the real Mumbai. We thought the Fishing Slum was a wonderful place.
