Nosy Be — 7 days from Nosy Be Marina
This week-long loop from Nosy Be Marina explores the crown jewels of northern Madagascar: pristine reef anchorages, protected marine parks, friendly lemurs, colorful markets, and genuine Malagasy villages.
The trail
Not for navigation — always consult official nautical charts and pilot books.
Report this trailWhat to expect
All passages are under 20nm, with good shelter at each stop. The itinerary balances snorkeling and cultural exploration, making it ideal for mixed-experience crews seeking a relaxed, immersive sailing holiday in the Indian Ocean.
Places you'll go
Day 1 · MarinaNosy Be Marina
Departure point · Provisioning available
Day 1 · Anchorage · 1 nightNosy Komba Anchorage
3.7 nmLemur reserve and friendly lemurs ashore · Excellent snorkeling on reef · Local fishing village · Protected sandy anchorage
Day 2 · Anchorage · 1 nightNosy Sakatia Anchorage
4.7 nmPristine reef and coral garden · Turtles and tropical fish · Quiet island anchorage · Hiking trail with views
Day 3 · Town quay · 1 nightHellville (Andoany) Town Quay
5.3 nmMain town and cultural hub · Bustling market and local crafts · French colonial architecture · Fresh produce, bakery, pharmacies
Day 4 · Anchorage · 1 nightNosy Be Marine National Park Anchorage
9.6 nmProtected marine reserve · Exceptional reef diving and snorkeling · Manta rays (seasonal: Sept–Nov) · Pristine turquoise water
Day 5 · Anchorage · 1 nightNosy Iranja Anchorage
30.6 nmTwin islet anchorage · Sandspit joining two islands at low tide · Loggerhead turtle nesting site (June–Sept) · Remote and beautiful
Day 6 · Anchorage · 1 nightNosy Bé South Anchorage (Befotaka)
19.7 nmQuiet anchorage sheltered from trade wind · Village and local culture · Fishing community · Beach walk and reef access
Day 7 · MarinaNosy Be Marina
6.2 nmReturn to base · Final provisioning and hot showers
When to go
Good to know
Nearest airport to Nosy Be Marina: Fascene (Nosy Be) (NOS) · ~15–20 min to the base.
Provisioning for 2–8 crew over 7 days — see the Galley cookbook for boat-friendly recipes and what a week's shop actually looks like.
Charter price isn't shown here — it varies by boat, season and operator. Get a quote directly from a charter company for this base before you book.
Crew briefing
Welcome to Madagascar! This is a gentle, people-friendly voyage. You'll anchor in shallow, protected bays where snorkeling is world-class and the water is warm and clear. Pack reef shoes, snorkel gear, and sun protection. Days are short (under 20nm), so mornings are leisurely and afternoons allow time for swimming, reef walks, and ashore exploration. We'll meet lemurs, visit bustling markets, fish with locals, and experience authentic island life. Bring an open mind, respect local customs, and be prepared to negotiate kindly in markets. Everyone swims and snorkels—non-swimmers should wear a lifejacket in the dinghy.
Drafted with First Mait (AI), then reviewed and published by @flying-pirate. AI can make mistakes — verify stops, distances and depths against official charts before you sail.
Licensed CC BY 4.0 · by @flying-pirate, 2026
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