Travelogue: Out of Africa - An Indian Ocean Cruise Odyssey

Africa, the Dark Continent, has increasingly held an allure for me. I've had the good fortune to visit Africa several times - mostly South Africa, but also Egypt, Morocco and a few other sub-Saharan countries. However, the interesting and exotic islands of the Indian Ocean - off Africa's eastern coastline - continue to intrigue me. About a year ago, I found a cruise which offered an amazing itinerary, starting in Mombasa, Kenya, and calling on ports in the Seychelles, Madagascar, the Comoros Islands and Zanzibar, Tanzania. I convinced a couple of friends, Erik and Garry, to join me on the adventure.

The package included a charter flight from London/Gatwick to Mombasa on Monarch Airlines. Upon arrival in Kenya, we were advised that the ship had a mechanical problem, and were accommodated for one night at a seaside resort (owned by the cruise company). Warm tropical sun, a fresh breeze off the ocean and the familiar beautiful scent of Frangipani (Plumeria) greeted us.

Frangipani (Plumeria) flowers

The second day, we transferred to the ship to commence our ocean voyage. The MS Royal Star is a 50-year old vessel which exudes a certain nostalgic charm. The 200-passenger ship, with its staff and crew of 100 provides a cozy and intimate setting for the cruising passenger. While the ship doesn't have all of the amenities of a modern, 3,000 passenger sailing "city", the Royal Star definitely provides a more personalized service.

M/S Royal Star

At Sea

We set out on a 950-mile journey eastward to the Seychelles Islands. Our heading was 90* due east and we chugged along at 15 knots/hour. The two full days at sea provided an opportunity to become better familiarized with the ship and onboard amenities. The daily ritual quickly became breakfast at 8am, suntanning and reading until noon, followed by lunch, a movie at 2pm, a nice nap, freshen-up for dinner, dinner and then some evening entertainment. The day was topped off by a stroll to the upper front deck and the quiet solitude of stargazing. We were blessed with beautifully bright, full-moon nights at the start of the cruise.

Indian Ocean sunset