Published on
September 17, 2025
Marking its foray into the world of luxury travel with the Aqua Lares, set to set sail in February of 2026, 15-suite Ponant luxury yacht Aqua Expeditions has revealed its plans to begin exclusive cruises to the picturesque Zanzibar in Tanzania and the world-famous Aldabra Atoll, as well as other locations in the Seychelles. Aqua Lares promises to deliver the perfect blend of luxury and travel, and promises to deliver travel experiences like never before imagined. This marks the first luxury expedition yacht to be booked by the cabin, and is a giant leap towards opening Seychelles and its pristine waters to more travelers. Unlike any other yacht, Aqua Lares will set the standard for high-end cruising in the Seychelles.
The exotic and picturesque islands in the Seychelles, with sulfurous waters glistening under the sun and a gentle breeze accentuated by the smooth golden sand, will have a new five to eleven-night itinerary, with tours to UNESCO World Heritage sites and other under-explored islands of unmatchable beauty.
Aqua Lares Overview
Equipped with a total of 12 suites and 3 twin cabins with the size of the suites namely Owner’s suites measuring upto 66 square meters, and twin cabins measuring 13 square meters, with a total of 30 guests onboard, The Aqua Lares promises to be a beautiful fusion of simple elegance and modernity of style with ample and comfortable space to enjoy not to mention the modern and quintessential yacht all of whose 6 decks will be distinctive.
Aqua Lares and her beauties are the priceless result of the work of Aqua Design Director Birgit Galli Zugaro and the Milan-based HOTLAB. The whole yacht has been designed to provide the best view of the breathtaking seas and legendary islands of the Seychelles through the large windows constructed around the cabin.
VIP Amenities and Experiences
Aqua Lares caters to guests who prioritize sublime comfort, luxury, and nature. The yacht will offer several sociable spaces such as a lounge and bar on the panoramic sundeck, highly conducive to rest and socializing. Guests can also relish in the leisure and wellness options available in the boutique cinema and gym. To protect guests from the glaring sun and allow them to admire the breathtaking scenery during meals, a shaded outdoor dining area is available.
Aqua Lares wellness journey is a par for herbalist offerings in the massage treatment room and the variety of spa treatments on offer. The yacht also holds five private tenders: three Zodiacs and two Rafnar tenders, which easily allow the clientele to access remote islands and hidden coves. Aqua Lares also provides plentiful options for more active personal exploration: paddle boards, kayaks, snorkelling and diving gear, and mountain bikes.
Hiking and Sailing Across the Seychelles
Over the course of five to fifteen nights, Aqua Lares will offer four itineraries to the Seychelles to explore its Islands and the Outer Islands, including Aldabra Atoll, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Participants on the shorter itineraries will have the opportunity to explore the Seychelles Inner Islands, Praslin, and La Digue, where one can bike, enjoy marvelous beaches, and observe quirky animals. On Praslin, one can observe animals such as the flying Seychelles paradise, which at the time was critically endangered.
On the other hand, if you like to do as little as possible but enjoy stunning views while kayaking, snorkeling, or swimming like a mermaid in the Outer Islands, the nine-night itinerary is the best choice for you. Snorkel, bet on encountering the famous sea turtles and mini mantas, or enjoy a glowing light show of reef sharks while you spin and get dizzy. On rare occasions, blue whales make a surprise appearance.
Aqua Lares will also offer longer passages of fifteen nights, where you have the opportunity to witness the Arabian and Swahili trade routes and other hidden gems like Pemba and Kilwa Kisiwani. You also have the opportunity to sail for a little longer to enjoy the birdwatching opportunities, where you can spot a rare sighting of red-footed boobies, in addition to the other wonders in Zanzibar and Tanzania.
The inaugural sailings, or first journeys, and what lies ahead
In early 2026, the Aqua Lares will begin its first voyages with the initial departures out of Madagascar. Starting February 8, 2026, the yacht will operate from November to April each year to Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll, Zanzibar, and Tanzania. Aqua Expeditions, with its strong focus on providing unparalleled luxury, promises that Aqua Lares will give a deep and personal way to experience these exceptional locations.
As of September 2025, individuals are able to book sailings online, with 2026 and 2027 for offline booking. Aqua Lares will be aimed at wealthy clients looking to find a luxury adventure in a world-class, untouched area.
Conclusion
Aqua Expeditions Aqua Lares is next in line for the next step in luxurious expedition cruising and will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll, Zanzibar, and Tanzania. Aqua Lares will present guests with the opportunity to experience remarkably remote and beautiful places in utmost luxury and comfort. Every detail is approached in the form of luxurious real estate, unparalleled service, and meticulously designed itineraries. The Aqua Lares addition to the Aqua Expeditions fleet is a step in the direction for luxury travelers for a more intimate, daring, and eco-friendly way of enjoying the region in the Indian Ocean. As with many of Aqua Expeditions’ vessels, patrons have the option for short or long trips. Either way, Aqua Lares is bound to become a top-tier option for luxury expedition cruises.
