Just a three-hour flight from Johannesburg is Madagascar with its uninhabited islands, empty beaches and water filled with fish, and coral.
An hour's flight north from the capital of Antananarivo (Tana for short) is the largest of Madagascar's islands.
Nosy By (the perfumed island) is surrounded by many smaller islands - most of which are inaccessible from land-based accommodation.
Happily, an alternative provides accommodation and three five-star meals a day while taking you to a different island every day for the best snorkelling spots and deserted beaches. Why not charter a catamaran for R1 550 a person per night?
You can hire your own private yacht with Malagasy, but an English-speaking crew. The Laughing Gecko is a Jaguar catamaran that sleeps eight in four double cabins. There are two freshwater showers and four toilets. The cabins are beautifully appointed and there is masses of seating space.
Depending on what you want to do during your stay, Gecko will be your base. Fishing, snorkelling, island-hopping, sundowners on the beach, kayaking and picnics served on deserted islands.
Gecko is new and "family friendly", kitted out with rods, small beach chairs, games, guided snorkelling, sea kayaking, large tube and beach games. Children from about seven upwards will enjoy this holiday.
SA Airlink and Air Madagascar fly to Tana daily from Joburg, but your flights are much cheaper if booked through an agent together with your accommodation.
- Contact Madagas Cat Charters at madagas [email protected]. They are running a special for a minimum of four adults for six nights at R1 350 per person per day, valid up to June 26.