Aqua Expeditions, part of the Ponant Explorations Group, has unveiled its sixth vessel, the Aqua Lares, which will launch in February 2026 on its inaugural Seychelles itinerary.
The luxury boutique ship can host 30 guests across nine designer suites, three twin cabins and three Owner’s Suites.
Aqua Lares carries five private tenders, including three 6,5-metre Zodiacs and two 8,5-metre Rafnar tenders, offering flexibility for off-ship exploration. The ship is also equipped with paddle boards, kayaks, snorkelling and diving gear and mountain bikes.
Social spaces include a panoramic sun deck with bar and lounge, a cinema, boutique, gym, indoor dining room, and a shaded outdoor dining area. Wellness offerings feature two Jacuzzis, a sauna, massage room, and spa.
East African island itineraries
The Aqua Lares will embark on five-, nine-, 10- and 11-night voyages through the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll and Zanzibar.
The five-night itinerary explores the Seychelles’ inner islands, including Praslin and La Digue.
The nine-night expedition ventures into the Seychelles’ Outer Islands. At its heart is Aldabra Atoll, a Unesco World Heritage site and the world’s largest sanctuary for giant tortoises.
The extended 10- and 11-night itineraries link the Seychelles with the Zanzibar Archipelago. Sailing between Mahé and Zanzibar, these voyages include stops at Aldabra, Remire, Farquhar, and Astove. Guests will explore ancient trade routes and Swahili-Arabian heritage on islands like Pemba and Kilwa Kisiwani. Inaugural sailings set sail from Madagascar in early 2026.
Aqua Lares will sail the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll, Zanzibar, and Tanzania annually from November to April. Offline bookings are open for 2026 and 2027, with inaugural sailings beginning February 8, 2026. Online bookings open on September 1.
