Aqua Expeditions, owned by Ponant, has revealed more details of the the 30-passenger Aqua Lares, its sixth vessel launching in February 2026 offering 15 suites for five- to 11-night voyages across the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll and to Zanzibar, Tanzania.
The 30-guest ship spans six decks with 12 suites and three twin cabins from 13 to 66 square metres, including three Owner’s Suites, designed by Birgit Galli Zugaro and Milan-based HOTLAB.
The crew of 33 includes three naturalist guides, with facilities like a panoramic sun deck bar and lounge, cinema, boutique, gym, saloon, indoor and outdoor dining, two Jacuzzis, sauna, massage room and spa.
The yacht carries five private tenders, three Zodiacs, two Rafnar tenders, paddle boards, kayaks, snorkelling and diving gear and mountain bikes for exploring inner and outer Seychelles islands, Aldabra Atoll and Zanzibar.
Extended itineraries link Seychelles with Zanzibar Archipelago and Tanzania, stopping at Mahé, Pemba, Kilwa Kisiwani, Remire, Farquhar and Astove, with inaugural sailings from Madagascar in early 2026.
Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO and founder of Aqua Expedition, shared: “The launch of Aqua Lares marks an exciting new chapter for Aqua Expeditions – uniting our commitment to luxury exploration with the thrill of discovering uncharted frontiers. East Africa has held a special place in my heart since my first safari at age seven, and it’s surreal to now return with our own expedition yacht. From the wild beauty of the Seychelles to Aldabra Atoll’s 150,000 giant tortoises, this region offers a rare kind of adventure – one that perfectly complements our voyages in the Galapagos and Indonesia.”
