Ponant Explorations Group has acquired a majority stake in small ship expedition company, Aqua Expeditions, ahead of the inaugural sailing of Aqua Expeditions’ newest ship in East Africa.

The company will keep its name and will continue to be managed as a stand-alone business unit, led by CEO and Founder, Francesco Galli Zugaro.

“This transaction comes at a pivotal time as Aqua Expeditions ramps up the launch of its East Africa itineraries, exploring the Seychelles and Tanzania, with a particular focus on the Aldabra group of islands,” the cruise line said.

Aqua Expeditions’ East African itineraries will launch in December. Expeditions on the Explorer yacht will range from five to nine nights, which can also be combined for a complete 14-night exploration of the Seychelles.

This will be the cruise line’s first itineraries in Africa. While sailing Seychelles and Tanzania’s coastline, guests will be able to visit biodiversity hotspots such as Aldabra, Cosmoledo, Astove, Farquhar Atoll, Kilwa Kisiwani and Pemba.

“At Aqua, we’ve always been inspired to visit destinations that are off the beaten track. It was inevitable that our journey would eventually bring us to African shores,” said Galli Zugaro.

“It has always been a dream of mine to venture into East Africa and explore this part of the world on a luxury expedition ship. I am so excited to finally be able to showcase to our past guests the beauty of the Indian Ocean and the famous Aldabra Atoll. Few travellers have heard of or even seen this magical atoll that is home to over 150 000 giant tortoises. Considered the Galapagos of Africa, this island group is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna, and to some of the most amazing marine life in the world.”