AIDAstella reaches Antsiranana: Holidaymakers discover Madagascar's treasures!

AIDAstella reaches Antsiranana: Holidaymakers discover Madagascar's treasures!

In the early morning of February 7, 2026, numerous guests gathered at the railing on deck 12 AIDAstella. Captain Jan Peter Lindner announced that the cruise ship would reach the picturesque bay of Antsiranana around seven o'clock. On time, the 250 meter long ship glided past the small lighthouse, which is a popular photo opportunity.

As the ship made a slow turn backwards towards the berth in the port, the surrounding areas were dominated by large containers and a long line of off-road vehicles. The happy drivers waved and immediately held up their cell phones to take souvenir photos of the impressive sight of the cruise ship. When the gangway was extended, many holidaymakers set foot on the fascinating island of Madagascar for the first time.

Antsiranana: An undiscovered gem

Antsiranana, formerly known as Diégo-Suarez, is a large port city in northern Madagascar with about 129,000 inhabitants. Once home to a naval base and a Foreign Legion, this city has a rich colonial history. Wide streets and impressive colonial buildings were built during French rule, but many have now fallen into disrepair. Historic sites such as the bust of Colonel Joseph Jacques Césaire Joffre and the volcanic rocky island of Pain de Sucre attract visitors with their historic charm. Pain de Sucre is considered a traditionally sacred place for Malagasy people, surrounded by majestic baobab trees.

Antsiranana's economic environment is challenging: According to the IMF's World Economic Outlook, Madagascar is one of the ten poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita of just US$530 per year. In addition, typhoons and tropical cyclones accelerate the decay of historic buildings. But the city's magic remains, and visitors can explore local markets such as the lively Sambava Market, where fresh produce, crafts and clothing are on offer. Here visitors have the opportunity to experience the culture and flavors of Madagascar up close.

Attractions and natural wonders

The area around Antsiranana has a lot to offer. The Montagne d’Ambre National Park, the oldest national park in Madagascar, attracts with unique flora and fauna, including the Delacour barn owl and various native animal species. Hiking trails and impressive waterfalls invite you to explore. The nearby Ramena Beach, about 20 kilometers from the city, boasts white sand and crystal-clear water and offers various activities such as snorkeling, diving and canoeing.

For history buffs, the historic 19th-century Château Leveque is another attraction. It offers impressive views of Antsiranana and the harbor and is open to visitors. In addition, culture enthusiasts can visit the Antsiranana Mosque, built in 1856 and considered one of the oldest mosques in Madagascar.

The variety of activities in and around Antsiranana makes the city an attractive destination for cruise tourists looking to discover Madagascar's rich culture and breathtaking nature. Festivities and events throughout the year attract both tourists and locals, illustrating the vibrant culture of this unique region.