November may not be one of the most conventional times within which to think about going on a holiday. Temperatures in the Mediterranean at this time of the year may be considerably cooler than the summer, but this is one of the busiest times of the year to travel. So, if you're seeking a quieter winter break and fancy travelling to a region a little further afield, you may be interested to know that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will be operating their first ever fly-cruise to the islands of the Indian Ocean in November.

Mauritius

Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius and is where you will spend two nights prior to embarking on your journey around the Indian Ocean. After unpacking your bags and settling into your room, why not venture into this vibrant city, filled with many historical landmarks of significance, Aapravasi Ghat became the landing point for the indentured labourers in the 19th century, following the abolition of slavery, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Of course, no journey to Mauritius would be complete without visiting some of the fine beaches available, of which are considered to be among the best in the world. A short journey north of the island's capital will take you to the extensive white sands and clear blue waters of Grand Bay and Pereybere.

Seychelles

Situated north of Madagascar - the Seychelles offers a peaceful oasis for anyone seeking a spot of winter sun. Consisting of 115 islands - although most of these are uninhabited - this archipelago is one of the best places to go for beach relaxation and to soak up the sun. The first island you will visit is Mahé and its capital, Victoria, is one of the smallest cities on earth. A short journey out of the city will take you to one of the 19 gorgeous beaches, each of which is surrounded by 1,000 metre-tall granite peaks and an abundance of rare flora.

This itinerary will also take you to the Praslin Islands, which were visited by General Gordon, of Khartoum fame. He became convinced that the region of Vallée de Mai was the original site of the Garden of Eden... And it's easy to see why. With no main roads, endless beaches and rare flora that is endemic to the islands, the Seychelles is a natural paradise.

Comoros Islands

Governed from Paris, the island of Mayotte, of the Comoros Islands, is perhaps the most developed of this group of islands. As a result, there is a distinctively French feeling about the island and you will find a hive of activity in the city's colourful markets. Surrounded by coral reefs, the island's beaches are more than ideal for scuba diving. Alternatively, the island's main city of Mamoudzou offers many small shops and is therefore ideal for those seeking a spot of retail therapy.

Madagascar

Located north-west off the coast of mainland Madagascar, the island of Nosy Be offers a tropical climate and a range of fantastic beaches. Across the island, you will discover many sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries and lemurs that make their home here. There is even a natural lemur reserve, along with fantastic beaches and an extensive coral reef.

During your cruise, you will also visit the city of Antsiranana, which is also known as Diego Suarez after two Portuguese explorers claimed to discover the island in 1506. There are many beaches which surround this French colonial-style city including Ramena beach, which is home to an uncrowded sandy beach and a range of rare baobab trees which can only be found in Madagascar.

Port Reunion

Off the east coast of Madagascar lies the tiny French-owned island of Reunion, which offers visitors a tropical climate, stunning volcanic landscapes and white sandy beaches. 40% of this enchanting island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its natural landscape which consists of forested gorges, volcanic peaks, subtropical rainforests and cloud forests.

A journey to the islands of the Indian Ocean will certainly take you breath away, with many gorgeous beaches and natural landscapes hidden away. Undoubtedly, a cruise is one of the best ways to experience as many of these destinations as possible within a short period of time. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines have made this dream a reality and Boudicca's small size makes it possible for her to access many smaller ports around the world.

If you would like to find out more, contact GoCruise via our freephone number: 0800 121 8250 or complete the online form.