Experience the Emerald Sea and the Three Bays

Overview

Departure from your hotel in Antsiranana / Diego Suarez at 8:00 AM toward the coastal village of Ramena, located about 20 km east of the city. The drive follows the immense bay of Diego Suarez, one of the largest natural bays in the world, before reaching the fishing village and long beach of Ramena.

From Ramena, departure by private motor boat toward the famous Emerald Sea, known locally as the Mer d’Émeraude. The crossing takes roughly 45 minutes depending on sea conditions. As the boat leaves the bay behind, the water gradually changes color, from dark blue to translucent turquoise over shallow sandbanks.

The Emerald Sea is a large lagoon protected from the open Indian Ocean by coral reefs and small sandbanks. Shallow crystal-clear water, white sand and constant wind make the area one of the most spectacular marine landscapes in northern Madagascar. The lagoon is also popular for kite surfing and snorkeling thanks to its calm waters and visibility.

During the excursion, stop on Suarez Island, a small isolated sand island surrounded by shallow turquoise water. Depending on tides and weather, the island appears almost completely deserted apart from a few temporary fishing shelters and boats anchored offshore. The area is ideal for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the surrounding lagoon landscapes.

Return by boat to Ramena around 2:00 PM before continuing the experience by road toward the famous Three Bays.

The first stop is Sakalava Bay, a long open bay exposed to strong winds and waves from the Indian Ocean. The area is particularly known for kite surfing and wide sandy beaches backed by dry vegetation and dunes.

Further north, the road reaches Dunes Bay, a quieter section of coastline where large sand dunes descend directly toward the sea. The landscape here becomes drier and more exposed, with rough coastal vegetation and volcanic rock appearing between stretches of sand.

The final bay is Pigeons Bay, probably the most protected and scenic of the three. The bay forms a narrow inlet with calm turquoise water surrounded by rocky headlands and dry coastal vegetation.

At the end of the afternoon, continue toward the narrow coastal inlet where the Indian Ocean enters the immense Bay of Antsiranana. From this viewpoint it is possible to see the old lighthouse and the remains of military cannons once positioned to protect the bay entrance, one of the most strategic natural harbors in the Indian Ocean during the colonial period.

Sunset here is often spectacular, especially when the last light reaches the cliffs and reflects across the water entering the bay. On clear days, the distant waters of the Emerald Sea — where we were only a few hours earlier — can still be seen on the horizon

After sunset, return drive to Ramena and continue back to Antsiranana / Diego Suarez in the evening.

This full-day experience combines the marine landscapes of the Emerald Sea with the wild coastline of the Three Bays, offering one of the most complete excursions available from Diego Suarez.

Price from €130 per person based on 2 participants.

For larger groups or private arrangements:
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Map

What's included

Included

Private 4WD vehicle
English-speaking guide
Private small motorboat
Lunch on Suarez Island
Entrance fees for the Three Bays

Not included

Drinks

When to Go

The best period for this excursion is generally between April and November during the dry season, when sea conditions are calmer and visibility in the lagoon is usually excellent. Wind can become stronger between June and August, particularly around Sakalava Bay, making the area very popular for kite surfing.

The late afternoon light around the Three Bays and the bay entrance is particularly beautiful near sunset.

Activities

Private motor boat excursion to the Emerald Sea
Swimming and relaxation on Suarez Island
Discovery of the turquoise lagoon and coral reef landscapes
Coastal road trip through the Three Bays
Visit of Sakalava Bay, Dunes Bay and Pigeons Bay
Sunset viewpoint over the entrance of the Bay of Antsiranana

💡 Local Tips

Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel and enough water for the day. Lightweight clothing is recommended as temperatures can become very hot, especially around midday on the coast and during the boat excursion.
The return crossing from Suarez Island is often very windy, especially later in the afternoon. Even if temperatures are around 30°C before departure, it is very common to get soaked during the boat ride back. Wet clothes combined with strong wind can quickly create a surprisingly cold and uncomfortable feeling on the way back to Ramena.