The Barren Islands
PLEASE NOTE CHARTERS FROM MORONDAVA & BARREN ISLANDS ARE ON HOLD DUE TO LACK FLIGHT AVAILABILITY.
The Barren Islands are a chain of remote archipelagos on the west coast of central Madagascar. These virtually unexplored islands are untouched and an absolute spearfishermans dream. Large pelagics like Black Marlin, Giant King Fish and Dog Tooth Tuna are common.
After last years pioneering spearfishing trips a lot of research and input from local fishing experts have ensured an adventure and spearfishing experience like never before. From deep blue water holding massive Dog Tooth and Marlin to the shallow drop-offs with Giant Kingfish, massive Spanish Mackerel and more.
The reef structure here is incredible as the shallow drop-offs come out of areas that are hundreds of meters deep. Massive walls of reef coming out of deep water have meant that fish like the Dog Tooth Tuna are prolific and some have been landed in the 80kg range with only using a jig. This is something which is virtually unheard of!
One of the greatest assets to this trip is the proximity to the dive sites from the islands. No time is waisted each day travelling and maximum time is spent diving. When you are not diving your home will be a 53ft Luxury Catamaran with all the creature comforts you could want.
The crew consisting of Skipper (an experienced spearfisherman) and expert fishing guide, deckhand,and cook plus myself as your personal spearfishing guide and photographer will ensure you have the best shot at getting your dream fish.
Proposed Itinerary – 8 day (5 dive days)
DAY 1
Depart from Johannesburg for Antananarivo – Madagascar.
On arrival in Tana, you will receive a meet and greet, ground handling and assistance. Transfer to an over night stop where you will spend the night on a B&B basis (Breakfast).
DAY 2
Depart for Morondava. On arrival, you will be receive a meet and ground and will then be transferred to the Yacht. Once aboard you will be welcomed with a cocktail and a briefing to follow. During the briefing, you will discuss the type of fishing you are interested in doing, the do’s and don’ts aboard the yacht and thereafter you will set sail for the Barren Isles.
That afternoon there will be a stop at India banks for a warm up dive before sailing through the night to the islands.
DAY 3-6
Diving and exploring the Barren Islands

Giant Kingfish 2012 Barren Islands – photo Coatesman
Proposed Itinerary – 9 day (6.5 dive days)
DAY 1
Depart from Johannesburg for Antananarivo – Madagascar.
On arrival in Tana, you will receive a meet and greet, ground handling and assistance. Transfer to Au Bois Vert where you will spend the night on a HB basis (Breakfast and Dinner).
DAY 2
Depart for Morondava. On arrival, you will be receive a meet and ground and will then be transferred to the Yacht. Once aboard you will be welcomed with a cocktail and a briefing to follow. During the briefing, you will discuss the type of fishing you are interested in doing, the do’s and don’ts aboard the yacht and thereafter you will set sail for the Barren Isles.
DAY 3-7
Diving and exploring the Barren Islands
DAY 8
Arrive back in Morondava.
DAY 9
According to flight schedule, transfer to the airport. Depart Morondava for Antananarivo to catch you next flight to Johannesburg.

Massive Spanish Mackerel – Barren Islands 2012 – photo Coatesman
Yacht Description
This 53ft Royal Cape Catamaran is ideal for fishing as it has a huge fishing platform area which incorporates superior game fishing with luxury accommodation.
Overview
Cabins
Designed for comfort, the 53ft boasts 5 double en suite cabins. The master cabin comes with plasma TV, study, dressing table and bathtub.
Galley
Home comforts are not far from reach on the 53ft. The fully equipped galley comes complete with stove, fridges, freezers, dishwasher, ice maker & microwave. Food will be prepared by a top class Malagasy chef.
Saloon
Entertain family and guests in the large saloon. Lounge on the leather sofas. Watch your favourite movies on the plasma TV and DVD player.
Outside
Dinning Area
For those warm African evenings, sip cocktails and share a family dinner in the spacious outside dining area.
Bait Station
A state-of-the-art and fully equipped bait station will satisfy the most demanding sport angler. All that’s needed is lady luck to help land some big game fish, such as Blue Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellow fin Tuna.
Ocean
Braai /Barbeque
Cook your prized catch to perfection using the on-board gas barbeque.
Bow Seats
Ride the swells on the bow seats up front or fall asleep beneath the stars on one of the trampolines.
Spinnaker Sail
Enjoy a beautiful smooth ride when this multi-coloured spinnaker sail is set.
Technical Information
A Royal Cape Catamaran Majestic 530. Built in 2008 she is the latest design of catamaran in her class. Bespoke design features include a sports angler bait station, extended outside dining area, and further deck space.
The bait station
Live-bait well, fish cleaning station and lunar tubes, 6 rod holders
The bait station is fully equipped for trawl and bait fishing.
Four light trawling rods
Two heavy marlin rods
Passenger capacity
8 pax (max 4 divers)
Trip Costs
7 Night Trip – (1-3 Divers) – Total € 18 800.00
8 Night Trip(1-3 Divers) – Total € 20 950.00
10 Night Trip(1-3 Divers) – Total € 24 950.00
PLEASE NOTE CHARTERS FROM MORONDAVA & BARREN ISLANDS ARE ON HOLD DUE TO LACK FLIGHT AVAILABILITY.
Depending on the Flight schedules when the quote is finalised, changes might occur in the itinerary if necessary and could thus affect the final price.
Quotations are given according to the Exchange Rates ruling at the time. Prices are per person sharing and are subject to change in Airfare increases, Currency fluctuations and availability. Peak season surcharges, minimum stays and block out periods may apply. Limited seats are available. Group rates are available on request. Meal basis is indicated.
**This Quote is approximate due to exchange rates & cost of flights**