The Indian Ocean is immense and touches several countries and continents. Named for India, the ocean touches Indonesia, the east coast of Africa, the west coast of Australia, and flows into the Southern Ocean toward Antarctica.

Ports you may expect to visit in the Indian Ocean may include Port Louis in the small, African island Mauritius, Male, Cochin, Colombo, and Bombay in India, and Madagascar. These destinations are known for their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, spices, aromatic cuisines, and colorful cultures.

A cruise is the most affordable and easiest way to see these locales. Fleets that offer Indian Ocean cruises include Costa, Silversea, and Crystal.