Big Samy

Big Samy is a passenger operating between Diego Suarez and Vohemar. The service began operating in 2020 and can carry up to 150 passengers with plenty of luggage space, even if you want to bring a motorcycle - no problem!

The exact departure times depend on weather and tide. In case the weather is too bad, the departure will be delayed until the next day. The voyage can take between 7 and 15 hours depending on weather conditions. Ideally, the weather will be calm and sunny and the entire voyage will be an incredibly scenic pleasure cruise where dolphins and other marine life will be seen.

The boat goes a few kilometres off the coastline and when coming from Diego to Vohemar, a few nautical miles after passing Nosy Ankao and before a rocky cape shortly ahead of Bay of Adravina "S 49°51'22.6"E all passengers are requested to be silent and all women are obligated to wear their hair down. Many of the passengers will appear frightened during the approximately 20-minute passage. The use of mobile phones and other electronics are strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing the spirits of those who drowned in maritime accidents at this location. For some reason, the fady does not apply when travelling the opposite direction.

If the fady is broken, perhaps a maritime accident or other trouble will follow. Every four years, members of the surrounding Sakalava-Anjoaty tribe meet up near the cape to sacrifice zebu as part of the Famangiana tany manintsy ceremonies at Ambavan'Iharana.

Usually, departure time from either Vohemar or Diego is at 3am so that arrival can be sure before dark.

Luggage can be loaded on the evening before and are also welcome to stay overnight on the boat. Alternatively, turn up at the harbor no later than 30 minutes before departure.