The Idyllic Islands of Seychelles offer everything from island-hopping exploring in your yacht to a luxury spa at a high-end beachfront resort.
Spectacular beaches, amazing resorts, phenomenal food and luxurious surroundings along with marine sanctuaries and UNESCO World Heritage sites all add to Seychelles appeal. As Seychelles is a mix of African, Asian, European and Polynesian culture, you can experience music, food and folklore that is only to be found in Seychelles.
Boasting over 491 kilometres of coastline, the most identifiable feature of the Seychelles are the beaches. The popular Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue, frequently reported as the most beautiful beach in the world, is the backdrop for major Hollywood films such as ‘Castaway’. Another private island fantasy is the hidden gem Anse Major; with no roads leading to this haven it’s either hike up or arrive by water taxi where you’ll be greeted by dramatic yet tranquil scenes.
As 50% of Seychelles is a national park or reserve, there are many opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. You can hike up Mount Copolia in Mahé Island or more experienced hikers can try the Morne Blanc trail, an uphill climb through mist forests with a stunning viewpoint overlooking the coast. Wildlife lovers might encounter any of the 12 endemic species of birds and home to over 7,000 species of animal, plant and fungi.
“From imposing boulders to secluded award winning beach spots, the Indian Ocean’s dot on the world map, Seychelles, represents one of the very few luxurious and untouched frontiers for vessels wishing to cruise in tranquility and diversity”, shares Asia Pacific Superyachts Seychelles General Manager, Gilbert d’Offay.
With state-of-the-art marinas and government support, visitors can choose to enjoy tranquil cruising grounds or immerse themselves in the thriving island life found on Mahe and La Digue. Seychelles is home to over 1,000 species of fish, making snorkelling and diving particularly popular activities. Tucked away in a remote corner of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles’ outer islands are a haven for adventurous scuba divers. Their significant isolation means the islands’ see remarkably few visitors, leaving huge areas of the surrounding waters almost entirely uncharted.
The Eden Island marina offers an unparalleled berthing experience for vessels of all sizes, including superyachts up to 120 meters. Located just off the east coast of the main island of Mahé and, linked to the mainland by a 300m bridge, visiting yachts not only have access to 115 islands, but services such as hospitals and the Seychelles International Airport, just minutes away. The marina itself forms a part of Eden Island, with access to a host of services and amenities right at the marina’s edge. A short stroll from your berthing location takes you to financial to medical services, restaurants and more – with many amenities.
“Local growth in the industry has encouraged supplier companies to improve, which in turn has raised the level of service to support agents can provide to the yachts, ranging from provisions to repair/engineering works. Communication and clear information ahead of time are vital in order to plan and ensure all goes smoothly as being a small island, at times it is a challenge to provide some things yachts are used to easily getting in developed countries. However, with notice and preparation we do our best to provide what is required”, reports APS GM Gilbert d’Offay.
“As an example, for an intended itinerary APS can suggest what to do and not do so the trip goes well, such as the following adventure, cultural and island exploration visits, with the following islands included in a personally crafted and more detailed itinerary.”
- Mahe Island is the largest island in Seychelles and home to the capital city, Victoria. It offers a mix of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Explore the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, visit the Victoria Market for local crafts and spices, hike through Morne Seychellois National Park, and unwind on Beau Vallon Beach.
- Praslin Island is famous for its pristine beaches, including Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, often listed among the world’s best. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to the endemic coco de mer palm and rare bird species like the Seychelles black parrot.
- Then there is La Digue Island, with a laid-back atmosphere, picturesque beaches and iconic granite boulders. Cycle around the island to discover secluded beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and visit L’Union Estate to see traditional coconut processing and giant tortoises. You might also want to hike to Nid d’Aigle for panoramic views.
- Desroches Island offers exclusive luxury and pristine beaches, perfect for a secluded getaway. Explore the island’s untouched nature with walks along the beach, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and indulging in gourmet dining at the luxury resort.
- Alphonse Island is renowned for its world-class fly fishing, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. Engage in guided fishing excursions, explore vibrant coral reefs, and encounter diverse marine life, including turtles, rays, and reef sharks.
- Farquhar Atoll offers remote and untouched natural beauty, with excellent diving sites and abundant marine life. Dive among pristine coral gardens, explore underwater caves and swim-throughs, and enjoy beachcombing and birdwatching on uninhabited islands.
- Astove Atoll is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for birdwatching, with rare species such as the Aldabra drongo and Seychelles magpie robin. Take guided nature walks to observe birdlife and giant tortoises, snorkel in pristine coral reefs, and enjoy sunset beach picnics.
- Providence Atoll is a remote and untouched paradise, offering excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Dive among healthy coral reefs and underwater pinnacles, encounter schools of colorful fish and pelagic species, and relax on deserted beaches.
- Aldabra Atoll is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most pristine and ecologically significant locations in the world, home to unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Take guided nature walks to observe giant tortoises, rare bird species, and vibrant marine life, snorkel in turquoise lagoons, and marvel at the otherworldly beauty of the atoll.
“In regards to government regulations, we are in discussion and pushing government to see the opportunities the industry can provide Seychelles, which will further enhance Seychelles as a top vessel destination”, notes d’Offay, adding: “It is a long road ahead but we are determined and work tirelessly to offer the highest level of service to all yachts that we handle. We are constantly striving to carry on building our reputation to be the best agency service available in Seychelles.”
As Seychelles is just 900 miles off the eastern coast of Africa, many visitors use this opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience, combining a Seychelles visit with a migration safari or a Big 5 Safari.
The best time to visit Seychelles is between April-May and October-November, as these months are much less windy than other months. However, as Seychelles is just below the equator all the islands benefit from warm, optimum beach weather year-round. The temperatures rarely drop under 20°C and the Indian Ocean boasts an average temperature of 26°C.
Offering a near-perfect climate with temperatures ranging from 26 to 33 degrees Celsius, Seychelles has earned the nickname of the Land of Perpetual Summer.
