Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Seychelles, an idyllic archipelago nestled in the Indian Ocean. Whether aboard a luxurious yacht, sailboat, or catamaran, you’ll explore pristine coastlines, unique islands, and exceptional flora and fauna. Cruise from Mahé to La Digue, and onwards to Praslin, hopping from one stunning island to the next. Prices for these voyages vary based on trip duration and seasonality, with an average cost of approximately 2,000 euros per cruise.

Overview of Seychelles cruises

Seychelles cruises cater to every type of traveler, offering a plethora of experiences amidst turquoise waters, white sands, and swaying coconut palms. Whether you opt for a luxurious adventure or a cozy catamaran journey, the archipelago beckons with its natural beauty.

These cruises provide opportunities to encounter rare species like giant tortoises and explore reserves such as the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai. Immerse yourself in the local Creole culture, relish fresh seafood, and bask in the paradise-like ambiance of the Seychelles.

With a variety of cruise options available, from intimate cabin cruises to expansive itineraries island-hopping by sea, there’s something to suit every preference. Choose between sailboats for an authentic sailing experience, yachts for luxurious comfort, or catamarans for stability and space.

Every Seychelles cruise promises an unforgettable journey, a sanctuary where the Seychelles’ breathtaking beauty unfolds before your eyes.

Seychelles cruise options

When planning your cruise to the Seychelles, you have several enticing options to consider. For those seeking luxury cruise and premium comfort, a yacht or expedition ship cruise awaits, complete with gourmet meals and a range of onboard services.

Alternatively, you can opt for a more intimate and affordable experience aboard a catamaran or sailboat. These cruises allow you to explore secluded areas that are only accessible by sea, offering a unique perspective of the Seychelles’ stunning landscapes.

Additionally, theme cruises cater to specific interests such as diving, fishing, or wildlife observation. Opting for a theme cruise allows you to immerse yourself in activities that align with your passions, offering a tailored and unique experience in the Seychelles.

Here are some cruises you might want to consider:

• Luxury cruises: Enjoy the privilege of exploring a grandiose wilderness with Ponant or Kuoni. These cruises offer top-of-the-range services and varied itineraries.
• Sailboat or catamaran cruises: Skippair and GlobeSailor offer all-inclusive cruises to the Seychelles by sailboat or catamaran. You can even privatize the boat for a more personalized experience.
• Theme cruises: For an adventure focused on diving, fishing or nature observation, you can choose Silhouette Cruises or VoileSeychelles.com.

The length of your cruise, the number of passengers on board, the services included and your budget are all factors to consider when choosing your Seychelles cruise.

Catamaran cruising : Unique experience

Sailing aboard a catamaran provides a distinctive way to explore the Seychelles. Known for its stability and shallow draft, this type of boat enables access to remote and lesser-known areas, including coral reefs and secluded beaches of unparalleled beauty. Catamaran cruises offer an intimate and sociable experience, making them perfect for groups of friends or families seeking a memorable adventure together.

Experience the freedom of sailing in the Seychelles at your own pace, with the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to match your preferences. Whether you’re captivated by postcard-perfect landscapes or rare bird-filled nature reserves, catamarans allow you to linger longer in the places that captivate you.

Catamarans also offer opportunities to engage in various water sports, from diving to explore vibrant seabeds to serene paddleboarding in tranquil lagoons. Amidst these activities, savor delectable meals prepared onboard with fresh local ingredients.

As you sail, your catamaran might whisk you off to iconic destinations like Aldabra Atoll or the stunning Anse Source d’Argent. This is the essence of life aboard a catamaran in the Seychelles, where every moment promises a new adventure in paradise.

Advantages of a catamaran cruise in the Seychelles

Sailing a catamaran in the Seychelles provides numerous benefits. The comfort and stability of these boats ensure a pleasant sailing experience, ideal even for those new to life at sea. With their shallow draft, catamarans can navigate close to beaches and coral atolls, allowing for visits and stopovers in secluded spots accessible only by sea.

• A catamaran also offers the opportunity to sail at your own pace, allowing you to adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences and spend more time in the places that fascinate you.
• It’s also an excellent choice for those who love water sports. Whether it’s snorkeling, diving or paddling, the catamarans are equipped with all the necessary gear.
• Finally, a catamaran cruise in the Seychelles is a convivial and intimate experience, ideal for trips with family or friends.

How to choose a catamaran for the Seychelles?

When choosing your catamaran for the Seychelles, there are several criteria to take into account.

Catamaran size: Catamarans come in different sizes, from 38 to over 60 feet. The larger the catamaran, the more space and comfort it offers. However, a larger catamaran also requires a bigger budget.

Number of cabins: The number of cabins depends on the number of people taking part in the cruise. A catamaran can have between 2 and 6 cabins. Make sure everyone has a comfortable personal space to enjoy the trip to the full.

Catamaran model: Some models are renowned for their stability, others for their speed. The Lagoon model, for example, is a popular choice for cruising in the Seychelles.

Onboard equipment: Check out the equipment available on board your catamaran. Some offer diving equipment, kayaks or paddle boards.

Recommended itineraries for a catamaran cruise in the Seychelles

For a memorable journey, consider several itinerary options available. One popular route begins from Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. From there, you can sail to Praslin, celebrated for its Vallée de Mai nature reserve, famous for the coco de mer, an iconic symbol of the Seychelles.

Continue your journey to La Digue, where you’ll be captivated by pink granite rocks and pristine white sandy beaches.

Alternatively, embark on another captivating itinerary starting from Sainte Anne, a marine reserve ideal for observing tropical fish. Then head to Grande Sœur, famed for its lush Garden of Eden and bountiful fruit trees. Lastly, visit the Eagle’s Nest on La Digue for stunning panoramic views that will leave you in awe.

Remember, these itineraries can be customized based on your preferences and weather conditions, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Average price for a catamaran cruise in the Seychelles

Catamaran cruise prices in the Seychelles vary based on several factors. These include the season, duration of the cruise, type of catamaran, number of passengers, and whether you choose a private or shared cabin.

Typically, rates for a one-week cruise start at around 2,000 euros and can go up to 3,000 euros or more, especially for luxury catamarans. This price generally covers onboard accommodation, meals, and the services of a skipper and hostess.

For a more accurate cost estimate, it’s advisable to request a customized quote from travel agencies or boat rental companies. Comparing offers and booking in advance can help secure the best prices for your Seychelles catamaran adventure.

Discover the most beautiful places in the Seychelles on a cruise

Must-sees on a Seychelles cruise

During your cruise in the Seychelles, make sure not to miss several iconic sites. Explore the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional flora and fauna, including the famous giant tortoises. Visit Vallée de Mai on Praslin, celebrated for its iconic coco de mer palms. And don’t forget La Digue, home to the picturesque Anse Source d’Argent beach, a paradise for photographers. These destinations promise unforgettable experiences amidst the natural beauty of the Seychelles.

• Mahé, the main island, with its capital Victoria, offers a wonderful immersion in Seychellois culture.
• Denis Island is a haven of tranquility, ideal for snorkeling.
• Curieuse is renowned for its unique biodiversity, including giant tortoises.
• Saint Pierre offers raised reefs, a veritable natural aquarium.

These sites offer a variety of experiences, from idyllic beaches to wildlife and cultural immersion.

Nature reserves to discover on a Seychelles cruise

In addition to the sites mentioned above, your Seychelles cruise will allow you to explore some incredibly rich nature reserves, veritable sanctuaries for exceptional biodiversity.

• Cousin Island is one of these reserves where you can observe a variety of wildlife, including colonies of seabirds and sea turtles.
• The Morne Seychellois National Park covers 20% of the island of Mahé, offering hiking trails through lush natural surroundings to peaks offering panoramic views.
• The Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to exceptional flora and fauna, including the famous giant tortoises.

When should you cruise the Seychelles?

The best time to cruise the Seychelles

Choosing the right time to cruise the Seychelles can significantly enhance your experience. The months of April to May and October to November are highly recommended. During these periods, the weather is typically mild, with pleasant temperatures and moderate winds, ideal for sailing.

These months fall between the Seychelles’ dry season and rainy season, known as the inter-seasons. Rainfall is lower, creating more comfortable sailing conditions. Additionally, these times are perfect for scuba diving, a highlight activity in the Seychelles. The waters are generally calm with excellent visibility, offering exceptional opportunities to explore the archipelago’s vibrant coral reefs.

However, Seychelles’ tropical climate ensures favorable conditions for cruising year-round. Temperatures hover consistently between 25°C and 30°C, and the region is not affected by cyclones, making it a reliable destination for sea travel throughout the year.

Tips to save on the cost of your Seychelles cruise

To save on the cost of your cruise to the Seychelles, there are several tips you can implement.

• Book early or last-minute: These two periods often offer good deals, as companies seek to fill their cabins or sell the last ones available.
• Be flexible on dates and itineraries: Low-season cruises are generally less expensive. Similarly, some itineraries may offer more attractive fares.
• Choose an inside cabin: less expensive than sea-view cabins, they offer similar comfort.
• Opt for all-inclusive packages: These can include meals, drinks and even some excursions, so you can keep your budget under control.
• Compare offers: Use online comparators to find the best offer for your budget and expectations.
• Take advantage of discounts: Some airlines offer discounts for early bookings, groups, seniors or children.
• Avoid unnecessary extras: Services such as a spa or on-board Wi-Fi can add considerably to the cost of your cruise.