Discovering the Seychelles

As the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, Mahé is the natural starting point for a journey through this extraordinary Indian Ocean destination. Lush mountains, granite boulders and palm-fringed beaches surround its coastline, while clear waters invite swimming, snorkelling and time on the water. Discover the lively atmosphere of Victoria, explore local markets and Creole culture, or head to Beau Vallon for one of Mahé's best-known beaches before beginning your island-hopping adventure by yacht.

Cruise east towards Frégate, one of the Seychelles' most secluded private islands, where dense tropical vegetation meets pristine beaches and sheltered turquoise waters. The island's protected environment supports an impressive variety of wildlife, including rare bird species and giant tortoises, while the surrounding reefs offer exceptional opportunities for snorkelling and diving. Spend the day exploring nature trails, relaxing on an uncrowded beach or enjoying an elegant meal surrounded by the island's remarkable scenery.

Continue towards La Digue, an island celebrated for its striking granite coastline, lush vegetation and famously relaxed pace of life. Cruise into a landscape of huge granite formations, white-sand beaches and clear lagoons, then head ashore to discover secluded coves and protected natural areas. Snorkelling and diving reveal another side of the island, while its peaceful atmosphere makes La Digue an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the distinctive beauty of the Seychelles.

A short cruise from La Digue brings you to Félicité, a small granite island surrounded by exceptionally clear waters and rich marine life. Nearby Îles Cocos is particularly rewarding for snorkelling, with calm conditions and abundant underwater life making it an inviting place to explore from the yacht. Continue to Félicité to discover its forested interior and dramatic granite landscape, with protected waters offering excellent opportunities for swimming, diving and observing the marine life that thrives around these remote islands.

Praslin, the Seychelles' second-largest island, offers a compelling combination of lush landscapes, beautiful beaches and distinctive wildlife. Dense forest covers much of the island, while the coastline opens onto clear waters and sheltered bays ideal for swimming and watersports. Beyond the beaches, explore the island's botanical and natural environments, discover endemic birdlife or simply enjoy the unhurried pace of traditional Seychellois island life.

Curieuse Island is a fascinating destination where distinctive red earth, dense vegetation and protected natural habitats create a striking contrast with the turquoise sea. Once home to a leper colony, the island's historic buildings remain part of its heritage, while today Curieuse is better known for its conservation programmes and population of giant tortoises.

Nature takes centre stage here, with protected coco de mer forests and walking trails providing an opportunity to explore one of the Seychelles' most intriguing ecosystems. Before or after visiting Curieuse, take time to enjoy Praslin's celebrated coastline, including Anse Lazio, where granite boulders, tropical vegetation and brilliant blue water create one of the archipelago's most memorable beach settings.

Continue towards Silhouette Island, one of the most secluded destinations in the Seychelles and a remarkable haven of protected wilderness. Much of the island remains covered by natural forest, with hiking trails crossing mountainous terrain and leading towards quiet beaches framed by granite formations and tropical vegetation. Beneath the surface, the surrounding waters offer opportunities to snorkel among colourful reef fish, rays and other marine life, while the island's conservation programmes provide an insight into efforts to protect its wildlife, including nesting sea turtles.

Cruise back towards Mahé and enter Saint Anne Marine National Park, a protected marine environment just offshore from the capital. The park encompasses a collection of islands, reefs and clear channels where coral gardens and diverse marine ecosystems make for exceptional snorkelling and diving. Explore the shallow waters by tender or kayak, swim among tropical fish and sea turtles, or simply enjoy the clarity of the surrounding sea. With restrictions on activities that could damage the ecosystem, the park offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the Seychelles' marine environment in its natural state.

Return to Mahé for the final stage of your Seychelles yacht charter, with one last opportunity to explore the island's natural and cultural highlights. Beyond its beaches and mountain scenery, Mahé offers rewarding walks through lush interior trails and viewpoints overlooking the Indian Ocean. In Victoria, discover local markets, Creole architecture, galleries and restaurants before disembarkation, bringing your journey through the Seychelles' islands, reefs and protected natural landscapes to a close.