Scattered across the Indian Ocean, nearly 1,000 miles off the coast of East Africa, the Seychelles archipelago represents one of the world's most isolated and biologically distinct environments. For natural world enthusiasts, these 115 tropical island gems offer some beautiful opportunities to experience tropical nature, both above and below the waterline.
Visit Marine Reserves and Encounter Endemic Species
These small ship voyages provide access to remote, uninhabited islands and protected marine reserves that larger vessels cannot reach. Within 8-days of island-hopping, these cruises are designed to blend comfortable intimate yachting, with immersive natural history, allowing for daily swimming and snorkel stops directly from the ship's platform.
You can find out more about the ship used on this experience by clicking on the button below.
Guided walks through nature reserves – such as Cousin Island – reveal safe havens for rare and endangered birdlife, including the Seychelles fody, Seychelles warbler, and the magpie robin. Ashore, encounters with free-roaming giant tortoises providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography against a backdrop of turquoise water, white sands and tropical green fronds.
Alongside these wildlife encounters, the voyage takes in some of the Indian Ocean's most striking geological beauty, including the famed, water-sculpted granite boulders of Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue.
Between guided island excursions, there is ample time to appreciate the tranquil environment at your own pace. Whether you are snorkelling amongst diverse reef fish, kayaking along quiet coastlines, or enjoying a traditional beachside barbecue, the experience is authentic and respectfully paced.
Plan Your Seychelles Island-Hopping Adventure
Whether you are a dedicated wildlife photographer, a marine enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape across the Indian Ocean, our team is here to ensure your experience of the Seychelles is carefully tailored to your interests. As marine scientists and travel experts, Aqua-Firma provides grounded, first-hand advice from your first enquiry until you have finished your experience. From securing your cabin on this 7-night small-ship cruise, to arranging bespoke pre- or post-voyage extensions on Mahé or Praslin, contact us to begin planning your next tropical island experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Mahé & Sail to St. Anne
Board your small-ship cruiser at Mahé's Inter Island Quay. Following a welcome briefing, set sail for the marine park of St. Anne for your first opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Indian Ocean. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor.
Day 2: Curieuse Island & Giant Tortoises
An early departure takes you to the uninhabited island of Curieuse. Join a guided walking tour through mangrove forests to observe free-roaming giant tortoises. The afternoon features a beach barbecue and further snorkelling opportunities. Overnight at anchor.
Day 3: Cousin Island Bird Sanctuary & Anse Lazio
Morning visit to Cousin Island, a protected nature reserve and bird sanctuary since 1968. Later, sail to Anse Lazio on Praslin Island – widely recognized as one of the world's most pristine beaches – for an afternoon of swimming, snorkelling, and relaxation. Overnight at anchor.
Day 4: Aride Island Nature Reserve & Praslin
Join local rangers for a morning guided hike to the highest vantage points of Aride Island, scanning for indigenous and endemic bird species. Sail to St. Pierre Island at midday for snorkelling, followed by a sunset cruise into Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, to experience a traditional Creole dinner. Overnight at dock. (Note: Aride Island is occasionally closed during the southeast trade winds, typically May to September. In this instance, alternative visits to Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette will be arranged).
Day 5: Vallée de Mai & Felicite
An optional morning excursion is available to the UNESCO World Heritage Vallée de Mai on Praslin, an ancient palm forest home to the endemic coco de mer. Later, sail to the clear waters of Felicite or Grand Soeur for snorkelling before an evening transit to La Digue. Overnight at anchor.
Day 6: La Digue & Anse Source d’Argent
Spend the morning exploring La Digue, with an optional tour to the L’Union Estate Farm and coconut oil mill. Spend the afternoon at Anse Source d’Argent, famous for its water-sculpted granite boulders, or explore the small settlement of La Passe. Late afternoon sail to Moyenne Island. Overnight at anchor.
Day 7: Moyenne Island & Mahé
A final morning of snorkelling and swimming around Moyenne Island, followed by a deck-side barbecue. In the late afternoon, the ship cruises back to Mahé to conclude the voyage with the Captain’s Farewell dinner. Overnight at dock in Mahé.
Day 8: Disembarkation in Mahé
Following breakfast on board, disembark at Mahé's Inter Island Quay at approximately 9:00 AM for your airport transfer or onward travel arrangements.
Dates
Port fees: US$540 per person.
For single cabin occupancy add 50%.
Included
- Accommodation in double or twin cabins with private SH/WC & air conditioning.
- Full board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local Theme Evening, fun BBQ (weather permitting) and Captain’s Dinner.
- Regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water free all day.
- Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment (masks, fins &snorkels), and beach towels.
- Use of Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddle Boards (subject to availability).
- English-Speaking Chief Experience Officer.
- Walking tours of the islands Cousin, Curieuse, Moyenne & Aride, guided by the island’s rangers.
Not Included
- Beverages (except those mentioned above).
- Optional shore excursions at Vallée de Mai and L’Union Estate Farm
- Any tours or services not listed as included.
- Crew tips.
- Passenger personal expenses.
- Wi-Fi (available at charge).
- Tourism Environmental Sustainability Levy, 25.00 (SCR) per person, per night to be paid on board.
Child Rates
- Children under the age of 5 are not allowed on board due to safety reasons.
- Children discounts apply to children 5-17 years old, sharing a triple cabin with two paying adults. Port taxes are not discounted.
- Children 5-10 years old: 50% discount on the gross per person twin cabin fares
- Children 11-17 years old: 35% discount on the gross per person twin cabin fares
- In case of more than one cabin, full adult rates apply.
