Sailing the Seychelles via catamaran or private yacht offers an unparalleled island-hopping adventure, allowing you to explore pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and secluded coves that are inaccessible by land. From the granite peaks of Mahé to the untouched beauty of the outer islands, a sailing holiday in the Seychelles is a journey into paradise.
Choosing Your Vessel: Catamaran vs. Private Yacht
The first decision you’ll face is whether to charter a catamaran or a private yacht. Catamarans are incredibly popular in the Seychelles due to their stability, shallow draft (allowing access to shallower waters and closer anchoring to beaches), and spacious living areas. They’re ideal for families or groups seeking a relaxed and comfortable experience. Companies like Dream Yacht Charter and The Moorings offer bareboat (you skipper yourself) and crewed catamaran charters.
A private yacht offers a more luxurious and personalized experience, often including a full crew (captain, chef, and deckhands) to cater to your every need. This option is more expensive but provides ultimate comfort and convenience. Private yachts also tend to be faster and can cover more ground, allowing you to see more of the Seychelles archipelago. Companies like Yachtico specialize in connecting you with private yacht charters in the Seychelles.
Cost Considerations: A bareboat catamaran charter in the Seychelles can range from €4,000 to €15,000 per week depending on the size and age of the boat. Crewed charters, private yachts and all-inclusive options easily exceed €20,000 per week, often considerably more. Factor in additional costs for provisioning (food and drinks), mooring fees (around €50-€100 per night in some locations), fuel, and any activities like diving or fishing.
Planning Your Itinerary: Must-See Islands and Anchorages
The Seychelles boasts over 115 islands, making itinerary planning crucial. A typical 7-10 day sailing itinerary focuses on the inner islands, primarily Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. However, extending your trip allows exploration of the more remote outer islands.
Mahé: The Starting Point
Your Seychelles sailing adventure likely begins at Mahé, the largest island. The international airport (SEZ) is located near Victoria, the capital city, where many charter companies have their bases. Before setting sail, consider exploring Mahé’s highlights:
- Victoria Market: Immerse yourself in the local culture at this bustling market, offering fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. Arrive early for the best selection.
- Botanical Garden: Home to an impressive collection of endemic plants, including the iconic Coco de Mer palm. Entry fee is around SCR 100 (approximately €7).
- Beaches: Mahé boasts stunning beaches like Beau Vallon (popular for swimming and water sports), Anse Intendance (known for its powerful waves), and Anse Royale (excellent for snorkelling).
Anchorage Recommendations: Eden Island Marina (offers excellent facilities but can be pricey), Baie Ternay Marine National Park (protected area with great snorkelling, mooring buoys available), and Anse Major (accessible only by boat or hiking trail, a secluded paradise).
Praslin: Home of the Coco de Mer
A short sail northeast of Mahé lies Praslin, the second-largest island. Praslin is famed for the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only place in the world where the Coco de Mer palm grows naturally. The entry fee to the Vallée de Mai is approximately SCR 350 (approximately €25).
- Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: Pre-booking your tickets is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Guided tours are available and provide insightful information about the unique flora and fauna.
- Anse Lazio: Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Anse Lazio boasts powder-soft sand, turquoise waters, and granite boulders. Be aware of strong currents in certain areas.
- Anse Georgette: Another stunning beach on Praslin, accessible by walking through the Constance Lémuria Resort (prior permission is required) or by boat.
Anchorage Recommendations: Baie Sainte Anne (main harbour with shops and restaurants), Anse Volbert (popular anchorage with calm waters), and Anse Possession (offers good protection from the southeast trade winds).
La Digue: A Step Back in Time
From Praslin, it’s a scenic sail to La Digue, a charming island where time seems to stand still. Cars are limited; bicycles and oxcarts are the primary modes of transportation. La Digue offers a glimpse into traditional Seychellois life.
- Anse Source d’Argent: Arguably the most photographed beach in the Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent is famous for its dramatic granite formations, shallow turquoise waters, and white sand. Entry fee to L’Union Estate Park (which includes Anse Source d’Argent) is around SCR 150 (approximately €11).
- L’Union Estate: Explore this working copra plantation, which also features a traditional Creole house, a giant tortoise enclosure, and a vanilla plantation.
- Grand Anse and Petite Anse: These beaches on the east coast of La Digue are wilder and more exposed to the elements. Strong currents can make swimming dangerous, but they’re stunning for sunbathing and photography (not recommended for small children or inexperienced swimmers when currents are strong).
Anchorage Recommendations: La Digue Harbour (can be crowded, especially during peak season), Anse Severe (offers good snorkelling, but can be exposed to the northwest winds).
Other Inner Islands to Consider
Beyond Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, several other inner islands are worth exploring, depending on your itinerary and interests:
- Curieuse Island: Home to hundreds of giant tortoises, a former leper colony, and a mangrove forest with a boardwalk. Entry fee is SCR 200 (approximately €14), which goes towards park conservation.
- Sainte Anne Island: Part of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, offering excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Consider a visit to the Sainte Anne Resort & Spa for a luxurious lunch.
- Île Cocos and Félicité Island: These small islands are renowned for their vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Ideal for diving and snorkelling excursions. Day trips can be arranged from Praslin or La Digue.
- Silhouette Island: A mountainous island with a lush rainforest and secluded beaches. Accessible by ferry or helicopter from Mahé. A great choice for nature lovers.
Sailing Conditions and Navigation
The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate with consistent trade winds. The southeast trade winds blow from May to September, providing generally stable sailing conditions. The northwest monsoon season runs from November to March, bringing calmer winds but also higher humidity and occasional rain. April and October are transition months with variable conditions.
Navigation Tips:
- Charts and Pilot Guides: Essential for safe navigation. Imray charts are widely used and available for purchase or rental from charter companies. A pilot guide, such as “Seychelles” by Rod Heikell, provides valuable information on anchorages, hazards, and local regulations.
- GPS and Chartplotter: Highly recommended for accurate positioning and route planning.
- Tidal Range: The tidal range in the Seychelles is relatively small (around 1 meter), but currents can be strong in certain channels and around headlands.
- Coral Reefs: Exercise caution when navigating in shallow waters due to the presence of coral reefs. Avoid anchoring on coral.
- Weather Forecasts: Regularly check weather forecasts using VHF radio, online resources, or smartphone apps.
Provisioning Your Yacht: Where to Stock Up
Provisioning is a critical aspect of your sailing trip. You have several options for stocking up on food, drinks, and other supplies:
- Supermarkets in Victoria (Mahé): STC Hypermarket and ISPC are the largest supermarkets on Mahé, offering a wide selection of groceries, including imported goods.
- Local Markets: Victoria Market is a great place to buy fresh produce and local spices.
- Provisioning Services: Many charter companies offer provisioning services, where they will pre-stock your yacht based on your order. This is a convenient option but can be more expensive than shopping yourself.
- Island Shops: Smaller shops are available on Praslin and La Digue, but their selection is limited, and prices may be higher.
Provisioning Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Create a detailed shopping list before you arrive.
- Consider Local Produce: Take advantage of the fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood available in the Seychelles.
- Pack Non-Perishables: Bring some non-perishable items from home, such as snacks, coffee, and tea.
- Water: Ensure you have sufficient water storage capacity on your yacht. Bottled water is readily available, or consider a watermaker if you’re planning a longer trip.
- Alcohol: Duty-free alcohol is available at the airport.
Activities and Experiences: Beyond Sailing
While sailing is the main focus, the Seychelles offers a wealth of other activities and experiences:
- Snorkelling and Diving: The Seychelles boasts some of the world’s best snorkelling and diving sites. The Sainte Anne Marine National Park, Île Cocos, and Félicité Island are particularly popular.
- Fishing: Sport fishing is excellent in the Seychelles. Hire a local fishing charter for the best experience.
- Hiking: Explore the lush rainforests and enjoy panoramic views. The Copolia Trail on Mahé and the Glacis Noire Trail on Praslin are recommended.
- Island Hopping: Discover the unique charm of each island. Spend time exploring the local villages, interacting with the friendly locals, and sampling the Creole cuisine.
- Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun.
Environmental Considerations and Responsible Tourism
The Seychelles is a fragile ecosystem, and it’s crucial to practice responsible tourism to minimize your impact:
- Avoid Anchoring on Coral: Use mooring buoys whenever possible.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Do not litter or discharge waste into the sea.
- Respect Marine Life: Avoid touching or feeding marine animals.
- Support Local Businesses: Purchase souvenirs from local artisans and dine at locally owned restaurants.
- Conserve Water and Energy: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption on board your yacht.
Example scenario: You’re anchored off Anse Lazio on Praslin. Instead of dropping anchor directly onto the seabed (potentially damaging coral), look for a mooring buoy provided by the Seychelles National Parks Authority. If no buoy is available, carefully choose a sandy area away from coral formations to drop anchor. When cleaning your boat, use biodegradable soap and avoid discharging grey water near sensitive marine environments.
Safety and Security
The Seychelles is generally a safe destination, but it’s always wise to take precautions:
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables locked away on your yacht.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- Inform the Coast Guard: Notify the Seychelles Coast Guard (phone number +248 438 0000) of your itinerary and expected return date.
- Insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and yacht insurance (if you’re bareboat chartering).
- Medical Facilities: Mahé has the main hospital and several private clinics. Ensure you have necessary vaccinations and medications.
Cost Breakdown: A Sample 7-Day Sailing Trip for 4 People
This is an estimated breakdown and costs can vary significantly:
- Catamaran Charter: €7,000 – €12,000 (depending on size and age)
- Provisioning: €800 – €1,200
- Mooring Fees: €200 – €400
- Fuel: €200 – €400
- Park Fees & Activities: €300 – €500
- Flights: €2,000 – €4,000 (return flights for 4 people)
- Airport Transfers: €100 – €200
- Contingency: €500
- Total: €11,100 – €18,200 (approximately €2,775 – €4,550 per person)
(Crewed/Private Yachts would increase this total by a significant margin.)
Note: This estimate excludes personal expenses, such as souvenirs, dining out, and alcoholic beverages. Crewed charters would drastically increase cost considering crew salaries, tips, and food/drinks costs.
Getting There and Away
The Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé is the main gateway to the islands. Several major airlines offer flights from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Air Seychelles. Check Google Flights or Skyscanner for available routes and prices. From the airport, you can take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your charter base or accommodation.
Essential Packing List
Besides the usual clothing items, consider packing following necessities:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing: Think swimwear, t-shirts, shorts, and sarongs.
- Reef-safe Sunscreen: Essential for protecting your skin and the coral reefs.
- Hat and Sunglasses: To shield yourself from the sun.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the evenings.
- Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.
- Snorkelling Gear: If you prefer your own.
- Dry Bag: To protect your electronics from water.
- Motion Sickness Medication: If you are prone to seasickness.
- Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Underwater Camera: Capture the stunning underwater scenery.
- Adapters: The Seychelles uses UK-style (Type G) plugs.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to sail in the Seychelles?
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the best balance of weather, prices, and fewer crowds. The southeast trade winds are still present but less strong, and the humidity is lower compared to the northwest monsoon season.
Do I need a sailing license to charter a yacht in the Seychelles?
For bareboat charters, you typically need a valid sailing license (e.g., ICC, RYA Day Skipper) and prior sailing experience. Charter companies will assess your qualifications and experience before approving your charter. Even with proper certifications, you should have a full understanding of boat safety and operation.
What currency is used in the Seychelles?
The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the official currency. Euros and US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Is it safe to drink tap water in the Seychelles?
It is generally not recommended to drink tap water. Bottled water is readily available for purchase.
What languages are spoken in the Seychelles?
Creole, English, and French are the official languages.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency?
Contact the Seychelles Coast Guard (phone number +248 438 0000) or your charter company for assistance. Mahé has the main hospital and several private clinics.
References
- Imray Charts
- Seychelles National Parks Authority
- Seychelles Tourism Board
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Picture yourself sailing through turquoise waters, exploring secluded beaches, and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the Seychelles. Don’t just dream it – book your sailing holiday today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the options offered by Dream Yacht Charter or The Moorings and start planning! The Seychelles awaits!
