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Seychelles Cruise Itinerary: 7 Dreamy Days on a Catamaran

By Kanika from SamBoat - November 8, 2024

We’re offering you a week-long itinerary on the sea to discover the islands of the Seychelles. With 115 islands, the Seychelles archipelago is the perfect place to sail and explore slices of paradise. With or without a skipper, rent a catamaran in the Seychelles and sail from island to island, from Mahé to Praslin, including stops at La Digue.

Practical Tips

The Seychelles islands, with their tropical climate, are ideal for year-round sailing. This cruise is perfect for discovering breathtaking landscapes and diving into crystal-clear waters.

Supplies: Water and Food

Note that options to restock on water and food are limited to the main islands. You can refill water and buy supplies on Mahé, La Digue, and Praslin only. Be sure to plan your shopping carefully before heading to the less inhabited islands where these services aren’t available. Make sure you have enough resources for your entire cruise!

Landing and Mooring Fees

Landing fees are required on several islands in the Seychelles. Here are the applicable rates:

  • Aride – SCR 650
  • Cousin – SCR 600
  • Curieuse & St. Pierre – SCR 300
  • Cocos – SCR 200
  • Ste. Anne – SCR 200
  • Mahé – Bay Ternay – SCR 200
  • Mahé – Port Launay – SCR 200

These fees help preserve natural parks and reserves. It’s essential to include these costs in your budget. The prices above are estimates and may vary year to year.

In addition to the above fees, overnight moorings in marine parks cost SCR 250 per night per boat. The parks affected include Aride, Cousin, Curieuse, Praslin Anse Petite Cour, St. Pierre, Cocos, Ste. Anne, Mahé Baie Ternay, Mahé Port Launay, and Silhouette. Also, check for specific visiting hours for natural reserves, as some may have set opening hours.

7-Day Seychelles Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: Mahé → Sainte Anne

Distance: 6 NM (1 hour of sailing)

Your cruise starts from Victoria, on the island of Mahé. You’ll take possession of your sailboat or catamaran here. Once stocked up, we recommend setting sail for Sainte Anne.

Day 2: Sainte Anne → Ilet Cocos → Praslin

  • Distance:
    Sainte Anne to Ilet Cocos – 28 NM (4 hours 40 minutes)
    Ilet Cocos to Praslin – 5 NM (50 minutes)

The tiny island of Ilet Cocos is a gem, known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for diving. A protected nature reserve, it hosts rich marine and land biodiversity, creating an idyllic setting for nature lovers.

With two UNESCO World Heritage sites, this island offers a stunning spectacle. Discover the Vallée de Mai, its palm trees, and sea coconuts. Praslin also boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, like Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette.

Day 3: Praslin → La Digue

Distance: 4 NM (40 minutes of sailing)

On the third day, set sail towards La Digue, the smallest island of the Seychelles archipelago. Here, you’ll find the authentic charm of the Caribbean. Spend the day exploring nature, giant tortoises, and some 250 species of nesting birds before anchoring for the night.

Day 4: La Digue → Saint Pierre → Curieuse

  • Distance:
    La Digue to Saint Pierre – 5.5 NM (55 minutes)
    Saint Pierre to Curieuse – 2 NM (20 minutes)

Today’s route heads to Saint Pierre, a small iconic island of the Seychelles, famous for its dramatic rocky landscapes and turquoise waters. It’s a popular diving spot, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Then, head to Curieuse Island, known for its lush nature and many protected animal species. Spend the day admiring the sea coconuts and giant tortoises of the Seychelles—you may never tire of it!

Day 5: Curieuse → Aride → Cousin

  • Distance:
    Curieuse to Aride – 6 NM (1 hour)
    Aride to Cousin – 7 NM (1 hour 15 minutes)

Don’t be misled by the name; Aride Island is a green paradise teeming with colorful bird species. You can’t spend the night here, so we suggest heading to Cousin Island instead.

Day 6: Cousin → Praslin

Distance: 3 NM (30 minutes of sailing)

Leave one paradise to discover another. A true nature reserve, Cousin Island is home to many protected bird species, viewable on certain days. Spend the night in Praslin, anchoring in Sainte Anne Bay.

Day 7: Praslin → Mahé

Distance: 24 NM (4 hours)

On the final day of your cruise, it’s time to return to Mahé. We recommend leaving early in the morning to explore Mahé after your boat check-out. There’s so much to do to conclude your Seychelles cruise in style: visit Victoria, stroll the island’s beaches, and enjoy a sunset dinner.

This itinerary allows you to enjoy the Seychelles’ stunning landscapes while considering logistical and regulatory constraints. Before setting sail, check out our ultimate guide on the Seychelles.

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