Your Seychelles Vacation, Upgraded: Island-Hopping by Yacht
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Nature, Luxury, and the Indian Ocean Breeze
Floating like a string of emeralds in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles are what tropical daydreams are made of.
Think: palm-lined beaches, giant granite boulders, postcard-colored water, giant tortoises, and sunsets that melt into the sea. This archipelago of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa is home to some of the most jaw-dropping natural beauty in the world — and the best way to explore it all? From the deck of a sailing yacht.
A sailing charter in the Seychelles means you’ll wake up in a different secluded bay each morning, snorkel off the back of your boat in crystal-clear water, and eat fresh seafood under the stars — all with no rigid schedule and no need to repack your bags.
It’s barefoot luxury with a twist of wild nature, and an island-hopping trip you’ll never forget.
How to Get There
Getting to the Seychelles is surprisingly straightforward:
Fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on the main island, Mahé
• Direct flights are available from Europe (Paris, Frankfurt, London), Doha, Dubai, Nairobi, and Johannesburg
• Most sailing trips depart from Eden Island Marina near Victoria, just a short drive from the airport
• Some charters can also begin from Praslin, the second-largest island
Within an hour of landing, you can be barefoot on deck, sipping something cold, and plotting your first stop.
Nature, Culture, and Island Magic
The Seychelles offer a perfect mix of lush landscapes, underwater treasures, and cultural charm. Here’s what makes it all unforgettable:
🏝️ La Digue
No cars, just bikes. This tiny island is famous for Anse Source d’Argent, a beach straight out of a dream — soft sand, towering granite boulders, and shallow turquoise water.
🌴 Praslin
Home to the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed forest that feels like Jurassic Park. This is where the coco de mer palm grows — a rare and iconic symbol of the Seychelles.
🐢 Curieuse Island
Meet giant Aldabra tortoises roaming free, lounge on red-sand beaches, and snorkel through coral gardens just offshore.
🐠 St. Pierre Islet
Tiny, rocky, and absolutely gorgeous — this spot is one of the best for snorkeling and sunset views with a Creole rum punch in hand.
🐦 Cousin Island
A protected nature reserve where you can spot rare birds and enjoy completely untouched island vibes.
🍲 Creole Cuisine
Seafood curries, grilled fish, tropical fruits, and coconut everything — every island has its own spin on local flavors.
Suggested 7-Day / 7-Night Sailing Itinerary - Round trip from Mahé
This itinerary is designed to keep each day’s sailing short (2–3 hours max), while still giving you plenty of time to snorkel, relax, and explore.
Day 1: Mahé > Sainte Anne Marine Park (1.5 hrs)
Start with a calm sail to this protected zone just offshore. Clear water, coral reefs, and a relaxing first night at anchor.
Day 2: Sainte Anne > Praslin (3 hrs)
Sail northeast to the second-largest island. Visit Vallée de Mai and take a dip at Anse Lazio — often voted one of the world’s best beaches.
Day 3: Praslin > Curieuse Island (1.5 hrs)
Short hop to see wild tortoises, hike through mangroves, and enjoy a beach BBQ with freshly grilled fish and lobster.
Day 4: Curieuse > La Digue (2 hrs)
Explore by bicycle — ride to Anse Source d’Argent and stop for coconut drinks along the way. This is one of the most photogenic days of the trip.
Day 5: La Digue > St. Pierre Islet > Back to Praslin (2 hrs total)
Snorkel around St. Pierre Islet, then head to a quiet bay in Praslin for the night.
Day 6: Praslin > Cousin Island (1.5 hrs)
Drop anchor and take a guided visit to the nature reserve. Birdwatching, hiking, and total serenity.
Day 7: Cousin Island > Mahé (3.5 hrs)
Enjoy one last long sail across open waters, with time for a final swim and a celebratory sundowner.
Best Time to Visit
The Seychelles are a year-round destination, but here’s how to plan your ideal trip:
☀️ Best Months:
April–May and October–November offer the calmest seas, best snorkeling visibility, and balmy weather. These are the shoulder seasons — perfect for sailing.
🌬️ Trade Wind Season:
May–September brings southeast winds — good for experienced sailors, but can be breezier with a little more swell.
🌧️ Rainy Season:
December–February is more humid, with occasional tropical showers. Still beautiful, just a little wetter.
Why a Sailing Vacation is Ideal
Here’s the thing: many of the Seychelles’ most magical spots can’t be reached easily by land. And even the ones that can? Expect crowds and ferry timetables.
When you charter a sailboat, your accommodation moves with you. You get the freedom to explore at your own rhythm, access to empty beaches, and the ability to snorkel straight off the back of your yacht.
There’s no packing, no unpacking, and no stress — just turquoise water, palm-fringed bays, and world-class nature every single day.
Recommended Sailing Experience Level
The Seychelles are ideal for both experienced sailors and first-timers booking a skippered charter.
• Short daily distances
• Calm anchorages
• Reliable forecasts and easy navigation
• Local skippers know the tides and winds well
• Perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends
If you’re seeking a mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic island culture, this destination delivers.
A Vacation That Feels Like a Reset
Sailing the Seychelles isn’t just a vacation — it’s an experience that shifts your rhythm. One day you’re swimming with reef fish under a coconut tree, the next you’re sipping rosé while giant tortoises wander nearby.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a special celebration, or a long-overdue escape with friends, the Seychelles will leave you feeling connected, refreshed, and more than a little sun-kissed.
Ready to Set Sail?
Let Sail.Wind.Sea help you plan the ultimate Seychelles sailing vacation — tailored to your group, your vibe, and your budget. Let’s build your island-hopping dream in the Seychelles, one beach at a time.