Seychelles holds a special place in my heart. My first visit to this enchanting paradise was in 2019, and I’ve dreamt of returning ever since. Submerged deep within the heart of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles emerges as an enchanting archipelago, often referred to as The Original Garden of Eden. Comprising 115 alluring islands, scattered like precious gems across the vast canvas of the Indian Ocean, only 33 of which bear the footprint of civilization, it is a world apart.
Situated approximately 1,000 miles off the African coast, the primary island group is a trifecta of natural wonders—Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Each island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from emerald-clad mountains to tranquil beaches and cascading waterfalls. Nature thrives on these idyllic shores, with unique exotic flora and fauna, and the graceful presence of giant tortoises nesting in harmony with their surroundings.
With 490 kilometers of coastline, setting sail on a cruise to Seychelles becomes the best way, in my opinion, to experience this extraordinary destination. Here, you’ll uncover coral reefs, pristine ivory beaches lined with swaying palms, and secluded coves, making Seychelles one of the most remarkable places to explore through the lens of a sailing voyage.
To begin, a brief geographical note to introduce these paradisiacal isles: Seychelles is divided into two distinct regions of islands and islets, separated by approximately 90 kilometers or 150 nautical miles. The first, and most popular, area appeals to travelers thanks to its accessibility, with an international airport on the island of Mahé, home to the Seychelles’ capital, Victoria. The inner islands, including Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette, and Cerf, are all within a 50 nautical mile radius of Mahé, and their landscapes may seem oddly familiar from postcards and travel brochures. There is one longer day passage to reach the inner islands from Mahe, and then short and pleasant sailing trips between them. The outer islands, situated southwest of Mahé, remain relatively unspoiled, with the island of Desroches being one of the few inhabited gems within this remote paradise.
The origin of the name ‘Seychelles’ has an intriguing history. It was bestowed in honor of Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Louis XIV’s finance minister, during a time when the French, already established in Mauritius and Réunion, set their sights on these islands. Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama had once dismissed Seychelles due to its lack of commercial wealth like precious metals, ivory, pearls, or spices. However, it was the French who were captivated by nature’s beauty, especially by the colossal turtles inhabiting the islands. Sailors, traders, and even pirates were drawn to these shores for water, fruits, wood, and the whispers of hidden treasures on Mahé’s terrain. Seychelles remained under British control from the late 18th century until it declared independence in 1976, becoming a sovereign republic. Today, the Seychelles archipelago thrives as a republic inhabited by around 100,000 people, with the majority residing on Mahé. The islanders are predominantly of mixed European and African heritage, with the Catholic faith deeply woven into their cultural fabric.
Sailing these emerald isles from Eden Island on Mahé promises an extraordinary experience. Gentle breezes and favorable weather conditions offer tranquil navigation, leading to the discovery of the archipelago’s hidden gems. Praslin island, for instance, enchants with its magnificent coves, where pink granite rocks caress the turquoise waters, and fine white sands sparkle under the sun’s golden touch. Venturing inland reveals the island’s equally enchanting tropical forest, the Vallée de Mai, where the unique shape of the coco de mer palms led to the affectionate nickname ‘coco-ffesse.’ Here, the curious sight of black parrots will undoubtedly captivate your senses. This is an oasis that transitions seamlessly from the azure sea to the lush greens of tranquility.
With an average sea temperature of 28°C and an awe-inspiring underwater world, every sailor’s heart will dance with delight upon reaching Seychelles. In this realm, nature reigns supreme, protected by numerous natural parks that safeguard the landscape and its precious species. I extend a warm invitation to join us on a sailboat charter in Seychelles for your next holiday, a journey to rediscover this oasis of serenity.
