The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, is often described as paradise on earth, showcasing stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. This idyllic destination is perfect for cruise enthusiasts who want to explore idyllic shores and vibrant marine life. Did you know that the Seychelles is home to the world’s smallest inhabited island, Île aux Serpents? With its diverse ecosystems, stunning sunsets, and the friendliest locals, a cruise to the Seychelles offers an unforgettable tropical experience. Enjoy the freedom of hopping from one breathtaking island to another while indulging in luxury and relaxation onboard your ship!
Major Cruise Lines Offering Excursions to the Seychelles
- Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 2 vessels visiting the Seychelles, namely Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky. These ships are well-known for their laid-back atmosphere and freestyle dining options that allow cruisers to relish delectable meals when they choose. Most cruises to Seychelles depart from Port Louis or Doha, giving you access to incredible journeys amidst pristine landscapes.
- Holland America Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with 1 making the journey to the Seychelles: Zuiderdam. Recognised for its refined dining and enriching onboard activities, Holland America ensures an elegant cruising experience. Departures typically occur from Sydney, Singapore, or Fort Lauderdale, providing flexibility in planning your getaway to this exotic paradise.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to the Seychelles
- Oceania Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 8, Oceania has 3 ships sailing to the Seychelles. Nautica and Insignia are particularly popular, both offering sophisticated dining options and intimate cruising experiences. Cruises most often depart from Cape Town or Singapore, allowing you to start your luxurious adventure beautifully.
- Silversea: With 12 vessels in its fleet, Silversea has 3 that cruise to the Seychelles, including Silver Dawn and Silver Muse. Renowned for their all-suite accommodations and exceptional service, these ships create an upscale onboard atmosphere. Departures usually occur from Brisbane, Cape Town, or Singapore, ensuring a grand start to your explorations.
- Seabourn: This luxurious cruise line features a fleet of 6, with 1 ship dedicated to the Seychelles: Seabourn Sojourn. Known for its bespoke experiences and excellent service, this ship offers an unrivalled tropical retreat. Departures typically happen from Cape Town or Mahe, ensuring you kick off your journey in style.
Top Harbours to Experience in the Seychelles
- Mahé Island: As the largest island in the Seychelles, Mahé welcomes cruisers with stunning beaches and lush landscapes. Visit the vibrant capital of Victoria, where you can explore the famous clock tower and the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. Don’t miss a visit to the Morne Seychellois National Park for breathtaking views and scenic hikes.
- La Digue Island: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, La Digue is home to the iconic Anse Source d’Argent beach with its giant granite boulders. When your cruise docks here, rent a bicycle to explore the island, visit the L’Union Estate to learn about vanilla cultivation, or simply enjoy a beach day in the sun.
- Praslin Island: Famous for the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this island is perfect for nature lovers. When visiting, walk through the dense palm forest and admire the exotic coco de mer palms. The gorgeous beaches of Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are also perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Curieuse Island: Once a leprosy settlement, Curieuse now serves as a nature reserve and is home to giant Aldabra tortoises. You can stroll through the reserve to see these magnificent creatures, take a guided tour of the island, or enjoy a relaxing beach picnic surrounded by stunning scenery.
- Bird Island: A haven for bird lovers, Bird Island is home to thousands of nesting seabirds, including the famous sooty terns. When you dock here, you can enjoy guided walks to see magical wildlife, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or simply relaxing on the beach while observing the diverse birdlife.
When to Cruise the Seychelles
The Seychelles boasts pleasant weather year-round, making it a fantastic cruise destination at any time. From January to March, temperatures average between 25°C and 31°C, with pleasant humidity levels—perfect for swimming and sunbathing. In April to June, you can expect relatively cooler temperatures, ranging from 23°C to 29°C, while the humidity remains manageable, allowing for explorations both on land and sea. July to September offers mild weather, with temperatures dipping slightly to around 21°C to 28°C, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities. Finally, October to December brings back the warm temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 32°C—a beautiful period to enjoy tropical adventures!
The Cost of a Cruise to the Seychelles
When planning your trip, the typical cost of a one-week cruise to the Seychelles ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 AUD depending on the cruise line, ship, and cabin category. For luxury options, prices may rise between $5,500 and $9,000 AUD, promising high-end amenities and unforgettable onboard experiences.
As for dining, local eats in Seychelles can be enjoyed at about $15 to $35 AUD for a meal at a casual restaurant, with drinks costing around $5 to $10 AUD for cocktails or local beers. This allows you to dive into delightful creole flavours while soaking in the beautiful surroundings!
Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise
If you’re contemplating a cruise to the Seychelles, consider these intriguing alternatives:
- Maldives – Another stunning archipelago, the Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts and idyllic overwater bungalows, offering unparalleled tranquility and spectacular underwater experiences.
- French Polynesia – Famous for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures, this idyllic region is perfect for those eager to explore lush emerald islands and magnificent beaches.
- Indian Ocean – Covering multiple countries and unique island vacations, exploring other Indian Ocean locales offers the chance to experience diverse cultures and breathtaking beaches.
- Africa – From stunning safaris to rich cultures, Africa offers a plethora of experiences that beautifully contrast with a tropical cruise atmosphere.
- Canary Islands – Known for their striking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the Canary Islands combine European vibes with tropical adventures, making this destination intriguing for any traveler.
Whatever your heart desires, booking a cruise to the Seychelles or exploring its alternatives with Cruise1st ensures an unforgettable escape to paradise. Prepare to make lasting memories, indulge in local flavours, and discover the beauty of the fantastic islands that await!