This charming set of islands has a fascinating cultural mélange in the Indian Ocean, with beaches straight off a film set and many unique species of plant and animal. There’s no better way to explore the archipelago than by luxury yacht charter.
Located some 600 miles to the north-east of Kenya, the Seychelles are spread across 100 small islands in the Indian Ocean. The four main islands are Mahé, Praslin, Le Digue and Silhouette.
A great point of embarkation is St Anne on Praslin island, and from here you can set sail onto a magical Seychelles yacht charter that takes in crystal-clear waters above lively coral reefs, prehistoric forests of giant coco de mer palm and quaint island villages inhabited by fishermen and farmers.
Try the award-winning Rock Spa at Fregate Island for a special retreat.
This World Heritage-listed nature reserve on Praslin is a treasure trove of indigenous flora and fauna. It is one of only two locations where you can find the gargantuan coco de mer palm in its natural habitat, which will leave you feeling dwarfed next to its 30-metre fronds. There are three hiking trails of varying length through the forest, and keen bird watchers will be in heaven. Keep an eye out for the Seychelles bulbul and warbler, the blue pigeon and the endangered black parrot.
Step into quotidian life in the Seychelles with a trip to capital city Victoria’s covered market. Although small by African standards, this makes a visit all the more manageable and a perfect start to the day before cruising out of the city onboard your yacht. This colourful and vibrant market is where locals head to buy their fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as picking up the catch of the day straight off the local fishing boats. You will also be able to pick up souvenirs including colourful local sarongs (known as pareos), herbs and spices.
At La Digue island, take a tender ashore to the quaint fishing port of La Passe. Life is set at a slower pace on La Digue, and it will feel like you have stepped back in time as the locals make their way about the day in ox-carts and on bicycles. It’s the perfect spot to drop anchor for a day or two, walk along pristine white-sand beaches and explore the fantastic diving and snorkelling among the reefs.
From secluded atoll anchorages to traditional island culture, a yacht charter in the Maldives will calm the mind and refresh the body. Fish for your own fresh sushi, enjoy a romantic dinner on a remote sandbar, and enjoy some of the clearest reef dives in the world.
The Maldives is famed for its rare underwater beauty. The abundance of psychedelic colours and variety of life underwater has captivated divers and water enthusiasts since the Maldives was discovered as a diving destination.
The Seychelles possess such natural beauty that legend has it that they are the original site of the 'Garden of Eden'. Whatever the truth, a yacht charter through the 115 islands of the Seychelles archipelago is sure to provide a real sense of paradise.
