Why Go Sailing in the Seychelles?
If you're looking for an ideal sailing destination with the most beautiful beaches and spectacular scenery that isn't too crowded, yacht charter in the Seychelles is a perfect choice. The Seychelles archipelago consists of 155 islands known as Paradise on Earth, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Untouched nature, coral reefs, tropical vegetation, and excellent island-hopping possibilities made Seychelles islands perfect for sailing holiday destination.
Charter a yacht in the Seychelles and explore the Inner Islands with their three main islands: Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Sail around Coralline Seychelles and immerse yourself in its untouched scenery. Did you know that these islands are often referred to as the original Garden of Eden? No better way of finding out why is that so than to explore the island country while sailing from one spectacular island to another.
Choose Your Perfect Boat in the Seychelles
Sailing Conditions in the Seychelles
Seychelles islands have a tropical climate, so the weather is warm during the whole year, making Seychelles a dream yacht rental destination. Depending on the tropical trade winds, there are two seasons, with calm transition periods in between. Northwest trade winds blow from December to March, averaging from 8 to 12 knots, bringing in the hot and humid weather. The weather is drier and cooler from May to September, while the winds switch to the southeast, averaging from 10 to 20 knots.
The average air temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C, while the sea temperature ranges from 26°C to 30°C, both year-round. Although the Seychelles are outside the cyclone belt, generally there’s more precipitation from December to March. Despite some periods being more dry or rainy, the weather in Seychelles is pleasant year-round. Having a tropical climate means that sudden weather changes are always possible, no matter the season. But as the rain might occur out of nowhere, it can also change back to sunny weather in no time – perfect for a sailing adventure.
Tides on Seychelles occur within the gap of approximately 6 hours. They average from 2 m during the spring tide, and 0,9 m during the neap tide. Sea currents are moderate with an average of 1,5 knots, so opting for a bareboat yacht charter in Seychelles is a good idea. During rough seas, rip currents might occur in the Beau Vallon area. There might not be safety information on all beaches, so be aware of the changes and ask the locals for advice on the conditions.
Sailing Regions in the Seychelles
Important Info for Sailing in the Seychelles
Best Time to Sail
April - September
Weather/Climate
Tropical
Sailing License
Required + SRC licence + adequate sailing resume
Currency
Seychellois Rupee (SCR)
Spoken Language
French, English
Top Attractions
Anse Lazio Beach (Praslin), Anse Intendance Beach, Port Victoria (Mahé), La Digue Island, Curieuse Island, Morne Seychellois NP, Ste Anne Marine NP, Beau Vallon Beach, Vallée de Mai NP, Bird Island, Aldabra
Top Reasons to Visit Seychelles
Chartering a yacht in Seychelles solely to lounge on those alluring beaches would be a shame considering the sheer abundance of things to do and see while sailing in Seychelles. Firstly, you should put Vallée de Mai in your sailing itinerary as Seychelles is home to the renowned Coco de Mer, a rare species of palm tree. The UNESCO-listed ancient palm forest that makes up the lush interior of Praslin Island is the only place in the Seychelles where all six varieties of palms coexist. Visiting one of the tiniest cities in the world, Victoria, a capital that is impossible to get lost in, is also a must. The rainbow-colored Hindu Sri Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple, the colonial clock tower, and the National Museum of History, which offers an introduction to Creole culture, are all worth seeing.
The next attraction you should visit when you charter a yacht in the Seychelles is the Copolia Trail. Its 500-meter-high top offers expansive granite views of Victoria, the nation's capital, the turquoise waters, and nearby islands including Praslin, La Digue, and the man-made resort island of Eden.
Try going to the top of the 905-meter-high Morne Seychellois if you've already experienced Copolia and your hiking boots are itching for a further challenge. Morne Seychellois National Park, which occupies 20% of Mahé, is dotted with nature paths and is home to several rare indigenous species, including the elusive Seychelles Scops-owl. For a break from cruising the islands on your Seychelles yacht rental, take a tour of the Takamaka Rum Distillery and taste the spirit of Seychelles.