Aride is a picturesque island surrounded by crystal-clear waters and fringed with sandy beaches. The lush green landscape is dotted with vibrant flora and fauna, including rare bird species. Visitors can explore winding nature trails that lead to stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the coastline. The turquoise waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving to discover colourful coral reefs and marine life. The tranquil atmosphere of Aride provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and appreciation of nature's beauty.
With fiery red soil and a natural coco del mar forest, Curieuse is a curious little island stashed away in the Seychelles. The smallest of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles, Curieuse is less than 3 square meters but has so much history and beauty already swaddled in its name. Between 1829 and 1965, it was a leper colony and you can still see a collection of stone buildings used to house residents.
These days it is home to ongoing conservation work dedicated to protecting the fragile ecosystem of the natural coco forests and the colony of giant tortoises. On the nearby island of Praslin you will find one of the world's best beaches at Anse Lazio. Boulders, Takamaka trees, a beachside restaurant, and blue and white shades set the scene for sandy days laced with saltwater.
Despite being the Seychelles' second-largest island, Praslin has a small population. When you arrive here, you'll see a jungle-covered mountain ridge rising from the ocean, with a few low-rise houses and a tiny jetty. The typical tropical-island triad of sun, sea, and sand is a major draw, but there are also botanical wonders, amazing birdlife, and the slow speed of traditional Seychellois island life to be found.
For those charter guests who dream of swimming alongside sea turtles, the Iles Cocos & Felicite are a must. This small selection of islets sit a few miles north of La Digue in the sweet Seychelles Archipelago. Iles Cocos is a first class spot for snorkeling. With crystal clear waters and hundreds of turtles, it’s a dream locale for dropping anchor and plunging into the perfect shades of blue. A little further along and you find Felicite Island. A vision of forest and granite, this island was once a coconut plantation but has now been turned into an intimate resort. As part of the protected marine park you can snorkel and dive in pristine surroundings with just a few boats for company as fellow sailors find themselves smitten by the wealth of water life and the native turtles.
The smaller Seychelles island of La Digue is the laid-back sibling to the larger Seychelles islands of Mahé and Praslin. Window boxes and plant pots overflow with flowers as Creole houses nestle under papaya trees. As wooden pirogues float across the bay, fishermen saunter along the road with sticks hung with fish. This is where authentic Seychellois island life can be found.
Created in the early seventies, the Saint Anne Marine Park has been protected and sculpted to perfection. Just 5km from the shores of Mahe, this watersport paradise has six islands and reefs that capture every shape and size and colour possible. While watersports are certainly on the cards, everything is geared towards protecting the area and the wildlife that call these waters home. Fishing and waterskiing are banned but snorkelling, diving, and kayaking are world class. Coral gardens, turtles, and fish along with over 75 different species of flora make for a fascinating water safari. Dolphins and reef sharks are also regular explorers around these parts. You will find the best snorkel spots at the Saint Anne Channel where visibility is mirror-like and there’s never any shortage of characters to swim alongside.
Port Victoria is the bright and blooming capital of Seychelles. With its fabulous festival scene, its bustling markets, foodie delights, and well-tended botanical gardens. Victoria is one of the smallest capitals in the world which gives it that glorious community feel. Situated on the tight and narrow shores of Mahe, this pint-sized capital packs a punch. Founded by the French back in the 18th century before being taken over by Britain, you can find out heaps of Victoria’s history by visiting the National Museum of History. The botanical garden is an absolute highlight for charter guests wanting to bliss out in the shade of towering coco de mar palms and fragrant spice groves. Brimming with temples, monuments, churches, mosques, and quaint galleries, it's easy to get a well-stacked schedule in Victoria.