The Essential Seychelles

After checking out of your hotel and exploring Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, you'll board Le Bougainville for your nine-day expedition cruise. Your day on Mahé includes discovering Victoria's highlights, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to impressive mountain views, rich museums showcasing the island's history and culture, and the renowned Botanical Gardens.

Once a private property and now a thriving nature reserve, Cousin Island is a must for anyone wanting to see the diverse wildlife of the Seychelles. Aiming to safeguard the endemic animals and plants, this island became a special reserve in 1974 and is home to unique birds like the Seychelles warbler and the Seychelles fody, along with the most important breeding site for Hawksbill turtles in the Western Indian Ocean.

On day seven you’ll have the opportunity to explore Remire Island. This idyllic island offers a variety of activities, from snorkelling in its turquoise waters to exploring its diverse flora and fauna. Whether you choose to relax on its pristine beaches, hike through its lush interior, or discover the wonders beneath the waves, Remire Island promises an unforgettable experience.

Curieuse Island is a must-visit destination in the Seychelles, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and historical significance. Home to a large population of Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely, the island also boasts unique flora, including the Coco de Mer palm and extensive mangrove forests. Declared a national marine park in 1979, the island and its surrounding waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving, while its pristine beaches and turquoise waters provide a tranquil escape.

Aride Island is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts traveling to the Seychelles, particularly bird lovers. This small island boasts an incredible diversity of seabirds, with more breeding species than any other island in the archipelago. Aride is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Wright's Gardenia and a high density of lizards. The island's pristine beaches and dramatic granite cliffs add to its appeal, creating a picturesque setting for nature walks and wildlife observation.

Grande Sœur Island, a short distance north of La Digue, is a must-visit. This idyllic island boasts two stunning beaches, framed by crystal-clear waters and a vibrant coral reef, making it a haven for snorkelling and swimming. The protected waters teem with colourful fish and graceful sea turtles, offering an unforgettable underwater experience. With its untouched sands, lush vegetation, and serene atmosphere, Grande Sœur provides a true escape from the everyday and it’s no wonder that this is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Seychelles.

Praslin is a Seychelles gem, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a primordial forest famed for the Coco de Mer palm. Beyond this natural wonder, Praslin boasts world-class beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, offering pristine sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic granite formations that are perfect for relaxing on. Appealing to nature lovers, beachgoers, and those seeking a slice of paradise, Praslin offers a diverse range of activities. Explore the Vallée de Mai's unique ecosystem, hike through its lush trails, or simply unwind on its idyllic shores. Snorkelling and diving are also popular, allowing you to discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters.

Beyond its picture-perfect shores, La Digue offers a glimpse into traditional Seychellois life, with opportunities to explore historic plantations and experience the laid-back charm of an island where bicycles are the primary mode of transport. This small, tranquil island, famed for its iconic Anse Source d'Argent beach with its dramatic granite boulders and turquoise waters, offers a unique blend of experiences. From the vibrant beauty of Anse Source d'Argent to the quiet and authentic charm of the island's interior, La Digue has something to offer everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, you'll find it here.

Your Seychelles cruise comes to an end today as you disembark in Mahé. You’ll have the chance to explore the island before boarding a plane to Dubai for your post-cruise stay.

End your adventure with a four-night stay at One&Only The Palm before your return flight to the UK. Your stay at this prestigious resort promises an array of unforgettable experiences. From its elegant suites and private villas to its exquisite restaurants and rejuvenating spa, the One&Only The Palm provides the perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence before your journey home.