Charter Destination — Seychelles

Luxury yacht charter · Mediterranean

Overview

The Seychelles — 115 granite and coral islands scattered across the western Indian Ocean north of Madagascar — represent the ultimate tropical charter destination. Unlike the manufactured glamour of some resort islands, the Seychelles' beauty is entirely natural: ancient rounded boulders of pink granite tumble into clear water; endemic coco-de-mer palms arch over deserted beaches; and the extraordinary biodiversity of the archipelago — giant tortoises, fairy terns, flying foxes — creates an atmosphere closer to a David Attenborough documentary than a typical charter itinerary.

Key Islands & Anchorages

Mahé: The main island and charter base — Victoria is the smallest capital in the world, with a charming market, botanical gardens and a view of the mountains rising behind. Beau Vallon Bay is the best anchorage on the north coast.
Praslin: Home to the Vallée de Mai — a UNESCO World Heritage forest where the extraordinary coco-de-mer palm grows wild and the rare black parrot (Seychelles black parrot) calls from the canopy. Anse Lazio is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
La Digue: The most romantic of the Seychelles' inhabited islands — no private cars, bicycles only, and Anse Source d'Argent's pink granite boulders and shallow water are the most photographed beach scenery in the Indian Ocean.
Curieuse Island: A marine park island with a giant tortoise breeding station — snorkelling on the fringing reef and a ranger-guided walk through the tortoise enclosure.
North Island: The most exclusive private island resort in the Seychelles — 11 villas, entirely bespoke service and a beach that appeared in a James Bond film. Accessible by helicopter from Mahé.

Best Season

April–May and October–November, when the winds are light and seas calm. The SE trade wind (May–September) brings stronger conditions ideal for sailing; the NW monsoon (November–March) is wetter but warm. The Seychelles' seasons are dramatically different — always plan the itinerary around the prevailing winds.

Charter Considerations

The Seychelles is an independent republic — a cruising permit and port entry formalities are required. Seychellois Rupee but USD and Euro widely accepted. APA 25–30%. The inner islands (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue) are the main charter area; the outer islands (Aldabra, Assumption) require longer passages and additional permits. Fly into Mahé International Airport from Dubai, Doha, Paris or Nairobi.