“Charter a yacht in Seychelles to island hop Curieuse, Cousin, St Pierre, and Praslin, with tortoises and Creole flavours.”
A yacht charter in Seychelles promises a dreamy experience. From one picture perfect anse (beach) to another… and another, the Seychelles’ sugar-white sands are the kind of ‘wish you were here’ postcard destination that is talked about with an envious sigh or a pang of recollection. But there’s more to the islands than the wonderful beaches with flora and fauna galore on show, including the world’s smallest frog and some of the planet’s largest tortoises.
During your yacht charter in Seychelles, chart a course for Curieuse, home to the legendary coco de mer palm and a lush national park with a marvellous nesting sea turtle trail. Cousin is another island paradise known for its abundant birdlife; St Pierre’s attraction lies underwater, and is a snorkelling dream, while Aldabra atoll is ruled by its eponymous tortoise. And, of course, we have to mention Praslin’s lively shores fringed by waving palms and intimate hideaways. A fish and seafood loving nation, your onboard chef will gladly recreate delicious local dishes featuring tuna, snapper, barracuda, lobster, and more (we recommend the Creole octopus curry with side of hearts of palm salad).
Also on Mahé, an excursion to Morne Seychellois National Park, which comprises 20 per cent of the island’s land mass, takes you from coastal mangrove forests up to the cloud-high peak of the country’s highest mountain. Walk up an appetite by following the Copolia trail to reach 497 metres and a panoramic 360-degree vista. Or get guaranteed adrenaline thrills with a skydive over Praslin’s stunning topography.
YACHTS FOR CHARTER IN SEYCHELLES
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Frequently Asked Questions
PLANNING YOUR SEYCHELLES YACHT CHARTER
What is the best time of year for a luxury yacht charter in the Seychelles?
The Seychelles can be enjoyed year-round, but the most desirable months for a luxury yacht charter are between April and May and from October to November. During these periods, the seas are calm, the trade winds gentle, and the climate ideal for both cruising and water activities. Outside these months, strong winds associated with the monsoon seasons can affect sailing conditions and passage planning. This timing ensures excellent diving conditions, abundant marine life, and serene anchorages, making it the perfect season for private exploration.
What is the weather like in the Seychelles during the prime charter season?
The prime season offers warm tropical weather with average daytime temperatures of around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. During this time, the abundance of sun makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as sailing and beach excursions. Rainfall is minimal, and visibility in the water is at its clearest, ideal for snorkelling and diving. Gentle breezes create comfortable conditions for cruising between the islands, while evenings are pleasantly warm for dining on deck or ashore. The waves are typically mild, contributing to safe and enjoyable sailing, especially for families and first-time sailors.
Which airports provide the most convenient access to the Seychelles?
The main point of entry is Seychelles International Airport, located on Mahé. It welcomes direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and selected hubs in Africa. For guests seeking the utmost privacy and efficiency, private jet access is available, with landing directly at Mahé for private jets, followed by onward transfers by helicopter or seaplane to the yacht’s anchorage. This seamless arrival ensures guests step aboard swiftly and comfortably.
VAT & Charter Costs
What is the applicable VAT or tax rate for a luxury yacht charter in the Seychelles?
A value-added tax of 15 per cent is applicable on luxury yacht charters in the Seychelles. Depending on the charter structure and specific arrangements, there may also be cruising permits and environmental fees. Your broker will ensure that all fiscal elements are handled with discretion and precision, leaving you free to focus entirely on your experience.
What is the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) and what does it cover?
The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a sum paid in advance to cover charter expenses that are not included in the charter fee. These may include fuel for the yacht, tenders and water sports equipment, food and beverages, berthing dues and harbour charges, local taxes, divers’ fees, customs formalities, waste disposal, water and electricity taken from shore, ships’ agents’ fees (where applicable), personal laundry, communications and internet use, and any special equipment requested by the Charterer. The Captain will provide detailed accounts of expenditure, and any balance will be settled at the end of your Seychelles yacht charter.
What is the standard percentage for gratuities in yachting?
Gratuities are not included in the charter fee. It is customary, though always at the Charterer’s discretion, to leave a gratuity in recognition of excellent service. As a guideline, a gratuity in the region of 10 to 15 per cent of the contracted gross Charter Fee is considered appropriate.
Destinations & Experiences in the Seychelles
What are the most exclusive yacht charter destinations around the Seychelles?
The Seychelles archipelago offers a collection of over one hundred islands, many of which remain untouched. Eden Island serves as a luxurious marina hub and is a popular starting point for yacht charters, offering convenient access to the region’s pristine waters. Scattered throughout the area are numerous small islands and sandbars, each offering unique opportunities for sailing, hiking, and diving. For those seeking privacy, the outer islands such as Alphonse and Desroches provide seclusion and unspoilt natural beauty. Private islands like North Island and Fregate are particularly appealing for exclusive retreats. The Inner Islands, including Praslin and La Digue, combine ease of access with dramatic, natural scenery, and crystalline waters.
Which iconic attractions should I explore during my Seychelles yacht charter?
Highlights include the Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its legendary coco de mer palms, and the iconic Anse Source d’Argent, famous for its striking granite boulders, white sand, and turquoise waters — making it one of the most photographed white sand beaches in the world. Encounters with giant tortoises on Curieuse Island and the extraordinary bird colonies of Aride offer unique wildlife experiences. After visiting La Digue, do not miss Beau Vallon on Mahé, a popular beach destination celebrated for its white sand beaches and vibrant atmosphere. For divers, Aldabra Atoll provides one of the world’s most remarkable marine environments, featuring thriving coral reefs and home to unique wildlife. Throughout the islands, you will discover many secluded coves, perfect for anchoring, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of Seychelles.
What bespoke experiences and activities can I enjoy while sailing in the Seychelles?
Guests can enjoy private diving excursions with professional instructors, deep-sea fishing expeditions, and curated wellness programmes on deck or at secluded beaches. After boarding your yacht, you can start a relaxing sailing holiday in the Indian Ocean – sunrise yoga sessions, helicopter tours over the archipelago, and candlelit dinners on deserted sandbanks elevate the experience.
Water activities abound, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and the chance to dive among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Those with a taste for culture can enjoy curated visits to Creole art galleries, spice gardens, and local rum distilleries.
Where are the best restaurants and culinary experiences in the Seychelles?
The Seychelles offers an elevated culinary landscape that blends Creole traditions with international refinement. On Praslin, Château de Feuilles is renowned for its intimate fine-dining experience, combining panoramic ocean views with carefully curated menus that celebrate seasonal ingredients. On Mahé, La Grande Maison has earned a discreet reputation among connoisseurs for its refined Creole-inspired cuisine paired with an impressive wine selection, creating one of the most romantic dining settings in the islands.
For guests seeking resort elegance, Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Félicité Island offers a series of exceptional dining concepts, including Island Café and Ocean Kitchen, with bespoke menus tailored to personal preferences. Private islands such as North Island and Fregate present fully bespoke gastronomy, where chefs design each meal around the freshest local produce, often served in extraordinary settings ranging from candlelit beaches to secluded jungle clearings.
