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The Seychelles are a group of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, known for their unspoilt nature, chalk white beaches and crystal clear waters.
Historical background
Discovery and colonisation: The islands were first discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century and yet they remained uninhabited until French colonists arrived in the 18th century. Under French rule the islands were named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, a French finance minister. British rule: The British took over the islands at the beginning of the 19th century and they remained a British colony until independence in 1976. This period saw the development of the plantation economy in the islands, based primarily on sugar and spices. Independence and modern times: Since independence the Seychelles has developed in to a stable democracy, with a focus on tourism, fishing and the preservation of the unique environment in the islands.
Culture and traditions
The local culture of the Seychelles is a lovely combination of African, French, Indian and British influences. This is reflected in the local language, food, music and lifestyle.
Important cultural highlights
Traditions and festivals
Summary
The Seychelles are a tropical paradise with a unique combination of the splendours of nature and very rich cultural diversity. The isolation of the islands has helped to protect both the environment as well as local culture and this makes them a fantastic destination for sailing, diving, snorkelling and nature experiences. Sailing in the Seychelles involves visiting untouched bays and anchorages, seeing spectacular landscapes and meeting warm and friendly local people who love to share aspects of their culture with guests. The Seychelles is made up of two main island groups: the Inner and the Outer Islands. The Inner Islands are most popular for sailing and feature dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The Outer Islands are more remote and harder to reach, they are perfect for more adventurous sailing.
Wind and weather:
7 day sailing itinerary in the Inner Islands (based on Mahé)
| Day | Route | Distance (nm) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mahé → Sainte Anne | 5 nm | Marina, snorkelling, restaurants. |
| 2 | Sainte Anne → Cerf | 3 nm | Beaches, snorkelling, peaceful anchorages. |
| 3 | Cerf → Praslin | 25 nm | Vallée de Mai (UNESCO), Anse Lazio beach. |
| 4 | Praslin → La Digue | 7 nm | Cycling, Anse Source d'Argent, sea cliffs. |
| 5 | La Digue → Félicité | 10 nm | Private island, quiet nature and snorkelling. |
| 6 | Félicité → Curieuse | 6 nm | Sea turtle sanctuary, mangrove swamp. |
| 7 | Curieuse → Mahé | 30 nm | Return to Mahé, markets and city life. |
Day by day description
Day 1: Mahé → Sainte Anne (5 nm) Start from the main island of Mahé and sail a short stage to Sainte Anne, a protected marine National Park with clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. There are restaurants and good opportunities for anchoring. Activities: Snorkelling, walking, good food in the marina restaurant. Day 2: Sainte Anne → Cerf (3 nm) A short sail to Cerf Island, known for its untouched beaches and tranquil bays, perfect for relaxation. Activities: beach walks, snorkelling, kayaking. Day 3: Cerf → Praslin (25 nm) Sail to Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles. Here you’ll find the Vallée de Mai, a unique rainforest and world heritage site, as well as the famous Anse Lazio beach. Activities: Hiking in the Vallée de Mai, swimming at Anse Lazio. Day 4: Praslin → La Digue (7 nm) A short sail to La Digue where you can hire bicycles and explore the charming villages on the island, beautiful beaches and the iconic cliffs at Anse Source d'Argent. Activities: cycling, snorkelling, photography. Day 5: La Digue → Félicité (10 nm) Sail to the private island of Félicité, a relaxed place with good snorkelling opportunities and nature experiences. Activities: Snorkelling, sunbathing, nature walks. Day 6: Félicité → Curieuse (6 nm) Visit Curieuse Island, known for its sea turtle sanctuary and mangrove swamp. A great stop for nature lovers. Activities: Visit the sanctuary, hike and snorkel. Day 7: Curieuse → Mahé (30 nm) Return to Mahé where you can explore the capital city of Victoria and visit restaurants and local markets. Activities: Sightseeing, shopping, relaxation.
Total distance: ca 86 nautical miles.
