Discover the Untamed Beauty: A Seychelles Cruise Off the Beaten Path

The picturesque islands of Seychelles, known for their aquamarine waters and granite landscapes, have long attracted travelers seeking paradise. A recent addition to the experience is a luxury small-ship cruise that allows visitors to explore these stunning islands without the constraints of typical resort stays.

Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, lies off the eastern coast of Africa. This nation, uninhabited until 1770 when the French established settlement, has gained a reputation for its natural beauty and fusion of Creole, French, and English cultures. Since gaining independence in 1976, Seychelles has emerged as one of Africa’s wealthiest nations, focusing on luxury tourism and fishing. While many tourists flock to the upscale resorts on the main islands—Mahé, Praslin, or La Digue—they often overlook the silent beauty of uninhabited islands, serene coves, and some of the world’s finest snorkeling spots.

A new luxury catamaran from Ponant, named the Spirit of Ponant, offers a personalized journey through the archipelago, allowing guests to uncover its hidden gems. Unlike conventional cruises with set itineraries, this experience tailors the journey based on weather conditions and guest preferences, led by Captain Harold Antoine and his deputy Shanyl Changtime.

Starting from Mahé, the cruise will unveil renowned destinations such as La Digue, famous for its rugged landscape and traditional Creole architecture. Guests can participate in cycling tours to historic sites like L’Union Estate or meander through jungle trails leading to stunning beaches like Anse Marron.

Curieuse Island presents the opportunity to walk among the imposing Aldabra tortoises that roam freely in a sanctuary. The serene environment includes a trail through mangroves to a quiet beach where these ancient tortoises can be observed.

Other highlights include visiting bird sanctuaries on Cousin Island and the cultural importance of the Saint-Anne Marine Park, the first marine protected area in the Indian Ocean. Iconic beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Coco offer stunning scenery with turquoise waters and granite boulders, perfect for sun-seekers and photographers alike.

Snorkeling is a major feature of the cruise, particularly near uninhabited Cocos Island, where vibrant marine life can be observed. Guests may encounter various fish species and possibly even dolphins or hawksbill turtles.

Evenings onboard reveal breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean, accompanied by delightful aperitifs and locally inspired culinary feasts prepared by chef John Rosette. Dishes highlight the essence of Seychellois cuisine, from baked snapper to rich crab curry, all served family-style.

Designed for relaxation, the 77-foot Lagoon 77 catamaran caters to travelers seeking an indulgent, informal escape. It features six guest cabins, each thoughtfully designed with en-suite bathrooms and ample storage. Open-air lounging areas provide idyllic spots for enjoying the stunning views.

For those eager for adventure, equipment for paddleboarding and fishing is available, as well as opportunities to learn wing foiling, a challenging water sport.

Cabins on the Spirit of Ponant begin at around £7,380 per person for a seven-night all-inclusive trip, and options for chartering are also available. Flights are provided by several airlines, including Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, to Seychelles’ capital, Mahé.

This unique sailing experience not only allows for indulgence in luxury but also immerses travelers in the untamed beauty and serene rhythm of the Seychelles’ islands.

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