There aren't many places on Earth where hawks-bill turtles feel so unthreatened that they come ashore in broad daylight to lay their eggs. These exotic Gallic outposts were made for exploring by sea, with BBQ breaks on deserted islands, every-day swimming stops, and walking tours through the lush interiors. Scattered across the Indian Ocean, some 1,000 miles east of Kenya, these 115 islands offer everything from unsurpassed white sandy beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites and incredible wildlife.
A small granitic island providing a safe haven for a number of endangered bird species, notably the Seychelles fody, Seychelles warbler, Seychelles magpie robin and Seychelles blue-pigeon. Dense concentrations of nesting seabirds show no fear of humans, allowing for fabulous photo opportunities.
Discover Praslin, home to the UNESCO-protected Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and it's coco de mer trees, the largest seed in the planet kingdom. The island is also home to the rare black parrot.
Back on deck, enjoy deck-side BBQ; take out the kayaks, snorkel or swim from the ship's swimming platform and marvel at hundreds of species of rainbow-hued fish, as well as manta rays, spinner dolphins and green and hawks-bill turtles. or dip into the mini-spa on the lower deck for some seaside pampering. Step in tune with nature or swim with the turtles while enjoying an intimate floating home that offers every comfort.
Welcome to the Seychelles, the Variety way. This natural paradise will be your home for the next few days: expect cultural immersion, uninhabited islands, and unique biospheres. But first, enjoy a welcome drink before we set sail for our first stop, Sainte Anne. We know you’ve been waiting to dive into the inviting Indian Ocean: this is your first chance of many. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor. A sea turtle on a beach
An early departure means we’ll be at the uninhabited island of Curieuse ready for a day of excursions: guided walking tours, mangrove forest exploration, giant tortoise spotting, and more. Welcome in the afternoon with a beach barbecue and snorkelling opportunities or, with beaches this beautiful, you may prefer to simply lie back and soak it all in. We wouldn’t blame you. Overnight at anchor. View to Seychelles' tropical island
From Curieuse to Anse Lazio. But first a visit to Cousin Island: the entire island has been a nature reserve since 1968. We’ll visit the bird sanctuary before sailing onwards to Anse Lazio in Praslin - globally recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, the time is yours; enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or napping, before heading back to the ship. Overnight at anchor. A serene beach with clear blue water and palm trees, visited on a Variety Cruises excursion
Experience a wake up call like no other: experienced island rangers will take you on an early-morning guided tour to the top of the island for a one-in-a-million vantage point. Be sure to bring your camera. Aride is famous for numerous indiginous species; your guide will point these out as you traverse the unique landscape. At noon we sail to St. Pierre Island for 3 hours of snorkelling and swimming. Dry off, and enjoy a sunset sail to Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, in time for a cultural Creole Night. Overnight at dock. *Aride island often closed by local authorities during Southeast Trade winds (from May to September as a guideline). It may also close at short notice during strong winds. During this time, weather permitting, Variety Cruises Captain will be calling at equally beautiful locales, visiting Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette. Palm trees in the lush and tropical Vallee de Mai, Seychelles
Get ready to disembark at 9 am, but first enjoy a breakfast on board. We never like saying goodbye, so instead let us say we hope to sea you soon!
In case of severe weather conditions our expertly designed routes are adjusted ensuring your safety & comfort by applying our rich marine knowledge, garnered since 1949. Stay flexible – Adventure on.