Seychelles Cruises

The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. With its exotic flora and fauna, this paradise offers unique wildlife encounters and unparalleled opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Fun fact: the Seychelles is home to Aldabra Atoll, one of the largest raised coral atolls in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cruising to the Seychelles allows visitors to explore multiple islands, experience the warmth of the local culture, and indulge in the exquisite cuisine—all while relaxing in the comfort of a luxury cruise liner.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Seychelles

• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 7 of them offering itineraries to the Seychelles. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky are particularly popular for their variety of dining options and expansive onboard amenities. The Norwegian Dawn features a stunning spa and fitness area, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Most departures occur from Port Louis or Doha, providing convenient access to uncover the beauty of this stunning archipelago.
• Holland America Line boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with 1 specifically dedicated to itineraries in the Seychelles. The Zuiderdam is noted for its elegant design and culinary excellence, featuring onboard cooking demonstrations and wine tastings to immerse guests in local flavours. Most cruises set sail from Sydney, Australia or Singapore, making it easy for guests to embark on their charming Pan-Indian Ocean journey.
• MSC Cruises has a fleet consisting of 23 ships, with 5 offering cruises to the Seychelles. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside are well-loved for their family-friendly atmosphere and extensive entertainment options, including themed parties and spectacular on-board shows. Departures usually take place from Miami or Fort de France, ensuring easy access to this tropical destination.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 1 focused on visiting the Seychelles. The Azura is known for its casual elegance, featuring multiple dining options and an inviting pool area. Most cruises depart from Barbados or Southampton, making it convenient for UK travellers to begin their exploration of this idyllic destination.
• Carnival Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with 3 dedicated to the Seychelles. The Carnival Dream and Carnival Sunrise are favourites for their fun-filled atmosphere and diverse entertainment experiences, ensuring passengers have plenty of activities to enjoy. Departures primarily occur from Miami or Galveston, allowing easy access for a vibrant cruise adventure.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Seychelles

• Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 including itineraries that highlight the Seychelles. The Marina and Regatta are well-known for their luxurious atmosphere and exceptional dining experiences that focus on local ingredients. Departures typically occur from Miami or Rome, providing a sophisticated entry to your exploration of this tropical paradise.
• Azamara Cruises offers a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries including the Seychelles. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are celebrated for their emphasis on immersive destination experiences, often allowing late-night port stays that bring guests closer to local culture. Departures mostly happen from Miami or Barbados, making for smooth transitions into this enchanting region.
• Seabourn has a luxurious fleet size of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to the Seychelles itineraries. The Seabourn Ovation is known for its ultra-luxurious experience and superb service, offering all-inclusive amenities for every guest. Departures typically occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, providing a welcoming start to your journey through this stunning archipelago.
• Explora Journeys comprises 2 ships, both offering itineraries that feature the Seychelles. The EXPLORA I and II focus on luxury and wellness, promising a relaxing atmosphere while on board. Departures most frequently occur from Miami or San Juan, creating smooth beginnings to your beautiful journey across the islands.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries featuring the Seychelles. The Bolette and Balmoral offer traditional cruising experiences with friendly service. Departures are usually from Southampton or Liverpool, making access easy for UK cruisers excited to discover the incredible beauty of the Seychelles.

Top Harbours and Activities in Seychelles

• Mahé – As the largest island in the Seychelles, Mahé is home to stunning beaches, lush jungles, and unique wildlife. Visit the famous Beau Vallon beach for swimming and sunbathing, or explore the trails of Morne Seychellois National Park, showcasing the island’s endemic flora and fauna. Don’t miss a local market such as Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in Victoria for a taste of authentic Seychellois culture and cuisine.
• Praslin – Praslin is known for its breathtaking beaches and the UNESCO World Heritage site, Vallée de Mai, which is home to the rare Coco de Mer palm tree. Spend your time relaxing at Anse Lazio, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and consider taking a guided tour to explore the unique wildlife at Vallée de Mai. The local restaurants serve up delicious Creole dishes that provide a taste of the island’s diverse culinary culture.
• La Digue – La Digue offers a serene getaway with its unspoiled beaches and quaint village charm. Rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace, visiting famous beaches such as Anse Source d’Argent. Discover lush plantations and enjoy dining at rustic beachside restaurants serving local seafood. Don’t miss out on the vibrant hibiscus and coconut trees as you traverse the picturesque landscape.
• Curieuse Island – This small island is famous for its giant tortoise reserve and rich biodiversity. Spend time hiking the nature trails and observing wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy stunning views from various lookout points, and consider taking a boat excursion to snorkel in the surrounding waters, showcasing the vibrant coral reefs.
• Félicité Island – A lesser-known gem of the Seychelles, Félicité offers pristine beaches and azure waters perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. Explore the island’s natural beauty, and take a guided tour to discover the unique wildlife. This peaceful escape provides the perfect opportunity for relaxation and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Best Times to Cruise to the Seychelles

The Seychelles has a tropical climate, making it a beautiful destination year-round. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Spring (April to June) sees slightly warmer temperatures and calm seas, making it an excellent time for sailing and diving. The summer months (July to September) are cooler, with temperatures around 24°C to 29°C, but they also bring occasional rain—perfect for exploring the lush flora and fauna. Autumn (October to December) features warm temperatures averaging 25°C to 31°C, ideal for relaxation and enjoying vibrant local festivals.

Costs of Cruising to the Seychelles

A one-week cruise to the Seychelles generally costs between £1,000 and £2,000, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodations selected. Luxury cruises typically start around £3,500, with prices increasing based on the level of service and amenities to be enjoyed. Visitors can expect to spend around £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks usually range from £3 to £10, allowing you to relish the exquisite local cuisine throughout your journey.

The captivating landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of the Seychelles await your exploration. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and set sail for an unforgettable adventure in this stunning Indian Ocean paradise!