From Mahé to the northern islands: granite landscapes, turquoise lagoons and spectacular underwater worlds
10 Days Sailing Itinerary in the Seychelles
Discover the Seychelles at your own pace, following a route that combines unspoilt nature with sheltered anchorages. From the capital, Victoria, to the bird sanctuaries of Aride, via the turquoise waters of Coco Island and the giant tortoises of Curieuse, each stop reveals a new side of the archipelago. Sailing days in the Seychelles are pleasantly short, leaving plenty of time for diving, cycling, or simply relaxing on board your yacht and taking in the horizon.
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step 01
Day 1: Mahé – Eden Island Marina (3 nautical miles)
For your catamaran charter from Mahé, boarding takes place at Eden Island Marina, just a short distance from Victoria. This first day is ideal for settling in on board, checking the equipment, and stocking up on provisions at Victoria’s market. While in town, it’s worth visiting the Clock Tower as well as the covered market, known for its spices and local fruits. Overnight stay in the marina or at anchor off St. Anne, just a few nautical miles away.
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step 02
Day 2: Anse Royale (10 nm)
Anse Royale is a well-protected bay with a beautiful white sandy beach and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for your second night at anchor. Snorkelling along the rocky areas at the edge of the beach is already very rewarding. A few restaurants right by the water offer a relaxed setting for dinner.
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step 03
Day 3: La Digue (30 nm)
This is the longest leg of the route, but arriving at La Digue is absolutely worth it. There are hardly any cars on the island, so getting around is mainly by bicycle or on foot, which gives it a very relaxed and unique atmosphere. Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world: huge pink granite boulders set in crystal-clear water… almost surreal. Located in L’Union Estate, with its Creole plantation house and vanilla plantation, there is plenty here that is worth a visit.
Please note: there is a small entrance fee to access L’Union Estate. -
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Day 4: Félicité (5 nm)
Just about 40 minutes from La Digue lies Félicité, a small private island with an impressive underwater world. Hawksbill turtles, leopard rays, and brightly coloured reef fish can all be spotted here – even with just a mask and snorkel, there’s plenty to discover, making it a perfect stop during your sailing boat charter. A short stop, but ideal for spending a relaxed half-day snorkelling in stunning surroundings.
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step 05
Day 5: Coco Island (2 nm)
Coco Island is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. The small island remains untouched, the water is exceptionally clear, and the seabed begins just a few metres from the shore. It’s one of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the Seychelles, with colours that are simply incredible. It’s best to set aside a full day here to fully enjoy everything at a relaxed pace.
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step 06
Day 6: Curieuse – Anse Volbert (9 nm)
Curieuse is a protected nature reserve where giant tortoises roam freely – a truly impressive sight. The mangroves covering part of the island can be explored either on foot or by kayak. In the late afternoon, you continue on to Anse Volbert, where you anchor off a long white sandy beach. Several restaurants are located right on the shore, perfect for a relaxed dinner with your feet in the sand.
Please note: mooring fees apply in this area. -
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Day 7: Île Aride (15 nm)
Aride is the northernmost island of the granitic archipelago and likely the most unspoilt. There are no roads and no permanent residents, just thousands of birds. The island is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the Indian Ocean, home to several endemic species found nowhere else. The reef surrounding the island is also exceptional and ideal for diving – a real highlight of the trip.
Important: anchoring is only permitted during the day, and overnight stays are not allowed. -
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Day 8: Silhouette (30 nm)
Silhouette is the third-largest island in the Seychelles and remains largely untouched. The anchorage is located at Pointe Varreur and is well protected from the south-east winds by two breakwaters. The seabed is sandy, but space is limited. The island’s interior is covered in dense tropical rainforest, which can be explored on foot directly from the beach.
Important: anchoring in the harbour area is only permitted with authorisation from the harbourmaster. -
step 09
Day 9: Anse Major – Baie Ternay (12 nm)
Heading back towards Mahé with two stops that are among the island’s most beautiful. Anse Major is only accessible by boat – a stunning beach with turquoise waters and usually a pleasantly quiet atmosphere. Nearby, Anse Jasmin offers three small coves and excellent snorkelling spots. The perfect finale is Baie Ternay in the Morne Seychellois National Park.
Important: anchoring is not allowed in Baie Ternay; visitors must use the park’s mooring buoys. Overnight stays are only permitted at a minimum distance of 600 metres from the shore. -
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Day 10: Île Thérèse – Mahé (15 nm)
Final stop at Île Thérèse, lined by one of Mahé’s most beautiful, unspoilt beaches. The anchorage lies in 8 to 9 metres of crystal-clear water, perfect for one last dive or snorkelling session before heading back. In the late afternoon, return to Eden Island Marina for check-out. Book your sailing trip in the Seychelles now and discover the breathtaking beauty of this island paradise.