Sailing Seychelles

Seychelles is an Indian Ocean archipelago of granite islands and coral atolls, with steady southeast trade winds from May to October. Most charter yachts base in the northeast of Mahé, and the busiest hub is Eden Island, a purpose-built marina with berths, fuel, and chandlery within a short drive of the international airport. If you are picking up a bareboat, Eden Island is the most likely starting point, and it is the natural place to provision before heading north.

From Eden Island, the classic route runs northeast to Praslin Marina, about 25 nautical miles away. Praslin is the second-largest island and home to the Vallée de Mai, where the coco de mer palm grows. The marina sits on the southwest coast, sheltered from the prevailing wind, and is a good stop for supplies or a night ashore before exploring the anchorages around Curieuse and St. Pierre. Further east, La Digue Marina serves the island of La Digue, known for its granite beaches and quiet pace. The crossing from Praslin is short, and the marina gives you a secure base while you take a bike or on foot to see the coast.

Between these marinas you will find most of what sailors come for: clear water, coral reefs, and anchorages that are rarely crowded outside the peak months. The southeast trade wind builds through June and July, so plan passages in the morning and pick anchorages with shelter from the southeast. The granite islands create dramatic scenery, but they also make careful pilotage essential. Reefs and coral heads are common, so daylight arrivals and a good look at the chart are part of standard practice.

Charter companies in Seychelles usually offer bareboat and skippered options, and most itineraries work as a loop: Eden Island to Praslin, Praslin to La Digue, then back via the same route or with an overnight stop. The distances are short enough that you can sail at a relaxed pace, but the wind and current deserve respect. The season from April to October offers the most reliable breeze, while November to March brings lighter winds and more rain.