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The Beauty of Sailing and Yachting in Seychelles

GVI

Posted: February 24, 2023

When you think of a paradise island for a sailing and yachting vacation, there is no better destination than Seychelles. Located off the east coast of Africa, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands offering both breathtaking natural beauty and sheltered waters perfect for navigating. From sailing in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean to exploring the hidden beaches and coves of the inner islands, Seychelles provides an unforgettable experience for adventurers. In this article, you will find all you need to know about sailing and yachting in Seychelles, from its rich history, to the best places to explore, and what to consider for planning your trip. Let’s begin!

A Brief History of Sailing and Yachting in Seychelles

The first documentation of sailing and yachting in Seychelles comes from ancient Arab traders. From as early as the 10th century, they would travel by boat between Mauritius, Madagascar, and Seychelles to trade. In later years, Europeans would come to call Seychelles their home and brought with them many sailing and boating traditions. From then on, Seychelles prospered with sailing and yachting being one of the most popular activities for both locals and visitors. In modern times, sailing and yachting remain immensely popular activities due to its natural beauty as well as its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, perfect for creating out-of-this-world experiences.

Popular Yacht and Sailboat Destinations in Seychelles

Getting a boat or yacht ready for exploration can often feel intimidating, so it’s best to start by discovering some popular destinations in Seychelles. While there is virtually no part of this archipelago that isn’t full of beauty, these are some of the high points you’ll want to visit if sailing or yachting in Seychelles.

La Digue – this inner island is one of the most scenic spots in Seychelles with its sandy beaches, rugged terrain, and stunning views.
Silhouette Island – located just northwest of Mahé, Silhouette Island is renowned for its spectacular reefs and white sand beaches.
Praslin – located northeast of Mahé, Praslin is one of the most beautiful islands in Seychelles with lush tropical vegetation and many stunning bays.
Bird Island – located just north of Mahé, Bird Island is a tropical paradise for bird watchers due to its abundance of seabirds.
Desroches – located southwest of Mahé, Desroches is known for its stunning white-sand beaches and great kitesurfing opportunities.

What to Consider When Planning a Yacht or Sailboat Trip to Seychelles

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just getting started in the world of yacht and sailboat trips, it pays to consider all the different factors that will make your trip a success. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning a yacht or sailboat trip to Seychelles:

Accommodation – aim to secure a berth in a marina near your desired destination for easy access. It is also advisable to research local accommodation options depending on how long your trip lasts.
Weather – Seychelles lies between the northeast monsoon season (December to March) and southeast monsoon season (June to September). It is important to check up on local weather forecasts to ensure that you plan your voyage accordingly.
Fees and regulations – be sure to research all applicable mooring, anchoring, customs and excise rules before you leave. Additionally, you should also be aware of any restrictions or limitations imposed on boaters.

Sailing and Yachting Regulations in Seychelles

When it comes to sailing and yachting in Seychelles, safety should always be your top priority. Regulations relating to sailing and boat navigation vary from island to island so it pays to familiarise yourself with local laws. Generally speaking, all vessels must keep a minimum distance of 200 meters from each other when navigating plus at least 100m from any shoreline. It is also important to know that vessels may not discharge any kind of waste within 12nm (22km) from any island. All navigation lights must be visible from 3nm (5.5km) away.

Top Tips for Experiencing the Best of Sailing and Yachting in Seychelles

Exploring Seychelles by yacht or sailboat offers you unrivalled access to both natural beauty and local culture. Here are some tips for experiencing the very best sailing and yachting trips in this part of the world:

Invest in quality items – high-quality sailing equipment can make the difference between a safe journey full of adventures and mishaps.
Rely on local knowledge – seek advice from local sailors when preparing and travelling around Seychelles as they will be able to provide hints about currents, reefs or difficult passages.
Be mindful of your environment – always respect marine life by avoiding speedboats around them or throwing away any trash. Additionally, check local fishing restrictions before travelling.
5. Stay safe – make sure all safety equipment is present on your boat including life jackets, first-aid kits, navigation charts and radio communication devices.

Marine Sightings During Sailing and Yachting in Seychelles

The waters around Seychelles are teeming with marine life which you can enjoy during your sailing trip like never before. While there are too many species live in these waters to list them all here briefly some popular sightings include: dolphins, whales, sea turtles, seahorses, stingrays and reef sharks. You may also be lucky enough to see rare wildlife such as dugongs, whale sharks, manta rays or even hammerhead sharks during your journey! No matter what you see during your sailing trip, keep in mind that you should always observe wildlife from a safe distance as both sea creatures and sailors alike can become frightened by unexpected movements.

Unique Experiences for Sailors and Yacht Lovers Visiting Seychelles

In addition to enjoying its beaches, unique culture and diverse marine life, Seychelles has plenty of unique experiences awaiting adventurous sailors and yacht lovers. From kayaking around some of its inner islands to snorkelling or deep sea diving in its magnificent coral reef systems – no sailor should miss out on some unforgettable experiences! Additionally, there are many festivals held throughout Seychelles throughout the year which offer an unparalleled opportunity for sailors from all over the world to meet each other and share their love for sailing even more closely!

Finding Beauty in Sailing and Yachting in Seychelles

With its spectacular landscapes, vibrant culture and plethora of wild marine creatures, Seychelles offers an unparalleled experience for sailing lovers from all around the world. From experienced sailors looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to beginners wanting to try out their very first sailing experience – Seychelles is a destination waiting to be explored! Take your time researching local weather forecasts, safety regulations and accommodation options before making your way towards this beautiful archipelago. On behalf of all sailors in Seychelles – welcome aboard!

GVI’s marine conservation volunteer and internship programs in Seychelles offer a chance to explore the diverse marine ecosystem and contribute to conservation efforts. You can survey coral reefs, monitor sea turtles, and spot endangered species like whale sharks. Join GVI to learn new skills and make a positive impact on the ocean’s biodiversity today!

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