Yacht charter Seychelles

The Seychelles – A Tropical Paradise in the Indian Ocean

The Seychelles is a dreamlike island nation in the Indian Ocean, located about 1,600 kilometers east of Africa. The archipelago consists of 115 islands, many of which boast white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. The main island, Mahé, is home to the capital, Victoria – the political and economic center of the republic.

A Natural Paradise Rich in Exotic Diversity

The Seychelles is renowned for its unique granite rock formations, pristine coral reefs, and exotic wildlife – including the famous giant tortoises of Aldabra. The consistently warm, tropical climate makes the islands an attractive destination for nature lovers, luxury travelers, and honeymooners alike.

Around half of the land and sea area is protected, with two regions – including the Aldabra Atoll – listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The islands are home to many endemic species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

Sailing in Paradise

For sailors, the Seychelles are considered one of the best sailing grounds in the world:

Ideal sailing weather year-round
No hurricanes or dangerous animals
Short distances between islands
Low crime and no extreme poverty

Crystal-clear waters, powdery white beaches, gentle monsoon winds, and quiet coves make every sailing trip unforgettable. Catamarans are especially popular, gliding through sheltered bays that offer stunning snorkeling opportunities. Overnight anchoring is common, and marinas or refueling stations are available in Victoria (Mahé), Bay St. Anne (Praslin), and on La Digue.

Geography and Population

The core of the Seychelles consists of 32 larger, mountainous granite islands – the Inner Islands – surrounded by countless coral islands, known as the Outer Islands, which span a vast marine territory of over 400,000 km². Most of the roughly 100,000 inhabitants live on the Inner Islands, especially on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

Key island groups and atolls include:

Seychelles Bank: including Denis, Frégate, Silhouette, Cousin, and North Island
Almirante Group: including St. Joseph, Poivre, and African Banks
Outer Islands: Aldabra Atoll, Cosmoledo, Farquhar, Providence, Platte, Coetivy

Economy and Culinary Delights

Tourism – particularly in the luxury sector – is the most important economic driver. To diversify the economy, fishing and sustainable agriculture are also gaining importance. The Seychelles’ cuisine reflects its multicultural population, with influences from Indian, French, Arab, and Chinese traditions. The air is filled with the scent of vanilla and cinnamon plantations, while fresh seafood, coconut-based dishes, and exotic spices delight the senses.

Exploring Culture and History

Those interested in the cultural heritage of the Seychelles should visit the La Digue Estate open-air museum, with its historic coconut plantation, or explore the National Museum in Victoria, which offers insight into the archipelago’s rich history and the lives of its people.