Yacht Charter Seychelles

For bareboat charters in the Seychelles, you’ll need a recognised sailing qualification such as RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104, or ICC (International Certificate of Competence). You should also demonstrate recent sailing experience—most charter companies require at least 2 weeks of bareboat experience within the last 3 years. Seychelles waters require careful navigation due to granite rock formations, coral reefs, and varying currents. The Inner Islands offer relatively protected sailing with islands in sight. Given the unique conditions and valuable marine environment, many charterers opt for skippered charters where local captains provide expertise on safe anchorages, marine parks, and wildlife viewing.

The Seychelles offers excellent year-round sailing with two distinct seasons. The southeast trade winds (May-September) bring steady winds of 15-20 knots—perfect for sailing but slightly cooler (24-28°C) with occasional rougher seas on windward coasts. The northwest monsoon (October-April) provides calmer seas, warmer temperatures (28-32°C), and lighter winds—ideal for families and beginners. Transition months (April-May, October-November) can have variable winds. December-January is peak season with the best weather but highest prices. May-June and September-October offer excellent conditions with lower prices. The Seychelles’ position near the equator means no hurricanes and consistent warm water year-round.

The Seychelles is a premium charter destination. A basic 38-40ft monohull bareboat starts from around USD $4,200/week in low season up to USD $9,000/week during Christmas-New Year. Catamarans cost 60-80% more. Skippered charters add USD $200-250/day, whilst fully crewed luxury charters start from USD $14,500/week. Budget for significant extras: fuel (USD $400-800), provisioning (expensive and limited—USD $150-250/person), Seychelles cruising permits (USD $100-200), marine park fees (numerous—USD $10-30 per park per person), and marina fees (USD $50-100/night). Overall costs are substantially higher than Mediterranean destinations but comparable to Maldives.

Standard yacht charters typically include: the yacht itself, standard equipment and safety gear, bed linen and towels, final cleaning, and dinghy with outboard motor. Not included are: fuel, provisioning (very expensive and limited—stock up in Victoria), Seychelles cruising permits, marine park entrance fees (most islands are protected parks), marina fees, skipper/crew (unless booked), and optional extras. Anchoring in most locations requires paying marine park fees. Always check your charter contract for specific inclusions as Seychelles charters can vary in what’s provided.

Yes, all charter vessels in the Seychelles require cruising permits and various marine park permits. Your charter company typically handles the main cruising permit (around USD $100-200). However, most islands and anchorages are within marine national parks, each requiring separate entrance fees (typically USD $10-30 per person per park). Popular parks include Sainte Anne Marine Park, Curieuse Marine Park, Baie Ternay Marine Park, and Port Launay Marine Park. Vallée de Mai on Praslin (UNESCO site) has its own entry fee. Your charter company will provide detailed information about required permits and fees. The Seychelles takes environmental protection very seriously, and these fees help preserve this unique ecosystem.

The Seychelles is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots with numerous endemic species found nowhere else. On land, you’ll encounter giant Aldabra tortoises (particularly on Curieuse Island), rare Seychelles black parrots, and unique Coco de Mer palms with the world’s largest seeds. In the water, see hawksbill and green sea turtles (nesting beaches on many islands), tropical fish, dolphins, and seasonal whale sharks. The pristine coral reefs support incredible marine biodiversity. Bird life includes fairy terns, tropicbirds, and frigatebirds. The combination of unique wildlife, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and pristine nature makes the Seychelles exceptional for nature lovers. Your skipper can guide you to the best wildlife viewing opportunities.