Aldabra & The Coralline Seychelles Cruise

Embark on the voyage of a lifetime from Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Settle into your luxurious design suite on board Aqua Lares and meet your Cruise Director and Naturalist Guides. Enroute to our first destination, enjoy panoramic views from the sundeck as we sail past neighboring islands of the Sainte Anne National Marine Park. ​

Wake up to views of the remote African Banks, a destination rarely visited by cruises in Seychelles. Unlike the mountainous islands we passed by on the first day, the African Banks are defined by their flat coralline sand cays and atolls. Experience a true sense of Seychelles tranquility on these pristine shores and cool off with a swim in the surrounding crystal-clear waters. After lunch, we head to Remire Island to observe sea and land birds around the coastal vegetation, while keeping an eye out for giant tortoises. Remire also presents an ideal scuba diving opportunity for those interested in a closer look at the region's marine life. We cap off the day with a sundowner on the island's pristine white-sand shores. ​

As we spend the day sailing south towards Aldabra, treat yourself to some R&R at the onboard spa or jacuzzi. For the avid birdwatchers, being out at sea presents the opportunity to spot red-footed boobies soaring overhead in their hunt for flying fish. If you wish, sit in for presentations by our expert naturalist guides to learn more about the Seychelles' unique geology, flora, and fauna. Savor world-class dining throughout the day and end the evening with stargazing from the sundeck. ​

Wake up to views of Aldabra, a coral atoll known to harbor one of the world's most isolated ecosystems. Aldabra is home to the largest population of giant tortoises on the planet, with more that 100,000 of these incredible creatures roaming the atoll's four islands. The surrounding waters are home to a thriving population of tropical fish, sharks, and sea turtles, coupled with occasional manta ray sightings as well. ​

We continue our exploration of Aldabra with guided walks along the coast accompanied by coconut crabs and frigatebirds. On board private tenders, explore Aldabra's lagoon and rich mangrove forests made up largely of endemic flora. The coral atoll also offers incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, characterized by an abundance of marine life all year round.​

Start the day with a guided tender excursion along Cosmoledo Atoll's lagoon, in search of seabirds such as masked gannets and brown boobies, both of which aren't found anywhere else in the Seychelles. After lunch, we make our way to Astove, known to be one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Indian Ocean courtesy of the Astove Wall. Often described as the underwater Grand Canyon, this four-mile-long wall is covered in soft corals and frequented by marine life including rays, sharks, and reef fish. It features plunging depths and incredible visibility that can extend up to 40 meters. Astove is a bucket-list item for every avid underwater explorer. ​

Start the day exploring Farquhar Island with its vibrant azure waters, rich marine life, and abundance of seabirds including red-footed boobies. Snorkelers and divers get a chance to be among the few to explore undiscovered coral reefs around these islands. This is also a great spot for flyfishing and kayaking for those who wish to partake. ​

In the morning, we head out on tenders for a scenic ride to Alphonse Island. While there, explore a lush coconut forest and enjoy snorkeling along the shore to discover stunning hard coral formations teeming with marine life. Cool off at the pristine white-sand beach and if conditions are favorable, embark on a serene kayaking adventure in the lagoon.​

Spend the morning exploring Poivre atoll, made up primarily of two islands. The northern island features a coconut forest and the ruins of an old distillery. Occasionally, migratory birds such as whimbrels and ruddy turnstones can be spotted here. Over in the south, we find a completely uninhabited island ruled by nature. The lagoons around the southern island are home to an abundance of sea turtles, juvenile sharks, and stingrays. After lunch, we head to Desroches Island for encounters with giant tortoises. There will also be opportunities to snorkel and discover the island's reef system. ​

Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board before bidding farewell to Aqua Lares and the crew. ​

Itineraries are subject to change.