Cruises from Mahe - Seychelles

The country of Seychelles is a chain of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean situated 1,600 km/980 mi east of mainland Africa and northeast of Madagascar. Mahé Island located in northeast Seychelles is the largest of the islands. Approximately 90% of the 80,000 residents live in Victoria, the city capital. Presently, Mahé has a shortage of housing and is in the midst of a large land reclamation project.

The country of Seychelles has a tropical climate. The North West Trade Winds blow in the island throughout October and March. The sea is calm and temperatures are usually warm and humid year round. The climate of Mahé makes it an attractive tourist destination. Because of its tropical climate, Mahé serves as a sanctuary for some of the most rare and exotic plants and animals on earth.

Together with Praslin and La Digue, Mahé forms the cultural centre and gateway to the country of Seychelles. These inner islands are granitic, which is a hard, crystalline, plutonic rock of grey to pink colour containing feldspar, quartz and varied amounts of other minerals. The seventy-three outer islands, those located beyond the Seychelles plateau are coralline islands. These islands are limestone formed from red algae, which resembles coral. Only two of the outer islands, Alhonse and Desroches are accessible.

Mahé offers accommodation at fifteen beautiful full service hotels, chalets and resorts. Most accommodation includes swimming pools, snorkelling areas and excursions. Whether you want to be close to the beaches or in alcoves beneath or on a hilltop, you can find your dream spot in Mahé. Restaurants are available at most hotels or nearby. The beaches of Mahé are among the most beautiful in the world. The L’Union Estate beach on La Digue Island is as pristine as the Vallee de Mai beach on Praslin is legendary.

Take an excursion from Mahé to thirteen neighbouring islands including the Ste. Anne six star resort. Visit Aride Island the most important nature reserve in the world. The Ile Coco Marine National Park boasts of its turquoise sea and coral reefs. The magnificent hillsides of Curieuse Island will take your breath away with its unique colours and Coco de mer trees. A visit to the Anne Marine National Park is where to discover sea grass meadows unmatched by other marine reserves in the world. See the world’s smallest frog and heaviest land tortoise and the flightless bird.

In Mahé, shop at the Craft Village situated on a former plantation where you can wander through the buildings and fields uninterrupted. The Supa Save is the best place to purchase items such as snacks and drinks. The Kreol Fleurage outlets are good for souvenirs and toiletries. It is best to avoid buying shells, coral and tortoise shells; they fall into the category of illegal goods in some countries. Confiscation of these items is a possibility when leaving Seychelles or when entering your own country; you could incur a fine as well.