What Cruise Lines Go to Seychelles Top Picks for Island Hopping Adventures

Several top cruise lines, including Ponant, Silversea, and Seabourn, offer luxurious voyages to the Seychelles, specializing in intimate, immersive island-hopping adventures. These expedition-style cruises navigate the archipelago’s hidden coves and granite gems, with expert-led excursions and eco-conscious itineraries. Perfect for explorers seeking pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, these sailings combine comfort with authentic discovery.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises: Offers modern ships with Seychelles itineraries from Dubai.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexible schedules for island hopping in Seychelles.
• Silversea: Luxury all-inclusive voyages with expert-guided excursions.
• Crystal Cruises: High-end service and curated Seychelles experiences.
• MSC Cruises: Affordable options with seasonal Seychelles routes.
• Expedition ships: Small vessels access remote islands for adventure.
• Best time: Visit May–September for ideal sailing conditions.

Why Seychelles Is a Dream Cruise Destination

Imagine turquoise waters lapping against powdery white sand, granite boulders rising from emerald shores, and the scent of tropical blossoms carried on a warm Indian Ocean breeze. This is Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands scattered like jewels across the western Indian Ocean. With its UNESCO-listed nature reserves, rare wildlife such as the giant Aldabra tortoise, and a reputation for luxury and seclusion, Seychelles has become a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. While many visitors arrive by air, an increasing number are discovering the magic of exploring Seychelles by sea—specifically, via cruise ships that unlock the region’s hidden coves, remote atolls, and island-hopping potential.

Unlike traditional land-based stays, cruising offers a unique way to experience multiple islands in one journey, with the added convenience of unpacking just once. Cruise lines that go to Seychelles provide curated itineraries that blend cultural immersion, natural wonders, and onboard luxury. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, the allure of island hopping through this pristine paradise is undeniable. But with so many cruise lines operating globally, which ones actually sail to Seychelles, and what can you expect from their voyages? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines that go to Seychelles, their itineraries, onboard experiences, and insider tips to help you plan your dream island-hopping adventure.

Top Cruise Lines That Go to Seychelles

Several cruise lines offer voyages to Seychelles, ranging from luxury mega-ships to intimate yacht-style vessels. Each operator provides a distinct experience, catering to different traveler preferences—from families and couples to solo adventurers and retirees. Below, we highlight the most reputable and highly rated cruise lines that regularly include Seychelles in their itineraries, along with their standout features.

1. Silversea Cruises – Ultra-Luxury Expedition Voyages

Silversea is synonymous with all-inclusive luxury and expedition cruising, and their Seychelles itineraries are no exception. With ships like the Silver Cloud and Silver Muse, Silversea offers small- to mid-sized vessels (carrying 250–600 guests) that can access smaller ports and anchor close to shore for Zodiac excursions. Their Seychelles routes typically include 7- to 14-day voyages that start or end in Mahe, the capital island, and often include stops at Praslin, La Digue, and the remote outer islands like Aldabra and Astove.

What sets Silversea apart is their all-inclusive model: open bars, butler service, gourmet dining, and even complimentary excursions. For example, their “Seychelles & the Forgotten Islands” itinerary includes guided hikes through Vallée de Mai (a UNESCO site), snorkeling in Sainte Anne Marine Park, and a visit to the Coco de Mer palm forest. The line also partners with the Seychelles Islands Foundation for educational lectures on conservation efforts.

Insider Tip: Book a suite with a veranda for unobstructed views during scenic sail-ins and sunsets. Silversea’s “Door-to-Door” service includes private airport transfers and pre-cruise hotel stays, making it ideal for first-time luxury cruisers.

2. Regent Seven Seas Cruises – All-Inclusive Grandeur

Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) is another leader in the luxury segment, offering fully inclusive voyages with a strong focus on destination immersion. Their Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Voyager frequently include Seychelles in Indian Ocean circuits, often as part of longer 21- to 30-day cruises that may start in Dubai or Mumbai. However, shorter 7- to 10-day segments focused solely on Seychelles are also available.

RSSC’s Seychelles itineraries emphasize cultural experiences: guided tours of the Victoria market, Creole cooking classes, and visits to the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens. Their ships feature spacious suites, multiple specialty restaurants (including Asian and French), and a Canyon Ranch Spa. The line includes unlimited shore excursions, which is a game-changer for travelers who want to explore without worrying about extra costs.

One standout itinerary is the “Seychelles & Maldives Escape,” which pairs island-hopping in Seychelles with a few days in the Maldives—perfect for those wanting to compare two iconic Indian Ocean destinations.

3. Oceania Cruises – Gourmet-Focused Exploration

Known for its culinary excellence and mid-sized ships (684–1,250 guests), Oceania Cruises offers a more relaxed, food-centric approach to cruising. Their Regatta and Insignia ships often feature 10- to 14-day Seychelles voyages, usually departing from or returning to Mauritius or Madagascar. These cruises are ideal for travelers who appreciate fine dining, wine tastings, and destination-focused enrichment programs.

Oceania’s Seychelles itineraries include stops at lesser-known gems like Curieuse Island (home to a tortoise sanctuary) and Cousin Island (a protected nature reserve). Their “Seychelles & Zanzibar” cruise, for instance, includes a spice farm tour in Zanzibar followed by snorkeling at Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue. The line’s Epicurean Explorer Tours offer hands-on experiences like Creole cooking classes with local chefs.

Insider Tip: Oceania offers a “Free Airfare” promotion on select voyages, which can significantly reduce overall costs. Their ships have fewer passengers than mega-liners, resulting in more personalized service and shorter embarkation lines.

4. Seabourn – Intimate Yacht-Style Cruising

Seabourn’s ultra-luxury yachts (carrying 450–600 guests) deliver a boutique, intimate experience. Their Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore often feature 7- to 12-day Seychelles voyages, frequently as part of longer Indian Ocean circuits. Seabourn excels in creating a “floating resort” atmosphere, with open decks, a marina platform for water sports, and a strong emphasis on wellness.

One unique feature is their Seabourn Journeys—optional pre- or post-cruise land programs. For Seychelles, this might include a private island stay at North Island or a guided hike to Morne Blanc for panoramic views. The line also offers complimentary water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding directly from the ship, making it perfect for active travelers.

Seabourn’s “Seychelles & the Southern Indian Ocean” cruise includes a stop at the remote Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible only by expedition-style vessels. Their partnership with the Lindblad Expeditions team adds a science-based perspective to excursions.

5. Ponant – French Elegance & Eco-Conscious Cruising

French-owned Ponant blends European sophistication with eco-friendly practices, making it a top choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Their Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville (both hybrid-electric ships) offer 7- to 11-day Seychelles itineraries with a strong focus on sustainability. Ponant is one of the few lines with a carbon-neutral policy, using LNG fuel and solar panels to reduce emissions.

Itineraries often include visits to the Amirantes Islands and the Aldabra Atoll, with Zodiac landings guided by marine biologists. The line’s “Seychelles & the Coral Triangle” cruise includes a lecture series on coral reef conservation and a snorkeling excursion in Sainte Anne Marine Park. Onboard, French cuisine takes center stage, with menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs.

Insider Tip: Ponant’s ships have a “Blue Eye” underwater lounge—a unique space with hydrophones and video screens that lets you “dive” without getting wet. It’s a hit with families and marine enthusiasts.

Best Itineraries for Island Hopping in Seychelles

Seychelles’ geography—a mix of granitic inner islands and coral atolls—makes it ideal for island hopping. The best itineraries balance iconic destinations with off-the-beaten-path gems, ensuring a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Here’s what to look for in a Seychelles cruise itinerary.

Classic 7-Day Itinerary: Mahe, Praslin & La Digue

This is the most popular route, perfect for first-time visitors. It typically includes:

• Day 1: Embarkation in Mahe (Victoria). Visit the Clock Tower, Creole market, and Morne Seychellois National Park.
• Day 2: Sainte Anne Marine Park. Snorkel or kayak among coral reefs and seagrass beds.
• Day 3: Praslin. Explore Vallée de Mai (home to the rare Coco de Mer palm) and Anse Lazio beach.
• Day 4: Curieuse Island. Walk among giant tortoises and mangrove forests.
• Day 5: La Digue. Bike to Anse Source d’Argent, one of the world’s most photographed beaches.
• Day 6: Cousin Island. Birdwatching and guided nature walks.
• Day 7: Disembark in Mahe.

Why it works: This itinerary covers Seychelles’ “Big Three” islands and includes a mix of activities (snorkeling, hiking, biking). Most luxury lines (Silversea, Seabourn) offer this route.

Expedition-Style 10-Day Itinerary: Outer Islands & Aldabra

For adventurous travelers, this route dives into Seychelles’ remote atolls:

• Days 1–3: Inner islands (Mahe, Praslin, La Digue).
• Days 4–5: Amirantes Islands (Desroches, Poivre). Snorkel among untouched coral reefs.
• Day 6: Alphonse Island. Fly-fishing and diving.
• Days 7–8: Aldabra Atoll. Zodiac landings to see giant tortoises and rare seabirds.
• Days 9–10: Return to Mahe.

Why it works: This itinerary is ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Only expedition-focused lines (Ponant, Seabourn, Silversea) offer it due to the need for Zodiacs and expert guides.

Multi-Country 14-Day Itinerary: Seychelles + Maldives + Zanzibar

This grand voyage combines three Indian Ocean highlights:

• Days 1–5: Seychelles (Mahe, Praslin, La Digue).
• Days 6–8: Maldives. Snorkel in Hanifaru Bay (manta ray hotspot).
• Days 9–11: Zanzibar. Explore Stone Town and spice farms.
• Days 12–14: Return to Seychelles or disembark in Dar es Salaam.

Why it works: Great for travelers who want to compare cultures and marine ecosystems. Oceania and Regent Seven Seas frequently offer this route.

What to Expect Onboard: Luxury vs. Expedition Experiences

Choosing a cruise line isn’t just about the destinations—it’s also about the onboard experience. Seychelles voyages fall into two main categories: luxury resort-style and expedition-focused. Here’s how they differ.

Luxury Resort-Style Cruises (Silversea, Regent, Oceania)

These ships prioritize comfort, service, and gourmet dining. Expect:

• Spacious suites: Most have balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms.
• Multiple dining options: From buffet breakfasts to fine-dining restaurants (e.g., Regent’s Prime 7 steakhouse).
• Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, and enrichment lectures.
• Spa & wellness: Full-service spas, fitness centers, and yoga classes.

Best for: Couples, retirees, and travelers who want a pampered, all-inclusive experience.

Expedition Cruises (Seabourn, Ponant, Silversea Expeditions)

These ships focus on adventure, education, and sustainability. Expect:

• Smaller ships: Fewer passengers (200–600) for a more intimate feel.
• Expert guides: Naturalists, marine biologists, and historians lead excursions.
• Zodiac landings: Direct access to remote areas and wildlife habitats.
• Science focus: Onboard labs, citizen science programs, and conservation lectures.

Best for: Families, solo adventurers, and eco-conscious travelers.

Planning Your Seychelles Cruise: Tips & Considerations

A Seychelles cruise requires careful planning to maximize your experience. Here are key factors to consider.

Best Time to Cruise Seychelles

Seychelles has a tropical climate with two main seasons:

• Dry season (May–September): Cooler temperatures, less humidity, and calm seas. Ideal for snorkeling and diving.
• Wet season (November–March): Warmer, more humid, with occasional rain. Better for birdwatching (migrant birds arrive).

Pro Tip: April and October are shoulder months with fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid December–January if you dislike humidity.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Most nationalities can enter Seychelles visa-free for up to 30 days. Requirements include:

• Valid passport (6+ months).
• Proof of onward travel.
• Health insurance (mandatory for all visitors).

Cruise lines typically handle immigration paperwork, but check with your operator for details.

What to Pack

Pack light but smart:

• Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, snorkel gear, waterproof phone case.
• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics; cover-ups for beach visits; semi-formal attire for onboard dinners.
• Extras: Binoculars, camera, reusable water bottle, motion sickness medication.

Insider Tip: Many cruise lines offer onboard snorkel gear rentals—check before you buy.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Seychelles is committed to eco-tourism. Do your part:

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral.
• Respect wildlife (don’t feed tortoises or touch marine life).
• Choose cruise lines with strong sustainability policies (e.g., Ponant, Silversea’s “Save Our Seas” program).

Data Table: Comparison of Top Seychelles Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Guests)	All-Inclusive?	Average Itinerary Length	Best For	Unique Feature
Silversea	250–600	Yes (excursions included)	7–14 days	Luxury travelers, couples	Butler service, Zodiac expeditions
Regent Seven Seas	700–750	Yes (unlimited excursions)	10–30 days	Families, retirees	Free airfare, specialty dining
Oceania	684–1,250	Yes (beverages, dining)	10–14 days	Foodies, culture seekers	Epicurean Explorer Tours
Seabourn	450–600	Yes (water sports included)	7–12 days	Active travelers, wellness	Marina platform, Seabourn Journeys
Ponant	180–264	Yes (French cuisine)	7–11 days	Eco-travelers, families	Carbon-neutral, Blue Eye lounge

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Perfect Seychelles Cruise

A cruise to Seychelles is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey through one of the world’s most breathtaking archipelagos. Whether you’re drawn to the ultra-luxury of Silversea, the all-inclusive grandeur of Regent, or the eco-conscious elegance of Ponant, there’s a cruise line that matches your travel style. By selecting an itinerary that balances iconic destinations with hidden gems, packing thoughtfully, and respecting the fragile ecosystem, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

Remember, Seychelles is not just about postcard-perfect beaches—it’s about the feeling of standing on a granite rock at sunrise, the thrill of swimming with tortoises, and the warmth of Creole hospitality. With the right cruise line, your island-hopping adventure will be as seamless as it is spectacular. So start planning, pack your bags, and get ready to discover why Seychelles is truly a paradise worth sailing to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to Seychelles for island hopping?

Top cruise lines like Ponant, Silversea, and Crystal Cruises offer luxurious Seychelles itineraries with stops at iconic islands like Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. These lines specialize in small-ship adventures, perfect for exploring hidden coves and coral reefs.

Are there affordable cruise lines that visit the Seychelles?

While most Seychelles cruises are luxury-focused, Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises occasionally include the islands in their Indian Ocean routes with more budget-friendly options. Look for repositioning sailings for lower fares.

Which cruise lines go to Seychelles with eco-friendly practices?

Ponant and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic prioritize sustainability in their Seychelles voyages, using low-emission ships and supporting local conservation projects. Their itineraries often include marine biologist-led excursions.

Do any cruise lines offer private yacht charters in the Seychelles?

Yes! Companies like Dream Yacht Charter and The Moorings provide bareboat or crewed catamarans for self-guided island hopping. These charters allow flexible itineraries to explore the archipelago at your own pace.

What’s the best time of year for Seychelles cruises?

The prime cruising season runs from April to October, avoiding monsoon rains and offering calmer seas. Many cruise lines adjust schedules seasonally, so check specific departure dates when booking.

Can I combine a Seychelles cruise with other Indian Ocean destinations?

Absolutely! Lines like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises often pair Seychelles stops with Mauritius, Madagascar, or Zanzibar in longer 10-14 day itineraries, maximizing your island-hopping adventure.