Saint Anne Marine Park is a premier destination for sailors seeking natural beauty and vibrant marine life. The park encompasses six small islands and offers protected anchorages with crystal-clear waters and abundant coral reefs. You can enjoy excellent snorkeling and diving, encountering diverse sea life. The park’s pristine beaches and lush landscapes provide idyllic spots for relaxation and exploration.
Day 2La Digue
27 nm7 hours
La Digue, one of the most charming islands in the Seychelles, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed, rustic atmosphere. Famous for the iconic Anse Source d'Argent beach with its unique granite boulders, La Digue offers picturesque scenery perfect for photography and relaxation. The island’s lush interior, accessible by bike or ox-cart, features vanilla plantations, coconut groves, and traditional Creole architecture.
Day 3Félicité
3 nm1 hours
Félicité is a small island, a private paradise known for its stunning natural beauty and exclusivity. The island boasts pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. Félicité offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life just offshore.
Day 4Grande Soeur
2 nm1 hours
Grande Soeur, also known as Big Sister Island, is a beautiful private island in the Seychelles, renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and exclusivity. The island features stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. Grande Soeur is a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Day 5Curieuse
8 nm2 hours
Curieuse Island, Turtle Pond, is a notable attraction within the island's protected marine reserve. This natural habitat is home to a large population of Aldabra giant tortoises, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. The pond is surrounded by lush vegetation and provides a serene setting for exploring the island's rich biodiversity. Turtle Pond is a must-visit location.
Day 6Baie St. Anne - Praslin
8 nm2 hours
Baie St. Anne is a bustling bay that serves as the main port of Praslin, offering access to the island’s pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. Sailors can explore the nearby Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to the famous Coco de Mer palms. Baie St. Anne’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving
Day 7Cousin Island
9 nm2 hours
Cousin Island is a protected nature reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine natural environment. This small granitic island is a haven for birdwatchers, home to numerous endemic bird species, including the Seychelles warbler and the Seychelles magpie-robin. Cousin Island also boasts beautiful white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and observing marine life.
Day 8Mahe
22 nm5 hours
Return to the base for the check-out procedure.
Optional Stops Along the Route
Eden Island Marina
Marina
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
This anchorage is appreciated by sailors for its stunning environment, proximity to Eden Island, and calm waters. Sailors note its natural beauty, abundant fish around the reefs, and impressive sunsets over Mahé. Many suggest it as an ideal spot for a first or last night due to its convenient access from the port.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Sailors value this anchorage for its long beach, plenty of anchoring space, and easy access to shops, bars, and restaurants. It is well suited for a daytime stop for swimming or shopping. Music from nearby bars can be heard, but it usually quiets down fairly early.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
La Digue is a well-liked anchorage for its tropical atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and ease of visiting the island—especially by bike. Sailors appreciate the proximity to restaurants, bars, and opportunities for basic provisioning and souvenir shopping. Access makes this anchorage a great starting point for exploring the island.
While services are limited and there are some drawbacks like noise, swell, and occasional waiting times, many appreciate the friendly staff and proximity to attractions. However, the lack of facilities (water, electricity) is a common concern.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
This anchorage is a beautiful, serene bay with significant natural beauty. Snorkeling is excellent near the rocks, and a small shack offers drinks on the beach. Although there is sometimes noticeable swell from the east, making shore access occasionally challenging, the peaceful setting and picturesque scenery make this anchorage popular among those seeking relaxation.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
This anchorage is stunning and naturally preserved, featuring a dreamy beach with fine white sand, incredibly clear blue waters, and a rainforest backdrop. A beach bar and restaurant are also noted, enhancing the appeal. Sailors express well opinions about the quality, relaxing environment, and natural isolation of the anchorage.
Sailors view this anchorage as a convenient and practical choice, especially for avoiding Baie St Anne or when needing immediate port access. The natural environment is appreciated, with frequent mentions of water turtles enhancing the experience for some. However, it's not considered the prettiest bay in the area, and persistent floating plant matter can make swimming less pleasant.
Sailors regard this bay as a beautiful and pleasant anchorage, valued for granite rocks, sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and natural scenery. The atmosphere is generally tranquil, and the hotel complex does not significantly detract from the setting.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
This anchorage is well regarded. Sailors can enjoy a scenic natural setting surrounded by islets, with the chance to spot turtles and enjoy excellent snorkeling, especially around the island's drop-offs. The beaches are known for their beauty, granite rocks, and unique wildlife like bats.
Sailors view this anchorage as pleasant, especially suitable for lunch stops and sometimes overnight stays. It offers clear water and the beauty of the marine environment, notably the reef with abundant wildlife such as turtles and stingrays. Access to the beach is somewhat restricted due to private ownership, slightly limiting the experience, but the natural quality of the spot remains appreciated.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
This bay offers a beautiful natural setting, turtle sightings, and opportunities for hiking across the island. The shore features shower and toilet facilities, which are noted. While the area may be busy during the day, evenings are noted as more pleasant and tranquil.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
Sailors view this anchorage as a beautiful, pleasant bay with a stunning natural setting and excellent views toward Curieuse. Crystal-clear water and abundant marine life make it a strong snorkeling spot, with lionfish, rays, and other fish around rocky outcrops and coral. Despite renovation work ashore, the bay remains peaceful at night.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
Sailors appreciate this anchorage for its scenic bay, preserved natural environment, and white sand beach, which is easy to reach from the boat. Walking, swimming, clear water, and the peaceful setting make it a pleasant stop.
Sailors describe Anse Lazio as one of the most beautiful anchorages in the Seychelles, noted for its impressive beach, breathtaking scenery, and tranquil ambiance. The area is well maintained, featuring clear water well suited for swimming and abundant marine life (dolphins, turtles, fish). There are well-liked beach bars and restaurants, and the anchorage is easily accessible for sailing vessels.
Sailors describe this anchorage as a beautiful and wild spot, featuring impressive views of the beaches and St-Pierre island. The local restaurant near the rock is particularly worth considering for its simple yet excellent food. Multiple Sailors note the unspoiled scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and authenticity and peace, making this a favored choice for those seeking a genuine and serene environment.
Sailors value this anchorage for its breathtaking scenery, impressive beach, and frequent dolphin sightings. The natural setting is excellent, with memorable sunsets and sunrises, a relaxing atmosphere, and preserved marine surroundings. Nights are usually tranquil.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Sailors generally describe this anchorage as excellent, largely due to Robert’s excellent hospitality and support, including water, meal service, and practical help. The industrial surroundings and daytime noise from the nearby freight port and motorboat traffic are noted negatives but considered minor compared to the experience. Quiet nights and the care provided make this spot worth considering, with many singling out Robert's dedication as a highlight.
The marina is perceived as small but friendly, offering some local interactions and basic amenities. Several Sailors point out poor protection from wind, leading to boat rocking, and note that assistance from locals or staff, while pleasant, is not always guaranteed. High prices are a common complaint, especially relative to the provided shelter and facilities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
A well-sheltered anchorage popular with flotillas passing through the channel. The village has a good supermarket and a few waterfront tavernas serving fresh fish. Fuel and water are available at the quay. Expect company in high season — arrive early to secure a stern-to berth.
The Ermoúpoli marina in Syros is liked for its central location and charming town, with many shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. While the lively setting is a major draw, the frequent and strong swell from ferries poses a significant recurring problem for mooring and comfort. Despite this, sailors generally consider it worth the stop due to the local vibe, reasonable prices, and easy access to island amenities.
Sailors appreciate the bay for its turquoise scenery, and a calm atmosphere that is much less hectic than the busier main port to the north. Anchoring is straightforward in settled weather, though the holding can be patchy in places. A small taverna ashore makes it a pleasant lunch stop on passage.
Share your thoughts & ideas about sailing from Mahe
We’d love to hear your comments and suggestions! Share with fellow sailors recommended marinas or coordinates of anchorages to stay for the night or even your favorite restaurant, winery or oyster farm.
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12 Knots
United States
“Groceries.”
Groceries.
There are several provisioning solutions on Mahe in Seychelles. It is possible to order directly online via
https://www.oquayshopseychelles.com/fr/ This solution is the most practical. Or, you can do your shopping directly at the Eden Island marina in SPAR in Eden Plaza. Or, you may find a large supermarket in Victoria: STC Hypermarket. It is also possible to go shopping directly at the Victoria Market: Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke. For the last two options, you’ll need to take a bus or a taxi to get there.
12 Knots
United States
“Marine parks operating hours and prices”
Mahé Sainte Anne Marine Park is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: 10 € per person per day + 10 € for the boat in case of night anchorage.
Bay Ternay Marine National Park is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: €10 per person per day / After 5 p.m., €10 for anchoring the boat.
Coco Island Marine Park is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: €10 per person per day.
Cousin Island is open Tuesday to Friday. Cost €25 per person. Guided tours are from 9 am till 10 am.
Big sister (private island) is open from Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: €23 per person. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
The dam - Estate plantation and access to Source d'Argent cove is €4 per person.
Silhouette is open every day. Cost: 20 € per person.
Curieuse and Saint-Pierre islet are open every day. Cost: 10 € per person (visit of curious river and authorization for snorkelling in Saint-Pierre).
Praslin - visit of the Vallée de Mai every day, €15 per person.
Bird is open every day. Cost: 40 € per person.
The North Island, Little Sister, Marianne, Denis, and Frégate are private islands and closed to the public.
