Embrace the allure of the Seychelles, a shimmering jewel in the Indian Ocean where turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes form a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. This dreamy archipelago of 115 islands is more than just a beach destination – it’s a living postcard, best discovered from the deck of a yacht or catamaran.

While many destinations go quiet in winter, Seychelles shines all year long. With its tropical climate, calm seas, and endless anchorages, it’s the perfect choice for those who chase summer around the globe.

Why Choose Seychelles for a Winter Sailing Holiday?

When Europe is wrapped in frost and North America in snow, Seychelles welcomes travellers with sunshine, balmy breezes, and temperatures between 24–29°C (75–85°F). The dry season (May to October) is ideal for sailing, but the so-called wet season (November to April) also offers stable conditions, lighter winds, and warm, calm waters – perfect for leisurely cruising, swimming, and snorkelling.

If you’re looking to escape winter blues, Seychelles delivers an unbeatable mix of endless summer weather, exotic nature, and authentic island charm. Each day at sea feels like a discovery – secluded bays, vibrant coral reefs, giant tortoises, and picture-perfect villages where Creole culture thrives.

Why Catamarans Are the Best Choice in Seychelles

While sailing yachts are available, the catamaran is the undisputed king of Seychelles charters. With shallow drafts, catamarans can access hidden lagoons and anchor closer to beaches. Their spacious decks are perfect for lounging under the sun, and the stability makes them comfortable for both seasoned sailors and beginners.

In Seychelles, where anchorages are often close to shore and brimming with coral reefs, a catamaran gives you freedom, comfort, and safety, making it the preferred vessel for exploring this paradise.

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The Best Places to Visit by Boat in Seychelles

Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue: A Photographer’s Dream

La Digue’s Anse Source d’Argent is a must-see for every Seychelles itinerary, and arriving by boat makes the experience even more special. While large yachts cannot anchor directly at the beach because of coral reefs, sailors can moor at La Passe Harbour on La Digue’s west coast. From there, it’s a short cycle or walk to the beach.

The anchorage is sheltered and picturesque, perfect for catamarans, and offers good holding in sand. Once ashore, you’ll find one of the most stunning beaches in the world, with granite rock formations, shallow turquoise lagoons, and pristine sandbars. At low tide, the lagoon becomes a natural swimming pool. Snorkelers can head to the nearby Coral Garden for colourful fish and vibrant reef life.

Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoises and Natural Wonders

Just 1 mile off the north coast of Praslin, Curieuse Island offers an easy sail and one of the best mooring areas in the Seychelles. You can anchor in Baie Laraie, a sheltered bay with calm turquoise waters ideal for catamarans. Mooring buoys are available, and from there you can easily reach the tortoise sanctuary by dinghy.

Walking trails connect Baie Laraie with Anse St. Joseph, taking you through mangroves, granite hills, and coco de mer palms. Onboard, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of red-hued granite cliffs and lush green vegetation. After exploring ashore, head back to the boat for snorkelling or diving around Saint Pierre Islet, one of Seychelles’ most iconic snorkelling spots, where schools of fusiliers, turtles, and rays glide through crystal-clear water.

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Aride Island: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

A short sail north from Praslin brings you to Aride Island, often called the most untouched of the inner islands. Anchoring is restricted to protect the coral, but visitors can use designated mooring buoys on the leeward side when conditions are calm.

Coming ashore requires arranging a landing with the island’s conservation wardens, but it’s worth it: you’ll step into a sanctuary alive with seabirds. The trail to the island’s summit rewards you with panoramic views over the Indian Ocean, while the surrounding waters are perfect for drift snorkelling. The reefs here are some of the healthiest in Seychelles, home to groupers, Napoleon wrasse, and reef sharks. For sailors, this stop feels like discovering a secret Eden accessible only by sea.

Baie Lazare, Mahé: A hidden paradise

On Mahé’s southwest coast lies Baie Lazare, a sheltered bay that makes for an excellent overnight anchorage. The sandy seabed provides good holding, and the surrounding headlands protect from prevailing winds. From your deck, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of a turquoise bay lined with palms and backed by emerald-green hills.

Sailors love Baie Lazare because it’s a perfect base for exploring nearby beaches: Anse Soleil, great for snorkelling with parrotfish and turtles, and Petite Anse, a quiet cove ideal for paddleboarding. Ashore, wander through the village where explorer Lazare Picault first landed in the 18th century, or sample fresh Creole cuisine in a beachside restaurant. It’s the ideal stop to mix local culture, history, and beach bliss during your sailing holiday.

Each of these anchorages offers a different slice of paradise, and together they create a well-rounded catamaran holiday in Seychelles. You’ll experience the thrill of navigating reefs, the calm of secluded bays, and the joy of discovering islands that remain unreachable without a boat. Check out our accurate 7-day Sailing Itinerary in the Seychelles for more detailed suggestions. 

✨ Ready to escape the winter blues? Discover endless summer aboard a catamaran in Seychelles and let every sunrise bring a new island adventure.

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