The Coralline Seychelles & Inner Islands 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. ​

We dock in Mahe as the ship replenishes itself for the next leg of the journey. Spend the day partaking in R&R on board Aqua Lares. Enjoy an outdoor workout, relax in the jacuzzi, or book yourself a spa session. In the afternoon, welcome aboard the new guests who will be joining us for the rest of the expedition.​

In the morning, wake up to views of Cousin Island, designated a Special Nature Reserve in Seychelles. Cousin Island has a flourishing ecosystem with bird species such as the Flycatcher and Moorhen coexisting with colonies of Hawksbill Turtles, giant tortoises and other fauna endemic to the archipelago. Upon arrival, experience a guided walk around the island that shelters over 250,000 birds. After lunch, we head over to Praslin Island, the second-largest granitic island in the Seychelles archipelago. This island presents the opportunity to visit and hike through the ancient Vallée de Mai palm forest. ​

We begin the morning at Curieuse Island, a national marine park on the northwest coast of Praslin. Embark on a guided hike to discover the island’s rich mangrove forest, home to Coco de Mer palm trees and giant tortoises. Afterwards, jump into the water for a snorkel to explore the vibrant reef system and observe the diverse marine wildlife. We continue the day’s activities with an excursion to La Digue Island in the afternoon. La Digue is unspoiled by the passage of time, steeped in tradition and history. Discover the island's beautiful vistas and stunning beaches. At L'Union Estate, visit local hallmarks such as the coconut distillery, art gallery, and museum. ​

In the morning, we explore Grand Soeur Island, one of the best deep-sea diving sites to observe sharks and other marine life. The island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities along the reef and granitic coast, where you can spot parrotfish and sea turtles. After lunch, visit Ile Cocos, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and remarkable rock formations.​

The day begins with an exciting beach landing on Aride, the northernmost island of the archipelago. Aride Island is a Special Ornithological Nature Reserve that boasts one of the largest populations of birds in the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a walk through the forest that a myriad of seabird species, such as the white-tailed tropicbird, call home. The island also houses rare endemic flora including Wright’s Gardenia which can only be found in its natural state on this island.​

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

Itineraries are subject to change.