Travelers looking to experience the stunning islands of Seychelles often seek a balance between scenic beauty, cultural charm, and fun activities. This full-day speedboat tour covering Cocos, Felicité, and La Digue promises exactly that. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to explore multiple islands in a single day, with opportunities for snorkeling, beach lounging, and island discovery.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal waters teeming with marine life. Second, the chance to explore La Digue independently, with local tips from guides who know these islands well. And third, the comfortable speedboat transfer that ensures quick, scenic hops between islands — ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.
That said, one aspect to consider is that the sea conditions can be rough, and for some, the boat ride might be uncomfortable or even painful, as one review mentioned a back injury caused by bumping seas. So, if you’re prone to seasickness or back issues, it’s worth weighing that before booking. This tour caters well to curious travelers, beach lovers, snorkelers, and those eager to get a taste of Seychelles’ island life all in one day.
Key Points
- Multiple island visits in one day make this a time-efficient adventure.
- Excellent snorkel spots that offer sightings of fish, turtles, and even sharks.
- Flexible exploration time on La Digue allows for personalized discovery.
- Inclusive amenities like water, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear.
- Potential sea conditions can vary, so prepare accordingly.
- Guides and staff are frequently praised for their friendliness and tips.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your Day
The tour kicks off early, with the speedboat whisking you from Praslin to three of Seychelles’ most captivating spots. First stop: Cocos Island. This tiny, idyllic island is famed for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Snorkelers will love the chance to glide above coral reefs, where friendly turtles and colorful fish are known to hang out. Many reviewers, like Noémie, mention witnessing sharks during their snorkeling — a highlight that adds a thrill to the underwater adventure.
Next, you’re off to Felicité Island, a tiny granite island cloaked in lush forest and part of a protected marine park. The scenery here is breathtaking, with rugged granite formations and pristine waters. Snorkeling continues to be a major draw, with guides pointing out the diverse fish populations, although some reviews note the corals here are bleached but slowly recovering. The natural beauty of Félicité makes it perfect for relaxing swims and picture-perfect moments.
The final part of the trip is La Digue, where you get about four hours to explore according to your interests. La Digue is famed for its classic white-sand beaches, especially Anse Source D’Argent, with its giant granite boulders and calm, shallow waters—perfect for lounging and taking photos. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to explore independently, with tips from guides on must-see spots like the old copra mill, cemeteries, or simply renting bikes to discover the island at your own pace.
Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters
Snorkeling is at the core of this tour. The waters around Cocos and Félicité provide excellent conditions, with reviews highlighting encounters with sea turtles, numerous fish, and even sharks — an experience that appeals strongly to marine life enthusiasts. Snorkel gear is provided, so you just need to bring your sense of adventure, plus sunscreen and a towel.
Exploring La Digue
The time on La Digue is what travelers often cherish most. Besides its stunning beaches, the island offers a glimpse into local life—traditional villages, coconut oil production at the old copra mill, and a peaceful vibe. Guests often rent bikes here, with guides arranging the bikes ahead of time. Many reviewers, like Valérie, loved exploring by bike, appreciating the “great tips” from guides like Jean-Yves and Kevin.
The Guides and Crew
Reviews repeatedly praise the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness. For example, Valérie mentions “warm welcome from Vivienne,” and Antonia highlights how “Reynold helped retrieve her lost phone,” showing a genuine commitment to customer service. Guides are knowledgeable, offering tips about snorkeling spots, island history, and local culture, which enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.
Timing and Comfort
The trip ends around 3:30 to 4:00 pm, with the boat returning to Praslin. The duration is roughly a full day, making it suitable for travelers who want to maximize island discovery without overextending. However, some reviews mention that seas can be rough, and the boat ride might be bumpy, especially in choppy conditions. If you’re sensitive to motion sickness or have back problems, it’s wise to consider this.
Value for Money
At $105 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Seychelles’ island paradise. It’s a fair price considering the included snorkeling equipment, landing fees, and the variety of experiences packed into a single day. The opportunity to explore multiple islands reduces the need for multiple bookings and transportation arrangements, making it a practical choice.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This full-day trip caters well to active travelers, beach lovers, and marine life enthusiasts who want a balanced day of snorkeling, exploring, and relaxing. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see some of Seychelles’ most iconic islands. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less bumpy ride or are traveling with mobility issues, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.
The Sum Up: Is it Worth It?
This boat trip provides an efficient way to experience Seychelles’ marine and island beauty without the hassle of multiple bookings. The combination of snorkeling, cultural exploration, and free time on La Digue makes it a well-rounded choice. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew add significant value, ensuring you’re well-informed and comfortable throughout.
While the boat ride can be rough, most travelers find the experience rewarding, especially if they enjoy underwater adventures and scenic beaches. It’s a good pick for adventurous travelers, snorkelers, and those wanting a taste of island life in just one day. If you’re looking for a memorable, practical, and engaging Seychelles experience, this tour checks many boxes.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The full-day trip lasts until about 3:30 or 4:00 pm, including time on each island and snorkeling.
What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment, water, soft drinks, and landing fees at Coco islands.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, snacks, sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear. Guides often advise packing light and practical.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally family-friendly; however, keep in mind the sea conditions and motion of the boat.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.
What about seasickness?
Sea conditions can be rough, so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions or consulting with your doctor beforehand.
Will I have free time on La Digue?
Yes, around four hours are allocated for independent exploration, biking, or relaxing on the beaches.
Travelers seeking a full-day Seychelles adventure will find this trip offers a solid mix of snorkeling, scenic views, and cultural highlights in one convenient package. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively, informative, and picturesque experience of La Digue, Félicité, and Cocos, with friendly guides and opportunities to create lasting memories.