Planning a day on the water in Seychelles? This catamaran trip promises a mix of stunning scenery, marine adventures, and delicious food. While it might not be the cheapest option, the experience offers a lot for sea lovers and curious explorers alike. From the moment you set sail from La Digue, you’ll find yourself immersed in some of the most beautiful spots in Seychelles.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to see the granite formations of Coco and Félicité islands, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the onboard BBQ lunch that keeps you fueled for the day. However, a potential hiccup is the cost—some travelers feel it’s a bit pricey for what’s included, especially considering the lack of island pickups and the crowded boat. This tour suits those craving a full day of marine scenery and island views, particularly if you appreciate guided boat trips with good food and comfortable sailing.
Key Points
- Beautiful scenery of Coco and Félicité islands, famous for granite boulders and lush vegetation
- Snorkeling opportunities with equipment provided
- Onboard BBQ lunch that offers decent sustenance during the day
- Included fees for Sister Island and Coco National Park entry
- Lack of island pick-up could be an inconvenience for some
- Family-friendly but not suitable for children under 2 or pregnant women
A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience
This Seychelles catamaran tour is designed to maximize your day on the water, blending scenic views, marine exploration, and relaxing moments aboard a comfortable vessel. The trip typically departs from La Digue, with pickup directly at the jetty, simplifying your start to the adventure. If you’re staying on Praslin, return transfers are included, making it fairly straightforward to join.
Looking for more options in La Digue Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Journey Begins with Sister Island
Your day kicks off with a sail towards the privately owned Sister Island. Expect to see a granite paradise cloaked in tropical forest, with pristine beaches and turquoise waters. This is a high point for many, as the views of jagged granite boulders rising from the sea and surrounding forests are truly picture-perfect. The crystal-clear lagoon offers excellent conditions for spotting marine life like sea turtles, which many reviewers mention as a highlight.
Some travelers, however, note that you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the departure point, as the tour doesn’t include island pickup. Once there, you’ll take a landing fee on Sister Island, allowing you to explore on foot or relax on the sands. And if snorkeling is your thing, the waters here are clear enough to see a good variety of marine life.
Exploring Coco Island
After a relaxed morning, the boat drifts to Coco Island, renowned for its granite boulders, calm sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Here, you’ll get to snorkel at a designated spot, with equipment provided. The waters are said to offer good visibility—perfect for spotting fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even rays.
Coco’s landscape is striking, with large granite formations that make for great photos, and the lush palms that shade the beaches. Reviewers have praised the serene beaches and the fact that, despite being small, Coco feels like a true tropical hideaway. Some mention that they didn’t receive shoes on the island, so bringing your own footwear might be wise.
Félicité Island: A Larger, Vegetation-Filled Paradise
Next, the boat heads to Félicité Island, which is thicker with foliage and more expansive than Coco. This island is also a snorkeler’s haven, with vibrant waters and a diverse underwater world. Some reviews suggest that the snorkel spots here might not always meet expectations, especially if you’re hoping for large coral formations or abundant marine life. One guest noted that dead coral and fuel spills have affected some snorkeling areas, which can be disappointing.
Félicité also offers a different landscape—dense greenery and scenic cliffs—perfect for nature lovers. You’ll appreciate the contrast to the granite islands and the chance to walk through lush vegetation.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Onboard BBQ Experience
One of the tour’s most appreciated features is the BBQ lunch served onboard. While some travelers find it simple, it’s generally considered tasty and sufficient to keep you going for the rest of the day. The food is served inside the boat, so don’t expect a beachside feast, but the crew makes it feel cozy and relaxed. Several guests, including Iuliana, praised the kindness and professionalism of the staff who made sure everyone was well taken care of during the meal.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Snorkeling is a central part of the experience. You are given gear and guided to different spots on the islands. Reviewers mention that the waters are clear, with good visibility, making marine life sightings enjoyable. However, some guests have expressed mixed feelings about the snorkeling conditions, noting that some areas may have dead coral or fuel residues, which could impact the overall experience.
The End of the Day
After a full day of exploring, swimming, and eating, the boat returns to La Digue or Praslin, depending on your starting point. The journey back is relaxed, often with opportunities to take photos of the sunset or just enjoy the sea breeze.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the tour:
- Entry fees for Sister Island and Coco National Park
- Return ferry tickets (for Praslin guests)
- Transfers from La Digue jetty
- Snorkeling equipment
- BBQ lunch and water
Not included:
- Island transfers for La Digue guests (must arrange independently)
- Extra services or souvenirs purchased onboard
- Shoes on Sister Island (not provided, so bring your own)
Some reviews mention that the tour is fairly priced for the experience, but others feel it’s a bit steep considering the crowds and limited island time. If you’re comparing prices, you might find similar trips at a lower cost from Praslin, especially if they include island pickups.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Arrive early at La Digue jetty to ensure a smooth start; the boat picks up directly at the dock.
- Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat—the sun can be strong, especially on the water.
- Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you prefer your own, bring it along.
- Wear comfortable shoes or flip-flops for land exploring; the crew didn’t always hand out shoes on Sister Island, so pack accordingly.
- Be prepared for a full day, so pack a camera, water, and some cash for optional extras.
- If you’re sensitive to crowds, consider that the boat can get busy, with over 20 passengers, according to some reviews.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip appeals most to travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, enjoy snorkeling, and want a taste of Seychelles’ famous islands without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed day with good food and beautiful surroundings. Families with older children, marine life enthusiasts, and those seeking a guided experience will find value here. However, if you’re looking for a more exclusive or in-depth island experience, other options might suit better.
Final Thoughts
The Sister, Coco, and Félicité Island catamaran tour is a well-rounded way to see some of Seychelles’ most iconic islands from the water. You’ll love the stunning granite landscapes, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the friendly crew that makes the journey enjoyable. While the cost might seem high for some, many find the experience worth it for the scenery, marine encounters, and onboard meal.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, comfortable day of island-hopping, without the need to worry about logistics. Keep in mind that crowds and limited island time are potential downsides, so if those are deal-breakers, consider other tours. This trip offers a solid balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty—perfect for making memories on your Seychelles holiday.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers ferry tickets, entry fees for Sister Island and Coco National Park, snorkeling equipment, a BBQ lunch, and return transfers (for Praslin guests).
Do La Digue guests need to arrange their own transportation?
Yes, La Digue guests are responsible for reaching the jetty as the tour does not include island pickup.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for use at designated spots on the islands.
Can children join this tour?
Children under 2 years are not allowed, and pregnant women or people with mobility issues are advised to consider other options.
Is the BBQ lunch on the boat or on an island?
The BBQ is served onboard the boat, not on an island.
How long is the tour?
The activity typically lasts a full day, including sailing, island visits, snorkeling, and lunch.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable shoes, a camera, insect repellent, cash, and snorkeling gear if preferred.
Are there any hidden costs?
Extra services or souvenirs can be purchased onsite, but the main costs are covered in the tour fee.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.
To sum it up, this Seychelles catamaran tour offers a lovely way to explore some of the islands’ most scenic spots with the benefit of guided transportation, marine activities, and good food. While it might not be perfect for everyone—particularly if you’re budget-conscious or prefer less crowded environments—it caters well to those looking for a comprehensive, comfortable day out on the water in Seychelles.
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