Glassbottom boat StAnne Marine National Park Snorkeling

Exploring the Seychelles marine parks from the perspective of a glassbottom boat offers a unique way to see the vibrant underwater world without even getting wet. While this tour promises a scenic day filled with snorkeling, island visits, and delicious Creole BBQ, it also comes with its share of mixed reviews. Our goal is to give you a detailed, balanced look at what to expect—so you can decide if this experience fits your Seychelles itinerary.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to catch glimpses of Seychelles’ stunning reefs, the chance to visit the charming Moyenne Island with its giant tortoises, and the convenience of a full-day package that combines multiple highlights. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and scenic views are definitely worth noting. But be aware, some reviewers have flagged issues like delays, limited snorkeling time, and additional costs—so under certain conditions, your experience might differ.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, visually engaging day out, especially those who want a mix of snorkeling, island hopping, and wildlife viewing in one package. If you’re after a more structured, hassle-free adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Seychellois culture, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride: Enjoy cruising on a modern glassbottom vessel with views into the marine world beneath.
• Multiple highlights: Fish feeding, snorkeling, island visits, and a Creole BBQ make for a well-rounded experience.
• Wildlife encounters: Meet giant tortoises and see colorful coral reefs up close.
• Potential delays: Keep in mind the tour can be weather-dependent and might experience delays or rescheduling.
• Mixed reviews: Expect professional guides but also be prepared for some logistical hiccups.
• Good value for those wanting variety: The price encompasses several activities, but additional costs may apply for park entry and Moyenne Island.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel if you’re staying in the north of Mahé, Seychelles. Boarding takes place at Edenisland marina around 9:45 am, with departure scheduled at 10 am. The 20-minute cruise to St. Anne Marine Park sets the tone for a day of sightseeing, with some reviews noting delays up to an hour, so arriving promptly is advisable.

First Stop: Fish Feeding & Photography

Once anchored in the park, the first activity involves fish feeding. This is a fantastic opportunity to see the local marine life up close. The guides, often praised for their knowledge, will help you capture great photos of the colorful fish and coral. One reviewer appreciated the professionalism of the guides, which makes a difference when navigating busy or uncertain conditions.

Snorkeling and Marine Exploration

The main highlight is snorkeling—exploring Seychelles’ eco-marine treasures. Travelers can expect to see reefs teeming with fish, provided the weather and water conditions cooperate. Unfortunately, some reviews indicate that snorkeling can be limited or rushed, often due to weather or water clarity issues. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the second snorkeling session was canceled because the water wasn’t clear enough that day. Still, the guides do their best to make the most of the time given.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Sandbank

A highlight of the tour is stopping at the sandbank between Round and Long Islands. This spot offers a unique, picturesque location where you can relax, take photos, and enjoy the expansive views. It’s a peaceful moment, perfect for soaking in the scenery and capturing some memories.

Lunch on Cerf Island

After the water activities, the group heads to Cerf Island for a Creole mix BBQ buffet. The meal includes water and juice, with some guests noting it’s a simple but tasty offering. One reviewer mentioned disappointment that water was the only drink provided, especially considering the activity’s price, so bringing extra drinks might be wise. The lunch spot offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the island atmosphere.

Giant Tortoise Visit

Post-lunch, the tour visits Moyenne Island to see the famous giant tortoises. This is a favorite among travelers, with many appreciating the chance to interact with these gentle creatures in a natural setting. The guides typically share interesting facts about the tortoises, enhancing the experience. One guest mentioned the visit was a “marvelous” moment, which speaks to how special these encounters can be.

Final Snorkeling & Return Trip

The last activity of the day is another snorkeling session, providing one final chance to enjoy Seychelles’ underwater beauty. Due to time constraints, this session is often brief, with some reviewers feeling rushed. Afterward, the boat heads back to Eden Island, arriving around 4 pm, marking the end of a full day.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (north of Mahé)
• Transport to and from St. Anne Marine Park
• Fishfeeding activity
• Snorkeling gear and equipment
• Visit to the sandbank and Moyenne Island with giant tortoises
• Creole BBQ buffet lunch with water and juice

Not Included:

• Government marine park fee (~15 euros)
• Moyenne Island entry ticket (additional)
• Pick-up/drop-off outside the north of Mahé (e.g., south of the island)

Extra costs and considerations

Many reviews note additional charges—like the 50 SCR fee for turtle watching—which some travelers felt should have been included. It’s worth confirming exactly what’s covered before booking and bringing cash for extras.

Important Practicalities

What to Bring

Make sure to pack essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, snacks, drinks, insect repellent, and your own snorkeling gear if preferred. Since the tour involves outdoor activities, a waterproof bag can be handy for valuables.

Restrictions and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, those with vertigo, respiratory issues, epilepsy, altitude sickness, or motion sickness—these conditions might hinder full enjoyment. Pets are generally not permitted, and safety rules prohibit sharp objects, large luggage, and fireworks onboard.

Weather & Rescheduling

Since this is a tropical island experience, weather conditions strongly influence the day’s flow. Delays or rescheduling are possible if storms or rough seas arise, so flexibility is key.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

While some appreciated the professionalism and scenic highlights, others voiced frustrations. One traveler called the trip “horrible,” citing late starts, rushed snorkelings, and extra charges like the turtle fee. Conversely, many praised the guides for their knowledge, calling the experience “great” and recommending it for its variety. The difference often comes down to expectations around timing, weather, and what’s included.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This full-day Seychelles tour offers a mix of marine adventure, wildlife encounters, and island scenery, making it appealing for travelers who want a one-stop experience. The scenic boat ride, guided educational moments, and chance to see giant tortoises truly stand out. If you’re okay with potential delays, some rushed moments, and extra costs, you’ll likely find it worth the price.

However, if your priority is in-depth snorkeling or a perfectly punctual schedule, some reviews suggest you might encounter frustrations. For those seeking relaxed sightseeing and family-friendly activities, this tour hits many of those marks. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to tick off Seychelles’ marine highlights without complicated logistics.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, if you’re staying in the north of Mahé, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

How long is the boat ride to the marine park?
The cruise from Eden Island to St. Anne Marine Park takes approximately 20 minutes.

What activities are part of this tour?
You’ll experience fish feeding, snorkeling twice, visiting a sandbank, and seeing giant tortoises on Moyenne Island.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour price, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights.

What’s the lunch like?
The Creole mix BBQ buffet includes water and juice, with some guests noting the meal is simple but tasty; others wish for more beverage options.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, a government marine park fee (~15 euros) and Moyenne Island entry are extra. Plus, some reviews mention a 50 SCR fee for turtle viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for wheelchair users or people with certain health issues like vertigo or respiratory conditions. Younger children may enjoy the tortoise visit and sandbank, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

To sum it up, the Glassbottom Boat StAnne Marine National Park snorkeling tour offers a charming blend of scenic views, wildlife, and water activities that many travelers find worthwhile. While it’s not perfect and can be subject to weather and logistical hiccups, the highlights like the sandbank stop, giant tortoises, and professional guides make it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive day in Seychelles’ marine parks. Just come prepared with extra snacks, patience, and a flexible attitude, and you’ll likely walk away with some memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: