Seychelles’ picture-perfect islands are legendary, and what better way to experience them than on a luxury private boat? This private charter, offered by Infinity Charter Seychelles, promises an exclusive day filled with stunning scenery, marine adventures, and authentic Creole cuisine. While we haven’t personally boarded this vessel, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of what’s on offer.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized approach allows you to tailor your day—whether that’s relaxing on pristine beaches or exploring multiple islands. Second, the professional crew and guides are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, making sure everything runs smoothly. Lastly, the gourmet BBQ lunch and scenic stops genuinely highlight the best of Seychelles’ culinary and natural beauty.
However, the price tag of $1,173 per group of up to 8 can seem steep, especially considering some reviews mention snorkeling reefs that aren’t as vibrant as expected. Still, for those craving a luxurious, curated day out with private transport, this tour offers a high-end way to explore Seychelles’ highlights. It’s especially well-suited for couples, families, or groups wanting a bespoke experience away from crowded tours.
Key Points
- Tailored Experience: Customizable itinerary options for island visits, snorkeling, or extended island hopping.
- Authentic Cultural Flavors: Delicious Creole BBQ served onboard, with fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
- Exclusive Access: Private vessel with a dedicated crew, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.
- Well-Organized: Smooth logistics from hotel pick-up to drop-off, with safety and comfort prioritized.
- Authentic Reviews: Noted for friendly staff, good value for money given the luxury setup, and a memorable day at sea.
- Consideration: Snorkeling reefs may not always impress, so manage expectations if marine life is your main focus.
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
This tour offers a full-day adventure starting with a hotel pick-up in Praslin at 9:00 am, setting the tone for a stress-free start. Your private van transports you directly to Côte D’Or Beach, where the boat awaits. From here, the day is a carefully curated blend of scenic cruising, island exploration, and leisure time.
Morning: Snorkeling and Curieuse Island
Once on board, you’ll begin with a snorkeling session at St. Pierre Island, regarded as a snorkeling haven. The waters here are crystal-clear, and the experience is typically peaceful, with fins, masks, and snorkels provided. Reviewers mention that the crew is friendly and helpful, and some even appreciated the chance to relax and soak in the marine surroundings.
Next, the boat heads to Curieuse Island, home to giant tortoises and lush mangrove trails. The guided visit includes walking through the sanctuary and exploring the mangroves, which adds a layer of nature’s tranquility to your day. Entry fees (around SCR 300, or about $20) are payable on-site and support conservation efforts—something eco-conscious travelers will appreciate.
Midday: Gourmet Creole BBQ
A highlight for many is the Gourmet Creole BBQ Lunch served onboard or on the beach. The menu features grilled prawns, fresh fish, BBQ chicken, sausages, rice, salads, tropical fruits, and local chips. Reviewers repeatedly praise the meal for its quality and generous portions, making it a real treat after some morning activities. One guest mentioned the lunch was “delicious and plentiful,” emphasizing the authentic flavors.
Afternoon: Scenic Beaches or Extended Island Exploration
Depending on your chosen option, your afternoon can take a few different directions:
- Option 1: Scenic Cruise to Iconic Beaches: The tour visits Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, often called Seychelles’ most beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll have time to swim or take photos of these postcard-perfect spots. Guests love the panoramic views and the chance to unwind on pristine sands.
- Option 2: Extended Island Hopping: For those wishing to explore further, the itinerary includes Felicite Island and La Digue, famous for cycling, cultural charm, and stunning coastal landscapes. On La Digue, you’re free to rent a bicycle (around 10 euros) and explore at your own pace, visiting Anse Source L’Argent and other highlights. Reviewers appreciated this flexibility, noting the opportunity to discover La Digue independently.
End of Day: Relaxed Return and Reflection
The return trip is as scenic as the morning, with a glass of prosecco in hand as you enjoy the breeze. The crew is attentive, ensuring a smooth journey back to Praslin, arriving around 5 pm for the hotel transfer. Guests often remark on how the staff, like Bruno and his team, are caring and professional, adding to the warm and relaxed atmosphere.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Private & Personalized Experience
The fact that this is a private group tour means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers. The flexibility to customize stops—whether for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing—means you can craft your perfect day at sea. Several reviews mention the friendly crew and good communication, making the trip feel tailored to your wishes.
Comfort & Convenience
The included hotel pick-up and drop-off add a layer of convenience many travelers appreciate. Since Seychelles can be tricky to navigate independently, having a dedicated vehicle waiting for you simplifies logistics. The vessel itself is described as fully equipped and luxurious, providing a comfortable setting for the day.
Authentic Food & Scenic Views
The Creole BBQ is a real highlight, offering a taste of local flavors amid stunning ocean vistas. The combination of good food, beautiful beaches, and marine life creates a well-rounded experience, especially for those who want more than just sightseeing.
Knowledgeable Crew & Guided Tours
Guided visits on Curieuse Island and the friendly crew’s assistance mean you’re in good hands. Reviewers frequently mention how helpful and attentive the staff are, which helps elevate the experience from a standard boat trip to a memorable day.
What Could Be Improved?
While the overall experience garners high praise, some reviews note that snorkeling reefs weren’t as vibrant as expected, describing the marine environment as “pretty poor.” This could be influenced by seasonal conditions or recent weather patterns. It’s worth managing expectations if marine wildlife is a primary goal.
Plus, the tour’s price point might seem high for some, but considering the private vessel, guided visits, and gourmet lunch, many see it as good value for a luxury Seychelles day.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience appeals most to travelers seeking a luxurious, flexible, and personalized day in Seychelles. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic escape, families looking for a safe, guided adventure, or friends aiming to celebrate with a private boat outing. If you’re after an authentic taste of Seychelles—both in scenery and cuisine—this tour delivers.
Practical Tips & What to Bring
Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery. A hat, sunglasses, and towels are also advised, along with cash for optional activities like bicycle rentals on La Digue. If you’re considering snorkeling, bring your own underwater gear if you prefer a specific style or fit, though equipment is provided.
FAQs
How early do I need to book this tour? This experience can be booked in advance; given its popularity and limited group size, it’s wise to reserve early.
Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, scenic nature suggests it’s suitable for families, especially with options for self-guided exploration on La Digue. Be sure to consider safety around water for young children.
Are dietary preferences accommodated? The menu is based on Creole cuisine, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific dietary needs.
What is included in the price? The cost covers hotel transfers, a private vessel with crew, guided island visits, snorkeling equipment, a gourmet BBQ lunch, and a bottle of prosecco.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your trip planning.
Are island entry fees included? No, fees for Curieuse Island (around SCR 300, or $20) are payable on-site and support conservation efforts.
Final Thoughts
This private boat charter on Praslin offers a balanced blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic local flavors, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting a high-end Seychelles experience. The flexibility and attentive crew help craft a day that feels personalized and special. While snorkeling reefs might not always impress, the overall value lies in the curated stops, stunning scenery, and delicious Creole cuisine.
If you’re after a luxury, private, and memorable way to explore Seychelles’ highlights—without the crowds—this tour could easily become a highlight of your trip. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good food, scenic beauty, and personalized service, ready to enjoy Seychelles in style.
Seychelles’ spectacular islands are truly best enjoyed with a touch of luxury and a lot of local charm, and this private boat tour delivers just that.