Mahe: Day Trip by Glass Bottom Boat with Snorkeling & Lunch

If you’re dreaming of Seychelles’ stunning waters and colorful reefs but want a balanced, family-friendly way to experience them, a glass bottom boat trip from Mahe might be just right. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect—and what makes this experience stand out.

What we love about this trip is its combination of easy access to marine life, delicious Creole-style BBQ lunch, and the convenience of hotel transfers. The opportunity to see underwater scenes through semi-submersible windows offers a relaxed way to enjoy marine beauty without needing to swim or snorkel constantly. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable guides seem to really make a difference in enhancing the experience.

One notable consideration is the cost—some reviewers feel it’s on the pricier side for what’s offered, especially if the lunch or the glass bottom viewing doesn’t meet their expectations. It’s best suited for those looking for a comfortable, well-organized day out with a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially if they appreciate guided tours with informative commentary.

Key Points

• Accessible marine viewing through semi-submersible windows makes it easier for non-swimmers to enjoy reef views.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, offering the chance to explore the reefs up close.
• A delicious BBQ lunch on Moyenne Island adds local flavor and a break from water activities.
• Hotel transfers simplify logistics for visitors staying in North Mahe.
• The tour includes Marine Park fees, providing a seamless experience.
• Guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the trip more enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Convenient Hotel Transfers and Group Size

Starting with the practicality, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for guests staying in North Mahe. This means no fuss about arranging transport, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer to travel comfortably. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides, who are fluent in both English and French.

Embarking on the Glass Bottom Boat

The adventure begins with a guided boat ride that takes you into the middle of the harbor, where the real fun starts. The boat itself offers semi-submersible viewing windows, providing a unique perspective on the marine environment. This feature is especially appreciated by those who want a glimpse of the reef without diving or snorkeling right away.

Reviewers mention the glass bottom as a highlight, but also a point of some disappointment. One traveler noted, “You can forget about the glass bottom, you can’t see anything,” but others found the underwater views through the windows quite satisfying. It’s worth noting that the reef is vibrant, and even just looking through the semi-submersible can be rewarding if conditions are good.

Feeding the Fish and Snorkeling

A key activity is feeding the fish. This simple yet captivating experience allows you to get close to groups of tropical fish swimming around the boat. If you’re interested in snorkeling, gear is provided, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the reefs. Many reviews, like Zahira’s, mention that the snorkeling site was “spot on,” with a variety of fish and clear waters.

However, some reviews point out that the visibility in the snorkeling spots can vary. A reviewer mentioned, “The snorkeling spot was manageable, I saw more fish on the beach,” indicating that while snorkeling is enjoyable, it might not be the absolute highlight for everyone.

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Lunch on Moyenne Island

After a couple of hours of water-based activities, the tour offers a buffet BBQ lunch on Moyenne Island, another island within the marine park. The lunch is prepared in Creole style, with many guests praising its flavorful, authentic taste. One traveler described it as “mouth-watering,” though some mentioned that the lunch could be over before everyone had a chance to eat, highlighting the importance of arriving early or being prepared for a shared meal.

Post-lunch, there’s ample time for relaxation, swimming, or exploring the island. Moyenne Island itself is ideal for wandering and soaking up the sun, with some guests choosing to nap on the beach or take photos of the lush surroundings.

Exploring Underwater Reefs and Relaxation

Following lunch, you have options: explore the reefs through semi-submersible windows or snorkel if you wish. Others prefer to just relax and enjoy the scenery or take a nap. This balance between activity and leisure caters to different preferences, making the tour accessible to families, couples, or solo travelers.

Wrapping Up with a Rum Punch

As the day winds down, a “petit rum punch des Iles” is served on board, a small but appreciated gesture that adds a local touch and helps round off the experience. Then it’s back to the dock and your hotel, hopefully with plenty of photos and memories of an enjoyable day.

What Makes This Tour Worth Considering?

Value for Money: At $146 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—transport, marine park fee, snorkeling gear, and lunch. While some might find the price high, the all-in-one nature and convenience justify it for many travelers, especially those wanting a hassle-free day.

Authentic Local Flavor: The Creole-style BBQ lunch lends an authentic taste of Seychelles, with reviewers praising its flavors. Plus, the guides’ professionalism and friendliness make the entire trip more enjoyable.

Marine Encounters: Whether through feeding the fish, snorkelling, or peering through semi-submersible windows, the marine life is the star. It’s a fantastic way to get close to Seychelles’ underwater treasures without requiring advanced diving skills.

Relaxed Pace: This is a laid-back tour, emphasizing comfort and scenic views rather than adrenaline-pumping activities. That suits travelers who prefer a gentle, scenic day with moments of discovery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed way to explore Seychelles’ marine environment. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer guided tours with a mix of water activities and island relaxation. If you’re eager for an authentic taste of Creole cuisine and friendly guides, this trip ticks those boxes.

Travelers wanting an immersive, adrenaline-filled adventure might find it a bit tame, but for most, the combination of easy reef viewing, snorkeling, and island time offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Mahe: Day Trip by Glass Bottom Boat with Snorkeling & Lunch provides a well-rounded introduction to Seychelles’ marine and island life. The mix of semi-submersible reef views, snorkeling, and a flavorful Creole lunch makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking a balanced day out.

The professional guides and hotel transfers add convenience and comfort, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. While some might find the cost a little steep for the activities included, many guests feel the experience justifies it, thanks to the friendly atmosphere and scenic highlights.

If you’re after a relaxing, educational, and scenic day with opportunities for underwater exploration, this tour delivers that in spades. It’s particularly suited to those who want a hassle-free, guided introduction to Seychelles’ underwater beauty—perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a taste of island life with minimal fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in North Mahe, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel transfers, use of snorkeling equipment, a BBQ lunch, and marine park fees, ensuring you don’t have to worry about extra costs during the day.

Can I snorkel without prior experience?
Absolutely. Snorkelling gear is provided, and the calm reef conditions make it suitable even for beginners.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, and sunscreen. Keep in mind luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts a full day, with scheduled activities including boat rides, snorkeling, island time, and lunch.

Is the glass bottom boat view worth it?
While some reviews mention limited visibility through the glass, most find the semi-submersible windows offer a good glimpse of the reef life.

Is the lunch sufficient?
The BBQ lunch is highly praised, but some guests note it can be over fairly quickly, so arriving early helps.

Are guides helpful and friendly?
Yes, reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the overall experience.

Can pregnant women participate?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, likely due to water-based activities and boat riding.

In all, this Seychelles trip offers a practical, enjoyable way to see marine life and relax on beautiful islands without the need for advanced swimming skills or complicated arrangements. It’s a strong choice for anyone wanting a taste of Seychelles’ natural charm with the comforts of guided ease.

You can check availability for your dates here: