St Anne Marine Park & Moyenne Island, Creole Lunch (Private Boat)

Imagine floating in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life, and wandering through lush island landscapes—all in one day. That’s exactly what the St. Anne Marine Park & Moyenne Island private boat tour promises. With top-notch guides, personalized experiences, and a blend of adventure and relaxation, this tour has earned glowing reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand.

We love how this tour offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, wildlife encounters, cultural stories, and mouthwatering creole cuisine. It’s perfect for those craving authentic marine encounters and island exploration, all while avoiding the crowds. But, keep in mind, weather conditions and tide timings can influence the day’s activities, especially the beach stops. This trip suits travelers who appreciate comfort, detailed guiding, and a flexible itinerary suited to their pace.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private boat setting ensures a more intimate and flexible adventure.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights about marine life and island history, enriching the experience.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, beach lounging, feeding fish, and exploring Moyenne Island’s giant tortoises.
• Delicious Creole Lunch: A hearty local buffet at Jolly Roger offers a real taste of Seychelles.
• Optimal Timing: Departing at 9 a.m., the tour covers most of the day, with plenty of time for relaxation.
• Value for Money: At around $552 per person, the combination of private boat, guided tour, lunch, and stops makes for excellent value.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at FaermanEden, where you’ll meet your crew by 9 a.m. It’s a convenient location with nearby parking options, making your morning hassle-free. From here, a quick 20-minute boat ride in protected waters takes you toward your marine adventure, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

The Marine Park: Snorkeling & Marine Life

Once in St. Anne Marine Park, the excitement kicks in. This area is recognized for its marine biodiversity, and with the guidance of your skipper and helper, you’ll learn about the marine flora and fauna. You’ll have the chance to snorkel among rays, turtles, and even baby sharks—a highlight for many. Reviewers like Shane F. appreciated the powerful boat that allowed more time touring and snorkeling, and even saw turtles during their trip.

The marine park’s waters are usually calm and clear, providing excellent visibility for spotting marine creatures. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making sure you understand what you’re observing and helping identify various species. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, this part of the trip is a highlight.

Moyenne Island: Tortoises, Nature & Stories

At around 11 a.m., your boat heads to Moyenne Island, a conservation sanctuary famed for its giant tortoise population—over 100 of them! This island is a jewel for nature lovers, with lush vegetation, colorful bird life, and a fascinating history.

Reviewer Stefan J. appreciated the friendly guides who were very flexible, making sure kids felt included and engaged. Moyenne was once the home of journalist Brendon Grimshaw, who bought the island in 1962 and established a sanctuary that now boasts more species per square foot than elsewhere in the world. You can stroll along the 3 miles of nature paths and learn about Grimshaw’s life, including his burial alongside pirates—an intriguing story that adds a layer of local charm.

Expect to see the giant tortoises up close, feed the fish, or simply enjoy walking among the lush, tranquil environment. Reviewer Erika H. highlighted the fun of walking on a sandbank between islands and seeing the tortoises in their natural habitat.

Lunch at Jolly Roger Bar & Restaurant

Around 1.30 p.m., a well-deserved break arrives. You’ll be served a sumptuous Creole buffet lunch at Jolly Roger, which is praised for its authentic flavors and generous portions. It’s a perfect chance to relax, enjoy local dishes, and swap stories with fellow travelers.

Reviewers like Brendan D. called it an “amazing lunch,” emphasizing the quality of the food and the friendly service. The meal adds great value, especially considering it’s included in the tour. It’s also a good opportunity to recharge before more beach time or exploring.

Afternoon Beach & Fish-Feeding

Post-lunch, the tour continues around Ste Anne Marine National Park, heading to a beach or sandbank (depending on tides and weather). This part is all about unwinding—whether you prefer lounging on soft sands, swimming, or feeding fishes in shallow waters.

Feedback from travelers like Mohammed A. shows that the relaxed pace and friendly guides make this segment a highlight, giving children and adults alike time to enjoy the scenery at their leisure. The flexibility of the itinerary means you can decide whether to stay longer or start heading back.

Return Journey & Reflection

By 4:30 p.m., it’s time to head back to Victoria, ending the day with a sense of fulfillment and new-found marine knowledge. The crew’s professionalism, combined with the beautiful scenery and authentic experiences, ensures you leave with memories worth cherishing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Private & Personalized Experience

Unlike large group tours, this private boat allows your party to move at your own pace. Guides are attentive and eager to share insights, making the experience not just fun but educational.

Expert Guides & Local Knowledge

Reviewers consistently highlight how knowledgeable and flexible guides like Trevor, Johan, and JP enhance the trip. They share stories, point out wildlife, and make sure everyone’s questions are answered, which adds a lot of value.

High-Quality Equipment & Comfortable Boat

The boat’s performance (noted as powerful and new by travelers) makes a big difference, allowing more time in water and exploring different spots. The comfort and safety of the vessel are clearly a priority.

Authentic Culinary Experience

The Creole buffet lunch isn’t just a meal—it’s an immersion into local flavors. Many reviews note the deliciousness and generous portions, making it a true highlight for food lovers.

Flexible & Well-Timed Itinerary

Starting early at 9 a.m., the tour covers a full day, giving enough time for snorkeling, island exploring, beach relaxing, and lunch. The timing also considers weather conditions, ensuring you get the best experience.

Potential Considerations

• Weather Dependency: As with any outdoor activity, weather can influence the day’s activities, especially beach stops and snorkeling conditions.
• Cost: At $552.49 per person, this experience is a premium option, but the inclusion of private transportation, guides, lunch, and multiple activities adds to its value.
• Tide & Weather Impact on Beach Activities: The specific beaches visited depend on tide and weather, which might mean some variability in the afternoon plans.
• Advance Booking Recommended: The tour is popular, often booked 42 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan early.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip works wonderfully for travelers looking for a personalized, all-in-one marine adventure with a good mix of wildlife, scenery, and culture. Families with children, snorkelers, or those simply wanting to relax on beautiful beaches will find it perfect. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights and a touch of local history.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, well-organized day that balances adventure with comfort, this tour offers strong value, especially considering the expert guides and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is exclusive to your group, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

What time does the day start?
The tour departs at 9 a.m. from FaermanEden, with activities planned throughout the day.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Yes, a Creole buffet lunch is included, along with bottled water and beverages to keep you hydrated during the day.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride in protected bay takes about 20 minutes to reach the marine park, providing a relaxed start to your marine adventure.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Snorkeling is a key part of the experience, and guides are knowledgeable about marine life sightings like rays, turtles, and baby sharks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The tour provides snorkeling gear and beverages.

Final Thoughts

The St. Anne Marine Park & Moyenne Island private boat tour combines the best of Seychelles’ natural beauty—colorful marine life, gentle giant tortoises, and stunning island scenery—into one seamless day. The guided element, coupled with the comfort of a private boat and a delicious local lunch, makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting to truly experience Seychelles’ marine world.

While it’s priced at a premium, the personalized nature, expert guides, and variety of activities provide a level of quality and authenticity that’s hard to match. This tour is best suited for those who value a relaxed, well-organized day exploring in comfort, with plenty of opportunities to swim, walk, and learn.

For anyone dreaming of a day immersed in nature’s splendor—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity—this trip offers a memorable glimpse into Seychelles’ incredible underwater and island landscapes.

Note: Always check weather conditions and confirm bookings in advance, as the experience can vary slightly depending on tides and weather.