There’s nothing more magical than chartering a luxury yacht and setting sail across the sea, weaving amongst the most stunning islands the Indian Ocean has to offer. The Indian Ocean is the third largest ocean in the world and benefits from a gorgeous tropical climate all year round. There’s no need to pack any winter warmers for this trip, it’s swimming costumes and sarongs all the way.
Hiring your own yacht gives you the freedom to island-hop as much as you want. It also gives you the option to head somewhere busy and vibrant or to head somewhere more peaceful and secluded. Here’s our suggested itinerary to visit seven of the most amazing Indian Ocean islands.
Eden Island
Eden Island is an artificial island in Seychelles that is fast becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in the region. It’s a total paradise with turquoise seas and dense mountain views which attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year and after chartering here, you’ll understand why. It boasts powdery white beaches, delicious local food, buzzing nightlife, exotic marine life and more. It has all the ingredients you need for a luxury getaway.
Set up a rod and fish from the comfort of your yacht, swim in the sea, or take a day trip and sunbathe on one of the beautiful beaches followed by a decadent picnic. The choice is yours.
Frégate Island
Frégate Island is the easternmost of the granitic inner islands of Seychelles. The place is teeming with wildlife. The island is famous for dedicating time and money to the conservation of nature. You’ll find giant tortoises (Frégate has set up a nursery for young Giant Aldabra Tortoises and has helped their population soar from 150 in 1995 to their current number of over 3,000), Hawksbill turtles, and fruit bats gliding through the sky.
It’s a truly tropical place with beautiful white beaches, emerald mountains, coconut palm trees and an abundance of coral reefs. There’s also plenty of activities to get involved in. There are guided nature tours, diving centres, a yacht club, and a history museum. Spend an action-packed day exploring before heading back to your yacht for a private meal under the stars, prepared for you by your own personal chef.
La Digue
La Digue is one of the smaller islands in Seychelles but it’s also extremely beautiful and picturesque. It’s home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches lined with unusual large pink granite rocks. If you visit La Digue you’ll immediately notice the laid-back vibe – nobody rushes, and everything is done at a relaxed pace which is perfect for holidays. Even the fishermen slowly meander up the road carrying their catch of the day. This is the ideal atmosphere if you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate.
Thanks to the reef wall running adjacent to the western beaches, the seawater is placid enough for safe swimming. This is a great area for snorkelling where you’ll be greeted by lots of exotic sea creatures such as starfish, turtles, and emperor angelfish. Make the most of the yachts snorkelling and diving equipment when you’re here.
Aride Island
Aride Island is the northernmost granitic island in Seychelles and is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the region as it’s completely untouched. It’s covered in beautiful, lush greenery and is only 1.6km long and 0.6km wide. It plays host to a huge population of seabirds, including the renowned Seychelles blue pigeon and many more.
The island is a nature reserve and the only people who populate it are the island reserve workers, making it one of the quietest and peaceful places on earth. Take it all in from the comfort of your luxury yacht, listening to the birds sing as you bask in the warm glistening sun.
Praslin Island
Praslin Island is a popular tourist destination with plenty of beaches and tropical forests. It’s well known for being home to the Coco de Mer Palm Tree – one of the rarest and most unusual plants in the entire world. The most popular attraction on the island is the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an expansive and beautiful botanical garden with many unusual plants including the Coco de Mer.
If you want to get a bit active on your visit, there are many nature trails running throughout the island. The longest route takes approximately 3 hours. Or go for a dip in the sea – the water is nice and warm, and the winds are usually fairly mild. Then finish the day off with dinner and drinks on your yachts expansive deck.
North Island
North Island is a secluded paradise perfect for those who are looking for a quiet and private getaway. It’s a classy, glamorous island promoting relaxation and restoration. The beaches are largely untouched and completely idyllic, with powdery white sands, crystal blue seas and granite peaks. If you choose to take a walk along the beach, your footprints are likely to be the only ones you will see while you’re there.
When it comes to activities on your yacht here, there is a wide selection. You can go diving, stand-up paddleboarding, book an onboard spa treatment, or even take part in some yoga lessons!
Silhouette Island
Silhouette Island is the third-largest Seychelles island and is one of utter tropical beauty. It’s made from volcanic syenite which came about after a huge volcanic eruption over 63 million years ago. It’s very remote and is underdeveloped in comparison to the other populated islands, but it boasts gorgeous forests that climb up the high peaks of the two largest mountains on the island – Mont Dauban and Mont Pot a Eay.
If you take a wander around the island you’ll spot various different wildlife species, including bats that you’ll find hanging from trees during the day and snacking on breadfruit and mangoes in the evening.
Port Launay
Port Launay Marine Park is the largest of all the Seychelles islands, with tons of beaches and gorgeous scenery. Being one of the most picturesque islands makes it the perfect place for jumping off your yacht and spending a day taking pictures.
There are plenty of water sports activities to get involved in such as surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, fishing and of course, swimming. If you want to relax in private just hop back on board your private yacht or perhaps take a lie down on a sun lounger with a fruity cocktail in hand.
Book Your Indian Ocean Islands Yacht Charter If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, look no further, you’ve found it. The Indian Ocean islands have it all and then some. Book your yacht experience now with Ahoy Club.
