They call the Seychelles the ‘Galapagos of the Indian Ocean’, and Emerald Cruises is doubling down on exotic wilderness with a never-before cruise tour that combines once-in-a-lifetime explorations of the Seychelles and an African safari.
If you have to look up the Seychelles on a map, you’re not alone – and Emerald Cruises’ new cruisetour may be the best and only way you’ll ever get to explore the coastlines and one-of-a-kind wildlife of this life-changing destination.
Why Cruise the Seychelles?
The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean about a thousand miles east of mainland Africa. For those in the know, the Seychelles is a haven of pristine white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes, where you can easily wonder at rich marine life while snorkeling in the coral reefs and even meet a giant tortoise!
Like the isolated Galapagos archipelago, the Seychelles, another remote archipelago, is home to a remarkable array of unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Among its most iconic inhabitants is the Seychelles giant tortoise. These gentle giants can live over a century.
Visitors to the Seychelles are also on the lookout for the black parrot, with its unforgettable plumage and a distinctive call, as well as marine life including the Seychelles sheath-tailed batfish and the Seychelles anemonefish.
No wonder a coastal cruise of the Seychelles, with visits to sanctuaries ashore and the opportunity to dive right into calm waters in coves and bays along the Emerald yacht’s route, is an ideal way to visit this wondrous part of the earth.
Beyond its natural wonders, Seychelles boasts a fascinating cultural tapestry influenced by African, European, and Asian heritage. Indulge in Creole cuisine bursting with flavors, immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets, or discover the intriguing history of the islands through its colonial architecture and museums.
On the other hand, an African safari in Kenya needs no introduction. Getting face-to-face with Africa’s Big Five animals in their natural habitat is a bucket list trip for many travelers.
And Emerald Cruises is allowing intrepid guests to have both an African safari and a cruise around the Seychelles in one trip on one of its luxurious, intimate, 100-guest yachts.
The new, 16-Day Safari and Seychelles Journey: Discover the Maasai Culture, Encounter the Big Five and Sail the Enchanting Seychelles debuts in December, 2024.
Kenyan safari highlights include:
· Two nights at the Samburu Game Reserve
· Guided safari drives to spot elephants, giraffes, Somali ostriches, Grevy’s Zebra, lions, warthogs, impala, leopards and even the endangered black and white rhinos
· Overnight stay at the Lake Nakuru National Park, a UNESCO World heritage site known for being one of the best game viewing parks in Kenya
· Stop at the Thomson Falls scenic waterfalls providing breathtaking views
· Three nights at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve to see the Big Five as well as the black-maned lion, savanna elephant, Cape buffalo, wildebeest and more
· Profound cultural immersion with the Maasai Village to engage with the nomadic community, gaining insights into their unique way of life and a rich appreciation for their enduring customs
· Optional hot air balloon ride to get a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscape
The Seychelles cruise includes:
Relaxing while exploring the Seychelles and the Indian Ocean's hidden gems, with calls at
· Sainte Anne Island, encircled by a marine national park and home to more than 150 species of fish,
· Cousin Island, a haven for extremely rare magpie robins.
· Curieuse, a rugged island swathed in unspoiled wilderness; as well as
· Praslin, an island brimming with coral and marine life.
If you're interested in discovering more of the African coast or nearby Indian Ocean instead of going on African safari, Emerald Cruises has also designed other cruise itineraries featuring the Seychelles, for the December 2024 - February 2025 season, or December 2025 - February 2026 season. They range from 8 to 22 days.
8 Days: Tropical Charms of the Seychelles
10 Days: Seychelles Island Hopping
13 Days: Seychelles & Indian Ocean Adventure
16 Days: Safari & the Seychelles
20 Days: Discover Seychelles, Tanzania & Kenya
22 Days: Discovery Seychelles & the East African Coast
Highlights of life aboard the Emerald Azzurra include:
· an atmosphere of elegance and unparalleled comfort, with spacious, modern staterooms, an open-air infinity pool, and a wellness deck complete with a spa, infrared sauna, and gym;
· culinary delights at La Cucina, offering fresh, seasonal cuisine with terrace and indoor seating options,
· the Amici Lounge, with its friendly atmosphere for socializing with live music, and
· when anchored, guests can engage in water-based activities, using kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling equipment, and more from the yacht’s marina platform.
This African adventure with Emerald Cruises offers a blend of wild exploration and modern luxury, meticulously curated for an unforgettable experience.
START YOUR MARINE SAFARI TRIP!
Top Image: Getty/ Giant turtle by a palm tree in Anse Severe. La Digue island, Seychelles
Bottom Image courtesy of Emerald Cruises
