19+ Catamarans & Yachts Available for Hire in Seychelles

Best Time to Sail

The main sailing season runs from May to October when the southeast trades blow at 12 to 18 knots on most days. Air temperatures stay between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius while water remains around 27 degrees. June through August sees the steadiest breezes and fewer yachts at anchor, whereas April and November bring lighter variable winds and higher humidity with more boats arriving in the popular bays. A practical window for most crews is late May to early September when consistent winds meet manageable crowd levels at the main anchorages.

Recommended Stops and Anchorages

Victoria - The capital on Mahé offers a sheltered commercial harbour where you can clear in and restock before heading north or south along the island coast.

Beau Vallon - This northwest Mahé bay provides good holding in sand with protection from the trades and easy access to coastal trails leading inland.

Anse Volbert - On the west side of Praslin the anchorage sits behind a reef that reduces swell and places you within dinghy range of several smaller coves.

La Digue - The main jetty area allows short stays while the nearby bays offer quieter overnight spots once you have explored the island by bicycle.

Silhouette - The west coast anchorage off this less-visited island gives protection from the southeast trades and clear water over a sandy bottom for snorkelling.

Desroches - The outer atoll lagoon provides a remote stop with reliable holding and steady trade-wind access for crews comfortable with longer passages.

Sailing Conditions

Expect winds of 12 to 20 knots from the southeast during the main season, occasionally rising above 25 knots in squalls. The sea state is typically a moderate chop between islands with short periods that can build when the wind opposes tidal flow. Coral heads and unmarked reefs require careful chart reading around Praslin and the outer islands; the main channels between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are well marked but still demand attention at night. Intermediate sailors will manage the passages with good daylight planning while beginners may prefer shorter hops with an experienced local skipper on board.

Coastal Traditions and Cuisine

Along the waterfront you will find fresh grilled fish seasoned with ginger, turmeric and coconut milk served at small beach restaurants that open in the late afternoon. Creole market stalls sell salted fish and jackfruit preserves that crews often purchase for longer passages, and the weekly fish auction in Victoria gives a direct view of the day’s catch brought in by local pirogues.

Planning Available Yachts

Once the seasonal window and preferred stops are clear you can review current listings and compare specifications for a Seychelles sailing holiday that matches your route and crew size. Seychelles anchorages reward those who plan around the trade winds and arrive with flexible timing for each island hop.