Exploring Seychelles’ St. Anne Marine Park

Just a few kilometers off the coast of Mahé, Seychelles’ St. Anne Marine Park offers an escape for nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone craving an tropical marine adventure. Here’s how to spend a perfect day exploring the marine life, beaches, and landscapes that make this protected park a must-visit.

Start Your Morning with a Boat Ride

To reach St. Anne Marine Park, start your day by booking a boat ride from Mahé. Private operators and group tours are available, many of which offer snorkeling and glass-bottom boat options, allowing you to glimpse the park’s incredible underwater scenes right from the start. Depart early to maximize your time in the park and beat the mid-morning crowds.

Snorkeling – Discover an Underwater Wonderland

St. Anne Marine Park is home to a rich variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, fish, and occasional sightings of turtles and rays. Snorkeling here is a must, with spots like the reefs around Ile Moyenne and Cerf Island offering particularly stunning views of the park’s vibrant ecosystem. Pack your snorkeling gear or arrange rentals in advance for a seamless experience.

Tip: Respect the park’s conservation guidelines by avoiding contact with the coral.

Island Hopping – Explore the Park’s Unique Islands

St. Anne Marine Park includes six islands, each with its unique charm and natural beauty. Spend part of your day island-hopping, with stops on Ile Moyenne for a bit of history and Round Island for its green landscapes. If you’re lucky, you might meet the giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely on Moyenne—a memorable photo opportunity.

Ile Cachée and Ile Longue are more secluded and are perfect for a quiet beach escape if you’re seeking relaxation. Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of these islands or check with your tour provider to see if they include lunch.

Lunchtime – Enjoy a Seaside Meal

Some organized tours offer a beach barbecue lunch, giving visitors a taste of local Creole flavors like grilled fish, rice, and tropical fruit. If your tour doesn’t include lunch, consider bringing your own picnic. Nothing beats dining by the water’s edge, listening to the waves, and soaking up the sun.

Afternoon Kayaking and Paddleboarding

After lunch, take advantage of the park’s calm, clear waters by trying kayaking or paddleboarding around the islands. If kayaking sounds a bit too strenuous, many boat tours offer guided glass-bottom boat rides that continue through the afternoon, so you can stay comfortably on board while taking in the sights below.

Evening Sunset Cruise Back to Mahé

As the day winds down, consider booking a sunset cruise back to Mahé (Most operators include the return trip to Mahé Island as part of the package.) Watching the sun set over Mahé island, painting the sky in vibrant colors, is a perfect way to end the day.

Tips for a Memorable Trip to St. Anne Marine Park

• Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen: To protect the marine ecosystem, use environmentally friendly sunscreen.
• Stay Hydrated: With so much sun and saltwater, staying hydrated is crucial.
• Capture the Moment: Pack a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture your underwater adventures!
• Pack Insect Repellent: Some of the islands have thick vegetation where mosquitoes and other insects may be present, especially in shaded areas. A good insect repellent will keep you comfortable throughout the day.

St. Anne Marine Park is more than just a beautiful destination—it’s an experience that connects you with the natural beauty of Seychelles. Whether you’re here for the marine life, beaches, or serene island landscapes, a day in St. Anne Marine Park is sure to leave lasting memories.