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The Essential Seychelles

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Balcony
$6,049
Suite
$10,321
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
9 Days
 Cruise Starts
Victoria
 Cruise Finishes
Victoria
9 Day The Essential Seychelles  Itinerary (Ponant)
Countries Explored: Seychelles
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Ship Class
Ponant Explorers
Departures
Passengers
184
Crew
118
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
SC1SC18.7

Overview

On this itinerary, Ponant invites you to discover the must-see jewels of the Seychelles. On Mahé, you will board Le Champlain for a 9-day expedition cruise to the heart of this archipelago's Inner Islands for a glimpse of paradise. The first port of call on your journey will take you into the marvellous garden of Cousin Island. Everything in this natural reserve is bursting with life: giant tortoises wander around and birds tweet in the heart of lush vegetation. Then you will sail to Remire Island, an Eden lost in the Indian Ocean.

Discover its abundant fauna as you explore both on...read more land and under water. Fall in love with this idyllic port of call as you walk around the island and snorkel in its sparkling waters. On Curieuse Island, reputed for its red earth and for the Aldabra giant tortoises that have taken up residence there, take an excursion to the heart of the mangrove. You will then explore Aride, an unspoiled delight of the Indian Ocean and home to thousands of birds including some endemic species. Palm trees, granite rock, white sand and crystal-clear water await you on Grande Sœur.

The beaches on this island are each more beautiful than the next, guaranteeing moments of relaxation that will live up to your fantasies of the Seychelles. In Praslin, don't miss the chance to visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. There you will find sea coconuts, gigantic endemic fruits with a very evocative shape, nicknamed the 'love nut'. Before you return to Mahé, Le Champlain will chart a course for the sublime beaches of La Digue, some of the most renowned of the Seychelles. The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 19:00

Mahe, the largest island of the Seychelles, dazzles with its abundance of natural beauty, from lush mountains to pristine beaches. Victoria, its capital, is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its cuisine and architecture, with the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market being must-visits.

For beach lovers, Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and jet-skiing. The island's interior is a haven for hikers, with trails winding through Morne Seychellois National Park leading to panoramic views. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Victoria, with landmarks such as the Clock Tower and vibrant markets offering a taste of local life and cuisine and Mahe's Botanical gardens showcase the island's flora, including rare orchids and giant tortoises.

Port:Victoria

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is located on Mahé Island and is the smallest capital city in Africa. Known for its charming blend of colonial and Creole architecture, Victoria offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The city’s highlights include the Victoria Clock Tower, a replica of London’s Vauxhall Clock Tower, and the colourful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, bustling with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts.

The nearby Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with their collection of exotic plants, giant tortoises, and fruit bats. Victoria also serves as a gateway to the island’s stunning beaches and marine parks. With its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Victoria is a delightful starting point for exploring the Seychelles.

La Digue, one of the most picturesque islands in the Seychelles, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The island’s most famous beach, Anse Source d'Argent, features striking granite boulders, powdery white sand, and turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Exploring La Digue by bicycle is a delightful experience, allowing visitors to discover charming villages, lush plantations, and the island's unique flora and fauna. The Veuve Nature Reserve is home to the rare Seychelles black paradise flycatcher, offering a glimpse of the island's rich biodiversity. With its pristine beauty and tranquil vibe, La Digue provides an idyllic escape in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Mahe, the largest island of the Seychelles, dazzles with its abundance of natural beauty, from lush mountains to pristine beaches. Victoria, its capital, is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its cuisine and architecture, with the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market being must-visits.

For beach lovers, Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and jet-skiing. The island's interior is a haven for hikers, with trails winding through Morne Seychellois National Park leading to panoramic views. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Victoria, with landmarks such as the Clock Tower and vibrant markets offering a taste of local life and cuisine and Mahe's Botanical gardens showcase the island's flora, including rare orchids and giant tortoises.

Port:Victoria

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is located on Mahé Island and is the smallest capital city in Africa. Known for its charming blend of colonial and Creole architecture, Victoria offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The city’s highlights include the Victoria Clock Tower, a replica of London’s Vauxhall Clock Tower, and the colourful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, bustling with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts.

The nearby Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with their collection of exotic plants, giant tortoises, and fruit bats. Victoria also serves as a gateway to the island’s stunning beaches and marine parks. With its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Victoria is a delightful starting point for exploring the Seychelles.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Le Bougainville

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Le Bougainville

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Expedition Comfort
Expedition Comfort

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Infinity Pool Days
Infinity Pool Days

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Inside The Blue Eye
Inside The Blue Eye

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Nightlife and Entertainment
Nightlife and Entertainment

Enjoy socialising and dancing in the main lounge or applaud a live show in the theatre. Read more

Relaxed Dining Settings
Relaxed Dining Settings

Dine al fresco at the grill or enjoy buffet and table service in the main restaurant. Read more

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Le Bougainville Reviews (1) Most Recent 'Le Bougainville' Reviews

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I’m a Ponant fan! 1 , ACT, Australia, Apr 2024
Loved everything about our Ponant cruise. Excursions were well organised and having a Ponant crew member as support was a big plus. Restaurant staff were charming and service was impeccable. Quizzes, dance lessons and shows were a lot of fun. We specifically loved the ambience of a small ship. So great, even my teenage granddaughter had the best ...read more time and never bored. Highly recommended!

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Sunday 25 Jan 2026
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Sunday 25 Jan 2026
Monday 02 Feb 2026
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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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