Tour of Cousin, Curieuse and St Pierre island on Catamaran

When it comes to island-hopping in Seychelles, few experiences promise such a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and marine adventure as the Tour of Cousin, Curieuse, and St Pierre islands on a sleek catamaran. This guided day trip offers a chance to see some of Seychelles’ most treasured spots, all in one go.

Whether you’re into snorkeling, spotting rare endemic species, or just soaking up the views, this tour is often considered a standout.

We like that it combines multiple islands in a single day, saving travelers the trouble of multiple trips, and that it offers a balanced mix of activities—beach time, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights.

A potential consideration is the short snorkeling stops, which some might find a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time underwater. Still, for anyone who loves discovering diverse environments, this tour can be a very rewarding way to spend a day.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a blend of exploration and relaxation, appreciate authentic wildlife encounters, and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s ideal for those hoping to maximize island time without sacrificing comfort, or for anyone wanting an overview of Seychelles’ highlights with a local guide.

Key Points

• Multiple islands in one day: Cover Cousin, Curieuse, and St Pierre.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot rare endemic species, sea turtles, and baby sharks.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Crystal-clear waters host vibrant marine life.
• Historical sites: Visit the ruins of an old leper colony and the “Doctor’s house.”
• Cultural experience: Enjoy a flavorful Creole lunch onboard.
• Scenic cruising: Marvel at panoramic views along the marine park route.

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Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Creole Travel Services offices located at La Passe, opposite Fish Trap restaurant. It’s straightforward: you collect your tickets here, and the staff guide you through the process. For La Digue travelers, transfers to the jetty are not included but can be arranged separately. The tour generally costs $262 per person, which, when you consider the inclusions—ferry transfers, landing fees, lunch, and snorkeling gear—it offers decent value for a full day of exploration.

Timing-wise, most trips are day-long adventures, starting early, with a return in the late afternoon. The group size tends to be intimate but lively, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention from the crew.

Exploring Cousin Island

Your day kicks off with a boat ride toward Cousin Island, a protected nature reserve renowned for its endemic bird species and lush surroundings. While the tour doesn’t specify the duration on Cousin, it’s mainly a quick stop for birdwatching and photo ops. The island’s conservation efforts are palpable, and you might catch sight of rare birds or enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Curieuse Island: A Mix of Wildlife and History

Next, you’ll visit Curieuse, famous for its giant land tortoises roaming freely. A guided tour here introduces you to the island’s past as an old leper colony, with ruins you can explore. Travelers appreciate the chance to walk through the mangrove forest, leading to the Baie Laraie lagoon—a tranquil spot with calm waters perfect for photos and relaxing.

One reviewer noted, “We loved the way we could walk through the mangroves to reach the lagoon,” highlighting how this natural pathway adds a sense of adventure. Visitors also get to see the “Doctor’s house”, a relic of the island’s history, providing a tangible connection to Seychelles’ past.

St Pierre Island: Marine Life and Snorkeling

The highlight for many is the stop at St Pierre, a tiny island famous for its vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Here, you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, which are often described as “stunning” in reviews. The marine life includes colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the chance to spot baby sharks—though the snorkeling duration can be hit or miss.

One traveler mentioned, “The snorkeling at St. Pierre was too short (35 minutes), despite the crew saying it would be 50 minutes,” which suggests that timing may vary. The underwater scenery is usually considered worth the effort. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, so all you need is your swimsuit and a sense of curiosity.

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Cultural and Natural Highlights

Beyond marine exploration, the tour incorporates visits to mangrove forests and historical sites, enriching the experience. The ruins of the leper colony serve as a reminder of Seychelles’ complex history, and the “Doctor’s house” offers a glimpse into island life centuries ago.

Lunch and Relaxation

A notable plus is the Creole BBQ lunch served on the boat. While the menu varies, the emphasis on local flavors and fresh ingredients makes for a satisfying meal. One review highlighted that vegan options might not always be available, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s worth clarifying beforehand. Still, most travelers enjoy the flavorful dishes like rice, lentils, salads, and pumpkin.

Following lunch, many guests relax on the boat or the small beaches near Moyenne Island, famous for its free-roaming giant tortoises. The guided tour of Moyenne is brief but charming, and the relaxed atmosphere is a welcome break after the morning’s activities.

Scenic Cruising and Return

The scenic cruise back to Mahe is a highlight in itself. You’ll enjoy views of the islands, curious formations, and perhaps a sunset if timing permits. The gentle rocking of the catamaran, coupled with the stunning surroundings, makes for a peaceful conclusion.

$262 per person might seem steep at first glance, but it covers ferry transfers, park fees, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided tours. Considering the scope—three islands, wildlife encounters, historical sites, and a full-day experience—it’s quite comprehensive.

Some reviews point out minor frustrations—like the snorkeling time being shorter than expected or the need for better vegan meal options—but overall, the tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation.

This trip appeals strongly to nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, especially those eager to see Seychelles’ endemic species and marine life. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy history and culture, given the leper colony ruins and the old house. If you’re after a scenic, all-in-one day without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this tour fits well.

Keep in mind that if you’re looking for longer snorkeling sessions or more premium culinary experiences, you might find this tour somewhat limited. But for a well-rounded introduction to Seychelles’ highlights, it’s hard to beat.

In all, this Catamaran island-hopping tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Seychelles’ most iconic spots without breaking the bank or overcommitting your time. The combination of wildlife encounters, historical sites, and snorkeling makes it a diverse experience that appeals to a broad audience.

Travelers who love stunning views, active exploration, and cultural stories will find plenty to delight in. The organized nature, inclusive pricing, and scenic boat rides add up to good value, especially if you’re keen to cover multiple islands in one day.

While the schedule can be tight—particularly with snorkeling durations—most guests leave with a sense of appreciation for Seychelles’ natural beauty and a few memorable stories. This trip suits adventurous, curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of the islands’ diversity, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

FAQs

Is transportation provided from La Digue or Mahe?
For La Digue, clients need to arrange their own transfer to the jetty; the tour doesn’t include land transfers from hotels. On Mahe, the pickup is at the Creole Travel Services office, and transfers are generally organized for departures from this point.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers ferry transfers for La Digue clients, landing fees on Cousin and Curieuse, a BBQ lunch onboard, water, and snorkeling equipment. It does not include any extras you might purchase, such as souvenirs or additional beverages.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you’re free to bring your own if you prefer, especially if you’re concerned about fit or comfort.

Are children under 2 allowed on the tour?
No, children under 2 years are not permitted on these sea excursions, likely for safety reasons.

How long is the snorkeling at St Pierre?
Most trips offer around 35 to 50 minutes of snorkeling, though some reviews mention this may sometimes be shorter than originally planned.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The onboard Creole lunch generally includes dishes like lentils, rice, salad, and pumpkin. Vegan options might not always be available, so it’s worth requesting specific dietary needs in advance.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, a credit card, and lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for boat trips and outdoor sightseeing.

How scenic is the cruise back to Mahe?
The return leg offers views of Seychelles’ islands and formations, often described as “stunning,” perfect for photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While the tour involves boat transfers and walking on islands, it’s best to check with the provider about specific mobility concerns, as some sites like mangrove forests or ruins may require moderate walking.

This Catamaran island-hopping adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Seychelles’ natural and cultural treasures. It’s an excellent pick for curious explorers eager to see the highlights, enjoy marine life, and learn a bit about local history—all in one enjoyable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby