Port Victoria, Seychelles
To the north-east of Mahé Island sits Victoria, the only significant port in the Seychelles and one of the world’s smallest capital cities.
No visit to the Seychelles would be complete without a stop at Victoria to enjoy its breathtaking views and dip into its colonial past. Discovered in the early 17th century by a British East India ship, Port Victoria later became a British colony and has some interesting sights.
The impressive clock tower, built in 1903 when the Seychelles became a British colony is modelled on London’s Vauxhall Bridge and serves as a memorial to Queen Victoria. Other buildings, such as the courthouse and the main post office, also offer insights into Victoria’s intriguing past.
A trip to Victoria’s botanical gardens is a must, where you can see an array of exotic plants and wildlife, including giant Aldabran land tortoises and the world-famous coco de mer palms.
A visit to the town’s bustling market to pick up a souvenir, or sample the diverse cuisine on offer is always popular with visitors, as are the offshore activities such as snorkelling and deep-sea fishing, all of which are easily accessible from Port Victoria.
Below are examples of excursions that have previously been offered from this port of call. A fully detailed programme of the included and optional tours available during your cruise will be sent shortly before your departure.
Artistic Mahe
Immerse yourself in an array of artistic talents on this fantastic excursion which will introduce you to the creative side of Mahé Island.
Head first to the Pineapple Studio where you can watch t-shirts being printed by hand using the silk-screening method and see locally-made wooden craftware delicately hand-painted. Perhaps purchase a unique souvenir crafted from coconut fibre.
Next, head to the magnificent bay of Anse Royale, where you will have time to relax and possibly enjoy a gentle swim.
Your journey now continues to the Craft Village where traditional artisans display their skills and wares in an inspiring collection of shops based around a fine colonial building.
Here you can expect to find an array of wonderful paintings, coconut crafts and hand-made jewellery.
Included excursion
Duration: 4 hours
Coral Cruise
The Seychelles are synonymous with crystal clear waters, and this delightful excursion takes you on a journey through the exciting world that lies beneath the surface.
From the comfort of a catamaran you will enjoy a relaxing cruise and have the opportunity to view unspoilt coral reefs and an exotic array of underwater life on a semi-submersible viewer.
The tour visits beautiful Ste Anne Marine National Park, and you have the option to don your mask and fins for a spot of snorkelling, or take time out to hand-feed the fish - an experience not to be missed.
Optional excursion
Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Victoria and Botanical Gardens
This revealing excursion takes in the many highlights of this charming town, the administrative centre of the Seychelles.
During the tour you will have the chance to explore Victoria’s colonial history – see the colonial buildings of the law courts and exquisite clock tower, erected in 1903 to commemorate Queen Victoria.
If you enjoy shopping, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge at the town’s colourful market, or the kiosks on
Francis Rachel’s Street.
Continue to the Botanical Gardens at the south end of the town. Here you can stroll among a variety of native trees and perhaps enjoy the beautiful orchid garden.
Marvel at the giant Aldabran land tortoises, fruit bats and endemic plants such as the coco de mer palms before returning to Spirit of Adventure.
Included excursion
Duration: 3 hours