Sainte Anne & Moyenne Island: Snorkeling, Tortoises & Creole Lunch

Summary

Giant tortoises on Moyenne island snorkeling in Sainte Anne turquoise waters creole food stories from Seychellois locals

You’ll drift across turquoise waters in Sainte Anne Marine Park, meet giant land tortoises roaming free on Moyenne Island, share stories with your Seychellois guide, then eat a Creole lunch by the sea before snorkeling among bright coral reefs. It’s not just about what you see — it’s how you’ll feel heading home with salty hair and new stories stuck in your head.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how fast the color changed as our boat left Mahé — that sudden pop of turquoise in the Sainte Anne Marine Park, like someone cranked up the saturation. The air smelled faintly salty and sweet, and I could hear kids laughing somewhere behind us. Our guide, Jean-Luc, was already pointing out Cerf Island (“that one’s shaped like a sleeping lizard,” he said) but honestly I was just staring at the water. It didn’t look real.

We landed on Moyenne Island and right away there were giant tortoises everywhere — just sort of lumbering around like they owned the place (which, fair enough). One of them eyed my sandal with what I swear was suspicion. Jean-Luc told us about pirates’ graves hidden under the trees and showed us old settler ruins; he even let me try saying “Moyenne” properly in Creole, which made everyone laugh (I definitely butchered it). The island felt wild but also cared for — you could smell earth and leaves, and sometimes a whiff of something cooking from the restaurant up the hill.

Lunch at Jolly Roger was simple but good — grilled fish with rice and some spicy sauce I couldn’t name. We ate outside, feet sandy, watching little birds dart around. After that it was back to the boat for more cruising through the marine park. We stopped twice to snorkel over coral reefs; I lost track of time floating above parrotfish and these tiny electric-blue things darting between rocks. The sun kept shifting behind clouds so everything looked different every few minutes. At one point I just floated on my back listening to nothing but water slapping against my mask.

The ride back to Mahé was slow and warm — everyone a bit quiet, maybe sun-stunned or just thinking about those tortoises. There’s something about seeing old graves next to new green leaves that sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Sainte Anne Marine Park and Moyenne Island

• Depart from Mahé Island
• Snorkel in Sainte Anne Marine Park
• Pass by Ste. Anne Island
• Pass by Cerf Island
• Arrive at Moyenne Island
• Join guided tour of Moyenne Island
• See giant land tortoises
• Visit early settlers’ homes and chapel
• Have lunch at Jolly Roger restaurant
• Cruise around marine park islands
• Stop for snorkeling and swimming
• Pass by Round Island
• Pass by Long Island
• Return to Mahé Island

Top questions

How do you get from Mahé to Sainte Anne Marine Park?

The tour includes return boat transfers from Mahé to Sainte Anne Marine Park as part of your day trip.

Are there giant tortoises on Moyenne Island?

Yes, Moyenne Island is home to free-roaming giant land tortoises that you can see up close during your visit.

Is snorkeling gear provided during the Sainte Anne Marine Park tour?

The reference does not specify if snorkeling gear is provided; check directly when booking.

What kind of lunch is included on this day trip?

A Creole lunch is served at Jolly Roger restaurant on Moyenne Island as part of your tour experience.

How long does it take to reach Moyenne Island from Mahé?

Moyenne Island is located within Sainte Anne Marine Park off Mahé's northeast coast; boat rides are short but exact timing may vary.

Can you swim or snorkel during this tour?

Yes, there are several stops for swimming and snorkeling along coral reefs during the day trip in Sainte Anne Marine Park.

Is hotel pickup included for this Seychelles day trip?

Your day includes return coach transfers (pickup) from your accommodation in Mahé.

Are there any age or health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for infants under 2 years old, pregnant travelers, those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health, or elderly travelers with limited mobility.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup by coach from Mahé, all marine park entry fees and landing fees for Moyenne Island, a guided walk among giant tortoises with a local guide sharing stories along the way, plus a relaxed Creole lunch at Jolly Roger before returning by boat in the afternoon.