Reef Safari – Snorkeling, Fish Feeding & Lunch (Shared Day Trip)

Discover the beauty of Seychelles’ marine and island life on the Reef Safari – Snorkeling, Fish Feeding & Lunch, a shared day trip from Victoria in Mahé. Priced at $153.66 per person, this 6-hour adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Seychelles’ stunning waters, vibrant reefs, and lush islands. It is designed for travelers seeking a mix of snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and delicious local cuisine, with options for private or group tours.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexible stops: Moyenne Island, St. Anne Marine National Park, and Cerf Island. Each location delivers unique moments — from observing giant tortoises to snorkeling in clear waters and relaxing on pristine beaches. A barbecue Seychelles-style lunch adds a tasty highlight, making the day both fun and flavorful.

While the tour includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and admission fees, it’s worth noting that snorkeling time at the first stop can be slightly limited, especially when groups are large. However, the friendly crew and beautiful scenery tend to overshadow this minor constraint. This trip is especially suitable for those who appreciate guided island visits, marine wildlife, and authentic Seychelles cuisine.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am from Victoria.
• Price: Around $153.66 per person, with options for private tours.
• Locations: Includes Moyenne Island, St. Anne Marine National Park, and Cerf Island.
• Activities: Snorkeling, fish feeding, island hikes, and a Creole BBQ lunch.
• Group Size: Limited to 45 travelers, often with smaller groups.
• Included: Transportation, snorkeling equipment, admission fees, and lunch. Extras like drinks and South Mahe transfers are not included.

Starting Point and Timing in Mahé

The tour begins at the Marine Charter Association located on 5th June Ave, Victoria. Hotel pickups are available, with a meeting time at 9:30 am, ensuring an early start for a full day of exploration. Travelers are advised to be punctual, especially if they choose to drive themselves, with departure from accommodations far from Victoria requiring an additional charge.

Transportation: From Your Hotel to the Marine Park

The tour offers private transportation included in the price, but note that free shuttle services operate only in specific areas such as Beau Vallon, Glacis, and Eden Island. For accommodations in South Mahe, or far from Victoria, an extra fee applies. The pick-up times are between 5:50 am and 6:45 am depending on your location, so planning ahead ensures a smooth start. Those with a rental car can choose to drive directly to the meeting point.

Moyenne Island Exploration and Giant Tortoises

The first stop is Moyenne Island, a small island in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. It has been a flora and fauna reserve since the 1970s and is famous for its free-roaming giant tortoises. Visitors enjoy a short 40-minute walk or hike around the island, which offers spectacular ocean vistas.

This stop is ideal for nature lovers and families. The walk provides opportunities to see native plants and sea views, but the limited time might restrict extended exploration or longer wildlife encounters. The admission fee for Moyenne Island is included, making it a hassle-free visit.

Snorkeling and Fish Feeding at Sainte Anne Marine Park

The second stop is St. Anne Marine National Park, home to colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Snorkeling is not mandatory, but the crew provides all equipment for those eager to explore underwater. Visitors have the choice to snorkel for about an hour, feed fish from the glass-bottom boat, or simply relax on the boat.

The fish feeding activity is popular, with the crew assisting in fish identification and feeding techniques. Those who prefer not to snorkel can stay on Moyenne Island, which remains the main focus for many. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the marine environment at their comfort level.

Cerf Island and the Seychelles BBQ Lunch

The final major stop is Cerf Island, where guests enjoy a delicious Creole BBQ lunch. The meal features local Seychelles cuisine, providing a flavorful break amid the day’s activities. After lunch, visitors can snorkel around the reef, swim, or relax on the white sandy beaches.

Cerf Island offers about two hours of leisure time, giving plenty of opportunity to swim, sunbathe, or take in the island atmosphere. The lunch is a highlight for many, praised for its authentic flavors and well-organized service.

The Crew and Guide Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledgeable, friendly crew and skippers, with guides like Steve and Jean Yves standing out for their enthusiasm and informative commentary. Travelers appreciate the small group sizes—often around 10 people—which make for a more personalized experience despite a maximum of 45 travelers.

Many mention the leisurely pace of the guided walks on Moyenne Island, the helpfulness of staff with snorkeling gear, and the enthusiasm of guides when explaining marine life and island history. These elements contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment, especially for those new to snorkeling or island excursions.

Lunch and Refreshments

The Creole BBQ lunch on Cerf Island is repeatedly praised as delicious, with some reviewers calling it the best meal of their trip. The lunch is typically served as a buffet featuring local Seychelles flavors.

While water is supplied in abundance, soft drinks or bottled water are not included in the tour price, so travelers wishing for extra drinks should bring their own. The lunch is designed to satisfy before or after a swim, with fresh seafood and tasty accompaniments.

Snorkeling Equipment and Safety

Snorkeling gear is provided by the crew, ensuring easy access for all participants. Despite some comments about older equipment in reviews, the overall consensus is that gear is sufficient for a fun day. The boat itself is considered safe, but some reviews note that the boats can feel a bit rickety due to saltwater exposure—an inherent challenge for vessels on the water.

There are no bathrooms on the boat, but public facilities are available on the islands. This is typical for short water trips in the region but is worth considering for those needing regular restroom access.

Pacing, Crowd Levels, and Overall Experience

Most reviews highlight the well-managed schedule and leisurely pace, with ample time at each stop. The group size allows for personalized attention from guides, and the small boat creates an intimate atmosphere. The pacing is flexible enough for guests to enjoy snorkeling, walks, or beach time without feeling rushed.

Some minor concerns involve snorkeling duration, which can feel brief if many children or large groups are involved. However, the friendly staff often accommodate requests for extra snorkeling time, depending on group size and safety considerations.

Additional Tips and Considerations

While this tour offers excellent value, travelers should be aware that extra charges may apply if they stay in accommodations far from Victoria or require additional transport. The tour operator clearly states pickup options and charges in advance.

For those with a rental car, arriving on time at the meeting point is straightforward, and driving can be a good option to ensure flexibility. Weather conditions can influence the trip; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

The Reef Safari from Victoria delivers a diverse mix of snorkeling, island hikes, wildlife encounters, and local cuisine, making it a comprehensive day trip for anyone eager to explore Seychelles’ waters and islands. Its friendly crew, delicious BBQ, and stunning scenery are the main draws, backed by high praise from previous travelers.

While snorkeling time can be somewhat limited, especially for larger groups, the flexibility and informative guides ensure that most guests leave satisfied with their adventure. This tour is especially well-suited for families, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a relaxed pace amidst Seychelles’ natural beauty.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, engaging, and scenic day trip that combines marine exploration with island relaxation, this Reef Safari fit the bill. Its balance of guided walks, snorkeling, and delicious local food makes it a rewarding choice for anyone wanting to experience the best of Mahé’s marine and island life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is breakfast included in this tour?
No, the tour starts at 9:30 am, and the main meal is the Creole BBQ lunch on Cerf Island. Snacks or breakfast should be arranged beforehand if needed.

Are snorkeling masks and fins provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment including masks and fins are provided by the crew for all participants.

Can children participate in this tour?
Most travelers, including families with children, can participate. The tour is suitable for those comfortable in water and able to walk on islands.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered a full refund or a rescheduling.

Is additional transportation needed after the tour?
Extra charges may apply for transfers beyond Victoria or from accommodations in South Mahe. Otherwise, transportation is included.

How long is the snorkeling at each stop?
Snorkeling usually lasts about an hour, but the timing can vary depending on group size and weather. The crew may accommodate requests for longer snorkeling if conditions allow.