Location & Transportation
While at Praslin, ships will be at anchor. Guests are taken ashore via tender, which adds to the island’s sense of adventure. Once on land, you’ll find that Baie St. Anne – just 1.5 miles from the pier – is the heart of local activity, where you can explore small-town charm and catch glimpses of everyday Seychellois life. Taxis are generally available at the pier if you prefer a quick ride around the island.
Sightseeing
Praslin is a tropical Eden covering 14.5 square miles and lies just 28 miles from Mahe. Highlights include:
- The Vallée de Mai World Heritage Site, home to the famous coco de mer palm.
- Gorgeous, secluded beaches along the east and north coasts perfect for a quiet escape.
- The charming town of Baie St. Anne, where you can admire local architecture, visit a small church, and even spot unique bird species such as the black parrot and Seychelles blue pigeon.
- Fantastic marine life and natural landscapes that offer plenty of scenic spots for memorable photos.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of ways to experience the island:
- Consider taking a ferry to La Digue, renowned for some of the prettiest beaches in the world. Once there, you might try an ox cart ride – a fun way to see the local scenery (approximately $25 per person).
- Taxis are a practical option for both short trips and day-long excursions.
- Look into guided tours that detail the island’s natural wonders and Creole heritage, enhancing your understanding of this unique destination.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Praslin offers a variety of local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the islands:
- Straw goods, local paintings and art, spices, and island tea make for thoughtful keepsakes.
- You’ll also find mother-of-pearl rings, coral jewelry, locally carved walking sticks, T-shirts, and wood carvings. Note: A special permit is required if you wish to take a coco de mer out of the country.
Dining
When it comes to food, Praslin won’t disappoint. The island features a mix of casual beach cafés and elegant restaurants serving Seychelles’ celebrated Creole cuisine. I recommend trying:
- Fresh seafood prepared with local spices and tropical flavors.
- Traditional Creole dishes that blend fresh produce with international influences. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal by the sea or dining in a bustling local restaurant, you’ll savor flavors that are as colorful as the island itself.
Culture & Local Events
Praslin is steeped in rich cultural traditions that add to its laid-back vibe:
- Languages: Locals speak Seychellois Creole, English, and French.
- Currency: The Seychelles rupee (SCR) is used island-wide. With an approximate exchange rate of 1 Euro = 16 SCR, major shops and hotels usually accept credit cards, though it’s handy to carry some cash.
- Opening Hours: Shops typically operate Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00 and on Saturdays from 08:00 to 12:00, with some taking a break around midday.
- Local Flavor: The island often hosts community events and festivals celebrating Creole music, dance, and culinary traditions. These events give you a true taste of Seychellois life and are well worth checking out if your visit coincides with them.
Safety & Awareness
- Stay hydrated and use ample sunscreen – the tropical sun is strong!
- Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in busier areas.
- In case of emergencies, dial 999.