Praslin, Curieuse, St Pierre Boat Day Trip Review: BBQ & Islands

So, you’re thinking of heading off on that super popular boat trip from Praslin to Curieuse and St. Pierre, topped off with a beachside BBQ? Good choice, I tell you. These little gems are some of the true highlights of the Seychelles. But, is that day trip genuinely worth the money and hype? Well, I’m going to share my thoughts and you get to find out what you can expect, with some super useful tips to help you decide if that adventure is very much up your street.

What to Expect on the Boat Trip

Okay, first off, the boats. They’re typically very decent-sized catamarans or maybe even some smaller, open boats, so don’t worry very much about getting seasick, very probably. You’ll set off from Praslin, mostly from Baie Ste Anne or Anse Volbert (also called Côte d’Or), so make very sure you know your departure point. It’s almost always a really good idea to double-check with your tour operator the day before, just you know, in case there have been changes. Those pickup spots sometimes tend to change, right? Anyway, the boat rides are actually part of that charm, offering beautiful views of those picture-perfect coastlines. Get that camera out; it’s very likely worth it.

That initial stop is usually Curieuse Island. So, Curieuse is that home to a giant tortoise sanctuary, is that not cool? These awesome creatures freely roam around, and you can get ridiculously up close and personal with them. We’re talking, like, petting and feeding them. Super amazing for kids, and let’s be fair, for us adults, too. Then, you’ll likely have about an hour or two there. I suggest that you wear comfy shoes for a small, pretty easy hike through a mangrove swamp on a boardwalk – it’s that the only way to get to that other side of the island. Prepare for tons of mud too it’s almost that guaranteed to be muddy if you go off track, right.

Curieuse Island: Tortoise Heaven and More

I mean, Curieuse Island, is that not awesome? So, that island just has that super distinctive vibe to it. Apart from these beautiful giant tortoises, what gets to steal the scene, actually? Those lush mangrove forests stretch, and there’s almost that eerily beautiful atmosphere from the old leper colony that was situated here long ago. I think they had it abandoned many years back, it’s almost. Those tortoises, though, they’re very likely that big drawcard. Getting to interact so close with those gentle giants, feeding them leaves, scratching them, I think those moments, just the simple things, it’s actually amazing to be up close to them.

But you shouldn’t miss walking that path over to Anse St. José, where that BBQ lunch tends to be set up. That short trek really does give you this real sense of the island’s natural appeal. It might be a bit humid so very likely bring water, but those views and scenery are truly worth it. As you approach the other side, I feel it gives you this vibe, that feeling, to discover it after that walk. The beaches too are fairly amazing. And there you have it a fantastic chance to relax before that lunch, perhaps even going for a brief swim.

Snorkeling at St. Pierre Island

Alright, so, that next stop: St. Pierre Island. This tiny little islet is exactly what everyone thinks about that is the Seychelles – and probably gets printed on all these travel brochures! A bunch of granite rocks, like your typical coconut trees, a whole lot of white sand, right? So, this is where the snorkeling action actually happens.

Very nearly everyone dons that snorkel gear for a dip into those clear waters. The marine life there can be quite vivid. You will spot heaps of colorful fish and, with any luck, that odd sea turtle. Just note, you know, depending on when you visit, those currents can get a bit tough, so very make sure you’re comfortable and also pay some extra attention. Actually, usually, most tour operators provide snorkeling gear, but maybe I would also just double-check beforehand. Another pro tip: that underwater photos at St. Pierre are actually quite a must! So maybe grab that waterproof camera.

The Beach BBQ Experience

Now, let’s just have that little talk about one of my fave parts – the BBQ! Usually, following your trip to Curieuse, that BBQ lunch is set up on a beach there, probably at Anse St. José. Those smells from that grilled fish and chicken get your taste buds singing way before you even see that food, really. Most times, it’s just that lovely spread of local salads, fruit, and things, which is very likely a refreshing treat after that sun and swimming.

Be warned – the birds *are* a bit cheeky. Watch your plate, for sure. Seating is normally picnic-style. A very good opportunity for meeting folks from literally everywhere and swapping travel stories. Usually, vegetarian options might also be offered, too, it’s good to ask in advance. Honestly, that BBQ really makes that whole day that tiny bit more exceptional.

Is This Trip Worth Your Money?

Right, so that million-dollar question. Actually, it kinda does depend. I’d suggest it’s very probably awesome value if you’re after a relaxed day, some incredible nature, and a little bit of snorkeling. Usually, for families especially, this one is quite a winner. Kids adore that interaction with the tortoises, and who doesn’t like lunch on a beach, actually?

Yet, if you’re one of these real, experienced snorkelers, I mean, St. Pierre probably won’t give you your biggest thrill, usually. The snorkeling, to be honest, is fair, yet that boat trip tends to focus mostly more on that overall experience, actually. Also, consider what that tour includes. Certain tours have drinks included, but others, you might pay extra, usually. It’s actually good to compare a few just to get that great value, you know?

Making the Most of Your Day Trip: Tips and Tricks

If you are definitely doing this boat trip, these things might just make things much easier, really. Number one, bring sunscreen. The Seychelles sun, it’s really no joke, really! Secondly, pack that beach towel and that swimsuit – obviously. Thirdly, you will probably bring some water. Especially if that tour doesn’t give drinks with lunch, you will very much appreciate this. Number four, a hat and sunglasses are kind of a must-bring. You’re nearly always going to be thankful for that little bit more of sun protection. Finally, money! So, take a little bit of local currency with you for souvenirs or very perhaps drinks that aren’t included.

As I was saying, for that great experience, maybe try to get on an early boat, right. Then, you tend to miss some of these big crowds. It is advisable that you listen to those guides about that environment and these animals – basically respect nature, yeah? And eventually, but actually importantly, loosen up and very savor that. The Seychelles really are all about paradise, relaxation, and soaking everything up. So yeah, enjoy it!.

Other Island Day Trip Alternatives from Praslin

So, you know, if this specific trip maybe just isn’t that for you, there might be a handful of other boat trips from Praslin to explore, is that not something to consider? Have you heard about that Cousin Island, and maybe that Cousine Island Nature Reserves, too? I find that those destinations might offer very great bird-watching opportunities. Alternatively, maybe try Félicité Island for a more remote experience. It’s basically also quite good to investigate a trip simply around Praslin too itself, really. Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are fairly a must-see!

I would suggest that you always shop around and browse these different itineraries before deciding. I want you to very closely examine everything they pack in to find one matching precisely that kind of experience that you really hope to have. After all, those choices on where to spend that time exploring are part of the excitement, after all.

• Key Takeaways:
• A boat trip from Praslin to Curieuse and St. Pierre is that quite a popular Seychelles adventure.
• Curieuse Island allows you to get very close to that giant tortoises.
• St. Pierre is a super great spot for snorkeling, though those currents can sometimes get strong.
• These beach BBQ lunches tend to be quite a highlight but protect food against scavenging birds.
• Bringing sun protection, towels and water, and showing respect toward the environment are these smart things to do, actually.