The Architecture of the Seychelles

Traditional Architecture

Due to the fact that the Seychelles Islands was not occupied until the 1700’s, the architecture finds its roots in the era of colonization. Whilst traditional, the archaic mansions and bungalows built in the colonial times certainly reflect the luxurious living of the wealthy plantation and land owners.

Plantation estates were built around cinnamon, coconut, and vanilla industries. The traditional plantation estate focused on a courtyard with an owner's or manager's house, (the kitchen was usually separate from the house) the kalorife (drying oven for copra), and storage houses. Typical town houses had a general Victorian form, but with its roofs and walls made of corrugated iron sheets.

As agriculture declined, many homes were later constructed in an architecture common to many former British colonies, such that there is often a flat roof with a slight slope and windows with many horizontally arranged panes that can be tilted in order to allow easy circulation of air. In general the houses the in Seychelles are all designed in a neat manner with steep terraces and large verandas. The verandas were purposely made that way in order for inhabitants to enjoy the wonderful Seychelles climate. In addition, wooden houses or houses built out of logs are frequently seen in the coastal linings of Seychelles. The living rooms are exquisitely decorated and usually the furniture is all made out of wood that has intricate carvings on them.

Some of these lovely examples of traditional homes are now being replaced through progress or advancement and although they are fewer in numbers, many, with their intricate roof structures are still standing today.

Modern Achitecture

Modern architecture has attempted to assimilate traditional styles with practical features designed to capture the cool island breezes. The exclusive island resort, The Banyan Tree, is a perfect example of this modern style of architecture. Their villas combine contemporary, colonial and plantation decor which defines modern Seychelles architecture, with its high sloping ceilings, airy verandas, and louvered doors. 

Buildings of Interest

Kenwyn House, Mahe

Kenwyn House was built circa 1855. The first person to live in the house was the chief medical officer at the time- a Dr. James Henry Brooks. Dr. Brooks was the chief medical surgeon as well as the German consulate to the Seychelles from 1858 - 1879 (He died in 1920 at age 89yrs).

In 1878 Cable & Wireless (Formerly the 'Eastern Telegraphic Company') purchased the Kenwyn House from Dr. Brooks. The chief engineers for Cable & Wireless resided at Kenwyn House whilst they were here setting up global communications for the Seychelles. There is a general consensus that C&W were the ones to give the house the name "Kenwyn House" - named after a village in Cornwall. (Cornwall incidentally was the area where the underwater telegraph cables to the Seychelles came from). Towards the end of the 20th century C&W used Kenwyn House as a residence for their general managers.

In 1984, as per the National Monuments Act (Chapter 140), Kenwyn House was declared a National Monument of the Seychelles. Flawless Ltd. now occupies the Kenwyn House, using it as a showcase for their precious gems and unique diamond jewellery designs.

Kenwyn House also dedicated one entire floor to a local art gallery, the largest on Mahe in fact. It is one of the most well-photographed buildings in Victoria and is 'our Jewel of the Seychelles'.

The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

This imposing Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Catholic Diocese in Seychelles. Constructed on the site where Father Leon of Avanchers built the first vault in March 1851 that was devoted to the Virgin of the immaculate conception, the Cathedral is one of the first churches in Seychelles.

The first and only Seychellois Bishop, Felix Paul, who passed away on the 21st November 2001, is buried inside the cathedral in a tomb built in the flooring. The tomb is not visible but its location is marked by a special plaque.


The Cathedral has undergone numerous renovations over the years. In 1993-94 it was completely renovated, except for the external walls. The last renovation was completed In 1995 when Seychellois sculptor, Egbert Marday fashioned the tabernacle and the carved doors.

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Capucine House (the residence of the Roman Catholic Bishop) are two of the most impressive vestiges of the French Colonial era still standing and should definitely not be missed.

Whether you are wanting to escape the approaching winter in the Northern Hemisphere or you are starting to feel the summer vibes in the Southern Hemisphere, contact us to book your dream Seychelles holiday! www.seychellesyachtcharter.com 

Getting Married in the Seychelles

Many people dream of the perfect tropical island wedding, on the beach, wearing white, saying “I do” as the sun sets behind the horizon. Seychelles is certainly a perfect location for this dream, however there are a number of things to consider before going ahead with this kind of wedding. How many guests would actually be able to attend etc. are things to think about, however when it comes to advice about the Seychelles specifically we are the ones to speak to. Below is some basic information to get you started or to help you make your decision, for any further information please contact us!

Lodgings and Accommodation

Seychelles is naturally a haven when it comes to accommodation, which ironically makes this decision all the more tricky because there so many options. Whether you want a resort to host the entire wedding party or a private cottage, there really are numerous options. There are even resorts that cater specifically to weddings and even do special wedding packages, where for example the bride might stay free of charge. Matching your budget with your needs, personality and vision with the right location on the right island (yes, the various islands offer additional options!) will be the toughest decision, however from that point on the rest should be smooth sailing.

One also has to consider the honeymoon afterwards; will you stay at the same resort or perhaps opt for something a little more private? There is nothing more private than a week aboard one of our yachts sailing the islands, and that is a great option for a honeymoon. 

Wedding Options

Naturally the most popular option for the actual ceremony is the previously mentioned white wedding on a beach at sunset, however one of the great things about the Seychelles is that you have other options too. You might prefer to have it further inland, perhaps on a high point of the island where it is possible to overlook everything in the surrounding areas. As you look forward to your lives together, this sort of forward vision could be powerfully symbolic.

With so much wildlife and natural beauty to admire in the Seychelles, it will feel as if it was all laid out specifically for your special day. Reminders of the joy of life exist as far as the eye can see, from the graceful seabirds to the lovenuts that serve as a risqué reminder of the bond a man and woman will share on their honeymoon. You may choose to wed each other totally away from any buildings or say your vows in a quaint chapel, the options are plentiful and local industry experts are on hand to assist. 

Legal Requirements

Getting married in the Seychelles obviously means getting married in a foreign country, and with that comes certain legal requirements that may differ from your homeland. So it is a non-negotiable that you fully understand these requirements before you begin your planning.

Even if you intend to have a church ceremony, you must also get married in a civil ceremony for it to be considered valid, and to do this, you will need to go through the Civil Status Office on the island of Mahe, furnishing them with birth certificates, passports and other relevant documents, including divorce papers if one party is divorced or death certificates if one is widowed.

The actual wedding can be performed elsewhere for an additional fee, with ceremonies on outer islands the most expensive. In order to provide enough time for needed documentation, couples should start making their preparations at least two months ahead of time, and you will need to be in the Seychelles at least two days before the wedding is to take place. Moreover, while exemptions can be made, couples must generally inform the Civil Status Office of the date of their wedding at least 11 days before it happens. The Seychelles Tourism Board have fortunately prepared a fairly simple document together with the Civil Status Office which covers everything you need to know in terms of the legal requirements. To download this document please visit http://www.seychelles.travel/media/products/brochures/Legal_Requirements_for_Marrying_in_Seychelles_Updated_Feb_2010/

Seychelles can be the perfect and idyllic wedding location you’ve always dreamt of, all of the ingredients needed are there. However you will need to plan well in advance and discuss with each other and your respective families. Whether it's just a romantic excursion for two or a chance for a whole family and friends to reconnect, a wedding in the Seychelles is bound to be a memorable experience in one of the most gorgeous locations in the world.

For information on this or to book your Seychelles holiday or honeymoon, contact us via www.seychellesyachtcharter.com  

Seychelles International Airport

Often a concern amongst travellers when travelling to smaller countries is the quality and efficiency of the local airport. We’ve all heard the nightmare stories! Luckily the Seychelles International Airport (or Aeroport de la pointe Larue) is not one of those nightmares. In fact quite the opposite; whilst being small and modest compared to other international airport, it is quaint, clean, friendly, and most importantly efficient.

The airport is a traveller’s first experience of a country, and certainly the Seychelles International Airport does not disappoint. The approach and landing is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and scenic in the world, with the beautiful mountains, beaches and turquoise waters of Mahe visible from the sky, it gives one a sense that you’re about to touch down in a paradise quite unlike any other. The landing itself is certainly something to experience, with the runway being mere metres from the ocean; it is one of those amazing landings we hear about on those chain emails.

As you disembark the plane, the moment you breathe in the warm, fresh, tropical ocean air you know you have arrived on holiday! Fortunately, the efficiency of the awaiting airport terminal building ensures that your holiday will not be delayed by painful and lengthy airport procedures. After a short visit to passport control you will collect your luggage and head out.

The airport is 11 km southeast of the capital and is accessible by the Victoria-Providence Highway. There is frequent service from the bus station in Victoria, with taxi cab services outside the terminal available to all locations on Mahé Island and several tour operator's coach services — namely Creole Travel Services (www.creoletravelservices.com) and Mason's Travel (www.masonstravel.com) — which also links passengers to the ferry terminal at the Old Port (Vieux port) for inter-island ferry services and to the New Port (Nouveau port) for cruise holidays. However when booking your holiday with Seychelles Yacht Charter we will naturally take care of all transport arrangements on your behalf.

A domestic terminal is a short walking distance north of the international terminal and offers inter-island flights with a peak of a departure every 10–15 minutes at busy times which corresponds with international arrivals/departures and every 30 minutes at other times.

A cargo terminal is situated south of the international terminal and handles freight from all international and domestic movements; it is run by the national airline Air Seychelles. A military base of the Seychelles Public Defence Force (SPDF) exists at the southeastern end of runway 13 in the south on an island joined with Mahé at the construction of the airport.

Additional facilities include the usual restaurants and bars, duty free shopping, ATM’s, bureau de change, a travel agents office, as well as disabled facilities. 

History of the Airport

Whilst the Seychelles International Airport was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 20 March 1972, Wilkenair of Kenya had already started a ferry service between Mombasa and Mahe. It operated twice a week and was followed by East African Airways and Luxair in 1971. At the time of opening the airport had a 2987 metre runway and a control tower. 

In 1972 John Faulkner Taylor founded the first local aircraft company called Air Mahé, which operated between Praslin, Fregate and Mahé Islands. By 1974, over 30 airlines were flying to the Seychelles. Ground handling and all airport operations were being carried out by Aviation Seychelles Company, a company formed in 1973.

Construction works for the substantial expansion of the Seychelles International Airport started in July 1980. Due to the continuous increase in passenger traffic, a terminal building was built that could cater for 400 arriving and 400 departing passengers at any time. Parking bays for up to six aircraft were catered for as well as a light aircraft parking area capable of handling five aircraft. In 2005/2006 further development to civil aviation in the Seychelles was brought. The Civil Aviation Authority Act was enacted on 4 April 2006 for the corporatisation of the Directorate of Civil Aviation to Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority. Works started to upgrade and extend the terminal building, which has been further extended to handle at least five medium to large aircraft and six small size aircraft. Further parking areas were made available to the north-east of the airport to handle the parking of charter, business and long stay aircraft. 

For more info and flight schedules, visit www.seychelles-airport.com and www.airseychelles.com

To book your Seychelles holiday contact us via www.seychellesyachtcharter.com 

Our Private Fleet...

By now regular readers of this blog and followers of ours on social media will have seen many photos and videos of our private fleet, Nkanlindau and uShaka. However, not many know the exact specifications of each boat as well as what it offers to our guests. Today we change that! Below is everything you’ll need to know to make an informed decision when visiting the Seychelles and making a booking. 

Nkalindau

Nkalindau it a beautiful Foutane Pajot Eleuthera 60 Catamaran, and is our flagship vessel. Measuring 18.28m (or 60 ft) in length, this 4 bedroom luxury yacht is the ideal size for a large family or even 2 medium sized families. It sleeps 8 adults and 2 children. Whilst possessing engines large enough to get wherever you need to go in less windy conditions, the true beauty of Nkalindau becomes apparent when the 110 square metre sail is up and she’s doing what she does best. Equipped with a fully qualified crew (including a chef), time spent aboard is truly a 5 star experience. 

Nkalindau

Nkalindau Excursion Options

Day Excursions

Enjoy a full day aboard this beautiful vessel, launching from our base on Mahe Island at 08h00, you will embark on a journey to the St. Anne Marine Park followed by the ever popular Beau Vallon and Anse Royale (please contact us for more information on these places). Included on your excursion are a fully qualified and trained crew, all water and soft drinks, as well as a light breakfast and lunch. We will return at 17h00. 

Inner Islands – Live Aboard

An experience like no other, spend 7 days aboard Nkalindau touring the inner islands of Seychelles. Wake up in a new location every morning; spend each day on a different island exploring, sight-seeing, kayaking in the still turquoise waters, or just relaxing on a quiet beach or aboard the boat. The choice is entirely up to you; our job is to provide you with those choices. Included in the charter are a fully qualified and trained crew, full board, soft drinks, airport transfer, harbour fees, local taxes, and fuel. 

Ille Platte – Live Aboard

This will be an experience of a lifetime for the fishing or diving enthusiast. We will take you to Ille Platte, an island situated a few hundred kilometres from Mahe, for an unspoilt and very private fishing or diving experience like no other. Live onboard for 7 days, enjoy the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, and experience something very few people have! Included in this charter are a fully qualified and trained crew, full board, soft drinks, airport transfer, harbour fees, local taxes, and fuel. 

uShaka

uShaka is a Riviera 43 Open Flybridge luxury fishing yacht. Measuring 14.46 metres in length (48 ft) and enough horsepower to get you through the rough patches or to where the fish are biting, uShaka is a fisherman’s dream. Sleeping 6 people, it is luxurious enough to impress even the most selective of people, and rugged enough to offer a proper deep sea fishing experience. Forget those bad holiday fishing experiences on shaky and uncomfortable boats; a fishing excursion with uShaka in the Seychelles is an experience you will remember for all the right reasons! 

uShaka

uShaka Excursions

Half or Full Day Fishing

Experience a full or half day of fishing in Seychelles the way it was meant to be. Trained professionals will assist in your quest for the biggest catch, and more often than not the Seychelles waters deliver! Half day departs at 06h00 and returns at 12h00, and includes water, soft drinks, and a light mid-morning meal. Full day departs at 06h00 and returns at 17h00, and includes water, soft drinks, lunch and snacks. 

Island Hop Tour

Departing at 07h00 and returning at 17h00, this is an ideal opportunity for those based at hotels on Mahe to get out and visit the surrounding islands. Our fully trained and qualified crew will ensure the smoothest and most comfortable ride possible. Included are water, soft drinks, lunch and snacks. 

Sunset Cruise

Departing before sunset at 16h00 and returning at 21h00, this is a must-do when visiting the Seychelles. Sip champagne as you enjoy the company of your friends or family and marvel as the sun sets behind the ocean. Included are 4 bottles of champagne, canapés, water, soft drinks, and snacks. 

Fishing Safari

You have the option of a 1 or 2 night charter that will allow you to experience our 5 star accommodations aboard uShaka as well the full Seychelles deep sea fishing experience. Departing at 06h00, you will return at 17h00 either the following day or in 2 days time depending on whether it is a 1 or 2 night charter. Included is breakfast, lunch, and dinner whilst on board, snacks, water, and soft drinks. 

NotesFor rates, bookings, and information on personalised tours, please contact us via our website at www.seychellesyachtcharter.com 

All excursions depart from Mahe Island and are weather dependent.

Please not that alcohol, communications on board, diving excursions (except Ille Platte), land tours, motorized and on island activities, cancellation insurance, and gratuities are excluded and will be an additional charge. 

Seychelles Fashion Industry

Seychelles often gets referred to as the “big little world”, and this not without good reason. Whilst being a very small island nation, there is very little the country is does not have, do, or is involved in. The Seychelles leadership have long recognised that they cannot rely merely on tourism for the GDP of the economy, and other industries need to be developed. In fact, developing industry and tourism growth certainly work in conjunction with each other, with the one helping the other. 

One such example of this is the fashion and textile industry. Whilst Seychelles is not normally associated with fashion or can be called a fashion hotspot, it might very well be one day. A textiles industry that supports local shops, markets and even export coupled with a plethora of young up and coming designers and exotic models are ensuring that. Combine that with the stunning backdrop the Seychelles islands provides fashion photographers, it is no surprise that Seychelles has been awarded with its first annual world fashion week, to be held later this year. 

The event will help to highlight the emerging fashion talent of the island nation. It is a part of world fashion week, an organisation which acts as a platform for fashion talent around the world and helps smaller nations like the Seychelles gain recognition in the global fashion market. The organisation has been in talks with local government and hopes to challenge young designers. Each designer will be given a variety of themes chosen by world fashion week, and they will then have to come up with 20 looks per theme to display at the up and coming fashion week. Fashion week will be positive for not only designers but retailers and local models. It will also bring awareness to the developing trade of the textile industry which already exists in the Seychelles as well as attract additional tourism which will therefore help the national economy. 

In addition to this, the re-launch of the extremely popular Miss Seychelles pageant in 2012 after a 4 year absence will certainly further inspire local models, designers, and manufacturers to up their up the game with the possibility of being recognised on a global scale. The National Contest is conducted in agreement with Miss World Limited, the owners and organisers of the Miss World Contest to elect "Miss World". The National Contest is also an official preliminary contest to select a representative to participate in the Miss World Contest, meaning the event truly has the potential for recognition on a global scale. 

Talent is often found in the most unlikely of places, and can be the source of inspiration for thousands. However, talent will only remain as potential until it is developed, and that is now happening in the Seychelles fashion industry. So who knows, perhaps the next superstar designer or supermodel will come from the Seychelles, so keep your eyes open!

Should you wish to pay this “big little world” a visit, contact us www.seychellesyachtcharter.com 

Events in Seychelles... August/September 2013

Event:
Cultural Bazars

Date:
Throughout July/August 2013

Location:
Various locations throughout Mahe

Organizer:
District Administrator (Tel: +248 2 78 34 13)

About the event:
A unique cultural and shopping experience where you can meet the Seychellois people, enjoy Creole music, and have a taste of the island style way of life.

Bazar Labrinn is a legendary bazar specializing in fruit, vegetables, and other local delicacies. This is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and sample traditional foods and drink, all the while enjoying an authentic Seychellois ambience.

Bazar Ovan Taking place in the southern part of Mahe, this bazar offers a great opportunity for both visitors and locals alike to experience a true celebration of the vibrant Creole culture, all set to the backdrop of Seychellois Creole music.

Victoria Bazar provides an ambience true to the Seychellois Creole lifestyle, where anything from arts and crafts to exotic culinary delicacies and beverages can be purchased. And of course it wouldn’t be complete without local musicians providing the soundtrack!

Event:

Seychelles Sea Turtle Festival

Date:9 - 10 August 2013

Location:
Various locations on Mahe

Organiser:
Mr. Chris Mason Parker (+248 2 57 57 70)

About the event:
Global Vision International (GVI) and the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS) with the Ministry of Environment and Energy and the Ministry of Education are organising the first Seychelles Sea Turtle Festival on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th August 2013. Friday's opening ceremony will be held at the National Theatre and Saturday's fun day will be on the waterfront area in Beau Vallon.

The aim of the turtle festival is to raise public awareness of issues relating to marine turtle conservation within the Seychelles. The event will be an opportunity to highlight existing initiatives, promote future partnerships and celebrate the Seychelles marine turtle population. 

Event:
Feast of the Assumption of Mary

Date:
15 August 2013

Location:
La Digue

Organiser:
La Digue Board (+248 4 23 45 96)

About the event:
The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is dedicated to the church of La Digue and is very popular with Seychellois from all islands who flock to the island for the occasion.

For further information please contact the La Digue Board on telephone number provided above. 

Event:
Southeast Monsoon Sailfish Tournament

Date:
31 August 2013

Location:
Mahe

Organiser:
Marine Charter Association (+248 4 32 21 26)

About the event:
Fishing tournaments are always an exciting event in the Seychelles, especially with pride and reputations at stake! This a 1-day trolling-only tournament from 05h00 to 17h00. Please contact the Marine Charter Association for entry forms and tournament rules at email: christophe.houareau@huntdeltel.com

Event:
Vinayagar Chadurthi

Date:
September 2013

Location:
Hindu Temple, Victoria, Mahe

Organiser:
ARULMIKUNAVASAKTHI VINAYAGAR Temple (+248 4 32 47 01)

About the event:
A religious festival celebrated by Hindu communities worldwide to mark the anniversary of 'Lord Vinayagar', The Elephant God.

Event:
Seychelles Round Table Regatta

Date:
27-29 September 2013

Location:
Beau Vallon Beach, Mahe

Organiser:
Round Table Seychelles (+248 2 72 70 07)

About the event:
The Round Table Regatta has become an important national event in the Island’s calendar. The event will span over one weekend, from the 27th to the 29th September 2013 and takes place on the popular Beau Vallon beach front. The event’s jam-packed schedule includes numerous sports competitions, live performances by local artists as well as many fairground games. The weekend culminates with a hilarious ‘Greasy Pole Contest’, where competitors struggle to reach a cash prize fixed on top of a 6-metre wooden pole smothered in grease. Last, but far from least, is the all-important lottery draw at 18h00 on Regatta Sunday.

Local and International companies alike support the event by manning food and beverage stalls or running promotional stations where the crowds benefit from generous give-aways and reduced prices on goods. All in all, the Round Table Regatta weekend brings many Seychellois and tourists together in a high-spirited, cause-driven event. Definitely an event not to be missed!

Event:
World Tourism Day

Date:
27 September 2013

Location:
Mahe, Praslin, La Digue

Organiser:
Seychelles Tourism Board (+248 4 67 13 00)

About the event:
World Tourism Day is celebrated on the 27th September each year. Various activities held in the preceding days create an ideal forum to increase public awareness on the importance of the tourism industry in Seychelles. Contact the Seychelles Tourism Board for details.

15 Interesting Facts About The Seychelles

1. Pirates used to seek the islands of Seychelles as a hideout. It is believed that Olivier Le Vasseur, an infamous pirate, had a treasure worth 100,000 euros that remains hidden in the land up to the present.

2. Victoria, the capital city of Seychelles, is the smallest capital in the whole world.

3. Ian Fleming, the author of James Bond novels and short stories, named his character Milton Krest after a tonic and ginger beer that he tasted while vacationing in Seychelles.

4. This beautiful country island was home to none until the latter part of the 18th century, when its first settlers arrived.

5. Almost half of the limited landmass in the country is occupied by national parks and reserves. This is in support of the government’s various environment and ecosystems protection and conservation policies.

6. Seychelles is the right place to visit if you want to see unique endemic species. These include the paradise flycatcher, the warbler, the jelly fish tree, and the female Coco de Mer, which is the world’s heaviest nut.

7. The country is home to the heaviest land tortoise that is living in the wild. Named Esmeralda, the animal weighs 304 kilograms and can be found at the Bird Island.

8. In the Ste. Anne Marine National Park, you will find the Moyenne Island, which is believed to be haunted by a spirit that guards a buried treasure.

9. Round Island used to be a leper colony. A stone prison still remains up to this day.

10. When it served as host country to the Miss World Beauty Pageants in 1997 and 1998, Seychelles had great international media coverage, enough to boost its tourism industry.

11. Seychelles is a democratic country with its own constitution that was adopted on 18 June 1993.

12. Seychelles has a population growth rate of 0.922%, which is in line with the world population growth rate of 1.14%.

13. The highest point in Seychelles is Morne Seychellios which is situated on the main island of Mahe. It has an altitude of 905m, or 2969ft.

14. The National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale consists of 34 seats; with 25 members elected by popular vote and 9 allocated on a proportional basis to parties winning at least 10% of the vote. Members serve five-year terms.

15. Seychelles consists of 41 granitic and 75 coralline islands.