Curieuse and St Pierre Snorkeling Half-Day Trip No BBQ Lunch

Paradise fits neatly into four hours. This boat trip gives you two very different Seychelles experiences in one morning: Curieuse Island’s giant tortoises and mangrove trail, followed by swimming and snorkeling near St Pierre. I especially like the short format for a busy Praslin stay, and I like that guides such as Mario, Reynold, and Benjamin add real context instead of simply pointing at the scenery. The main catch is the extra 20 euro Curieuse landing fee, and the St Pierre snorkeling can be less impressive when waves or wind affect the chosen site.

The $53 price is fair for a boat ride, guide, hotel pickup in selected Praslin areas, drinks, island access to Curieuse, a guided walk, and a snorkeling stop. You do not get lunch, though, so bring something to eat afterward or plan a later meal. If you have only one free morning, this trip covers a lot without taking your entire day.

Key points at a glance

• Giant tortoises at Curieuse: Spend time near these calm, human-friendly animals in their natural island setting.
• A 1.7-kilometer mangrove walk: The trail crosses Curieuse from the mangrove area toward Anse José Beach, with stops for plants and wildlife.
• St Pierre snorkeling: Swim among granite rocks and clear water, though sea conditions can change the quality of the stop.
• Four-hour schedule: Pickup begins around 8:45 AM, with a return to Praslin planned around 12:30 PM.
• Guides make the difference: Mario, Reynold, and Benjamin receive especially strong praise for humor, care, and island knowledge.
• Budget clearly for the landing fee: Curieuse requires an additional 20 euro payment per person, in cash or by Visa or debit card.

Why this half-day trip works well on Praslin

Praslin has enough beaches, forest, and small-island excursions to fill several days. That is the good news. The less good news is that you can quickly spend a full day on a boat when all you really wanted was a close look at giant tortoises and a swim in the sea.

This excursion keeps the outing compact. Pickup is scheduled for about 8:45 AM in certain areas, including Baie-Ste-Anne, Amitié, St Joseph, Grand-Anse, and Anse Volbert. The main meeting points are near Berjaya Resort beach at Anse Volbert or Kannus Supermarket in Baie-Ste-Anne.

The boat leaves around 9:15 AM, reaches Curieuse at about 9:30 AM, and returns to Praslin around 12:30 PM. The stated duration is four hours, which allows for pickup, boarding, and local transfers. The morning moves at a steady pace, so you should not expect a slow, private-island day with long stretches of doing nothing.

I see this as a particularly good choice if you are staying near Anse Volbert or Baie-Ste-Anne, have children who may not manage a full-day cruise, or want to leave the afternoon open. It also suits people who want a guided introduction to Curieuse rather than arranging several separate boat transfers.

The boat ride from Praslin to Curieuse

The first part is a short, scenic crossing toward Curieuse. The supplied details do not specify the boat size or group capacity, so you should ask the operator if space and seating matter to you. In practice, the experience is shaped by the weather, the sea, and how smoothly the pickup runs.

Keep your camera and sun protection close by. The crossing is part of the experience, not just transportation, with views of the Seychelles coast and the small islands around Praslin. Water and soft drinks are included, and local beer is also listed among the refreshments offered.

The boat returns to collect you after the Curieuse walk and takes you to St Pierre. That matters because you do not need to retrace the trail or spend energy trying to find another transfer. The format gives you a taste of Curieuse on foot, then lets you see the island world from the water.

Meeting Curieuse’s giant tortoises

Curieuse is the emotional high point for many people on this trip. The island is known for Aldabra giant tortoises, and the schedule allows time to visit the tortoise sanctuary and see the animals close up.

The tortoises are used to people, which makes the encounter easy and relaxed. You can watch their slow movements, take photographs, and appreciate their size without needing a complicated wildlife search. The best part is not simply seeing a large animal. It is seeing these long-lived creatures in the setting they belong to, rather than in a standard zoo enclosure.

The morning includes free time near the tortoises before the walk begins. That gives you some control over the visit. You can focus on photography, watch the animals, or simply stand quietly for a few minutes.

A guide adds real value here. Mario is repeatedly praised for explaining Seychelles in an engaging way and for making the tour feel relaxed. Reynold receives similar praise for being kind, funny, careful, and deeply informed about the islands. Benjamin is also noted for explaining the surroundings with obvious care.

One useful warning: the walk follows the tortoise visit, and the sun can become strong. If you prefer cooler temperatures, spend your free time efficiently and be ready when the group moves. One family found that the walk felt hot because it took place during the warmest part of the morning.

Crossing Curieuse on the mangrove trail

At about 11:00 AM, the group begins the walk through the mangrove area. The trail is about 1.7 kilometers, according to one detailed account, and leads toward Anse José Beach on the other side of the island.

This is more than a simple stroll from one beach to another. The guide stops to explain mangrove trees, their root systems, and their role along the coast. Mangroves shelter marine life and help limit coastal erosion, so the walk gives you a useful look at a coastal ecosystem that many visitors might otherwise pass without noticing.

Look for crabs, birds, and other small creatures around the wetland. You might not see every type of wildlife described, but the area supports plenty of life, and a guide can point out details that are easy to miss when you walk alone.

The trail itself is not described as technically difficult, but it is still a warm outdoor walk. Wear sports shoes or hiking shoes rather than sandals that slip easily. Breathable clothes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat will make the middle part of the morning much more comfortable.

The pace depends partly on the guide. Some groups appreciate frequent explanations about plants and the island’s natural setting. One family felt the walk became too long because of the number of stops, even though the distance itself was modest. If you prefer a brisk hike, tell the guide politely at the start. If you enjoy learning plant by plant, this is likely the strongest part of the excursion.

Anse José Beach and the change of pace

The trail ends at Anse José Beach, where the group has time to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the coast. This stop balances the walking portion nicely. After the heat and uneven ground of the trail, the sand and open water give you a chance to slow down.

The beach is also a good place to have your camera ready. The combination of sand, sea, and Curieuse’s granite scenery creates the classic Seychelles setting people hope to see. The schedule does not promise a long beach session, however, so do not plan on spending half the morning sunbathing here.

Timing is worth noting. The route reaches Anse José around 11:45 AM, then the boat continues to St Pierre at about noon. One family felt the tour would work better if the beach time happened during the hotter part of the day and the forest walk came earlier. That is a fair criticism. The published order places the most shaded walking later in the morning, when the heat may be strongest.

Still, the arrangement has a practical advantage. You finish the trail at the beach, then move directly to the boat and the snorkeling stop. You are not asked to walk back over the island.

Snorkeling around St Pierre Island

St Pierre is the final major stop, with swimming and snorkeling in clear water near the island’s granite boulders. The rocks rising from the sea make the setting instantly recognizable, and the stop offers a different view of the Seychelles than Curieuse’s tortoises and mangroves.

You can expect a short snorkeling session rather than a long marine safari. One account puts the snorkeling time at about 30 minutes. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it, since gear is listed among the recommended items but not clearly confirmed as included. A waterproof bag and waterproof camera are sensible additions.

The water conditions matter a great deal. Several accounts describe the snorkeling as excellent, with one person comparing it to swimming in an aquarium. Another person found the spot less impressive because the waves were high. The crew changed the snorkeling location when conditions were poor, which is sensible for safety, but a substitute site may not offer the same clarity or marine life.

This is the least predictable part of the tour. Curieuse offers a fairly consistent walk and tortoise encounter. St Pierre depends on wind, visibility, waves, and the day’s selected anchorage. You should book it for the combination of island scenery and snorkeling, not for a guaranteed perfect reef session.

If you are not a confident swimmer, ask about the conditions before entering the water. The available information does not specify flotation devices or lifeguard support, so use your own judgment and follow the guide’s instructions.

What the $53 price really covers

At $53 per person, this is good value for a four-hour island combination, especially if your accommodation falls within the pickup area. You receive selected hotel transfer, a licensed guide, the boat transport, water, and soft drinks. The trip also bundles Curieuse and St Pierre, which would otherwise require separate planning.

The price does not include lunch. That is not a major problem on a morning tour, but you should plan ahead if you expect to be hungry after the walk and swim. The boat offers water, soft drinks, and local beer, which helps with refreshments but does not replace a meal.

The important extra cost is Curieuse’s 20 euro landing fee per person. You must bring cash or a Visa or debit card for this payment. Add it to the advertised price when comparing excursions, because the real cost is $53 plus the landing fee and whatever food or transport you arrange outside the included pickup areas.

The free cancellation deadline is 24 hours before departure, and the reserve-now, pay-later option gives you some flexibility. Those terms are useful if your Praslin plans may shift, but they do not remove the need to prepare for the island fee.

Guides, pace, and the human side of the tour

The strongest part of this experience is the guiding. Mario is praised for his enthusiasm and his ability to explain Seychelles in a way that feels personal. Reynold is singled out for combining humor, kindness, professionalism, and careful attention to the group. Benjamin also receives praise for his clear explanations and warm manner.

That matters because the Curieuse walk can feel like either a meaningful nature outing or a hot transfer between two beaches. The guide determines how much you notice along the way. A good explanation of mangrove roots, crabs, plants, and coastal protection gives the walk a purpose.

The tradeoff is that enthusiastic guides may talk more than you want. One family felt too much time was spent stopping to discuss plants, leaving only about 25 minutes with the tortoises and 30 minutes snorkeling. If your priority is swimming and beach time, this may feel like too much interpretation. If you want to understand the island, the same pace may feel worthwhile.

This is not the best option for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, visually impaired people, babies under one year, or people prone to motion sickness. The operator also lists age restrictions for people over 80 and over 95. Comfortable shoes are essential, and the trail means this is not a sit-on-the-boat excursion.

What to bring for a smoother morning

Pack lightly, since oversize luggage, baby strollers, mobility scooters, and several types of non-folding equipment are not allowed. Jewelry and valuables are best left at your accommodation, especially for a boat trip that includes swimming.

Bring:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen, preferably biodegradable
• A sun hat and breathable clothing
• Hiking shoes or sports shoes
• Insect repellent, preferably biodegradable
• A waterproof bag
• A camera or waterproof camera
• Snorkeling gear
• Cash or a Visa or debit card for the 20 euro landing fee

Avoid jeans, high heels, and heavy clothing. Smoking is not allowed in the vehicle or indoors, and pets are not permitted except assistance dogs.

A waterproof bag is particularly useful. You will move from boat to island trail to beach, then back into the boat for snorkeling. Keeping your phone, wallet, and dry clothes protected saves a lot of fuss.

Who should book this Praslin excursion?

I would recommend it most strongly to first-time visitors who want a compact introduction to Seychelles nature. You get animals, mangroves, beach scenery, a boat ride, and a swim in one morning.

It is also a good fit for families with older children. One family with children from ages five to fourteen found plenty to enjoy, especially the tortoises and snorkeling, though the long commentary and heat were less popular with the children.

Couples and active visitors who have limited time should also consider it. The trip leaves the afternoon free for a Praslin beach or another activity. It works well for anyone staying in the listed pickup areas and not renting a car.

I would be more cautious if your main goal is premium snorkeling. Sea conditions can change the stop, and the snorkeling portion is relatively brief. I would also think twice if you dislike guided walks, frequent stops, or warm-weather hiking.

Should you book the Curieuse and St Pierre trip?

Book it if you want variety and value in a short morning. The giant tortoises and Curieuse walk are the most dependable highlights, while St Pierre adds a rewarding but weather-sensitive swim. The guides appear to be a major strength, and names such as Mario and Reynold come up for good reason.

Skip it if you want a full day on the beach, a long snorkeling session, or a completely flexible private outing. Also remember to add the 20 euro landing fee and bring your own food plan.

For most people with four hours to spare on Praslin, this is a well-priced way to see more than one postcard view. Just wear proper shoes, protect your belongings from water, and treat the snorkeling as a bonus rather than a guarantee.

FAQ

How long does the Curieuse and St Pierre trip last?

The activity lasts about four hours. Pickup begins around 8:45 AM, the boat leaves at approximately 9:15 AM, and the planned return to Praslin is around 12:30 PM.

What islands does the tour visit?

The tour visits Curieuse Island and St Pierre Island. Curieuse is the main walking and tortoise stop, while St Pierre is used for snorkeling and swimming.

Is lunch included?

No. This is the no-BBQ-lunch version of the excursion. Water and soft drinks are included, and local beer is also offered.

How much is the Curieuse landing fee?

The landing fee is 20 euro per person and is not included in the advertised $53 price. Bring cash or a Visa or debit card to pay it.

Where does pickup take place on Praslin?

Pickup is available in certain areas of Baie-Ste-Anne, Amitié, St Joseph, Grand-Anse, and Anse Volbert. Main meeting points include the Berjaya Resort beach area at Anse Volbert and Kannus Supermarket in Baie-Ste-Anne.

What languages does the guide speak?

Guides are available in English and French.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Snorkeling gear is listed among the items to bring, but the provided information does not clearly state that equipment is included. Bringing your own gear is the safest plan.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. The Curieuse portion includes a trail through the mangrove area.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve-now, pay-later option is also available.