MAHÉ - SEYCHELLES
PORT INFORMATION
photo courtesy Seychelles Tourism Board/Koos van der Lende
Mahé is the largest of the Islands of the Seychelles located in the Indian Ocean about 1000 miles from Kenya on the east coast of Africa. It is also home to the nation’s capital of Victoria, the main port in the area.
Tourists flock to the Seychelles, not just for the natural treasures like rare endemic plants and soaring granite peaks, but for the rich cultural heritage of the African, Indian, Chinese and European populations.
Brief History of Mahé - Seychelles
First visited by the British in 1609, Mahé slipped into French possession from 1742 to 1812 when it became a British colony
and remained so until 1976 when the Seychelles became an independent nation.
Cruise Terminal in Mahé - Seychelles
Cruise ships dock at Port Victoria, one of the deepest ports in the region, and recently declared safe by the IMO based on the new International Ships and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code.
The port does not have a dedicated cruise terminal as such but facilities are more than adequate.
The inner harbour lies immediately east of the town, within walking distance, but taxis are readily available.
Seychelles International Airport (Aeroport de La pointe Larue) is not far from the capital city and the port, with frequent bus and taxi service connecting the two. Seychelles International Airport is regularly served by international airlines from Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia.
Must See Attractions in Mahé - Seychelles
Beaches: As with most of the Indian Ocean islands, the main attractions are to do with the beautiful beaches and natural scenery. Mahé is no exception. In fact, there are more than 2 white sand beaches all within easy distance of the port.
Mahé is also home to one of the three top beaches in the Seychelles: Beau Vallon Beach with its soft white powder sand is the most popular on the island and is only a few kilometres away from Port Victoria
The Natural History Museum: Right in the centre of town and not far from the port, The Natural History Museum offers a good introduction to the island and its natural treasures. There is even a ship wreck from 1570 and displays of the extinct Seychelles crocodile.
The Botanical Gardens: Also for nature lovers, the 15 acres of the National Botanical Gardens on the south side of Victoria is famous for its orchids and selection of indigenous trees and giant tortoises.
Morne Seychellois National Park: Also not far from the port, the Morne Seychellois National Park is home to Morne Seychellois - the highest peak in Seychelles.
