Reef Safari – Snorkeling, Fish Feeding & Lunch (Shared Day Trip)

Exploring Seychelles by boat is a classic way to soak up the islands’ natural splendor, and the Reef Safari tour from Victoria combines snorkeling, island adventures, and a tasty local lunch into a compact 6-hour package. While it’s designed to be accessible and fun, it also offers enough depth to satisfy those who love marine life and scenic hiking. With a solid average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 73 reviews, this trip seems to hit most of the right notes.

What we particularly like about this experience is its combination of active and relaxing moments—from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to wandering with giant tortoises on Moyenne Island. Plus, the local Creole BBQ lunch provides a genuine taste of Seychelles cuisine that keeps the day flavorful and authentic.

However, a point to consider is that snorkeling time can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more time underwater. The tour’s structured schedule means some travelers might wish for longer at each stop, but overall, it balances activity and downtime well. This tour is best suited for those who want a tangible taste of Seychelles’ marine and island charm without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with snorkeling, island walks, and a beach BBQ
• Small group sizes and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Convenient pickup included, with options for different locations
• Authentic local lunch with fresh seafood and Creole flavors
• Flexible activities—snorkel, walk, relax, or feed fish
• Great for families or travelers wanting a well-rounded day

This shared day trip from Victoria is a wonderful way to explore Seychelles’ marine and terrestrial treasures in one go. For about $154 per person, you get a mix of guided activities, scenic boat rides, and time on islands. The six-hour duration keeps the day packed but not exhausting, perfect for those wanting a taste of everything without committing to multiple separate tours.

Starting with a pickup service from your accommodation or a central meeting point, the tour begins with a scenic drive to Marine Charter in Victoria, setting the tone for a day of island hopping and water fun. The tour’s small group size—around 10 to 45 travelers—ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides are often lauded for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience feel personalized.

First Stop: Moyenne Island

The first visit is Moyenne Island, a tiny piece of land famed for its giant tortoises and natural beauty. As one reviewer pointed out, the guided walk or hike around the island offers breathtaking ocean views. The walk lasts about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and soak up the scenery. The island has been a flora and fauna reserve since the 1970s, and meeting the gentle giant tortoises is a highlight. Reviewers loved the experience, with one describing the tortoises as “great” and noting the amazing views from Clamshell Rock.

Second Stop: Ste Anne Marine National Park

The main attraction here is snorkeling, which is optional but highly recommended if you want to see the vibrant underwater world. The tour provides all necessary equipment, and you’ll be able to feed fish from a glass-bottom boat, which is a fun and interactive activity. Some travelers felt they had just enough time—about an hour—to enjoy the snorkeling and fish feeding, but others wished for a bit longer. One guest noted, “I only had 20 minutes of snorkeling because of the children and other activities, so longer would be appreciated.”

Third Stop: Cerf Island

This is where the culmination of the day takes place: a Creole BBQ lunch right on the beach. The food, often praised as “delicious” and “authentic,” includes local seafood and grilled meats. After lunch, there’s free time to snorkel around the reef, swim, or just relax on the sandy beach. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere—perfect for unwinding after some active parts of the day.

• Marine park exploration offers a glimpse of Seychelles’ renowned marine biodiversity, with coral reefs teeming with fish.
• Moyenne Island’s walk and giant tortoises provide engaging wildlife encounters and scenic vistas.
• Fish feeding via glass-bottom boat is a unique activity that all ages seem to enjoy.
• The Creole BBQ lunch showcases local flavors, offering a true taste of Seychelles.
• Optional snorkeling caters to both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, with equipment provided.
• Small group sizes and experienced guides, like Steve and Roland, make the day more personal and informative.

Included in the price are all essential fees: landing and facility charges, private transport, snorkeling equipment, the tasty lunch, and air-conditioned transfers. This setup means you won’t have to worry about hidden costs, and the transfers are generally smooth and reliable.

Extras, like bottled water or soda, are not included, so bringing some along or purchasing on the islands is advised. The tour also doesn’t provide transport in the south of Mahe, which is important to note if your accommodation isn’t centrally located; some reviews mention extra charges for pickups outside certain areas.

Timing begins at 9:30 am, with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. The tour is designed to cater to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 45, ensuring plenty of space and attention from guides.

Feedback from travelers paints a mostly positive picture. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides, such as Steve and Roland, who provided informative commentary that enriched the experience. Reviewers frequently mention the crystal-clear snorkeling waters and the beautiful beaches, which truly do look like something out of a postcard.

Several travelers highlighted the delicious Creole barbecue, describing it as “excellent” and “well-organized.” The small group aspect was also praised, with one noting, “The boat and captain Perry made the day just perfect.”

Not everyone found it perfect, though. A few mentioned that snorkel time could be longer, especially for families with children or avid snorkelers eager to explore more. One review noted that the boat seemed a bit “rickety,” but reassured that safety was never compromised. The boat’s lack of toilets was also mentioned, but that’s typical for shorter boat trips in such environments.

This trip is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic Seychelles experience without the complexity of multiple bookings. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded day of wildlife encounters, water activities, delicious food, and scenic views.

If you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the chance to explore the reefs and feed fish from the boat. Those who love island walking or wildlife will enjoy Moyenne Island’s giant tortoises and scenic trails. And if you’re looking for a relaxed yet active day with stunning photo opportunities and a taste of local cuisine, this tour covers all those bases.

The Reef Safari from Victoria offers a great balance of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for photo-worthy moments, wildlife encounters, and good food. The knowledgeable guides, tasty Creole lunch, and the chance to interact with Seychelles’ marine life make this a compelling choice for many travelers.

While the snorkeling time might seem a little tight for some, the overall experience—small groups, scenic islands, and engaging activities—delivers true value and memorable moments. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a convenient, all-in-one day trip that captures the essence of Seychelles’ natural beauty.

For travelers who prioritize authentic experiences, expert guides, and delicious local flavors, this Reef Safari tour will likely be a highlight of any Seychelles visit.

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, private transportation is included, with options for pickup from specific areas on Mahe. However, some locations in the south may incur an extra charge.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately six hours, starting at 9:30 am, with a schedule that includes island visits, snorkeling, and lunch.

Is snorkeling mandatory?
No, snorkeling is optional. You can choose to stay on Moyenne Island or feed fish from the boat instead.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly some cash for drinks and extras. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask or fins if preferred.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is family-friendly, especially since it includes wildlife encounters and easy walks. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What’s the lunch like?
A Creole BBQ featuring local seafood and grilled meats, praised for its flavor and authenticity. It’s served at Cerf Island and often garners high praise.

Can I request more snorkeling time?
While the schedule is fixed, some reviews indicate that guests can ask guides for extra time if the group and guides agree—so don’t hesitate to ask!

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Reef Safari from Victoria in Seychelles is a well-packaged adventure suited for travelers who want a diverse, engaging day on the water. From snorkeling and island walks to a traditional Creole lunch, it offers a well-rounded experience that highlights Seychelles’ natural and cultural charms. The knowledgeable guides, small group atmosphere, and authentic local flavors make it a value-packed choice.

While some may wish for longer snorkeling or more free time, the day’s variety compensates for any minor schedule tightness. It’s a wonderful pick for those wanting to see wildlife, enjoy gorgeous scenery, and indulge in delicious food—all in one seamless outing. If you’re looking for an active, authentic Seychelles experience that caters to families, couples, or small groups, this tour should definitely be on your radar.