Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island

Seychelles

Wade through shallow lagoons to encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat on this pristine island sanctuary.

💱 Currency Seychellois Rupee (SCR)
🗣 Language Seychellois Creole, English, French
🕐 Time Zone SCT (UTC+4)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Jan–Mar
🚢 Typical Duration 7-14 nights
💰 Price Range $4,080-$5,140 per person
Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port Yes

A pristine nature reserve in the Seychelles offering exceptional opportunities to observe giant tortoises, tropical birds, and untouched coral reefs in one of the Indian Ocean's most exclusive island destinations.

Cruises that visit Curieuse Island

Build Your Day in Curieuse Island

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Vallée de Mai, Praslin, Seychelles If you have been to the Curieuse island, you don't have to go here. National park · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
Anse Georgette Please pay a visit if you ever go to Praslin island Scenic spot · ★ 4.8 · 2k
Fond Ferdinand This is a must see when at Praslin, do not miss it. Nature preserve · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
Bikini Bottom Lovely staff, chilled vibes and great cocktails! Bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Karim's Fruit Bar Great drinks, spectacular view and super friendly locals. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Praslin National Park Definitely worth a visit when you're on Praslin. National park · ★ 4.5 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
Les Rochers Restaurant Probably the best place to eat on Praslin. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM
Giant Tortoise Farm Animals · ★ 4.7 · 0k
NATURE'S CHOICE RESTAURANT (Ex-Au Claire de lune Restaurant) Best food we have in Seychelles. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
Honesty Bar Super cold beer in a unique setting at amazing prices - highly recommended! Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Anse St. Jose This can see anywhere in Seychelles. Scenic spot · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Curieuse The island is full of tortoises and beautiful nature (& coco plums 🥰) Island · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Sanctuaire des tortues If you are around Praslin make sure you go to this tiny island. Park · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Curieuse Island Excursions Visiting Curieuse Island was a dream come true! Boat tour agency · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
The Nest Restaurant Best place to eat in the Seychelles Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Petit Cabanes Best restaurant experience on Seychelles hands down. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Soley Kouse The best restaurant we have been to in seychelles. Grill · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5:30 PM
KOKOLOKO BEACH BAR The cocktails were top notch and the grilled food was simply delicious. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Chateau de Feuilles, Seychelles Best restaurant on the island, everywhere else I went it was just ok. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Beach House We had the best food in Seychelles here. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
Snorkeling St.Pierre You can kayak here from Praslin. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Sunset Bar Good Price, Good Drinks, Good Service = Good Bar! Bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
CURIEUSE RESTAURANT Definitely the best dining experience in Praslin. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
Island Best Bar The cocktails are unbelievably delicious and the prices are unbeatable. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Curieuse Marine National Park Nice trip from Praslin. National park · ★ 4.9 · 0k
DIVA Having dinner in Diva was without any doubt one of the best experiences. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Tortoise Sanctuary This was a definite highlight of our holiday in the Seychelles. Park · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Cousin Island Special Reserve of Nature Seychelles The island is very interesting and like a different world. National park · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:45 AM
LOSEAN RESTAURANT Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k
LAZIO BEACH BAR, Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles Great and friendly service, perfect cocktails with an authentic island vibe. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 1 PM
Cousin Island Nature preserve · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Turtle Rock great snorkeling! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Coco de Mer trees Tourist attraction · ★ 4 · 0k
Leo’s Bar Best bar in town. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Coco Curieuse Boutique Gift shop · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Curieuse Island

About Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island stands as a captivating gem in the Indian Ocean, offering cruise passengers an intimate glimpse into one of Africa's most pristine and biodiverse destinations. This small island, part of the Seychelles archipelago, has earned its reputation as a must-visit port of call for travelers seeking authentic natural beauty and wildlife encounters that few other ports can match. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or simply seeking an escape to paradise, Curieuse Island delivers an unforgettable experience that lingers long after your ship departs.

As a primarily port-of-call destination, Curieuse Island features prominently on expedition-style itineraries offered by specialty cruise lines including Emerald Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS. Most voyages featuring this destination are seven-night journeys that weave together the Seychelles' most spectacular islands, including nearby Mahé, Praslin Island, and La Digue, creating a comprehensive island-hopping experience. Some extended itineraries even venture further afield to unique destinations like the Masai Mara.

Visitors can expect to encounter giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely, pristine beaches fringed with coconut palms, and lush mangrove forests teeming with birdlife. The island's marine reserve offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities, while guided nature walks reveal the remarkable flora and fauna that make the Seychelles a world-renowned conservation success story. Peak visiting season runs from December through March, when weather conditions are ideal for exploration and water activities.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Pristine Giant Tortoise Reserve

Curieuse Island is home to a thriving population of Aldabran giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Walk among these magnificent creatures at the former prison settlement, now a protected sanctuary where tortoises roam freely across the island's lush terrain. This unforgettable encounter with ancient wildlife is one of the Seychelles' most iconic experiences.

2

Mangrove Forest Kayaking Adventure

Paddle through Curieuse's stunning mangrove ecosystems by kayak, spotting endemic bird species and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. The mangrove channels offer a serene, immersive way to explore the island's unique coastal environment while enjoying the warm Indian Ocean breeze and pristine natural beauty.

3

Historic Prison Settlement Exploration

Discover Curieuse's fascinating colonial past at the restored 19th-century prison buildings and museum. Learn the island's intriguing history as a former penal colony through informative displays and guided tours that reveal stories of the Seychelles' complex heritage and transformation into a conservation success story.

4

Snorkeling in Turquoise Waters

Plunge into Curieuse's vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful marine life. The shallow, protected waters surrounding the island offer exceptional snorkeling opportunities with visibility that showcases the incredible biodiversity of the Indian Ocean's underwater world.

5

Local Creole Seafood Lunch

Savor authentic Seychellois cuisine featuring fresh-caught fish, octopus, and tropical fruits prepared in traditional Creole style. Beach restaurants and local vendors serve delicious grilled fish and coconut-infused dishes that capture the authentic flavors of island life while you dine with ocean views.

Cruise Lines at Curieuse Island

Cruises Departing From Curieuse Island

Cruises Visiting Curieuse Island

Ship Schedule at Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island Location

Other Cruise Ports in Seychelles

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail to Curieuse Island, Seychelles?

Two cruise lines operate cruises to Curieuse Island: Emerald Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS. Both offer ocean cruise experiences to this pristine Seychellois destination, with 34 upcoming cruises available across their combined schedules.

When is the best time to cruise to Curieuse Island?

The peak months for cruising to Curieuse Island are January, December, February, and March. These months offer the best weather conditions and are ideal for exploring the island's marine life and pristine beaches during your port of call.

How much do cruises to Curieuse Island cost?

Cruise prices to Curieuse Island range from $4,080 to $5,140 per person. The final cost depends on your chosen cruise line, cabin type, and specific itinerary, but this price range covers the available ocean cruise options.

What can I see and do during a day at Curieuse Island?

Curieuse Island offers exceptional wildlife viewing, including giant Aldabra tortoises and endemic bird species. You can explore pristine beaches, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and visit the island's nature reserve. The island is also known for its mangrove forests and provides excellent opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Is Curieuse Island a tender port or dock port?

Curieuse Island is typically accessed by tender boats from your cruise ship, as the island has limited docking facilities. Most cruise passengers are ferried ashore in small boats, and the island is managed as a protected marine national park with controlled visitor access to preserve its natural environment.

What other destinations can I visit on cruises that stop at Curieuse Island?

Cruises visiting Curieuse Island typically include stops at other top Seychellois destinations such as Mahé, Praslin Island, La Digue, and Aride Island. Some itineraries also feature excursions to the Masai Mara, offering diverse experiences across the Indian Ocean region and East Africa.

Do I need a guide to explore Curieuse Island?

Yes, guided tours are typically required or highly recommended when visiting Curieuse Island, as it is a protected national park. Your cruise line will usually arrange guided excursions that include knowledgeable naturalists who explain the island's unique ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts.