Praslin Island Hotels - getting to and from and around once there
Getting to and from Praslin Island, Seychelles: The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa some 1600km east of Kenya. The only international gateway to the Seychelles is the International Airport, near Victoria, the capital of Mahé, the main island.
Air Seychelles operates scheduled flights from London (Heathrow), Paris (codeshare with Air France), Rome, Milan, Frankfurt (in partnership with Condor), Mauritius, Johannesburg and Bangkok.
Qatar Airways and Emirates fly to and from the Seychelles with connecting flights to various worldwide sectors through Dubai and Doha. Other airlines include Air France, Kenya Airways, Condor (Germany), Air Austral (to and from La Reunion) and Air Mauritius.
Remember, by air, the only international gateway to the Seychelles is Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) near Victoria (Mahé). The national airline Air Seychelles operates scheduled flights from London (Heathrow), Paris – Charles de Gaulle (codeshare with Air France), Rome, Milan, Frankfurt (in partnership with Condor), Mauritius, Johannesburg and Bangkok.
Qatar Airways and Emirates fly to and from Seychelles with connecting flights to various worldwide sectors through Dubai and Doha. Other operating airlines include Air France, Kenya Airways, Condor (Germany), Air Austral (to and from La Reunion) and Air Mauritius.
Private aircraft are welcomed at Mahé International Airport after having cleared all relevant formalities with the Civil Aviation Authority.
Getting from the Airport in Mahé to Praslin Island: Once you arrive on Mahé, it really depends where you want to go. The capital city of Victoria and the beach resorts on the island are easily accesible by car. There are numerous daily flights to the smaller islands with Air Seychelles, such as the shuttle service to Praslin. Helicopter Seychelles, a charter company, also operates island transfers, especially to La Digue.
You can travel to Praslin Island by ferry once you arrive by Air into Mahé (motorized or wind-assisted) or boat, or even join a sailing trip! Getting around the actual islands is not too difficult since they are all pretty small and can be explored by car, bus, taxi, bicycle, traditional ox-cart or on foot! You can also hire a car or boat and explore everything at your own pace…
Ferries are also a popular mode of transportation in Seychelles. Ferries connect the islands of Praslin and Mahe in Seychelles. The journey would not take more than an hour. Schooners are also available which connect the islands of Praslin and La Digue. Ferries can also be availed of to get to La Digue from Mahe. This particular journey would take you about three hours.
The two largest Ferry operators are:
Cat Cocos – Launched in November 2006, this modern 36metre catamaran with a capacity of 350 passengers now operates between Mahe and Praslin with a record breaking 45 minutes cross at a speed of 40knots. For the comfort and care of the passengers onboard, the vessel is fitted with a state-of-the-art computer ride control system which automatically reduces or nullifies the risks of discomfort that may be caused by the movements of the sea. Their friendly crew will welcome you throughout each of our 3 onboard classes and will invite you to discover our in-board services: snack bar services, video screenings, souvenir boutique and more. They offer a business class – the highest standard of comfort topped with a fine personalised service. That, combined with the charming creole atmosphere of the cabin and the backdrop of a panoramic view of the indian ocean.
Inter Island Ferry Pty Ltd – Inter Island Ferry Pty Ltd, based at the Praslin Jetty provides a regular ferry service to and from La Digue. It is serviced by two schooners (Curieuse and Silhouette). They are made of timber and they are powered by either wind (sails) or diesel (Beaudoin & Ford engines).
Sea Access: Centrally located in the region, Seychelles is a naturally attractive destination for any cruise ship itinerary in the Indian Ocean.
Getting around Praslin Island, once you’re here:
Praslin Island Hotels - Bus Transportation in Seychelles
There’s an extensive, inexpensive bus network makes it easy to get around on Mahé and Praslin. Services run from 05:30 to 22:00 (less frequently after 630pm at night)
Of course you can walk – many of the resorts are just near the beaches!
Taxis are plentiful on Mahé and Praslin, and there is a handful on La Digue. Cabs can be hailed on the street, at designated taxi stands or by phoning a driver direct. Passengers are advised to request the driver to use the meter or, if there isn’t one, to agree the fare in advance.
About a dozen car hire companies operate on Mahé and Praslin, with fleets that include everything from Mini-Mokes to chauffeured Mercedes-Benzes. Drivers must have a valid European Union or international licence. Vehicles are driven on the left side of the road.
Rather more in tune with the pace of life on the islands, bicycles are readily available for hire on La Digue and Praslin, where they are a popular mode of transport.
