Private Beaches is a private water activity based around Mahé, offered by a local operator and listed on an independent booking platform. The operator gives the length as between 5 and 6 hours. Only your own group takes part, so the pace and the stops can usually be agreed with the guide.
This page sets out what the listing confirms, how it fits into a Seychelles itinerary and what to check before you book. Seychelles Island Guide does not run this experience; we describe it from the operator's structured listing and our own knowledge of the islands.
Private Beaches: what the listing includes
Guests can either be collected from an agreed pickup point or meet the operator at the starting point. Guiding is listed in German, English and French. The listing includes private transport and an air-conditioned vehicle; anything not named there, such as personal spending, should be treated as extra. At the time of checking, the listing was marked with free cancellation; the current terms on the booking page are the ones that apply. The operator flags the activity as weather dependent, so plans can change at short notice when conditions turn.
Where it takes place: Mahé
Private Beaches takes place in or from Mahé. Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles and the arrival point for almost every visitor: the international airport, the capital Victoria and the main ferry jetty for Praslin and La Digue are all here.
Granite mountains run down the middle of the island, much of the high ground lies inside Morne Seychellois National Park, and the coast road links bays such as Beau Vallon in the north-west with the quieter beaches of the south.
Who it suits
Private Beaches suits confident swimmers and anyone who wants time in the water rather than a sightseeing commentary. As a private booking it also works well for families and small groups who want to travel together.
Planning notes: Private Beaches
Conditions in the water vary with the wind and tide, so follow the crew's briefing on where to swim and snorkel. Bring swimwear, a towel and reef-safe sun protection; a rash vest helps on longer sessions in the water.
Water visibility and sea state vary with the season; the calmer transition months around April and October to November are generally the best for snorkelling, while the trade-wind months can bring swell on exposed coasts.
Before you book
Availability, the current price and the booking itself are handled by the booking platform on behalf of the operator. Check the date, start time, pickup details and cancellation terms on the listing before you pay, and contact the operator through the platform if anything about Private Beaches is unclear.