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Outer Islands Bird Watching Expedition

Join Silhouette Cruises for an unparalleled birdwatching expedition across the Seychelles. Our unique journey aims to replicate the groundbreaking 2014 chumming expedition that revealed remarkable pelagic bird species. This scientific voyage offers bird photography opportunities and a chance to experience Creole culture and cuisine aboard the comfortable Sea Bird.

Expedition Highlights

  • Pelagic Bird Discovery: Utilize innovative chumming techniques to locate elusive seabirds rarely seen without marine expeditions.
  • Endemic Birds: Visit sites to observe all endemic land birds of Seychelles, including the rare Seychelles Magpie-robin and Seychelles Warbler.
  • Seabird Colonies: Explore important seabird colonies, especially on Aride Island, home to a vast variety of seabird species.
  • Snorkeling and Diving: Enjoy snorkeling or diving to see tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and sharks.

Unique Experiences

  • Aldabra Island: Known as “The Indian Ocean’s Galapagos,” Aldabra hosts a rich variety of bird species and is home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises.
  • Marine Mammals: Possible sightings of blue whales, orcas, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins. Dugongs have recently returned to breed in the Aldabra Group.
  • Endangered Species: Encounter the critically endangered Wright’s Gardenia and the flightless Aldabra Rail.

Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1: Embarkation at Mahé. Evening lecture on the expedition.
  • Day 2: Visit Aride Island, a scientific reserve with diverse seabird colonies.
  • Days 3-4: Explore the Amirantes Group, including the African Banks and Marie Louise.
  • Days 5-7: Cross to Cosmoledo in the Aldabra Group for birdwatching and diving.
  • Days 8-12: Discover Aldabra’s rich biodiversity, including visits to the research station and the old settlement.
  • Days 13-14: Continue exploring the Aldabra Group, including Assumption and Astove islands.
  • Days 15-16: Sail to the Alphonse Group, stopping at St. Francois for snorkeling and birdwatching.
  • Days 17-18: Return to Mahé for disembarkation.

Expedition Leaders

Hadoram Shirihai
Hadoram Shirihai: Renowned ornithologist and author, known for rediscovering species thought extinct.
Adrian Skerrett
Adrian Skerrett: Seychelles resident since 1980, author, and conservationist.

Book Your Adventure

Experience the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of the Seychelles’ outer islands on this exclusive birdwatching cruise. Contact us or more information and booking.

For dates, prices and availability.
Please contact us here

Download the full day-to-day programme guide