Curieuse Island Seychelles Cruise Port

Curieuse Island is a small granitic island in the Seychelles, situated off the northern coast of Praslin Island within the Indian Ocean. Operating as a wildlife-focused port of call on small ship and expedition cruise itineraries, the island is accessed via tender boats carrying passengers ashore to sandy beaches. Originally named Île Rouge for its striking red soil, the island features a pristine tropical landscape of coastal granite boulders, protected mangrove swamps, and lush palm forests. Today, it forms part of a protected marine national park.

French explorers claimed the island in 1768, naming it after the schooner La Curieuse. In 1829, the island was designated as a leper colony, functioning in this isolated capacity until 1965. This decades-long period of human isolation unintentionally preserved the island's fragile ecosystem from development. Today, historic ruins of the leprosarium and the restored French colonial doctor's residence stand as preserved historical sites. The island is also one of only two places in the world where the iconic coco de mer palm tree grows naturally in the wild.

Excursions focus heavily on ecotourism, conservation efforts, and native wildlife viewing. The island serves as a sanctuary for over 300 free-roaming Aldabra giant tortoises, which visitors can observe and interact with near the ranger station. Guided walking tours follow elevated wooden boardwalks through dense mangrove swamps, home to giant land crabs and native bird species like the rare Seychelles black parrot. Marine excursions along the surrounding coral reefs offer snorkeling opportunities alongside sea turtles and tropical fish, followed by beach barbecues hosted on white sand shores.

Beachside gatherings serve grilled Creole fish, spiced chicken skewers, coconut rice, tropical papaya salad, and chilled local SeyBrew beer.

Nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and Seychelles expedition cruisers will find this granitic island unforgettable for its giant tortoises, coco de mer palms, and protected mangroves. Sailed to Curieuse Island or preparing for an upcoming voyage? Map your voyage on The Cruise Globe!