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In recent years there has been a significant increase in acts of piracy towards commercial and private vessels in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. The pirates have been known to attack any vessel which is vulnerable and you are strongly advised to avoid any form of sailing in the waters around the Seychelles.
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Sailing vessels are particularly vulnerable to attack due to their speed and low freeboard. Yacht races and rallies are advised against in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean due to the high risk competitors will be put under from potential attack. If you require maneuvering a yacht within the high risk areas you are advised to use a yacht carrier, in order to avoid any risk which you may encounter when sailing in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.
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The Seychelles Maritime Safety Administration recommends against any leisure boating and yachting activities around the Amirantes Group and beyond twenty miles of the inner grantic islands - due to the high potential of risk from piracy.
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If you need to sail in the waters around the Seychelles you are advised to take precautionary measures by keeping 24 hours visual and radar watch, and to immediately report any suspected illegal activity to the Seychelles Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC). The measures are put in place for boat owners and operators; they strongly recommend you follow precautionary measures if there is an essential need for you to sail in the Gulf of Aden or Indian Ocean.
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There is low crime rate on the Seychelles, however petty crime does occur. Thieves have been known to target beaches, parked cars and accommodation; it is strongly advised you keep valuables in a safe and secure location.
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In isolated areas you are strongly advised to be cautious, as criminals have been known to target victims. The back streets of Victoria and Beau Vallon are noted areas where criminals will target victims as they are quiet. If possible try and avoid these areas at night, as the risk increases.
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The threat of a terrorist attack in the Seychelles is regarded as low, however you are advised there is a global risk and terrorist attacks can be indiscriminate. If you are visiting areas that are popular with tourists or expatriates, there is potential it could be a location that terrorists target, and it is advisable to be cautious.
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The Seychelles aviation authorities have issued Air Operator Certificates to airlines which would not meet the standards set by the international Civil Aviation Organization. It is strongly advised you choose an airline that meets the international Civil Aviation Organization standard as the measures they have in place ensure all care is taken to safeguard all passengers. Progress is being made by the Seychelles authorities to improve the standards of the airlines issued with an Air Operator Certificate.
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Road safety across the Seychelles is precarious and extreme care needs to be taken if you are driving or using public transport. If you are planning to visit Mahé, you are advised the roads are narrow and winding - often with sheer drops and safety barriers are rare. If you have doubts over your safety, you are advised to seek an alternative mode of transport.
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Taxis in the Seychelles are good, however you are advised to negotiate the price before setting off on your journey; this is in order to avoid any issues over payments when your journey is completed.
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It is recommended when hiring a car in the Seychelles that you obtain written acknowledgement on returning the vehicle, stating the vehicle was returned in an undamaged condition. This is to prevent any disputes arising subsequently.
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Swimming in the seas in the Seychelles requires you to be cautious, as drowning does occur. If you are swimming or snorkeling, you need to be careful as the sea conditions change especially during climatic seasonal variations. Strong currents can be overwhelming while swimming. There are two monsoon seasons – in the South East from May to September and the North East from November to March; both these seasons will have a different impact on swimming conditions; it is advised you seek local advice to ensure you are not swimming in potentially dangerous seas.
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The popular Beau Vall beach is known to experience strong rip currents when the sea is rough. It is recommended you are diligent when swimming and take care when weather conditions change; when this happens it can become unsafe and dangerous for swimmers.
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Medical facilities are limited in the Seychelles and in the remote areas doctors may be unavailable. The main hospital is in the capital Victoria, which can offer the best medical care in the country; however it is not up to the standard of care available in more developed nations.
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It is recommended you consult your doctor before traveling to the Seychelles to ensure you have the correct vaccinations to cover you during your stay. It is strongly advised to check current updates for any health issues and take protective measure from any possible threats of illness that are present in the country.
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Any involvement in drugs is regarded as a serious offense by the Seychelles authorities; being caught drug taking or smuggling is subject to the strict laws set by the government. It should be noted you are in a foreign country and their laws and punishment will differ from your home country. You are strongly advised to avoid any involvement with narcotics, while in the Seychelles.
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In the Maldives same sex relations are forbidden, and if you are convicted of the offense, there is a possibility you will be prosecuted and sentenced to time in prison.
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Nudism is forbidden and will not be accepted by the local authorities. It is highly recommended you refrain from nudism while in the Seychelles and respect the laws set by the government.
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Non-residents can pay for goods and services in either Seychelles Rupees or other major currencies such as US Dollars, Sterling and Euros. Ensure you have enough funds to cover your visit.
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International governments strongly recommend you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance in place for the duration of your stay in the Seychelles as the medical facilities are not adequate to meet treatment for trauma patients. Therefore emergency evacuation will be required and the cost will be your responsibility.
