Small Ship Cruising: Tahiti or Seychelles?

For travellers dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic landscapes, and peaceful escape, small ship cruising is ideal. Whether in French Polynesia or the Seychelles, both offer unique and culturally rich experiences.

First, with itineraries designed for intimate exploration, these cruises offer more than just beautiful beaches. From coral gardens and volcanic peaks to giant tortoises and ancient traditions, each destination tells a unique story. And with year-round departures, the time to discover them is always now.

In this guide, we’ll compare two of our most beloved tropical cruises:

• A Seychelles island-hopping adventure in the Indian Ocean
• A Tahiti & Society Islands voyage in the South Pacific

Although worlds apart geographically, Tahiti and the Seychelles both offer volcanic peaks and cultural experiences rooted in island heritage. In fact, their shared qualities, such as laid-back island life and wildlife encounters, make them perfect for small ship cruising.

• Location: Tahiti lies in the South Pacific, part of French Polynesia; Seychelles floats in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar.
• Cultural Blend: Tahiti mixes Polynesian heritage with French flair; Seychelles is a blend of Creole, African, Indian, and European influences.
• Getting There:
  • Seychelles: Around 13–15 hours from the UK with one stop (e.g., via Dubai)
  • Tahiti: Around 22–24 hours with two stops (e.g., London – Paris – L.A. – Papeete)

While Tahiti is more remote, both are worth the journey, offering unique charms in every season.

Both small ship cruising itineraries immerse you in unspoiled nature, but in distinct ways.

On the one hand, Seychelles stuns with sculpted granite boulders, white-sand coves, and flourishing island greenery. Several islands are protected nature reserves, including Curieuse, home to Aldabra tortoises, and Aride, a haven for rare seabirds.

Birdsong echoes through the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed palm forest on Praslin. There the legendary coco de mer grows beneath the canopy.

On the other hand, Tahiti and the Society Islands dazzle with their volcanic peaks, coral atolls, waterfalls, and overwater reefs. Snorkelling reveals vivid reef life—rays, reef sharks, tropical fish, and even humpback whales in season. The islands are rich with native flora, including orchids and breadfruit trees.

Whether you’re hiking forest trails or swimming in coral lagoons, both  small ship cruising itineraries offer deeply immersive nature experiences.

One of the best parts? You can travel to either destination year-round.

Seychelles enjoys a warm, tropical climate all year (26–31°C), with light seasonal variations.

• April–May and October–November offer the calmest seas and excellent snorkelling visibility.
• Even during the warmer, wetter months, wildlife and greenery flourish, making it perfect for nature-focused travel.

Tahiti is also warm year-round (25–32°C).

• May–October is the dry season, great for water clarity and beach days.
• November–April is the lush season, ideal for photographers and those wanting fewer crowds, with tropical showers typically brief and refreshing.

For this reason, both small ship cruising experiences are ideal for off-season explorers seeking deeper connections with their surroundings.

Each destination offers a distinct cultural experience worth discovering.

In Seychelles, the rhythm of island life is relaxed and steeped in Creole traditions. Colourful villages and open-air markets pulse with the scent of grilled fish and ginger.

Also, Creole music, dance, and language showcase a blend of African, Indian, and French traditions. Indeed, cultural sites like the Mission Lodge ruins and artisan craft centres offer deeper glimpses into the soul of the islands.

In Tahiti, the culture is both ancient and alive. Polynesian chants, dance, tattoos, and ceremonial art still flourish today. You may visit sacred marae (temples) or join a traditional feast filled with music and storytelling.

Furthermore, French colonial influence adds a graceful sophistication to the island’s atmosphere. As you step ashore, the air is perfumed with tiare flowers and sweet vanilla.

Overall, both cultures are warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the natural world around them.

While small ship cruising in either region, tropical flavours shine with fresh, local ingredients at the heart of every dish.

In Seychelles, the cuisine is rich and full of spice. Expect Creole dishes like grilled red snapper in ginger sauce, coconut curries, and tropical fruits like mango and papaya. Therefore, dining is often casual and soulful, perfect after a day of exploring.

In Tahiti, the food is a refined fusion of French technique and Polynesian tradition. You’ll find delicate fish dishes like poisson cru, root vegetables like taro and breadfruit, and exquisite desserts with local vanilla. Meals are a highlight of small ship cruising, best savoured on deck as the sun melts into the sea.

On both small ship cruising routes, nature and adventure take centre stage, though the focus shifts slightly.

In Seychelles, you might hike through flourishing island greenery or join a nature walk in search of rare birds. There are giant tortoises to spot, quiet sanctuaries to explore, and calm bays perfect for snorkelling or kayaking. The pace is easy, with plenty of time to soak in the wild beauty of the islands too.

In Tahiti and the Society Islands, you might snorkel in bright coral lagoons or visit a pearl farm. There are sacred Polynesian sites to explore, paddleboards to take out, and time to simply relax on a quiet motu. Imagine warm sand slipping between your toes as you walk barefoot along the shore.

As a result, small ship cruising strikes a balance between relaxation and exploration.

Choose small ship cruising in Seychelles if you’re drawn to wild nature with an off-grid feel.

Alternatively, opt for Tahiti if you’re dreaming of lagoon-blue water and  rich culture, with a romantic edge.

If you’re still undecided, why not plan for one now, and the other next year?

Your Island Escape, Any Time of Year

To sum up, whether you’re enchanted by Tahiti’s volcanic majesty or Seychelles’ granite jungles, both inspire awe. Small ship cruising brings you closer to the essence of each destination. With year-round itineraries, there’s no wrong time to go—only new wonders to discover.

Explore upcoming sailings and book your island-hopping escape with Seafarer Cruises today. The only question is: where will you go first?

Ready to plan your escape?

Explore the Seychelles Cruise Itinerary

View the Tahiti & Society Islands Cruise

Otherwise, contact Seafarer Cruises below to speak with a cruise expert and find your perfect island escape.