About the Port
Curieuse Island lies within a national marine park in the Seychelles, a short crossing from Praslin, its reddish soil and rugged hills setting it apart from neighboring islands. Hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises, among the largest tortoise species on earth, wander freely across the island, often approaching visitors along the sandy paths. Mangrove boardwalks and forest trails lead past coco de mer palms and granite outcrops toward quiet coves rimmed with turquoise water.
The island's past adds depth to its natural appeal: it once served as a quarantine station for leprosy patients, and the restored doctor's house from the French colonial era now holds a small museum recounting that history. There is no pier for large ships, so landings are made by tender onto the beach, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the uneven trails that wind through the interior.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Curieuse Island.
Meet the Giant Tortoises
Wander among hundreds of free-roaming Aldabra giant tortoises near the ranger station, some weighing several hundred pounds and living over a century. They're accustomed to visitors and often amble right up to the sandy paths.
Hike the Interior Nature Trail
Follow the marked trail across the island's reddish hills, through mangrove boardwalks and stands of coco de mer palms, to a quiet turquoise cove on the far side. Allow about two to three hours round-trip and wear sturdy shoes for the uneven, rocky ground.
Visit the Doctor's House Museum
Step inside the restored French colonial building near the landing beach to see exhibits on the island's leprosy quarantine era. A quick stop, best done right after the tender drops you ashore.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Curieuse Island
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 11, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 9 | $6,500 | |
| Dec 12, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 15 | $11,843 | |
| Dec 20, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $5,038 | |
| Dec 27, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 14 | $11,727 | |
| Dec 27, 2026 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $5,867 | |
| Jan 2, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 15 | $10,834 | |
| Jan 3, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $4,529 | |
| Jan 10, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $4,029 | |
| Jan 16, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 15 | $11,999 | |
| Jan 17, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 14 | $11,877 | |
| Jan 17, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $6,017 | |
| Jan 24, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $5,294 | |
| Jan 24, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 14 | $11,154 | |
| Jan 31, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 14 | $10,967 | |
| Jan 31, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $5,107 | |
| Feb 6, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 15 | $13,475 | |
| Feb 7, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $6,199 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 7 | $7,055 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 19 | $23,140 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Kaia | 14 | $12,630 |
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