Alphonse Island Lodge

Description
Accommodation
Things to Do
Digital Brochure

The Alphonse group of islands is considered one of the most pristine, untouched Edens of the world, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The magnificent island threesome comprising of Alphonse, St Francois and Bijoutier lies in the very heart of the Indian Ocean as part of the Seychelles outer islands. Beautiful white beaches line the edges of the dense natural forest, interspersed with the remnants of old commercial coconut groves. Alphonse Island is an escape to the exquisite simplicity of a tropical island paradise, leaving behind the impositions of everyday life. The raw beauty of an untouched natural sanctuary in one of the prime marine environments in the far reaches of the Indian Ocean can be experienced here.

Alphonse Island features a single Lodge comprising of Beach Bungalows, Beach Suites and Beach Villas built alongside the water’s edge, each with scenic ocean views. The main lodge complex consists of a reception area, beach bar, restaurant, swimming pool, tennis court and main office. An Activity & Dive Centre and a Fishing Centre make up the resorts waters ports facilities offering an array of land and marine based activities.

Beach Bungalows

(22 UNITS / VILLAS)

The 22 Beach Bungalows are set amongst lush tropical plantations just metres from the beach. Located on the eastern shoreline of the island, the Beach Bungalows are decorated in a unique style that emphasizes the raw and natural beauty of the island. With a layout that keeps guests’ relaxation foremost in mind, the Beach Bungalows are ideally situated to make the most of the beautiful surroundings. Each Beach Bungalow has its own verandah, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Perfect for watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee or watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

1 Bedroom Beach Villas

(5 UNITS / VILLAS)

The five 1 Bedroom Beach Villas are nestled amongst tropical plants, mere steps away from the white sandy beach. The one-bedroomed Beach Suites are spaced for optimum privacy. Complete with a private plunge pool, sun deck, open plan living and bedroom, the Beach Suites are ideal for families, honeymooners and couples alike. The Villas are decorated in a tranquil natural style. A large patio, overlooking the ocean, provides the ideal spot to relax between island adventures.

4 Bedroom Beach Villas

(2 UNITS / VILLAS)

Set amongst lush, green and tropical vegetation, 2 Four Bedroomed Beach Villas are mere steps away from the white sandy beach and offer spectacular ocean and garden views. These stunning new villas have 4 double rooms which all have en-suite bathrooms, boast expansive living and dining areas, an entertainment area with deck and private plunge pool, private kitchen and a dedicated club car. Options for a private chef will be available at an additional cost.

Alphonse Cycle Tour *Complimentary*
A guided tour across Alphonse stopping at major landscapes and seascapes for guests to familiarize themselves with the forest trails and most secret spots on the island. During the tour, guests will be informed about the early settlers of Alphonse and the changes from indigenous forest to coconut plantation. Learn about birdlife, fish, and plants as you see every corner of the island with our knowledgeable guides.

Flats Lunch *Complimentary*

A special treat offered by Alphonse Island is the amazing Flats Lunch. A dining atmosphere like no other. Guests get to revel in the sheer beauty of the flats whilst feasting on a delicious buffet accompanied by an ice-cold beverage.

Island Conservation Society Walks *Complimentary*

Established in 2007, the Island Conservation Society [ICS] Centre has ensured the key aspects of the ecosystem is well maintained and cared for. The ICS team offer activities on the island such as Turtle Patrol, Giant Tortoise viewing and feeding and bird-watching. This is something everyone on Alphonse holds very close to their hearts. Without their sound knowledge, the ecosystem on the atoll would not be how it is today.

Kayaking *Complimentary*

Kayaks are a perfect and non-intrusive way to get up close to turtles and rays around the flats and allow guests to enjoy Alphonse from a new perspective. A guided tour by nature experts who will point out seabirds and spot fishermen’s delights such as bonefish, permit, and triggerfish. For something more private and personal kayaks are readily available for guests' use. This way guests get to appreciate the untouched exquisiteness of Alphonse Island solely at their own pace. A picnic basket can be organized for guests to carry along, enabling them to choose a spot for a secluded meal.

Reef Flats Expedition *Complimentary*

Travel the inside reef flats of Alphonse with a knowledgeable and insightful marine biologist. On this expedition, guests get to appreciate the untouched view of the white sand and crystal clear waters whilst spotting juvenile turtles, eagle rays, eels and see all types of nature come together. Partake in an optional volunteer biodiversity survey and gather baseline data about all the species found deep in the sea grass meadows, under rocks, and squeezed into crevices in the reef platform.

Snorkeling *Complimentary*

Non-divers may also experience the beautiful, enchanting marine life by partaking in guided snorkeling trips to three different locations: Alphonse lagoon, Alphonse outer reefs or St Francois Island. Snorkeling equipment complimentary and is available for all guests use. The abundant and colorful sea life sights are not to be missed.

Yoga *Complimentary*

Blue Safari invites you to join in scheduled yoga sessions where you can ease out the stresses of modern life and relax your body and mind. Take a moment to focus inwardly and reflect on the beauty of the tiny paradise that is your temporary home. Our yoga sessions are created to clear the mind and set your spirit free to enjoy your holiday to its fullest. Sessions in addition to the weekly schedule can be arranged subject to availability and surcharge.

Bijoutier Island Visit

Stroll the deserted beaches and swim in crystal clear calm water on Bijoutier Island. This is a hotspot for turtle nesting. Guides will explain the life cycle of the beautiful turtles from hatching to laying their own eggs. Guests may get lucky and peer into the depths of the forest to see the nests of the Wedge-tailed Shearwater, perhaps a mother or chick too!

Blue Water Fishing

Experience offshore fishing like never before... The unspoiled waters of Alphonse, Bijoutier, and St Francois atolls are home to a vast variety of blue water species. The structure and sheer drop-offs are idyllic for species such as sailfish, wahoo, dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, and dorado. On each given day there is an opportunity to fight the reel and target these species for either a full or half-day.

Flats Fly Fishing

The Alphonse Group is one of the most famed saltwater fly fishing destinations in the Indian Ocean and one of the most prolific bonefish fisheries in the world. St Francois is approximately seven miles long and four miles wide, consisting of white sand bottoms interlaced with channels and cuts. Try your hand on a full or half-day of fly fishing with our experienced Alphonse Fishing Co. Guides wading over 10 000 acres of hard white sand flats in search of the various species the Alphonse Group has on offer.

Free diving

Our latest addition to the 2019-20 season is free diving, the fastest-growing sport on the water. Train with our PADI instructors and obtain your own freediving licence. From there you can get even more enjoyment out of your snorkels as you can see what’s hidden beneath closer and more colorful than ever before.

Scuba Diving

Come face to face with daily encounters of stingrays, turtles, moray eels, barracuda, sharks, tuna, grouper, snapper, trevally, and many more on the 30 dive sites suitable for any class of diver, from beginner to advanced.

• Registered PADI Dive Centre offering a variety of courses, including Specialty Scuba Courses.

• Obtain or upgrade your diving tickets, a full PADI [Open Water & Advanced] & Rescue Diver.

• PADI Discover Scuba Diving [DSD] [one-hour theory, a pool session, and a shallow dive to 12m].

• PADI Bubble Maker [suitable for children as young as eight years].

• PADI Dive master.

Spa Therapies

Relax in the quiet comfort of Azure Spa after a day of exhilarating experiences. Our qualified masseuses work magic on tired bodies in need of special attention or simply just wanting to indulge. From head and shoulders to full-body massages we are able to tailor treatments to the individual. Special packages such as the fishermen’s massage concentrate on key sensitive points to ensure that you leave feeling pampered and rejuvenated.

St Francois Nature hike

A nature walk on the uninhabited island of St Francois will guide guests through the mangroves where birds roost high in the treetops and others wade across the vast white sand flats. The wildlife on this untouched island such as mangrove crabs and nursing baby sicklefin lemon sharks are amazing. Manta rays, pelagic fish, and cetaceans are often viewed on the 40-minute crossing from Alphonse.

Sunset Lagoon Cruise

Set sail into the Alphonse Lagoon on one of our luxury boats to salute the setting sun with a cocktail or beer from the bar. Share stories from your week and bask in the stillness of the departing day.

Manta Ray Snorkeling and Identification *Signature Experience*

Enjoy a Magical Experience with Manta Rays... Our unique snorkeling experiences allow you to not only observe, but also have close encounters with these graceful creatures. Join our conservation team on an unforgettable snorkeling experience in the azure waters of the outer islands of the Seychelles. We’ve combined a leisurely snorkeling experience with an exciting encounter, all in the name of science. During this excursion, the rays that have been spotted are recorded and photos taken will help with the identifying of rays and their movements. Identified by their broad heads, triangular pectoral fins which can reach sizes of 7m in width and horn-shaped fins on either side of their mouths. Blue Safari Seychelles gives you the opportunity to snorkel with these majestic creatures while contributing to scientific research, and who knows – maybe you will find an unidentified manta that you can name! DID YOU KNOW? Each manta has a unique pattern of black markings on its white belly, these markings act as ‘fingerprints’ for each individual manta.

EXPERIENCE DURATION: 3 Hours
EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Snorkeling equipment and soft drinks

EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
• Memorable manta ray sightings
• Manta Rays are inquisitive and often approach you
• Learn all about these gentle swooping giants
• If you photograph a new manta you can name it
• An safe up-close-and-personal experience
• Conservation-driven excursion
• Pristine island location with warm clear waters

Blue Safari *Signature Experience*

Venture beyond the reef and explore the open ocean on a Blue Safari... Join our team for a trip to our offshore waters in search of a variety of amazing wildlife. You never know quite what to expect on our Blue Safari and your guide will be prepared for anything. Armed with snorkel gear you have the option to watch onboard our vessel or to jump in the water for all round sensory experience, let our guides advise you for the ultimate interaction. Expect to learn about a range of marine animals that could crop up on your adventure. Many of the species you seek are seasonal and therefore each and every trip is unique.

• We are a year-round home to a few pods of spinner dolphins. Share the thrill of meeting one of these dolphins in the wild and experience the unique bond and kinship they inspire in mankind.
• We play host to small groups of humpback whales at the start of the season that migrate through our warm tropical waters. Often in mother-calf pairs, seeing these majestic creatures can only be described as heart-warming.
• Other types of cetaceans have popped up sporadically over the years including melon headed whales, Risso’s dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, pilot whales and beaked whales. You might just be the lucky one to identify a new species for our records.
• Although we offer dedicated manta snorkeling, you may come across the graceful flying manta rays when they are feeding at the surface.
• Throngs of milkfish surface feed on the bountiful supply of food just offshore from the reef.
• Action-filled moments of yellowfin tuna that leap from the water into the sky at sporadic bait balls are a treat to watch from the boat as birds duck dive and join the frenzy from the skies above.
• “What is that?” It is a common question. “Is it a buoy?” During season this is often Green sea turtles mating at the surface and a true encounter in the wild for anyone to behold.
• While exploring the offshore waters do not forget to look to the skies for seabirds, identify them with our guides and perhaps notice a rare vagrant or new species for our records.

EXPERIENCE DURATION: 3 Hours
EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Snorkeling equipment and soft drinks

HIGHLIGHTS
• The element of safari – you never know exactly what you are going to get to see.
• An educational tour about all types of wildlife in the big blue.
• Contribute to the Island Conservation Society wildlife logs.
• A safe up-close-and-personal experience.
• Conservation-driven excursion.
• Pristine island location with warm clear waters.

Coral ID Snorkeling *Signature Experience*

The Perfect Way to Understand the Importance of Coral Reefs
A lot of people think coral reefs are just a beautiful part of nature with no real purpose, doesn’t matter if they break because they’ll just grow back like a normal plant on land, right?
Wrong! The Blue Safari Seychelles team have put together a hands-on experience for all those scuba divers and snorkelers who want to expand their knowledge about the coral reef structures, not just around Alphonse Island and the Seychelles outer islands, but around the whole world. This program is aimed at those people who want to learn and understand the different types of corals and their purpose, those who want to know why certain marine life lives amongst particular corals or those ocean lovers who simply just want to identify what they see underwater!

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?
• How to identify certain corals
• The difference between coral types
• The importance of coral reefs
• Current threats to coral reefs
• What you can do to help

EXPERIENCE DURATION: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Snorkeling equipment, Coral ID presentation & soft drinks

Fish ID Snorkeling *Signature Experience*

Calling All Ocean Lovers to Experience Exceptional Marine Diversity... Enjoy a leisurely excursion at some of the best snorkeling sites in the Seychelles and get to view and identify the rich marine life found beneath the shimmering waters.
Have you ever been so mesmerized by the underwater world that you cannot help but want to know what all the different species are and what their role is in the ocean? Then this experience is just for you… View and identify an array of unique and curious marine species that live amongst the colorful coral reefs that surround the remote outer islands. Sightings include a range of pelagic fish and also bigger predators that come in from the deep. The reefs are also home to up to 15 different species of moray eels, an array of shrimps, crabs and nudibranchs. There are also graceful manta rays, large shoals of species like wrasse, giant sweetlips and grouper as well as nurse sharks resting in the crevices of the reefs. Smaller species like scuttling crabs and flatworms can also be spotted.
This Fish ID Snorkeling Experience, done either snorkeling or scuba diving, is aimed at those wanting to identify some of the wonderful, sometimes strange looking species found amongst the 4 000 species of fish that have been identified on these coral reefs.

EXPERIENCE DURATION: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Snorkeling equipment, Fish ID presentation & soft drinks
Note: Children under 11 years must be accompanied by 1 adult per child

Sailfish Snorkeling *Signature Experience*

An Incredible Experience You Will Never Forget!
For a once-in-a-lifetime encounter join Blue Safari Seychelles on an exceptional snorkelling excursion and Swim with a sailfish – the fastest fish in the ocean.
Board one of Blue Safari’s custom-built vessels and head out to deeper waters off the reef, in search of Sailfish... These stream-lined predators rarely venture close to shore which means that encounters with the species will take place in the shimmering deep blue waters that surround our island destinations.
Once out in the blue, our team will deploy teasers behind the vessel to lure the sailfish up from the depths. With the first sight of the silvery-grey or blue bodies, it’s time to jump in for a wild experience. Sailfish are usually found in small groups which means that snorkellers are likely to be surrounded by a swirling group of these magnificent creatures. The team on the boat continue to entice the fish towards the boat which allows guests to view the sailfish as they charge the teasers at speed.
Averaging at 36km/h, individual sailfish have been recorded at 75km/h!

EXPERIENCE DURATION: 3 Hours
EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Snorkeling equipment and soft drinks
Note: Children under 11 years must be accompanied by 1 adult per child

EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
• Spectacular sightings of one of the most iconic fish in the ocean
• Endemic to the waters of the Seychelles
• The Blue Safari team will teach you all about this curious species
• Tropical warm waters with great visibility makes for excellent viewing
• Spot other interesting species during the expedition
• Exhilarating up-close-and-personal experience

Beach Clean-up *Conservation Activity*

Learn about the impacts of debris on these remote outer island eco-systems, help to protect these pristine habitats by removing plastic and help us in understanding more about the origins of the waste through separation and data collection. Finally turn trash into unique artwork for decorating the dive and fishing centre as a way of making something positive and educational.

Reef Flats Expedition & Biodiversity Surveys *Conservation Activity*

Inner lagoons of atolls and barrier reef eco-systems are unique but often hostile environments with large fluctuations in temperature, visibility, dissolved nutrients and salinity. However these conditions have created amazing adaptations amongst the marine creatures that live and thrive on these flats; with some of the most famous reef flats in the world, the Alphonse Reef Flats Expedition allows you to explore and learn about this environment and the animals that live there including flats-specialists such as turtles, moray eels, giant trevally and a plethora of weird and wonderful invertebrates.

Seagrass Surveys *Conservation Activity*

The lagoons and flats around Alphonse are home to extensive and largely undisturbed seagrass meadows. These environments are so important to the functionality of tropical coastal marine ecosystems such as coral reefs as well as the world-class fly-fishery; additionally, they are key foraging grounds for a huge resident population of green and hawksbill turtles, up to four different species of large ray and juvenile lemon sharks. You will help our on-site NGO collect valuable data on the health of these environments to better understand the management of our fishery and marine resources.

Birdwatching *Conservation Activity*

Learn about and assist in monitoring the different bird species present on Alphonse. Be enlightened by the history of these birds over the course of Alphonse’s occupation by humans and subsequent habitat alteration, through to conservation success stories since the arrival of the Island Conservation Society (ICS). Take a tour of the island’s beaches and forested interior looking out for some iconic species such as greater and lesser frigate birds, wedge-tailed shearwaters, red footed boobies, many different terns and tropicbirds just to name a few!

Introduction to Coral Reef Ecology & Identification of Reef Fish & Corals *Conservation Activity*

These activities will include an interactive presentation and then a guided point-out presentation where guests will learn to identify reef fish and corals and learn about reef ecology. These snorkels can be done on sites such as Oasis or even the house reef which is just off the dock in front of the Activity Centre.

Evening Presentations *Conservation Activity*

Introduction to Coral Reefs, Seychelles Manta Ray Project and Shark Awareness and Conservation.

Turtle Patrol *Conservation Activity*

Four species of sea turtles frequent the waters of the Seychelles and two species, namely green and hawksbill turtle, use our islands as their breeding grounds. ICS conducts monitoring activities to assess status and trends of turtle nesting populations and foraging aggregations, and to identify critical nesting and foraging areas, in order to better understand the biology of turtles and to determine which sites warrant inclusion within the Seychelles Protected Area network. This is an activity not to be missed as you might be lucky enough to encounter little hatchlings!

Native Tree Planting *Conservation Activity*

When IDC took over management of the island in 1983, the intention was to continue coconut production and develop crop and animal farming, tourism and timber production. But increasing labour and transport costs made agriculture unviable and only tourism was developed, after the construction of a runway at the end of 1999. Today, abandoned coconut plantations cover much of Alphonse and St François Islands, with casuarina and scrubland dominating the remainder of the islands. Help our conservation team eradicate coconut palms and plant native trees on Alphonse to assist in restoring Alphonse’s natural habitat.

Tortoise Feeding *Conservation Activity*

When humans first discovered Alphonse Island there were no giant tortoises recorded. An unknown number was introduced prior to 1954 and 15 animals of unknown origin were present on Alphonse during 1954–1959. In 2010, only 25 animals were reported to be present on Alphonse Island. In 2016, nine adults and 15 juveniles were introduced to the island by ICS. Today, 76 tortoises roam freely on the island and contribute to improving the genetic diversity of the Alphonse tortoise population.

All the tortoises on Alphonse Island have been specially micro-chipped to allow ICS to effectively monitor the population size and study the movement patterns, behaviour, growth and survival of individuals. The juveniles are fed daily in the tortoise pen, join our team in learning about this pre-historic species!

Exclusive Beach Picnic on Alphonse Island

Let our expert Food & Beverage team create a dining experience like no other… Be it under the stars or alongside the lapping azure water’s edge, our team will craft a spectacular private dining or cocktail experience, ensuring everlasting memories!

• Beach picnic set up.
• Beach towels / floating pool pillows / kayaks / comfy loungers.
• Set up at a secret picnic location on Alphonse Island.
• Includes an array of wraps, panini’s, sandwiches, fresh fruit and an assortment of freshly baked cakes and fruit juice.