Seychelles Climate — Weather, Seasons & Yacht Conditions Year-Round

Nov 19, 2025

The Seychelles climate unfolds across a small cluster of granite and coral islands positioned just south of the equator, where tropical archipelago conditions govern everything from morning humidity to evening sea breezes. Unlike destinations that swing between harsh winters and scorching summers, this Indian Ocean nation maintains comfortable year-round temperatures that rarely dip below 24°C or climb above 32°C. Such thermal stability makes planning straightforward, though subtle shifts in wind patterns, rainfall rhythms, and ocean behavior create distinct personalities across different months.

Understanding the climate in Seychelles requires looking beyond simple temperature averages. The interplay between monsoon influences, marine air currents, and the absence of tropical storms shapes daily experiences both on land and aboard yacht charters. Whether you're considering a December getaway or an August adventure, recognizing these patterns helps optimize timing for specific activities, from snorkeling expeditions to multi-island cruising.

What the Climate in Seychelles Is Like Throughout the Year

Month	Avg Temp (°C)	Rainfall (mm)	Humidity (%)	Ocean Temp (°C)	Wind (knots)
January	27	380	82	28	8-12
February	28	280	80	29	8-12
March	28	180	80	29	10-15
April	28	180	78	28	8-12
May	28	140	76	27	12-18
June	27	90	75	26	15-20
July	26	80	75	26	15-22
August	26	100	76	26	15-22
September	27	160	77	27	12-18
October	27	200	78	27	10-15
November	27	240	80	28	8-12
December	27	320	81	28	8-12

Tropical Archipelago Conditions, Equatorial Heat & Marine Air Currents

Proximity to the equator delivers equatorial heat that remains consistent throughout twelve months, with daytime temperatures hovering between 26°C and 31°C regardless of season. This thermal stability stems from the archipelago's position at roughly 4-5 degrees south latitude, where solar radiation strikes the surface nearly perpendicular to it year-round. Marine air currents sweeping across the Indian Ocean moderate temperature extremes, preventing the kind of baking conditions found in continental tropics.

The surrounding ocean acts as a massive thermal regulator, absorbing excess heat during peak sunshine hours and releasing stored warmth overnight. This maritime influence creates tiny daily temperature swings—typically just 5-7 degrees between dawn and mid-afternoon. Sailors appreciate this consistency when planning overnight passages or early morning departures, knowing conditions won't shift dramatically as darkness falls.

Warm Island Temperatures, High Humidity Peaks & Stable Warm Seasons

Warm island temperatures maintain their grip throughout the calendar, but humidity levels tell a more varied story. High-humidity peaks typically coincide with the northwest monsoon from November through March, when moisture-laden air masses from Asia push in. During these months, relative humidity often exceeds 80%, creating that thick, sticky sensation, especially noticeable during midday hours inland.

Stable warm seasons don't mean unchanging comfort levels. The southeast monsoon from May through September brings drier air, lowering relative humidity to 70-75%. This difference might sound minor on paper, but the experiential gap feels significant—shaded yacht decks and coastal paths become noticeably more pleasant during these drier stretches. Overnight temperatures rarely fall below 24°C even during the "cooler" southeast trades, maintaining that tropical envelope around the clock.

Gentle Trade Winds, Seasonal Wind Shifts & Evening Coolness

Gentle trade winds define the sailing experience across Seychelles waters, though their character transforms with seasonal transitions. The southeast trades from May to September blow steadily at 10-20 knots, occasionally gusting to 25 knots around exposed headlands and between islands. These winds create lively conditions favored by experienced sailors, but can generate chop in channels between major islands.

Seasonal wind shifts mark the transition periods in April and October-November, when wind direction becomes less predictable and velocities typically lighten. These shoulder months often deliver the calmest yacht conditions, with afternoon breezes barely reaching 10 knots. Evening coolness emerges as relative rather than absolute—temperatures might drop to 25°C after sunset while ocean breezes pick up slightly, offering relief without requiring sweaters or long sleeves.

Calm Ocean Periods, Sea Breeze Comfort & Occasional Rain Showers

Calm ocean periods cluster around the transitional months when monsoon patterns shift. April and October-November frequently deliver glassy morning seas perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, or exploring shallow reef areas by tender. Sea breeze comfort develops most afternoons as land masses heat up faster than surrounding waters, generating localized wind circulation that kicks in around 2-3 PM.

Occasional rain showers punctuate most days throughout the year, though their character varies by season. During the northwest monsoon, these downpours can be intense but brief—a 20-minute deluge that dumps several centimeters before clearing within the hour. The southeast monsoon brings lighter, more scattered precipitation that might persist as drizzle for several hours without ever becoming torrential. Yacht cruisers quickly learn that rain rarely disrupts entire days; it's more a matter of ducking under the bimini for 30 minutes before resuming activities.

Cyclone-Free Zone & Predictable Year-Round Warmth

The cyclone-free zone designation represents one of Seychelles' most valuable climate assets. The archipelago sits outside the tropical cyclone formation belt, with no recorded direct hits from major storms in modern meteorological history. This absence of extreme weather events allows yacht operators to maintain consistent schedules without seasonal closure periods that plague Caribbean or South Pacific destinations.

Predictable year-round warmth doesn't mean bland uniformity. Subtle temperature variations of 2-3 degrees between "cooler" and "warmer" months create just enough differentiation to notice without requiring wardrobe changes. Water temperatures parallel air readings, staying locked between 26°C and 29°C across all twelve months—warm enough that wetsuits feel unnecessary even for extended snorkeling sessions.

How Monsoons, Rainfall Variations & Wet/Dry Season Patterns Work

Rainfall Distribution, Wetter Months & Drier Months

Rainfall distribution across the archipelago shows marked variation between windward and leeward coasts, with mountain slopes on Mahé and Praslin intercepting moisture-heavy clouds. Annual totals range from 1,500mm at coastal lowlands to over 3,500mm on interior peaks. The wetter months from November through February account for roughly 60% of annual precipitation, when the northwest monsoon delivers its moisture payload.

Drier months span June through September, when the southeast monsoon brings air masses that have already shed much of their moisture over Madagascar and the African continent. Monthly rainfall during this period might total just 50-100mm—still enough to keep vegetation lush but insufficient to disrupt outdoor plans regularly. Even during peak wet season, Seychelles rarely experiences the kind of week-long rain events that can strand travelers indoors.

Seasonal Precipitation and Sudden Tropical Showers

Seasonal precipitation patterns influence yacht itinerary planning more than absolute rainfall amounts suggest. During the northwest monsoon months, afternoon sudden tropical showers arrive with remarkable consistency around 3-5 PM, creating a daily rhythm that savvy cruisers work around. Morning departures maximize dry weather windows, with anchorage typically reached before the afternoon deluge begins.

These downpours rarely last more than 90 minutes, and their intensity means runoff drains quickly from yacht decks and beach areas. The smell of rain on sun-heated granite boulders becomes a defining sensory memory for many visitors—that petrichor aroma mixing with salt air and tropical vegetation. Temperatures actually rise slightly during heavy rain as atmospheric moisture increases, creating an oddly warm sensation despite sheets of water falling overhead.

Indian Ocean Humidity, Morning Humidity Dips & Muggy Conditions

Indian Ocean humidity dominates the atmospheric experience year-round, though daily cycles create windows of relative comfort. Morning humidity dips between 6-9 AM offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking, beach walks, or yacht preparations before moisture levels climb again. By mid-afternoon, especially during northwest monsoon months, muggy conditions can feel oppressive inland, though ocean breezes provide consistent relief aboard vessels underway.

Coastal areas benefit from constant air circulation, with land-sea temperature differentials ensuring breezes persist even on seemingly calm days. Yacht passengers rarely complain about humidity while moving, as apparent wind from vessel motion creates a cooling effect. At anchor in sheltered bays, the sensation intensifies—smart cruisers position boats to catch prevailing breezes rather than tucking into the most protected corners where air becomes stagnant.

UV Exposure Levels, Soft Sunshine Hours & Long Sunny Days

UV exposure levels remain intense year-round due to the equatorial location, with the UV index regularly reaching 11-12 during midday hours. Cloud cover during wet season months provides minimal protection, as UV radiation penetrates thin tropical clouds effectively. Soft sunshine hours in the early morning and late afternoon deliver golden light perfect for photography, without the searing intensity of the 11 AM-2 PM period.

Long, sunny days maintain consistency throughout the year, with sunrise around 6 AM and sunset near 6 PM. This twelve-hour day length simplifies planning, eliminating the dramatic seasonal changes in daylight duration that characterize higher latitudes. The extended twilight periods common to temperate zones compress to just 20-30 minutes here—darkness falls swiftly after sunset, transforming the sky from brilliant orange to deep navy within half an hour.

Coastal Microclimates Influenced by Oceanic Weather Patterns

Coastal microclimates create surprising variations across short distances, with oceanic weather patterns driving these differences. Northwestern coasts of major islands tend to be calmer during the southeast monsoon months, while southeastern shores face choppier seas and stronger winds. Charter captains exploit these patterns when planning routes, often circling islands to stay in lee conditions regardless of overall prevailing wind direction.

Temperature differences between exposed and protected coasts rarely exceed 1-2 degrees, but perceived comfort varies significantly. A beach facing directly into 20-knot trades feels markedly different than a bay sheltered by headlands, even with identical thermometer readings. These microclimate zones shift seasonally as monsoon directions reverse, creating a six-month rotation in which "best" anchorages change predictably.

Seychelles Climate by Month — Key Differences & Travel Feel

Monthly Seychelles climate patterns reveal nuances that temperature averages alone can't capture, with each period offering distinct advantages depending on travel priorities.

January – March - Warm Sea Conditions & Humid Tropical Air

Seychelles' weather in December and January transitions into peak northwest monsoon territory, with January bringing the year's calmest ocean conditions and warmest water temperatures approaching 29°C. Seychelles weather in February continues this pattern, with humid tropical air at its peak—expect 85%+ relative humidity most days, though frequent brief showers provide momentary cooling relief. Warm sea conditions make these months ideal for extended swimming and snorkeling, with visibility sometimes reduced by plankton blooms that attract manta rays and whale sharks.

March marks the gradual shift toward transitional weather, with rainfall tapering and wind patterns becoming less consistent. Water remains hot, and yacht bookings peak as European winter escapees flood the islands.

April – June - Calm Ocean Periods & Light Afternoon Breezes

Seychelles climate April marks a sweet spot for many visitors, with calm ocean periods dominating early mornings and rainfall dropping to moderate levels. May brings further drying as the southeast monsoon establishes itself, introducing light afternoon breezes that keep yacht decks comfortable without generating rough seas. In June, Seychelles' climate sees humidity levels drop noticeably, with the driest months of the year beginning as trade winds blow steadily from the southeast.

These months offer excellent compromises—decent weather, fewer crowds than peak season, and yacht availability improving after Easter holiday rush. Water temperatures start their gradual cool-down toward 26-27°C, still plenty warm but feeling refreshing rather than bath-like.

July – September - Gentle Tropical Heat & Refreshing Coastal Winds

Seychelles July weather climate delivers peak trade wind conditions, with refreshing coastal winds blowing 15-20 knots most days. Seychelles' August weather continues this pattern, with the year's coolest temperatures, though "cool" means 24-26°C rather than anything requiring a jacket. Seychelles weather in September maintains gentle tropical heat while trade winds begin their seasonal weakening, creating superb sailing conditions for those who enjoy active yacht cruising.

These months see the least rainfall and lowest humidity, making them favorites for European summer holidays despite slightly rougher seas on windward coasts. Beach conditions vary dramatically between sheltered and exposed shores—northwest-facing beaches lie calm while southeastern coasts see consistent surf.

October – December - Mixed Rainfall, Stable Heat & Sunny Intervals

Seychelles weather in October brings transitional conditions as trade winds fade and the ocean flattens into its annual calm period. Seychelles weather in November marks the beginning of the northwest monsoon influence, with mixed rainfall—some days stay dry while others see multiple showers. Seychelles' December weather features full northwest monsoon conditions, with increased precipitation balanced by sunny intervals between storms.

Stable heat persists throughout this quarter, with temperatures creeping up slightly as southeast trades cease their cooling influence. December sees strong yacht booking demand for Christmas and New Year celebrations, when premium vessels command top rates.

Monthly Highlights for Yacht Travel, Swimming & Coastal Exploration

Charter conditions peak during transitional months (April, October-November) when winds lighten and seas flatten, with little to no rainfall. Swimming remains excellent year-round, with visibility best during the southeast monsoon months when reduced runoff keeps coastal waters clear. Coastal exploration is best in the drier months for hiking and nature trails, though occasional rain showers in any month require flexible scheduling.

Seychelles' climate seasons don't follow traditional four-season patterns but instead a two-monsoon cycle with brief transitions. Understanding this rhythm helps optimize specific activities—underwater photography during clear southeast months, whale shark encounters during northwest season plankton blooms, or simply choosing between lively sailing conditions versus mirror-calm anchorages.

Yacht Conditions Across the Seasons

Season	Sea State	Wind Speed	Water Temp	Best For
NW Monsoon (Nov-Mar)	Calm to slight	5-15 knots	28-29°C	Swimming, snorkeling, calm cruising
SE Monsoon (May-Sep)	Slight to moderate	15-25 knots	26-27°C	Active sailing, clear water visibility
Transitions (Apr, Oct)	Very calm	5-10 knots	27-28°C	Beginners, photographers, exploration

Sea Surface Temperature Changes & Comfortable Warm Water

Ocean surface temperature varies by just 3 degrees annually, cycling between 26°C during southeast monsoon peaks and 29°C when northwest patterns dominate. These readings place Seychelles waters among the world's warmest year-round, eliminating any need for thermal protection during water activities. The warmth supports incredibly diverse marine ecosystems, from coral reefs to pelagic species that would migrate elsewhere if temperatures dropped seasonally.

Charter guests from colder climates often express amazement at being able to spend hours in the water without any chill developing. Even dawn swims before sunrise feel bathwater warm, encouraging snorkeling sessions that extend far longer than prudent sun exposure might recommend.

When the Ocean Is Smooth for Sailing & Catamaran Trips

Smoothest yacht conditions occur during transitional months and during the northwest monsoon peak, when wind speeds drop below 10 knots and swells diminish to less than 1 meter. Catamaran charters particularly benefit from these calm periods, as their shallow draft and wide beam excel in protected waters but can become uncomfortable when seas build beyond moderate levels. April and November frequently deliver week-long stretches of near-glassy conditions ideal for photography, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying yacht amenities without rolling motion.

Months with Light Winds Ideal for Family Yacht Days

December through March, plus transitional Apri,l offer the lightest wind conditions, making them perfect for families with young children or guests prone to seasickness. These periods allow yacht captains to plan ambitious itineraries without worrying about comfort, as protected anchorages and calm passages are easily accessible. Motor sailing becomes common when winds drop below 8 knots—supplementing sail power with engines to maintain schedule while still enjoying open-air cruising.

Months with Stronger Trade Winds & More Active Seas

Southeast monsoon months from June through September deliver consistently stronger winds that experienced sailors relish but can challenge inexperienced crews. Windward passages require careful timing, with captains often departing before dawn to reach destinations before afternoon wind peaks. These conditions favor performance-oriented charters where exhilarating sailing takes priority over pure relaxation. Monohulls generally handle these months better than catamarans, with deeper keels providing better upwind performance in choppy seas.

How Seasonal Patterns Shape Ideal Yacht Routes & Island-Hopping

Charter routes adapt to seasonal wind shifts, with popular itineraries rotating between inner and outer islands depending on prevailing conditions. Northwest monsoon months favor routes toward Silhouette and North Island, while southeast trades make passages to La Digue and outer islands more comfortable. Brilliant captains exploit lee shores year-round, planning daily routes that keep the wind and waves behind or abeam rather than heading directly into the weather.

Island-hopping strategies also account for anchorage exposure—some bays that offer perfect protection during one monsoon become untenable six months later when wind direction reverses. Charter companies maintain detailed seasonal anchorage guides, steering clients toward appropriate destinations based on booking dates.

Weather Factors That Influence Yacht Cruising

Rainfall Variations Around Anchorages & Reef-Protected Bays

Rainfall variations between anchorages can be dramatic, with mountain-backed bays receiving triple the precipitation of exposed coastlines just a few kilometers away. Reef-protected anchorages generally see slightly reduced rainfall as approaching storms dump moisture over higher terrain before reaching the coast. These patterns mean a rainy afternoon at one anchorage might coincide with sunny conditions at another, giving captains flexibility to relocate if weather becomes uncooperative.

The brief, intense nature of tropical showers means even heavy rainfall rarely accumulates enough to cause problems. Yacht scuppers drain efficiently, and modern vessels feature enclosed salons where groups can gather comfortably during downpours. Many cruisers come to appreciate rain showers as refreshing breaks from constant sunshine, with cooled air following each storm front.

Wind Direction Shifts Affecting Sailing Comfort

Wind direction matters more than velocity for passenger comfort, as beam and following winds create gentle motion while headwinds generate uncomfortable pounding. Charter captains constantly monitor forecasts to time passages for favorable angles, sometimes delaying departures a few hours to catch wind shifts. The reliable daily sea breeze cycle allows for tactical planning—morning calm followed by afternoon onshore flow creates predictable patterns that experienced skippers exploit.

Tropical Storm Likelihood & Practical Safety Notes

Tropical storm likelihood remains virtually zero, with Seychelles' equatorial position placing it outside cyclone formation zones. The last significant storm impact occurred decades ago, and modern forecasting provides ample warning for the rare tropical depression that might track nearby. This safety allows year-round charter operations without seasonal closures, unlike Caribbean or Pacific destinations that shut down during hurricane months.

Standard safety protocols still apply—monitoring weather forecasts, avoiding passages in deteriorating conditions, and maintaining proper equipment. The absence of extreme weather doesn't eliminate regular tropical squalls, which can produce 30-knot gusts and reduced visibility for short periods.

Humidity, Visibility, & Morning vs. Evening On-Water Conditions

Morning visibility typically exceeds evening clarity as overnight cooling settles atmospheric moisture and reduces haze. Early departures maximize these clear conditions for navigation and photography before the afternoon heat builds convection currents that cloud horizons. Evening conditions remain pleasant aboard as land masses cool and generate offshore flow, though visibility degrades as moisture accumulates overnight.

Humidity aboard yachts stays manageable while underway, but can feel oppressive at anchor in enclosed bays. Modern charter vessels feature adequate ventilation and air conditioning in cabins, though many guests prefer open-air sleeping under deck awnings during calmer months.

Dry Season Clarity for Snorkeling & Reef Exploration

Dry season patterns from June through September deliver peak underwater visibility, with reduced river runoff maintaining water clarity around coastal reefs. These months see 20-30 meter visibility common at popular snorkeling sites, compared to 10-15 meters during wetter periods when sediment plumes affect nearshore areas. Reef exploration reaches its peak during these clear-water months, with marine life photography producing the sharpest results.

Climate & Daily Vacation Experience on Land and at Sea

Outdoor Temperature Feel, Shade Needs & UV Exposure

Outdoor temperature sensations depend heavily on activity level and sun exposure, with full sunlight feeling 5-10 degrees hotter than shaded conditions at the same thermometer reading. UV exposure demands serious attention year-round—sunscreen, hats, and rashguards become essential within 30 minutes of midday sun. Shade needs arise quickly, with most beachgoers seeking cover by early afternoon, even during cooler months.

Yacht biminis and cockpit covers provide invaluable all-day comfort, creating shaded spaces where guests can enjoy ocean views without direct sun exposure. Evening temperatures feel remarkably similar to midday readings, maintaining that tropical warmth around the clock.

Coastal Breezes During Beach Days & Island Walks

Beach days benefit from constant refreshing coastal winds that make high temperatures tolerable, with onshore flow developing reliably most afternoons. Island walks require early timing to avoid peak heat—dawn departures or late afternoon excursions work best, as midday trails through interior forests become stifling despite shade. Coastal paths benefit from persistent breezes that interior routes lack, making shoreline exploration more comfortable during warmer hours.

Seasonal Comfort During Nature Trails & Lookouts

Nature trail conditions vary more by humidity than temperature, with the drier southeast monsoon months offering noticeably more comfortable hiking. Morning departures remain essential year-round, as afternoon heat and humidity make sustained uphill efforts exhausting. Lookout points positioned to catch prevailing winds provide relief at trail summits, where elevation and exposure combine to generate cooling flow.

How Weather Shapes Yacht Timing, Stopovers & Swim Breaks

Daily weather patterns dictate optimal yacht timing, with morning departures avoiding afternoon wind peaks and positioning vessels at destination anchorages before potential rain showers arrive. Swim breaks cluster in the early afternoon, before trade winds reach maximum velocity, or after lunch during calmer northwest monsoon periods. Stopovers increasingly incorporate weather windows—captains extending stays at delightful anchorages while conditions cooperate.

Practical Everyday Impressions of the Tropical Climate

Climate change impacts remain subtle in Seychelles compared to dramatic shifts occurring at higher latitudes, though gradual ocean warming and altered rainfall timing concern environmental scientists. Every day, visitors primarily experience Seychelles' climate through its consistency—reliable warmth, predictable wind patterns, and the ever-present humidity that defines tropical island living. Charter guests adapt quickly, usually within 24 hours, finding the rhythm of morning activity, midday rest, and evening exploration that tropical heat encourages.

The persistent warmth creates a vacation environment where scheduling revolves around personal energy rather than clothing requirements. Nobody needs to pack weather contingencies—the same lightweight wardrobe functions identically whether visiting in February or August, with only minor adjustments for wind versus humidity.