Always dreamed of kayaking in a tropical paradise?
Wondering how to snorkel without getting your hair wet?
If any of these resonate with you, Crystal Water Kayaks La Digue in Seychelles is your answer.
This tour has turned my dreams into reality multiple times (five to be exact). From the shimmering waters, and secluded beach to the breathtaking scenery.
Want to know more about what you’ll experience? Read my Crystal Kayak La Digue tour review for all the details.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SEYCHELLES:
• Hilltop Boutique Hotel (I stayed here in Victoria on Mahé)
• Sun Properties & Resort Hotel (I stayed here in Beau Vallon on Mahé)
• Marie Laure Suites (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Bambous River Lodge (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Palm Beach Hotel (I stayed here in Grand Anse on Praslin)
• Chez Bea (I stayed here in Cote’Or on Praslin)
• Cote D’Or Footprints (upscale stay in Cote D’Or on Praslin)
• La Digue Self Catering Apartments (I stayed here in La Passe on La Digue)
• Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel (perfect beachfront location on La Digue)
• Chalets d’Anse Reunion (perfect paradise stay on La Digue)
TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN SEYCHELLES:
• Mahé: Anse Major hike (I did this fun hike!)
• Mahé: Private Tour on Mahé (I did this)
• Mahé: St. Anne Marine Park with Lunch (I did this!)
• Mahé: Rock pool hike (on my wishlist)
• Mahé: Day trip to Praslin and La Digue (great if you are short on time)
• Praslin: Vallé de Mai and Anse Lazio (I did this!)
• Praslin: cruise to Curieuse and St. Pierre Island (top-rated tour)
• La Digue: Anse Marron (hike to an isolated beach)
• La Digue: Crystal Water Kayaks tour (my favorite!)
You will be paddling along the most photographed beach in the World, Anse Source D’Argent. In a transparent kayak, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. And then set foot on a secluded beach that’s straight out of a movie.
Gliding in the Crystal Water Kayak will make you feel levitating. And seeing all the corals underneath is beyond exciting. Plus, you will look fabulous doing it without getting your hair wet, mask, and snorkel.
Below you can read my experience with the Crystal Water Kayak tour or watch a video. It tells what you will see and do, and why you should join a tour too!
for Seychelles TRAVEL TIPS:
• Where is Seychelles located and How to get there
• How to get to La Digue, Seychelles, from Mahé or Praslin
• How to spend 10 days in Seychelles Itinerary
for THINGS TO DO in Seychelles:
• 15 Top things to do in La Digue, Seychelles + MAP!
• Crystal Water Kayaks La Digue adventure tour review
for CAPTION IDEAS:
• 101+ Seychelles captions for Instagram
• 101+ Snorkeling captions for Instagram
• 101+ Palm tree captions for Instagram
• 77 Coconut captions and Coconut puns
• 77 Pineapple captions for Instagram
Crystal Water Kayaks
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Crystal Kayak Seychelles is located on La Digue island, inside L’Union Estate Park.
● Getting to the Crystal Water Kayaks La Digue location is easy. Catch one of the daily ferries between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, and then bike to Anse Source D’Argent.
● The tour schedule varies based on weather and tide changes. It typically runs between 9 am and 4 pm, with the popular Robinson Crusoe tour lasting 3 to 3.5 hours.
● Book your tour in advance via WhatsApp to secure your spot and receive tour starting times 1 to 2 days in advance. This will allow you to plan your days on La Digue better.
● Expect a nice mix of education, activity, relaxation, and exploration during the tour. Wear sun protection and water-resistant shoes.
● Knowledgeable guides will be leading the way and teach you about the Seychelles’ environment, geological formations, and marine life.
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Know before booking a Crystal Kayak tour on La Digue
● OPENING HOURS OF CRYSTAL WATER KAYAKS
Due to weather and tide changes, opening times and tour starting times vary. In general, the tour will take place between 9 am and 4 pm.
I’ve been on this tour multiple times. One time we started the tour at 9:00, the next time at 11:30, the third time we went on a tour in the afternoon and finished at 7 pm, and the last time tour started at 10:00.
● DURATION OF CRYSTAL KAYAK ROBINSON CRUSOE TOUR
Robinson Crusoe tour, the most popular Crystal Kayak tour, lasts from 3 to 3,5 hours.
Once we were there for 4 hours because the group and guides were just brilliant and wanted to show us everything. The group was in no rush so we took our time. We have made stunning Crystal Water Kayaks photos, swam on two beaches, and have had a fabulous time.
● BOOKING A CRYSTAL WATER KAYAK TOUR
Since the starting time and duration vary, I would highly recommend booking and going on a tour when you can spend the whole day on La Digue. Not on the day you arrive or leave La Digue island.
I would recommend booking a tour in advance via Crystal Water Kayaks. That way, they will let you know the tour starting times 1 to 2 days in advance, so you will be able to plan your La Digue itinerary accordingly.
Alternatively, if you are already on La Digue island, you can come directly to the tour shop and see if they have any places available. Once there were two seats available, and on other occasions there were none.
If you don’t want to get disappointed, book your tour in advance. I would be devastated if there were be no seats left and I only had a day to do it.
ALSO READ:
• How to get to La Digue from Mahé or Praslin
● PRICE OF SEYCHELLES ROBINSON CRUSOE TOUR
The most famous and most booked tour is the Crystal Water Kayak Robinson Crusoe Tour. It will last from 3 to 3,5 hours and the price starts from 35 EUR (booking online). In my experience, this is a fair price regarding what is included in the tour.
You can book it through their official site, on-site, you can contact them on Instagram @crystalwaterkayaks, or via WhatsApp on +248 2 800 877.
Besides the tour price, you will also have to pay the admission fee to L’Union Estate Park, which is currently 150 SCR and is valid for a whole day.
In addition to the epic crystal kayak tour, they also offer drone photoshoots! The photoshoot will last around 1,5h and you will receive stunning drone photography and videography of Anse Source D’Argent. I absolutely love mine!
What are Crystal Water Kayaks
Crystal Water Kayaks are like usual kayaks, but without color. Whole kayaks are made of transparent PVC materials and allow you to see underwater. Because the material is more sensitive than usual, there are no sharp objects or shoes allowed in kayaks.
You can look through the transparent bottom and admire the corals, fish, sea urchins, rocks, and if lucky, even turtles. Their second benefit is you can do all the ‘snorkeling’ above water without wetting your hair. Which is perfect.
Glass kayak seychelles are extremely photogenic and make an amazing photo prop.
You can ask for a kayak at the end of the tour, to make some photos. With your hair dry, perfect granite rocks backdrop & turquoise ocean, your photos will be nothing but stunning. When sharing your stunning shots, you can find some Crystal Kayak captions inside Instagram captions for Seychelles.
For more stunning shots, of La Digue and you in a transparent kayak, book a drone photoshoot! I love my photos and vides of the shoot!
How to get to Crystal Water Kayaks
Crystal Water Kayak tour is located on La Digue island in Seychelles. There are many ways how to get to La Digue island, to help you plan your trip.
The exact location is inside the L’Union Estate Park on the West side of the island. To get inside there is a 150 SCR fee.
Kayak tour is located less than 1,8 miles (2,8 km) from La Digue ferry harbor and tour meeting point is only a couple hundred meters from the helipad. With a bike, it will take you 20-25 minutes, and around 35 minutes if you decide to walk.
The best form of transportation in La Digue is to rent a bike. It will cost you around 100 SCR per bike per day. You can also walk or hire a transfer from your accommodation. Transport with a golf cart from the Harbor to L’Union Estate will cost you from 200 SCR one way.
Tips for going on a Crystal Water Kayaks tour
Going on the Crystal Water Kayak Robinson Crusoe Tour La Digue was a bucket list experience for me. And while this adventure tour is fantastic, there are a few tips that can make this experience even more memorable. Find them below.
● BRING ENOUGH WATER – STAY HYDRATED
You will be spending from 3 to 4 hours outside, in the sun. You will be kayaking and walking.
Make sure to bring at least 1 L of water for each person in your group. Kayaking is a strenuous activity that leads to losing body fluids. Which is even more true in the tropics. Staying hydrated means life!
● PLAN CRYSTAL KAYAK TOUR WITH ANSE SOURCE D’ARGENT BEACH
The beginning of the tour is inside L’Union Estate Park, so I recommend planning a Robinson Crusoe tour on the same day as visiting Anse Source D’Argent Beach. That way you will only have to pay the entrance fee, 150 SCR, for L’Union Estate once.
The entrance ticket to L’Union Estate is valid for one day. You can leave L’Union Estate and return to the beach as many times as you like in a day, for as long as you have your paper bracelet on your wrist. So don’t lose it!
● USE REEF FRIENDLY SUNSCREEN
Crystal Water Kayak tour is an outdoor activity.
You will be exposed to the sun’s rays for the whole duration of the tour. Even if it’s cloudy. The only shade on a tour is on Robinson Crusoe Beach. Apply sunscreen before the Kayak tour starts and reapply during the tour. You don’t want to be sunburnt after the end of a kayaking adventure (have seen it before and don’t ask why I know this).
You get bonus points if you use reef-safe sunscreen, to keep ocean life happy.
● DRESS FOR THE OCCASION
You will be out on the ocean under the tropical sun. So no, that does not mean, a bikini only, a cute summer dress or a gown suitable for Viennese opera. A T-shirt is better than a bikini, but if you have, wear sun protection clothes. Wear breathable trousers and light long-sleeved tops.
Pro Tip: Avoid cotton clothes. They hold moisture and sweat, which is not ideal in tropical climates.
Note: If you signed up for a Crystal kayak tour because, and solely for Instagram photos, you can bring nice clothes. Just don’t wear it on a tour. Leave them in your backpack and change into them after the end of the tour. Then you will also have time for photo shooting.
● PROTECT YOUR FACE AND EYES
Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.
Sunglasses will help you protect your eyes from the sun’s glare reflecting off the water. A hat will keep your face in the shade and will keep you cooler when on an adventure.
● BRING WATER SHOES
While there are no shoes allowed inside the kayaks, bring shoes that can get wet.
Tour guides will bring shoes to Robinson Crusoe Beach, where you will go on a shorter hike and there they will get wet. Water shoes don’t have to be fancy – flip flops you can confidently walk in work just fine.
Crystal Water Kayaks La Digue tour review
Safety briefing and introduction of Seychelles Crystal Kayak tour
The actual tour starts at Crystal Kayak La Digue kiosk.
Here I was introduced to the guides, Tobi, Yves, and Anis. They explained how to proceed. I have been in a group with all three of them and can confirm, they are all brilliant!
Each kayak will get a waterproof bag. It goes in the kayak and is a great storage place for water, sunscreen, phone, and documents.
No shoes are allowed in kayaks. They provide a separate bag for the shoes, and the guides bring them to Anse Pierrot. As mentioned before, you and your shoes will get wet, so dress accordingly.
Before the tour started, we were kindly reminded to apply sunscreen. It is even better to wear some light clothing. Accessorize your outfit with a hat and sunglasses for a more chick look and even better sun protection.
After some logistic details, we were told about the devastating coral bleaching or coral ‘whitening’ as a result of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). In 1998 warmer water temperatures caused by El Niño were the reason for the death of 90 percent of corals of the Seychelles Inner Islands.
During the tour, we visited small patches that survived and are fighting against rising water temperatures. Being so close to the equator, Seychelles are more vulnerable to higher temperatures than the islands like Mauritius or Reunion.
Iconic rocks of Ance Source D’Argent
After the introduction the next step was to get into the transparent kayaks, which were already waiting a few steps away from the Kayak office.
Lighter couples went into kayaks with transparent seats, lighter sitting in the front. The ones with a bit heavier character were shown in the kayaks with black seats.
My Crystal Kayak adventure tour officially started, with paddling around 50 m from the shore.
Here we got the famous vista of one of the most photographed beaches in the World, Anse Source D’Argent, with unique granite rock formations.
Note: There is a river flowing into the ocean close by and can turn the turquoise ocean into brownish and murky. This all depends on the tide and wind. But further out you go, the color becomes nicer and the water is clearer. So keep paddling!
Educational section of Crystal Kayak La Digue tour
After our first photo shooting section, we paddled to the first section on the reef.
Looking through the bottom of my transparent kayak, I saw some large formations of fire corals. Touching a fire coral will instantly put a stinging pain that can last for several days.
Next on the program was paddling to the second coral patch. Here we saw more corals (finger corals, mushroom corals) and sea urchins. Around them were small shoals of fish, looking for food and shelter in those corals.
Front row seat to panoramic views of Anse Source D’Argent
We proceeded with the panoramic section of the Crystal Kayak tour.
Since I was on a tour many times, I asked for VIP service. This means that your transparent kayak is clipped to a rope attached to a dinghy. That way I was able to take beautiful photos and admire the scenery of Anse Source D’Argent from the sea.
I kayaked the whole route twice. And while it was extremely fun, I liked to be pulled by the boat. If you don’t want to paddle, you can ask for a VIP right from the start.
Even when pulled by the boat, there are many stops alongside Anse Source D’Argent.
At each stop, the guide told us about some fascinating facts about Seychelles. Starting with the geological formation of the Seychelles, which is unique.
Along the route to Robinson Crusoe Beach, a guide was pointing out formations created by granite rocks, and I was able to spot two sharks, an elephant, a turtle rock, a kissing rock, and others.
Survival tricks on Anse Pierrot or Robinson Crusoe beach
Anse Pierrot or Robinson Crusoe Beach was the next stop of the kayak tour. This is the beach where scenes from the Robinson Crusoe movie were filmed in 1980.
Here guides will help you to get out of the kayak. Since the kayaks are transparent and made from a softer material, we got out in waist-deep water. Mind your step when walking. Waves can be strong, and there are dead corals on the sea floor.
Shoes were, nicely aligned, already waiting on the beach. We had some time for photos and swimming on this secluded beach, only accessible from the sea.
After refreshing intermezzo, a group gathered on one side of the island and got a survival lesson. How to call for help if you get stranded on a deserted island and how to find food. They showed how to ‘easily’ open a coconut without tools.
There was a coconut opening competition. It was funny and it ended with all of us enjoying coconut meat or kernel before we went exploring what is beyond Robinson Crusoe Beach.
Exploring beyond the Robinson Crusoe Beach
Our first stop was the cave where Robinson Crusoe lived in the movies. You are shown where they placed a fire pit, his bedroom, and living room.
Then we went on a small hike that took us on a tiny adventure. The path was leading through a cave, where we had to bent, and then into the ocean, where I got wet up to my waist. The trail led us to another beach, with even more breathtaking views.
On a clear day, you can see Mahé, Silhouette Island, and Praslin.
The path was then leading us past the huge fossil coral reef to Anse aux Cedres. That reef was brought to the surface due to tectonic shifts that ‘pushed’ Seychelles up when Gondwana was falling apart.
The hike ends at the point with a small natural pool.
Here you can take a quick swim and walk in a cute natural tunnel leading to it. I didn’t take a swim but I took millions of photos of the area. Views are fabulous. Looking towards the South of the island, we were able to see the rock that is at one side of Anse Marron – the southernmost beach on La Digue.
Fairytale ending on the way back to the Crystal Kayak shop
From Anse aux Cedres we returned back on the same way to Anse Pierrot. Our Kayaks were already waiting for us, close to the shore. We left our shoes on the beach and the guides helped us in the kayaks.
As mentioned earlier, I have been on this tour a couple of times and have experienced three different return options.
Once we paddled back to the shop and loved the scenic views of the beach.
Another time, the waves were too big to kayak, and we were all transported back to the tour starting point with a dingy. Next time, we were all enjoying VIP service, sitting in kayaks and admiring the view when slowly cruising along Anse Source D’Argent (at sunset). Surreal!
Your way with Crystal Water Kayak
When the Robinson Crusoe tour finished, some went to enjoy Anse Source D’Argent beach. For others, guides were kind enough and let us borrow a kayak. This was the time to take some nice, Instagram-worthy photos.
The most famous photo location is right where the tour starts, with the big rocks.
Crystal Water Kayak also offers kayak rentals per hour or you can book a drone photoshoot. So you can get those perfect shots even if you decide not to go on a tour (but you should!).
The Crystal Water Kayak is an amazing adventure. I would not go on it multiple times if it wasn’t. The tour is just the right mix of education, activity, relaxation, and exploring. It makes time fly by.
And why is this tour not just any other? Why is it special?
Because of the guides! They are committed to their job with heart and soul and do their best to make this experience exceptional! They make a tour unique! Crystal Kayak La Digue is worth every Seychelles rupee or every Euro cent! You will truly miss out if you don’t go.
Other things to do on La Digue
Besides Crystal Water Kayaks tour on Anse Source D’Argent there are other things to do when on La Digue.
The tour and a drone photoshoot are two of my favorite things to do in La Digue.
After your tour and photoshoot, spend a little time in L’Union Estate Park. This a former vanilla and coconut plantation. Inside you can see an old Plantation house built in colonial style, a cemetery where the first settlers of La Digue are buried and an Aldabra Tortoise enclosure.
to do on la Digue
Best things to do on La Digue:
• Crystal Water Kayaks Tour – my absolute favorite and the one I recommend to everyone.
• Photshooting on Anse Source D’Argent – get stunning videos and photos. So worth it!
• Anse Cocos Hike – I love it! Hike to a beautiful beach and enjoy lunch in Coco bar.
• Anse Marron Hike – A must-do hike but only with a GUIDE!
• Anse Source D’Argent & L’Union Estate – this is why you came to La Digue.
Despite a small size, La Digue is famous for its pristine beaches.
So while you are here make sure to visit Anse Severe and my favorite beach Anse Patates.
You can also cycle to the end of the road on the East side of the island and indulge in delicious food at Chez Jules.
Granite island La Digue is also great for anyone who loves hiking. It offers easy to more advanced hiking trails.
Popular hikes are a hike to the highest point on the island, Nil D’Agile or Eagle Nest, hike on the South East from Grande Anse to Anse Cocos, and a hike to Anse Marron.
Where to stay on La Digue
La Digue is a small island but still offers a variety of accommodation options.
They cater to different budgets, from dreamy resorts to luxurious hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments, but there are not many. So, I would suggest booking yours in advance.
MUST KNOW BEFORE COMING TO SEYCHELLES
You must have all of your Seychelles accommodation booked BEFORE coming to Seychelles. At immigration, when arriving in Seychelles, you will be asked where you’re staying. They will ask about your accommodation when boarding a ferry as well. There is no such thing as winging it. If you don’t have it booked, you will be asked to do it at the airport.
I have a whole blog post dedicated to accommodation on La Digue and the best places to stay on Praslin and Mahé.
La Digue Self Catering Apartments is where I stayed most of the time when in La Digue. I love the closeness to the La Digue jetty, and it is a great value considering the location, price, and amenities.
They are in two buildings. Bord Mer is right across from the Fish Trap restaurant, and Mills Complex is 2 minutes walk away.
You will find upscale, tastefully decorated luxury Apartments in both buildings.
They work with Tati’s bikes so you can book your bike (an essential on La Digue) with them and they will arrange it for you. There are supermarkets, bakeries, souvenir shops, and restaurants nearby.
LA DIGUE hotels
Best places to stay on La Digue Seychelles:
• La Digue Self Catering Apartments – I stayed here, for couples and families.
• Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel – beachfront location perfect for honeymooners.
• L’Orangerie – upscale luxurious stay, they have great cocktails!
• Zerof Guest House – budget-friendly option with delicious takeaway
• Chalets d’Anse Reunion – perfect paradise stay, for couples.
If you are traveling on a budget, check Zerof Guest House. They have an amazing restaurant and takeaway! I’ve eaten at their place quite a few times!
Look at the beachfront Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel for a more affordable luxury stay. This is a perfect place for couples and honeymooners. It is a privately owned hotel, with amazing sunset views and pool.
For experiencing the best of the best and for a more upscale luxurious stay check out L’Orangerie, with a tropical garden, gorgeous setting, swimming pool, and bars making delicious cocktails.
WANT MORE OPTIONS?
Visit this page to see all available La Digue accommodations to book online.
Crystal Water Kayaks La Digue tour FAQ
Visit Anse Source D’Argent beach and Robinson Crusoe Tour.
La Digue Island is famous for Anse Source D’Argent beach. Combine a visit to the most photographed beach with a Robinson Crusoe tour with Crystal Water Kayaks.
From 3 to 3,5 hours.
Robinson Crusoe tour in Seychelles lasts from 3 to 3,5 hours. So plan your day accordingly. I would suggest visiting Anse Source D’Argent on the same day as doing the tour.
At L’Union Estate Park.
Crystal Water Kayak tour is located on La Digue island in Seychelles. The exact location is inside the L’Union Estate Park on the West side of the island. To get inside there is a 150 SCR fee.
Between 9 am and 4 pm.
Starting time of the tour depends on the tide and winds. That is why it is better to plan a tour day on a day when you can spend the whole day on La Digue. Not on the day you arrive or leave La Digue island.
Crystal Water Kayaks is a tour operator on La Digue.
They are like usual kayaks but without color. Whole kayaks are made of transparent PVC materials and allow you to see underwater. Their most famous tour is Robinson Crusoe tour and kayaking alongside Anse Source D’Argent.
In Seychelles on La Digue island.
More precise location is on L’Union Estate Park on Anse Source D’Argent beach, using Crystal Water kayaks as a perfect photo prompt. For stunning drone shots book a photoshoot tour.
Final thoughts on Crystal Water Kayak La Digue
If you are searching for a tour with a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, activity, and a bit of education, the Crystal Water Kayak Tour on La Digue is perfect for you.
I have been on this tour multiple times. That tells you how good it is. And I would go again if I ever have a chance!
Seriously, there is nothing like floating in a transparent kayak, watching corals, enjoying stunning panoramic views of Anse Source D’Argent (the most photographed beach), and learning about Seychelles.
On this tour I was also a setjetter, stepping foot on Robinson Crusoe beach, where Robinson Crusoe movie was filmed. Pretty awesome.
Guides Anis, Yves, and Tobi are fantastic beyond words. They will do whatever they can so that every person will have the best possible time and see all the beauty Seychelles has to offer. Besides nature, they are the ones who will make your tour unique.
Tour has a perfect price to performance ratio and the experience is well worth it.
Since you are in the process of planning your Seychelles holiday, have a look at other Seychelles guides and discover what are the best beaches in Seychelles, things to do in Praslin, best things to do in La Digue, how Seychelles compare to Barbados and Zanzibar and other Seychelles info you might need.
➤ Read more Seychelles travel guides
• Where is Seychelles located and How to get there
• How to spend 10 days in Seychelles Itinerary
• How to get to La Digue, from Mahé or Praslin
• 15 Top things to do in La Digue, Seychelles
• 101+ Seychelles Captions for Instagram