News DeskHilton Seychelles – The Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, an opulent and tranquil haven in the Seychelles, is thrilled to welcome visitors to witness the sea turtle nesting season – a true spectacle of the natural world. Platte Island, a crucial breeding location for hawksbill turtles between September to March, provides a unique opportunity to watch these critically endangered marine animals come ashore to lay her eggs.
As Platte Island’s only resort, Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island plays a crucial role in the conservation of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata). Hawksbill turtles usually lay their eggs from September to March, with peak hatching activity occurring between late November to mid-January. During this period, guests can expect to see hatchlings emerging from their nests on a daily basis. Guests can look forward to enhanced opportunities for turtle sightings year-round, following safety viewing protocols, particularly during the green turtle season, which spans from January to September.
Under the warm sand, after two months of incubation the eggs hatch, and the hatchlings make their way to the water. Guests staying on the island will too have the opportunity to observe this phenomenon as the hatchlings make their way to the ocean, especially before sunset. Guided by the resort’s conservation team, visitors can view turtle tracks, and nests, and follow emerging hatchlings on their journeys along the beach, all while gaining insight into the island’s conservation initiatives.
To enhance their turtle-watching experience, guests are encouraged to participate in guided beach walks led by trained staff. Offering valuable educational insights into the island’s role in the preservation of the Seychelles’ sea turtle populations, the guided walks also give guests the chance to observe the turtles without disrupting their nesting or hatching activities or impacting their welfare.
Platte Island is home to a turtle monitoring programme that plays an essential role in uplifting national and global conservation initiatives. Data collected during the hatching season contributes to broader efforts to protect these endangered species. Guests passionate about conservation will also have the opportunity to assist our team with nest monitoring activities, offering an intimate experience and a deeper connection to the island’s important conservation work.
We invite our guests to experience the awe-inspiring journey of the Seychelles’ sea turtles and be part of our efforts to protect these magnificent creatures for future generations.
