Seychelles has once again secured top honours at the World Travel Awards (WTA), winning two prestigious titles at the 2026 ceremony held on Sunday 27 September in the Maldives:
■ Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination 2026
■ Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Destination 2026The annual World Travel Awards celebrate excellence across the global travel and tourism sector, recognising outstanding destinations in different categories.
The Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination award reinforces Seychelles’ enduring appeal among travellers seeking exceptional beach experiences. With its distinctive granite landscapes, white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and secluded coves, the islands offer a wide range of beach experiences, from tranquil settings for relaxation to romantic escapes.
The Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Destination title further underlines Seychelles’ position as a compelling destination within the Indian Ocean cruise itinerary. Its natural beauty, diverse islands and active cultural experiences provide cruise visitors with opportunities to discover more than one aspect of the destination.
The cruise recognition is also significant for Seychelles, which has previously won the Indian Ocean’s Leading Cruise Destination title for several consecutive years in the past. The destination’s strong record in this category reflects the continued importance of cruise tourism within Seychelles’ wider tourism offering.
Speaking on the achievement, Chief Executive of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Ms Vesna Rakic, welcomed the recognition, saying it reflects the collective efforts of the country’s tourism industry.
“We are honoured to receive these two prestigious World Travel Awards for Seychelles. These accolades are a recognition not only of the natural beauty of our islands, but also of the work and commitment of everyone across our tourism industry who contributes to delivering memorable experiences to our visitors,” she said.
