The Seychelles Archipelago, one of the world’s smallest countries, never ceases to enchant and captivate! Sailing these turquoise warm waters is a privilege for very few people, and today we were fortunate enough to spend an entire day at beautiful Aride Island. This singular picturesque island is home for a myriad of birds, lizards, natural woodlands, palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear waters, and protected coral reef systems. The dangerous surf conditions also helped to keep the island pristine and unharmed. Only 1,500m long and a little over 500m wide, Aride has magnificent granite cliffs. The highest point, Gros La Tête, is located 134m above sea level. Considerable efforts have been made to preserve the islands’ marked biodiversity. In 1973, the island was purchased by Christopher Cadbury on behalf of the Royal Society for Nature Conservation and two years later it was declared a Special Nature Reserve by the Seychelles government. Today, this important ecosystem is managed by the Island Conservation Society of Seychelles, responsible for protecting its unique environment, flora, and fauna. The island, with an area of 68ha, has a significant seabird breeding colony, second only to Aladabra in the western Indian Ocean. From the eleven species of land birds that are endemic to the Seychelles, Aride Island Nature reserve is home to five. It also has the world’s largest colonies of lesser noddies and tropical shearwaters.  In addition, this is the only breeding ground for the rare red-tailed tropicbirds of the Seychelles. After a thrilling Zodiac ride that we will never, ever forget we were able to explore the island surroundings, trekking along the marked trails, diving and snorkeling its warm and clear waters, or just relaxing at the beach. To make the most of our time, a sunset Zodiac cruise was offered and we were delightfully surprised by the friendly crew with refreshing cocktails. After a magnificent sunset, it was time for National Geographic Orion to set sail to the horizon, where amazing adventures await in the stunning Maldives Archipelago.