Keith Rose-Innes co-founder of Blue Safari Seychelles joins us to explore Alphonse Island and the remote outer atolls of the Seychelles, a destination that consistently exceeds the highest expectations. Discover how Blue Safari successfully blends luxurious comfort with deep conservation, welcoming everyone from families and leisure travelers to the most dedicated anglers. You'll hear the fascinating story of how this exclusive island resort balances its reputation as one of the world's premier sustainable fly fishing destinations (catch-and-release only) with unparalleled marine ecotourism. Learn about the unique activities on offer, including snorkeling with sailfish, swimming with manta rays, and visiting uninhabited atolls, and find out how their massive on-island farm, producing five tons of produce monthly, minimizes their carbon footprint.
Time Stamps
| 01:24 | Alphonse Island History & Blue Safari Vision: Keith discusses how he and Murrary Collins discovered the lodge in 2012 when it was only a fishing lodge, and the vision to redevelop it sustainably, making it inviting for couples and families interested in leisure and ecotourism while maintaining a conservation ethos.
| 04:20 | Blue Safari Destinations: Keith describes the other remote atolls: Cosmoledo and Astove
| 08:32 | Alphonse Island Highlights: Keith details the proximity of Alphonse to the uninhabited atolls Bijoutier and St. Francois (a massive lagoon), highlighting the pristine coral, large marine life (sharks, manta rays, dolphins, groupers), and the absence of commercial fishery.
| 10:35 | The Fly Fishing Story & Sustainability: Diana shares her unexpected conversion to fly fishing on the St. Francois flats. Keith confirms their sustainable practices, like catch-and-release and reduced fishing pressure, based on scientific monitoring.
| 11:56 | Ecotourism, Leisure, and Fishing Synergy: Keith explains that the three elements (leisure, ecotourism, and fly fishing) are essential for running the destinations sustainably due to the high operational costs.
| 15:11 | Unique Activities & Guest Comfort: Diana emphasizes the unique range of activities and the high standard of staff and facilities.
| 16:21 | Keith's Perfect Day: Keith describes his ideal day: starting with a SUP around the island flats, followed by snorkeling with sailfish or swimming with manta rays.
| 18:25 | Conservation Ethos & Funding: Keith details the conservation framework: establishing foundations with the support of the Island Conservation Society and government arm, the IDC. Guests also contribute a per person per night conservation donation that funds monitoring and scientific work.
| 21:27 | The Farming Project: Keith confirms the Alphonse farm produces up to five tons of fresh fruit and vegetables per month to minimize the carbon footprint of flying in heavy produce, and they use sustainable, hand-line fishing offshore for the kitchen.
| 24:13 | Guest Takeaway (Fragility & Purpose): Keith expresses the hope that guests leave with an understanding of the fragility of the ecosystem (especially coral reefs) and the knowledge that their visit and contributions have made a positive impact, protecting the atolls for future generations.
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