Abstract Seychelles is a small island nation with large maritime areas. It has an enviable natural environment and significant endemic biodiversity, both of which are at risk due to environmental pressures. Seychelles has been an active participant at the global level, ratifying a number of environmental treaties and leading blue economy developments. Nevertheless, its size and developing country status calls into question Seychelles’ ability to meet its goals. This issue is particularly pressing given the recent debt swap arrangement and commitment to establish marine protected areas across thirty percent of its exclusive economic zone. Relatively little legal research has been published in relation to Seychelles’ environmental laws. This article contributes to the literature by examining Seychelles’ area-based protection laws focusing particularly on the marine environment. The article analyses the legal frameworks and explores the extent to which these will enable Seychelles to meet its blue economy and marine conservation goals.