Diving in Seychelles is one of the most popular things to do. With more than 70 dive sites throughout the expanse and a climate that favours diving throughout the year, you are guaranteed the best scuba diving adventure in Seychelles. The underwater terrain formed by rocks, caves, wrecked ships, and coral reefs paints the best landscape while the visibility exceeds up to 30 meters. There are dive sites of all depths in Seychelles, beginning from a shallow 8 m and ending at the deepest 30 m. There are private yachts leading you to unspoiled locations. And there are professional courses to guarantee your safety.
Best Diving Centres in Seychelles
1. Diving Cruises Seychelles Ltd
Address: Eden Island North Marina, Victoria, Seychelles
Timings: 9:00 am-5:00 pm from Monday to Friday. Remains closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
2. Big Blue Divers
Address: Mare Anglaise, Beau Vallon, Seychelles
Timings: 8:00 am-5:00 pm every day
3. Blue Sea Divers Seychelles
Address: N Coast Rd, Beau Vallon, Seychelles
Timings: 8:00 am-5:30 pm every day
4. Octopus Diving Center
Address: Anse Volbert, Côte d'Or, Seychelles
Timings: 8:00 am-5:00 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, it opens from 8:00 am- 2:00 pm
5. Blue Safari Seychelles Diving
Address: Alphonse Island, Seychelles
Timings: 8:00 am-5:30 pm every day
6. Hawksbill Dive Center
Address: Baie St. Anne, Victoria, Seychelles
Timings: 8:00 am-5:00 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, it opens from 10:00 am-5:00 pm.
7. Seychelles Underwater Center
Address: Beau Vallon, Seychelles
Timings: 8:30 am-5:00 pm every day
8. Whitetip Divers
Address: Paradise Sun Hotel, Côte d'Or, Seychelles
Timings: 9:00 am-5:00 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, it opens from 9:00 am-2:00 pm.
Cost of Scuba Diving in Seychelles
Shark dive tours are organized at around SCR 600 per person at selected resorts and islands. Not for the faint-hearted of course, but a mind-blowing experience worth a try.
Best Time to go Scuba Diving in Seychelles
Best Diving Spots in Seychelles
1. One Tree Island
Corals of all hues scattered on granite rocks form a picturesque panorama underneath the waters near One Tree Island. A dive site famous for encountering fishes of all types, One Tree Island is amazing for learners and experienced alike. The water isn't very deep, and the visibility exceeds 20 meters in all seasons. Some names from the myriad of reef fishes roaming in these waters are hump-head parrotfishes, stingrays, moray eels and sometimes even whale sharks. Lucky ones can even spot the notorious ghost pipefish which is famous for pretending to be still like a seagrass.
2. Trois Bancs
Another majestically gorgeous granite rock formations under the sea are present off the west coast of the capital city, Mahé. Trois Bancs dive site is a treat to the eyes due to the steep-edged vertical rocks and little coves. The wild currents flowing near the rocks makes diving a little tricky and hence, generally, only the professional divers prefer going there. Megafishes, like reef sharks and pelagics, are a common sight here. Turtles and whale sharks can also be spotted once in a while.
3. North Island
Sandy bottom filled with a coral garden and granite cuts is what forms the topography of the dive sites at North Island. Situated to the north of Silhouette Island, this site has countless marine attractions and charming underwater scenery. Whitetip reef sharks, stingrays, spotted eagle rays and green job fishes are a common sighting here. The schools of small fishes passing every few minutes make it feel like a life-size aquarium.
4. Napoleon Rock
Far off from the southwest coast of Mahé lies the Alphonse Island. Abundant in both micro and macro fishes, this dive site is loved by those seeking a thrilling element apart from the breathtaking views. The strong ocean currents make diving challenging at times, but fun nonetheless. The maximum depth here is around 18 m. The coral reef below forms an angelic topography.
5. Brissare Rocks
Towards the north of Mahé lie the Brissare Rocks, a tiny yet stunning diving site popular amongst scuba divers in the region. The name comes from two rocky inlets forming the landscape of the region. Underneath lies a nice coral reef filled with intriguing corals and sponges of all types. Abode of gigantic turtle species and reef sharks, you will find plenty of fish life lurking in those waters.
6. Fisherman's Cove Reef
In close proximity of Beau Vallon lies a sloping terrain covered by chunks of coral reefs. This site is called the Fisherman's Cove Reef. Apparently, the favourite location for the novices, this site is great for photography. The draw for divers here is the pleasure of being able to swim alongside the magnificent Hawksbill turtles.
7. L'Ilot
Another dive site near Beau Vallon, a renowned one amongst diving centres in that region, is the island called L'Ilot. The waters surrounding this petite islet are lined with corals and rests on granite rocks. The maximum depth here is around 30 m. Crayfishes, angelfish and manta rays are a common sighting here. Experienced divers love exploring the landscape of this underwater location, especially during nights.
Flora and Fauna Underwater
Vibrant multicoloured life thrives beneath the crystal cool waters of the Indian Ocean. Even in the shallow regions, you will be able to watch shoals of small fishes swimming hurriedly. During the rainy season, dolphin sighting are most common who come to feed on the planktons.
You will be accompanied by giant green turtles and hawksbill turtles swimming past you. There are alluring manta and stingrays, intriguing hammerhead sharks and ferocious giant groupers. Small fishes like swordfish, marlin and sailfish generally stay close to the coral reefs. Other fishes spotted in the proximity of fascinating sponges and corals are the barracudas, lionfish, Napoleon wrasse, Grey and Silvertip Reef Sharks. The main attraction, however, remains the magnificent whale sharks lurking near the Inner Islands.
Safety Tips
- Check all the valves of the equipment properly before plunging into the water. Look at your gauges at regular intervals even when inside the water.
- Never hold your breath underwater. The most important rule is to breathe normally at all times, or it may cause serious injuries.
- A range of proper ascending rate has been set and should be practised properly. You should always ascend slowly and safely at the right place.
- Keep a tab on the weather forecast. Step in the waters only when it is safe.
- Do not take any alcohols or drugs 24 hours before your diving. Your body should be relaxed and completely fit for an easy-going dive.
- Do not attempt to dive beyond your limits. Test your comfort levels and dive accordingly.
- Communication underwater takes place with the help of hand signals. Learn all of them thoroughly for safety.
Let the magnificence of multicoloured creatures cast an everlasting spell. Let the calmness of the sea make you listen to every heartbeat. And let the brilliance of nature make every moment feel alive. Go and experience diving at Indian Ocean's diving paradise, Seychelles.