DIVING & SNORKELLING IN THE SEYCHELLES

Diving and snorkelling in the Seychelles is possible all year round, but the best underwater visibility is during the monsoon season (March to May and September to November). At the turn of the year the surface is a little more turbulent, while during the south-east monsoon (May to September) the wind is stronger and seaweed is often washed up on the south-east coast, making these beaches unsuitable for snorkelling at this time. Water temperatures are always between 25 and 30°C near the surface. Only at greater diving depths, which can only be reached at the edge of the Seychelles Plateau and the Outer Islands, does the temperature drop below these values.

There is a wide range of dive operators on the islands. Dives from shore or live-aboard excursions are equally available. So no matter where you are, there is a good chance that you will be able to dive on the way.

Each dive centre has its preferred areas with incredible scenery or fascinating underwater world or both. Most dive centres are located directly on the beach. From here it is a "stone's throw" in the boat until you reach several dive sites. Not only the breathtaking nature will leave lasting memories of your diving excursion, the diving centers and organizers are always anxious to offer you the best service, including: no overcrowded boats.

A shallow water expedition to the Ste. Anne Marine National Park, surrounded by the splendour of the surrounding islands, gives you an insight into the impressive variety of fish. The various rock formations in the sea are home to an incredible variety of species. Turtle' Rocks, for example, lies off the east coast of Mahé. Here you can find stingrays, sharks and soldier fish. Around the 'Vista' and 'Sunset' Rocks in the northwest, however, there are crayfish, octopus, snappers and scorpion fish.

Advanced divers can look forward to the fascination of the 'Ennerdale', 'Twin Barges' and 'Dredger' wrecks, with their sharks, groupers, rays and pelagic fish. If you prefer drift diving, then the 'Lighthouse' with its impressive coral formations is the place to be. Not only known for its corals, you will also find graceful hawksbill turtles, schools of reef fish and moray eels.

When you head to the south of Mahé, you'll be spoilt for choice between excellent diving spots such as the granite formation 'Jail House' Rock or the beautiful corals of 'Alice in Wonderland'.