Top Seychelles Dive Sites: A Diver’s Paradise Explored
Seychelles dive sites are some of the most magical in the world, offering an underwater experience as incredible as the islands above. If you’re into diving—or even if you’re just curious—this place is paradise.
What makes the Seychelles special is its variety. You’ve got granite formations that look like they belong in another world, calm reefs perfect for beginners, and even shipwrecks for those who like a little history with their diving.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best dive spots, introduce you to the incredible marine life, and share tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Let’s get started.
Top Seychelles Dive Sites
Shark Bank
Shark Bank is one of the most exciting dive sites in the Seychelles. It’s located between Mahé and Silhouette Island and is famous for its big granite boulders scattered across the ocean floor. The underwater landscape feels wild and untouched, making it a favorite for adventurous divers.
This spot is great for experienced divers who don’t mind a bit of current. The depth ranges from 15 to 25 meters, which makes it perfect for seeing larger marine animals.
Highlights
- Amazing Landscape: Huge granite boulders and rocky swim-throughs.
- Plenty of Marine Life: Look for sharks, barracudas, and stingrays.
- Great Visibility: Clear water makes it easy to enjoy the view.
Diving Conditions
- Depth: 15 to 25 meters (50–82 feet).
- Currents: Moderate to strong, so you’ll need to be comfortable diving in currents.
- Visibility: Usually excellent, up to 30 meters (100 feet).
What You’ll See
As you dive, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different world. The granite rocks are huge and create little tunnels and hiding places for fish. Reef sharks might pass by, and schools of barracudas sparkle in the sunlight. Stingrays rest on the sand, and you might even spot a turtle swimming lazily along.
Tips for Shark Bank
- Dive With a Guide: They’ll know the best spots and keep you safe in the currents.
- Take It Slow: Look closely in the cracks for small marine life.
- Use the Current: Let the water carry you and enjoy the ride.
- Bring a Camera: The clear water and big fish make for great photos.
Who Can Dive Here?
Shark Bank is best for intermediate or advanced divers. If you’re a beginner, start with an easier dive site and work your way up to this one.
Aldabra Atoll
Aldabra Atoll is one of the most special dive sites in the Seychelles. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it’s protected and full of marine life. The area feels untouched, like diving in a place that time forgot.
Highlights
- Remote and Pristine: A wild and untouched underwater world.
- Rich Marine Life: Spot turtles, sharks, rays, and big fish like groupers.
- Colorful Coral: Bright and healthy coral reefs everywhere.
Diving Conditions
- Depth: 10 to 30 meters (33–98 feet).
- Currents: Often strong, so divers need some experience.
- Visibility: Clear, up to 30 meters (100 feet).
What You’ll See
As you dive, you’ll swim through coral gardens full of life. Giant groupers might hover near the coral, while manta rays glide by in the open water. Turtles are common here, especially hawksbill and green turtles. You’ll also see reef sharks patrolling the area, but they’re not aggressive.
The strong currents add some excitement to the dive, but they also attract smaller creatures like nudibranchs and colorful reef fish. Every dive at Aldabra feels like an adventure.
Tips for Aldabra Atoll
- Be Ready for Currents: Practice diving in currents if you’re not used to it.
- Dive with a Guide: Local guides know the best and safest spots.
- Respect Nature: Don’t touch the coral or disturb the animals.
- Bring a Camera: There’s so much beauty to capture underwater.
Who Can Dive Here?
Aldabra Atoll is best for advanced divers because of the strong currents. If you’re comfortable with that, it’s one of the most amazing places you’ll ever dive.
Baie Ternay Marine National Park
Baie Ternay Marine National Park is one of the best spots in the Seychelles for beginners and anyone who loves calm, shallow waters. Located on the northwest coast of Mahé, this peaceful bay is a haven for marine life and perfect for relaxed diving or snorkeling.
Highlights
- Beginner-Friendly: Calm waters and shallow reefs.
- Rich Marine Life: Lots of tropical fish, corals, and smaller creatures.
- Snorkeling Spot: Great for both divers and snorkelers.
Diving Conditions
- Depth: 5 to 15 meters (16–50 feet).
- Currents: Very gentle, making it safe and easy.
- Visibility: Usually good, up to 20 meters (65 feet).
What You’ll See
Diving at Baie Ternay feels peaceful and fun. As you swim over the coral reefs, you’ll spot schools of bright tropical fish like butterflyfish and parrotfish. Sometimes, you’ll find an octopus blending into the coral or a sea star resting on the sandy bottom.
It’s also a great spot to look for turtles. They often swim through the bay, and the calm water makes it easy to watch them glide by. If you’re lucky, you might even see eagle rays or a shy moray eel peeking out of a hole.
Tips for Baie Ternay
- Snorkel or Dive: Both options are great here, so bring your snorkeling gear too.
- Take Your Time: Swim slowly to enjoy the small details in the coral.
- Stay Close to the Reef: That’s where most of the marine life is.
Who Can Dive Here?
Baie Ternay is perfect for beginners, snorkelers, and anyone who loves calm, relaxing dives. Even experienced divers enjoy it for the vibrant reefs and easy conditions.
Ennerdale Wreck
The Ennerdale Wreck is a must-visit dive site for anyone who loves exploring underwater history. This British navy tanker sank off the coast of Mahé in 1970 and has since become a thriving artificial reef. Covered in coral and surrounded by fish, it’s a fascinating mix of marine life and human history.
This site is best for experienced divers because it lies at a depth of 25 to 30 meters, and visibility can vary. Exploring the wreck feels like stepping into the past while being surrounded by the vibrant underwater world.
Highlights
- Artificial Reef: A sunken navy tanker covered in coral.
- Rich Marine Life: Groupers, lionfish, and schools of smaller fish.
- Unique Experience: Combines diving with history.
Diving Conditions
- Depth: 25 to 30 meters (82–98 feet).
- Currents: Can be mild to moderate, depending on the day.
- Visibility: Variable, usually around 15 to 20 meters (50–65 feet).
What You’ll See
As you descend, the outline of the ship slowly comes into view. The wreck is massive, with parts of the structure still intact and others encrusted with coral. Schools of fish dart in and out of the openings, while larger groupers and snappers hang around the edges.
Lionfish are common here, their spiny fins adding to the site’s otherworldly feel. You might also see moray eels hiding in the crevices of the wreck or even a ray gliding nearby. Every part of the wreck tells a story, from the rusted hull to the vibrant marine life that now calls it home.
Tips for Ennerdale Wreck
- Dive with a Guide: They’ll help you navigate the wreck safely.
- Bring a Torch: Use it to explore inside the wreck and see hidden details.
- Watch Your Depth: Stick to your training and dive within your limits.
Who Can Dive Here?
The Ennerdale Wreck is best for advanced divers due to its depth. If you have some experience and want to try something different, it’s a dive you won’t forget.
The Brissare Rocks
The Brissare Rocks are a pair of granite peaks rising from the seabed, located north of Mahé. This dive site offers a mix of stunning scenery and fascinating marine life, making it a favorite among divers. The rocks are surrounded by coral reefs and attract all kinds of sea creatures, including some larger visitors like whale sharks and dolphins during certain seasons.
This site is moderately challenging due to occasional currents but is worth it for the incredible underwater views and wildlife encounters.
Highlights
- Granite Peaks: Unique underwater formations covered in coral.
- Marine Life: Schools of fish, turtles, and seasonal visits from whale sharks.
- Scenic Diving: A beautiful mix of rocks, coral, and open water.
Diving Conditions
- Depth: 15 to 22 meters (50–72 feet).
- Currents: Can be moderate, so some experience is helpful.
- Visibility: Excellent, up to 30 meters (100 feet).
What You’ll See
The dive starts with the impressive granite peaks, which rise dramatically from the ocean floor. Around these rocks, you’ll find healthy coral reefs teeming with life. Schools of fish, like snapper and fusiliers, swim in tight formations, while turtles occasionally glide by.
If you visit during the right season (October to November), you might spot a whale shark in the area. Dolphins are also known to pass through, making the dive feel extra special. The site is perfect for photographers who love capturing colorful corals and dynamic sea life.
Tips for Brissare Rocks
- Check the Season: Visit during October or November for a chance to see whale sharks.
- Stay Close to the Rocks: That’s where most marine life gathers.
- Use a Dive Guide: They’ll know where to find the best sights.
Who Can Dive Here?
The Brissare Rocks are great for intermediate divers or beginners with a little experience. The occasional currents add a bit of a challenge, but the stunning scenery makes it worth it.
Marine Life You’ll Encounter in the Seychelles
The Seychelles is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. Its warm waters and healthy reefs are home to an incredible variety of sea creatures, from tiny, colorful fish to some of the ocean’s largest inhabitants. Whether you’re diving shallow coral gardens or deeper sites, there’s always something fascinating to see.
Coral Reefs
The Seychelles boasts over 200 species of coral, creating vibrant underwater gardens. These reefs are not just beautiful but also vital ecosystems, teeming with life.
- What to Look For: Brightly colored corals, intricate shapes, and small critters like shrimp, nudibranchs, and tiny fish hiding within the coral branches.
Fish Species
The reefs are alive with fish in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Some of the most common species include:
- Parrotfish: Known for their bright colors and unique beak-like mouths.
- Butterflyfish and Angelfish: Small, colorful fish darting among the coral.
- Lionfish: Beautiful but venomous, often spotted resting near coral outcrops.
- Barracudas and Snappers: Larger fish that often swim in schools, adding movement and excitement to your dive.
- Clownfish: Look for them peeking out from their anemone homes.
Large Marine Creatures
The Seychelles is a great place to encounter bigger sea life.
These include:
- Turtles: Hawksbill and green turtles are common, often spotted grazing on seagrass or resting by the coral.
- Sharks: Reef sharks and nurse sharks are frequent visitors, and lucky divers might see hammerhead sharks.
- Rays: Manta rays and eagle rays are graceful and often found near Aldabra Atoll or Shark Bank.
- Whale Sharks: These gentle giants are a highlight of diving in the Seychelles, typically seen from October to November.
Smaller Marine Creatures
The reefs and rocky areas are full of hidden gems:
- Octopus: Masters of camouflage, often blending into their surroundings.
- Moray Eels: Seen poking their heads out from holes in the rocks.
- Nudibranchs: Tiny, colorful sea slugs that are a delight for macro photography enthusiasts.
- Invertebrates: Sea stars, crabs, and anemones add more variety to the underwater landscape.
Best Time to Dive in the Seychelles
Diving in the Seychelles is possible year-round, but different times of the year offer unique experiences based on the weather, water conditions, and marine life activity.
Knowing when to visit can help you make the most of your trip, whether you’re after crystal-clear waters or hoping to spot specific creatures like whale sharks.
March to May & October to November
These months are considered the best for diving in the Seychelles. The water is warm, visibility is excellent, and marine life is thriving.
- Water Temperature: Around 29°C (84°F), making it comfortable for long dives.
- Visibility: Often up to 30 meters (100 feet), ideal for both divers and underwater photographers.
- Marine Life Highlights:
- Whale sharks are frequently seen, especially during October and November.
- Manta rays and turtles are also active during this time.
- Conditions: Calm waters with minimal wind and currents, perfect for all experience levels.
June to September
During these months, trade winds cool the water slightly, and visibility may drop due to plankton blooms. However, the plankton attracts larger marine life, making it an exciting time to dive.
- Water Temperature: Around 24°C (75°F).
- Visibility: Reduced to around 15–20 meters (50–65 feet), but still decent for diving.
- Marine Life Highlights:
- Great time for spotting turtles, especially near nesting beaches.
- Larger pelagic fish, such as barracudas and trevallies, are more common.
- Conditions: Slightly rougher waters, so some experience with current diving is helpful.
December to February
This period brings calm seas and warm water, but it’s also the rainy season. Despite occasional showers, diving is still enjoyable, especially on the sheltered sides of the islands.
- Water Temperature: Around 28°C (82°F).
- Visibility: Up to 25 meters (82 feet) in calmer areas.
- Marine Life Highlights:
- Coral reefs are full of tropical fish and smaller critters.
- Rays and turtles are commonly seen during these months.
- Conditions: Good for diving in protected areas, though some outer sites may be harder to access due to weather.
Quick Overview of Best Times
| Season | Water Temp. | Visibility | Marine Highlights | Diving Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March–May | 29°C (84°F) | Up to 30m | Whale sharks, mantas, turtles | Calm, ideal for all divers |
| June–September | 24°C (75°F) | 15–20m | Turtles, larger pelagic fish | Cooler, some rough waters |
| October–November | 29°C (84°F) | Up to 30m | Whale sharks, mantas, turtles | Excellent, minimal currents |
| December–February | 28°C (82°F) | Up to 25m | Reefs full of life, rays | Rainy, good in sheltered spots |
Tips for Choosing the Best Time
- Plan Around Marine Life: Visit October to November for whale sharks or June to September for turtle nesting.
- Book in Advance: The best dive operators fill up quickly during peak months.
- Pack Accordingly: A slightly thicker wetsuit (3mm) is helpful during cooler months.
Essential Tips for Diving in Seychelles
Diving in the Seychelles is an unforgettable experience, but being prepared can make it even better.
Choose the Right Dive Operator
Your dive operator can make or break your experience, so it’s important to choose wisely.
- Research Reviews: Look for operators with positive reviews and strong reputations.
- Eco-Certifications: Select operators that prioritize sustainability and marine conservation.
- Top Picks: Big Blue Divers and Dive Seychelles are popular choices for their professionalism and knowledge of local sites.
Pack Smart
Make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and safe dive.
- Essentials: Bring your dive certification card, a 3mm wetsuit (recommended for most seasons), and an underwater camera to capture the beauty of the reefs.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the marine life by using sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral.
- Extras: A dive torch is handy for exploring wrecks or looking into crevices.
Respect Marine Life
The Seychelles’ underwater world is delicate and precious. Treat it with care.
- Avoid Touching: Don’t touch corals or marine animals; even small contact can harm them.
- Maintain Buoyancy: Proper buoyancy control helps avoid unintentional damage to reefs.
- Observe, Don’t Chase: Let marine life come to you—don’t try to follow or corner animals.
Know Your Limits
The Seychelles offers dive sites for all levels, but it’s important to pick ones that suit your experience.
- Beginner Divers: Stick to calm, shallow sites like Baie Ternay Marine National Park.
- Advanced Divers: Explore deeper or more challenging spots like Aldabra Atoll and the Ennerdale Wreck.
Conclusion
The Seychelles is a diver’s dream, offering everything from calm coral reefs to exciting shipwrecks and vibrant atolls. Its clear waters, diverse marine life, and year-round diving make it an unforgettable destination.
You could swim with whale sharks at Shark Bank, dive into history at the Ennerdale Wreck, or explore the untouched Aldabra Atoll. Beginners will enjoy the peaceful, colorful reefs, while experienced divers can take on deeper dives with stronger currents.
A great dive trip starts with good prep: choose the right season, pack your gear, and respect the ocean. With a little planning, you’ll create incredible underwater memories.
So, grab your gear and dive into the beauty of the Seychelles. Adventure and tranquility are waiting below the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
