The Seychelles archipelago is a snorkeler’s dream, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and other fascinating marine life. From secluded coves to bustling marine parks, there’s a snorkeling spot for every skill level. This guide unveils the best places to plunge into Seychelles’ underwater paradise, providing details on locations, marine life, access, and practical tips to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue: A Picture-Perfect Paradise
Anse Source d’Argent, famed for its breathtaking beauty and colossal granite boulders, provides a magical snorkeling experience. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginners and families. While the coral isn’t as extensive as in some other locations, the abundance of colorful fish, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, and reef fish, makes it worthwhile. Expect to see sea cucumbers and starfish gracefully moving across the sandy bottom. The best snorkeling is typically found close to the boulders on either side of the beach, where the water is calmer and more protected.
Access: You can reach Anse Source d’Argent by bicycle from La Passe, the main village on La Digue. There’s a small entrance fee to access the L’Union Estate, through which you must pass to reach the beach; it’s usually around 100 SCR (approximately $7 USD). Alternatively, a taxi ride from La Passe is also an option. Walking or cycling is highly recommended since parking is limited.
Tip: For the clearest water and best visibility, snorkel during high tide. Check the tide charts beforehand. Also, be careful of currents near the outer edges of the reef.
Baie Ternay Marine National Park, Mahé: A Protected Haven
Baie Ternay Marine National Park on Mahé’s west coast is a pristine underwater wonderland accessible primarily by boat. This isolated haven offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral gardens and a plethora of marine species. Expect to see schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and even the occasional reef shark. The park’s protected status ensures that the marine life is abundant and healthy. Numerous tour operators in Mahé arrange snorkeling trips to Baie Ternay.
Access: Boat tours are the only practical way to reach Baie Ternay Marine National Park. Tours typically depart from Beau Vallon or Bel Ombre. The cost ranges from 600 SCR to 1200 SCR (approximately $45 to $90 USD) per person, depending on the tour operator and included amenities (lunch, drinks, equipment rental). Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Tip: Opt for a smaller boat tour for a more personalized experience and to avoid overcrowding at the snorkeling spots. Bringing an underwater camera or GoPro will allow you to capture the stunning marine life you encounter.
Île Cocos & Île Félicité: A Duo of Jewels
These two islands, located near La Digue and Praslin, offer some of the most spectacular snorkeling experiences in the Seychelles. Île Cocos, a tiny granite islet surrounded by a vibrant coral reef, is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Expect to see an array of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. Île Félicité offers similar outstanding snorkeling, with even larger coral formations and bigger fish. These areas are part of a marine park, so a small entrance fee is typically included in the tour price.
Access: Boat tours from La Digue or Praslin are the only way to reach Île Cocos and Île Félicité. A full-day tour usually costs between 1500 SCR to 2500 SCR (approximately $110 to $185 USD) per person, including snorkeling equipment, lunch, and the marine park fees. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during high season.
Tip: The currents around Île Cocos can be strong, so be sure to stay close to the boat and follow your guide’s instructions. Consider wearing reef shoes to protect your feet while walking on the rocks.
Anse Lazio, Praslin: Snorkeling Alongside Beauty
Regularly ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Anse Lazio on Praslin also offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. The granite boulders at either end of the beach shelter the water, creating calm and clear conditions ideal for exploring. You can expect to see schools of colorful reef fish, including parrotfish, surgeonfish, and butterflyfish, as well as occasional sea turtles and rays. The water clarity here is exceptional, allowing for excellent visibility.
Access: Anse Lazio can be reached by bus from Baie Sainte Anne or Grand Anse, the main towns on Praslin. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or rent a car. Parking is available near the beach. Several restaurants and shops are located within walking distance.
Tip: The area around the granite boulders on the left side of the beach (as you face the sea) usually offers the best snorkeling. Exercise caution when swimming near the rocks, especially during high tide, as there may be strong currents.
Sainte Anne Marine National Park: A Cluster of Underwater Treasures
Just a short boat ride from Mahé, Sainte Anne Marine National Park encompasses six islands surrounded by pristine coral reefs. This park offers diverse snorkeling spots, each with its own unique charm. Expect to encounter a wide variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and dolphins. The coral reefs are generally in good condition and provide a habitat for a vast array of underwater creatures. The park fee is usually included within the day tour price.
Access: Numerous tour operators on Mahé offer snorkeling trips to Sainte Anne Marine National Park. These tours typically include boat transfers, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and entrance fees to the park. The cost ranges from 700 SCR to 1500 SCR (approximately $50 to $110 USD) per person. Be sure to compare prices and itineraries before booking.
Tip: Consider visiting Moyenne Island within the park, known for its giant tortoises and excellent snorkeling. The waters around Cerf Island also offer great visibility and diverse marine life.
Port Launay Marine Park, Mahé: Calm Waters and Rich Marine Life
Located on the northwest coast of Mahé, Port Launay Marine Park is known for its calm, sheltered bay and abundant marine life. The shallow waters are perfect for beginners and families with young children. The bay is home to a variety of colorful fish, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Sea turtles are also frequently spotted in the area. The Kempinski Seychelles Resort flanks one side to the bay which has several food and beverage options to try.
Access: Port Launay is easily accessible by bus or car from anywhere on Mahé. There is ample parking available near the beach. Several restaurants and shops are located nearby.
Tip: The best snorkeling is usually found near the rocky outcrops on either side of the bay. Be aware of the boat traffic in the bay, especially during peak season when boats drop off tourists for diving activities.
Practical Considerations for Snorkeling in Seychelles
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time for snorkeling in Seychelles is during the calm periods between the southeast (May to September) and northwest (November to March) monsoons. These transition periods, typically in April/May and October/November, offer the calmest seas and best visibility. Water temperatures are consistently warm, hovering around 27-29°C (80-84°F) year-round.
What to Bring: Pack reef-safe sunscreen (essential to protect both your skin and the coral reefs), a rash guard or t-shirt for sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and a waterproof bag for your valuables. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it along. If not, most tour operators and hotels provide rental equipment.
Safety Tips: Always snorkel with a buddy. Be aware of currents and tides. Avoid touching or standing on the coral, as it can be easily damaged. Do not feed the fish, as it can disrupt their natural feeding behavior. Wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Check the latest weather forecasts before heading out, and heed any warnings about strong winds or rough seas.
Coral Reef Protection: The Seychelles government is actively working to protect its coral reefs, which are vital to the country’s marine ecosystem and tourism industry. As a responsible snorkeler, you can contribute to these efforts by using reef-safe sunscreen, avoiding touching or damaging the coral, and supporting sustainable tourism practices. Several organisations are involved in protecting and preserving the coral reefs in Seychelles, such as the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) which provides global reports on the status of coral reefs and highlights the importance of their protection. You can help by minimising your impact on the environment.
Snorkeling Equipment: While most tours include snorkeling gear, consider investing in your own set for better comfort and hygiene. A good-fitting mask and snorkel are essential for a comfortable snorkeling experience. Fins can help you move more efficiently through the water, but they are not always necessary, especially in shallow water.
Diving Deeper: Beyond Snorkeling
While snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world of Seychelles, scuba diving offers an even more immersive experience. Certified divers can explore deeper reefs, shipwrecks, and other fascinating underwater features. Several dive operators in Seychelles offer a range of diving courses and excursions.
Dive Sites: Popular dive sites include Brissare Rocks, known for its abundance of marine life; Shark Bank, a popular spot for seeing reef sharks; and wreck dives like the Ennerdale wreck. Each site offers a unique underwater landscape to explore.
Certification: If you’re not already a certified diver, consider taking a PADI Open Water Diver course. This course will teach you the basics of scuba diving and allow you to dive to a depth of 18 meters (60 feet) under the supervision of a certified instructor.
Accommodation and Snorkeling Access
Many hotels and resorts in Seychelles offer direct access to excellent snorkeling spots. Some resorts even have their own house reefs that guests can explore right off the beach. Consider staying at a resort that offers snorkeling equipment rental and guided snorkeling tours.
Resort Recommendations: The Constance Lémuria Praslin, Raffles Praslin Seychelles, and Four Seasons Resort Seychelles offer excellent snorkeling opportunities and luxurious accommodations. Research on booking websites like Booking.com or Expedia.com for the best deals and read customer reviews to find the perfect fit for your needs. Small Guesthouses may have close access to snorkeling as well, and be more budget friendly.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Self-catering Options: If you prefer self-catering accommodation, consider renting a villa or apartment near a good snorkeling beach. This gives you more flexibility and allows you to explore the island at your own pace.
Photography and Videography Under the Sea
Capturing the beauty of the Seychelles’ underwater world is a must for any snorkeler. An underwater camera or GoPro is essential for capturing stunning photos and videos of the colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life. Be sure to invest in a waterproof housing for your camera to protect it from water damage.
Tips for Underwater Photography: Get close to your subject to capture sharp, detailed images. Use natural light whenever possible. Avoid using the camera’s flash, as it can scare away the fish and damage the coral. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the underwater landscape. Edit your photos to enhance the colors and contrast.
GoPro Settings: For GoPro users, shoot in 1080p or 4K resolution. Set the frame rate to 30fps or 60fps. Use the Protune settings to manually adjust the white balance, ISO, and sharpness. Consider using a red filter to compensate for the loss of red light underwater.
Island Hopping for Snorkeling Variety
Seychelles is an archipelago of over 100 islands, each with its own unique character and snorkeling opportunities. Consider island hopping to explore a variety of different snorkeling spots. Ferries and domestic flights connect the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
Ferry Services: Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry offer regular ferry services between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Check the schedules at Seychellesbookings.com for reliable and up-to date information.
Domestic Flights: Air Seychelles operates domestic flights between Mahé and Praslin. Flying is a faster option than taking the ferry, but it is also more expensive.
Understanding Local Marine Life
Seychelles boasts a remarkable diversity of marine life. Learning about the different species you might encounter can enhance your snorkeling experience.
Fish Identification: Common fish species include parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, triggerfish, and wrasse fish. A fish identification guide can help you identify the different species you see while snorkeling.
Sea Turtles: Hawksbill turtles and green turtles are commonly seen in Seychelles waters. These gentle creatures are a delight to watch. Remember to observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing them.
Other Marine Life: Keep an eye out for rays, sea cucumbers, starfish, and other fascinating marine creatures. Be aware that some species, such as stonefish and scorpionfish, can be venomous, so avoid touching anything you are unsure about.
Snorkeling and the Local Community
Supporting local businesses and communities is an important aspect of responsible tourism. When booking snorkeling tours, choose tour operators that are locally owned and operated. Purchase souvenirs from local artisans. Eat at local restaurants. These actions help to ensure that tourism benefits the local economy and supports the livelihoods of Seychellois people.
Supporting Local Businesses: Look for tour companies that employ local guides and prioritize sustainable practices. Ask where the company gets its supplies – from local sources or imported from abroad. Patronize businesses that are committed to environmental conservation and community development.
Seasonal Considerations and Planning
Consider the time of year when planning your snorkeling trip to Seychelles. The southeast monsoon (May to September) can bring stronger winds and rougher seas, particularly on the east coasts of the islands. The northwest monsoon (November to March) is generally calmer. The transition periods (April/May and October/November) offer the best overall conditions for snorkeling.
Weather Forecasting: Check the weather forecast before heading out for a snorkeling trip. The Seychelles Meteorological Authority provides accurate and up-to-date weather information. Be prepared to adjust your plans if the weather is unfavorable.
Underwater Etiquette: Respecting the Reefs
Practicing good underwater etiquette is essential for protecting the delicate coral reefs and marine life of Seychelles. Avoid touching or standing on the coral. Do not feed the fish. Do not litter in the water. Be mindful of your fins and avoid kicking up sediment that can cloud the water and harm the coral.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose a reef-safe sunscreen that is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals that are known to harm coral reefs. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply frequently throughout the day.
Staying Healthy During Your Snorkeling Trip
To stay healthy during your snorkeling trip, protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid overexerting yourself in the water. Be aware of potential hazards such as jellyfish stings and sunburn. Consult your doctor before traveling if you have any underlying health conditions.
Snorkeling with Children – Tips and Safety
Snorkeling can be a fantastic activity for families with children, but it’s essential to prioritize safety. Choose shallow, calm areas with good visibility. Make sure children have properly fitting snorkeling gear, including a mask, snorkel, and fins (if appropriate). Use flotation devices such as life jackets or noodles for younger children or those who are not strong swimmers. Supervise children closely at all times. Consider taking a snorkeling lesson or hiring a private guide for families with young children.
Snorkeling from Shore versus from a Boat
Both shore snorkeling and boat snorkeling offer unique advantages. Shore snorkeling is convenient, accessible, and often more affordable. However, boat snorkeling allows you to reach more remote and pristine reefs. Choose the option that best suits your budget, skill level, and preferences.
Snorkeling and Conservation Efforts
Many organizations are working to protect the marine environment of Seychelles. Consider supporting these efforts by donating to a conservation organization, participating in a beach cleanup, or simply being a responsible snorkeler who minimizes their impact on the environment. By working together, we can help to ensure that the underwater paradise of Seychelles remains pristine for generations to come.
Alternative Activities to Snorkeling
While snorkeling is certainly a highlight of any trip to Seychelles, there are many other activities to enjoy. Consider hiking, swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach. Seychelles has something to offer everyone.
Unique Marine Encounters: A Special Note
While snorkeling, you might be lucky enough to witness some truly remarkable marine encounters. Spotting a pod of dolphins playing in the distance, observing a majestic manta ray gliding effortlessly through the water, or witnessing a sea turtle nesting on the beach are experiences that will stay with you forever. Be prepared to capture these moments with your camera and cherish the memories. However, always remember to observe these creatures from a respectful distance and avoid interfering with their natural behavior.
Snorkeling After Dark – A Different World
For the more adventurous snorkeler, nighttime snorkeling can offer a completely different perspective on the underwater world. Many marine creatures are more active at night. You will need a powerful underwater light to illuminate the reef. You’ll often see crustaceans come out, and possibly squid or octopus.
Safety First: Only attempt a night snorkel with an experienced guide. Never go alone. Be extra cautious of currents and marine hazards. Don’t shine lights directly into the eyes of sea creatures.
Snorkeling Beyond the Main Islands
There are several lesser-known islands in the Seychelles archipelago that also offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. These islands often require more effort to reach but provide the chance to explore secluded and pristine reefs.
Bird Island: Bird Island, located far to the north of Mahé, is a haven for birdlife and also offers excellent snorkeling.
Denis Island: Denis Island, another private island resort, also provides pristine snorkeling experiences.
These more secluded islands often have strong currents. It’s always best to go with a local expert who knows the conditions.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to snorkel in Seychelles?
The best time to snorkel in Seychelles is during the transition periods between the monsoons (April/May and October/November) when the seas are calmest and the visibility is best.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Most tour operators and hotels provide snorkeling gear, but if you prefer, you can bring your own for a better fit and hygiene.
Is it safe to snorkel in Seychelles?
Yes, snorkeling in Seychelles is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of currents, tides, and marine hazards. Always snorkel with a buddy and follow safety guidelines from your tour operator.
What should I do if I see a sea turtle?
Observe sea turtles from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Do not touch them or interfere with their natural behavior.
Where can I buy reef-safe sunscreen in Seychelles?
Reef-safe sunscreen is available at many pharmacies, supermarkets, and souvenir shops in Seychelles.
References
Seychelles Tourism Board
Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN)
Seychelles Meteorological Authority
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors)
Ready to experience the magic of Seychelles’ underwater world? Book your trip today and prepare for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure! With its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Seychelles offers a snorkeling experience like no other. Don’t just dream about paradise – dive into it! Explore the different snorkeling tours, plan which islands to explore and get ready to see some of the most incredible underwater views you may ever see. Start planning now!
