The Seychelles is an ideal destination for snorkeling, boasting warm, clear waters teeming with marine life. Forget overcrowded tourist traps; here, you’ll find secluded coves and vibrant coral reefs, each offering a unique underwater experience. This guide focuses on Anse Source d’Argent and some other fantastic snorkeling spots in the Seychelles, providing practical tips and insights to make your trip unforgettable.
What Makes Seychelles Snorkeling So Special?
The Seychelles’ location, nestled in the Indian Ocean away from harsh currents and industrial pollution, preserves its reefs. Combine that with strong environmental protection laws, and you’ve got a pristine environment ideal for coral growth and marine life. The waters here are warm year-round, typically ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 29°C (84°F), which makes long snorkeling sessions comfortable without a wetsuit (although a rash guard for sun protection is highly recommended). Visibility is usually excellent, often exceeding 20 meters (65 feet), giving you a wide and clear view of the underwater world.
Anse Source d’Argent: The Iconic Snorkeling Spot on La Digue
Anse Source d’Argent, frequently hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, is more than just a pretty face. While it might not be the best snorkeling in the Seychelles, it offers a unique snorkeling experience, especially for beginners and families. Its shallow, calm waters are protected by a barrier reef, ensuring gentle conditions.
What to Expect: The snorkeling area is relatively shallow, typically 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) deep, making it accessible for all swimming abilities. You’ll likely encounter colorful reef fish, such as parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Don’t expect to see large pelagic species here; the focus is on the smaller, vibrant reef inhabitants. Coral growth can be patchy in some areas, but there are still pockets of healthy coral to explore. Be aware of the tides, as low tide can make some areas too shallow and difficult to navigate. While strong currents are rare, checking local tide charts before your session is always a good idea.
Getting There: Anse Source d’Argent is located on the island of La Digue. The main way to get to La Digue is by ferry from Praslin. The Praslin to La Digue ferry typically takes about 15-30 minutes. You can book your ferry online or at the ferry terminal. Once on La Digue, most people rent bicycles – it’s the island’s primary mode of transport. From the La Digue jetty, cycle south towards L’Union Estate. You’ll need to pay an entrance fee to L’Union Estate, which gives you access to Anse Source d’Argent (around 100 SCR or about $7 USD). Alternatively, you can walk along the coastline from Anse Reunion at low tide, avoiding the entrance fee, but be sure to check the tide times! This route involves wading through some water. From within L’Union Estate, follow the signs to Anse Source d’Argent. The beach is easily accessible from the estate grounds.
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time to snorkel at Anse Source d’Argent is during high tide or mid-tide, when the water is deeper and clearer. Aim for the morning hours or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and the largest crowds. Check tide charts for La Digue online just before your trip. Also, the calmer months, typically from April to May and September to October (the shoulder seasons), usually offer the best visibility and weather conditions.
Practical Tips for Anse Source d’Argent:
- Bring Water Shoes: The seabed can be rocky in places, especially at low tide. Water shoes will protect your feet.
- Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect your skin and the coral reefs by using reef-safe sunscreen. These sunscreens lack harmful chemicals that are hazardous to marine life.
- Rent Snorkeling Gear in Advance: While you might find some vendors on the beach renting snorkeling gear, it’s usually a better idea to rent it from your accommodation or a dive shop in advance to ensure you have well-fitting equipment.
- Bring Your Own Food and Drinks: There are limited facilities at Anse Source d’Argent, so it’s advisable to bring your own snacks and water.
- Be Mindful of the Environment: Avoid touching or stepping on coral. Don’t litter. Leave the beach as you found it.
Beyond Anse Source d’Argent: Other Top Snorkeling Spots
While Anse Source d’Argent is stunning, the Seychelles has numerous other snorkeling spots that offer more diverse marine life and more vibrant coral reefs.
1. Coco Island & Felicite Island
Coco Island and Felicite Island, located near La Digue and Praslin, are part of the Coco Marine National Park. These islands offer some of the best snorkeling in the Seychelles. The waters surrounding these islands are teeming with marine life, and the coral reefs are relatively healthy.
What to Expect: Expect to see a wide variety of fish, including reef sharks (usually harmless nurse sharks and blacktip reef sharks), sea turtles, stingrays, and moray eels. The coral here is more diverse and vibrant than at Anse Source d’Argent, with many hard and soft coral species. The visibility here is generally excellent. Depths range from shallow areas perfect for beginners to deeper areas which are better for more experienced snorkelers.
Getting There: The only way to get to Coco Island and Felicite Island is by boat. Many tour operators on La Digue and Praslin offer snorkeling excursions to these islands. A full-day tour typically costs around €100-€150 per person, including boat transportation, snorkeling equipment, and lunch. You can book these tours in advance online or through your hotel.
Best Time to Snorkel: Similar to Anse Source d’Argent, the best time to snorkel here is during high tide or mid-tide. The calm months of April-May and September-October offer the best conditions. The morning hours tend to be calmer and less crowded.
Practical Tips: Check that the tour operator has all the necessary permits to access the marine park. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the incredible underwater scenery. Listen carefully to the tour guide’s instructions, as they will point out areas with the most marine life and highlight any potential hazards. Be aware of currents, especially around Felicite Island. Wear a rash guard for sun protection, and bring seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness on boats.
2. St. Pierre Island
St. Pierre Island, a tiny granite islet near Praslin, is famous for its picturesque beauty and fantastic snorkeling. It’s often featured in Seychelles promotional material.
What to Expect: St. Pierre Island offers excellent snorkeling around its rocky shoreline. The waters are crystal clear, and you’ll find a wide array of fish species, including bannerfish, surgeonfish, and trumpetfish. While the coral isn’t as extensive as at Coco Island, the unique rock formations and abundant fish make it a worthwhile snorkeling spot. Depths range from 1-5 meters (3-16 feet).
Getting There: St. Pierre Island is accessible only by boat. Like Coco Island, it’s usually visited as part of a snorkeling tour from Praslin or La Digue. Tours can range from half-day to full-day and cost around €80-€120 per person. They usually include transportation, snorkeling gear, and refreshments.
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time to snorkel at St. Pierre is in the morning when the water is calm and the light is ideal for spotting fish. Check the weather forecast beforehand, and avoid snorkeling if the seas are rough. The months of April-May and September-October are ideal.
Practical Tips: Wear sturdy water shoes, as the rocks around the island can be sharp. Be careful when entering and exiting the water to avoid slipping on the rocks. Keep an eye out for sea urchins that sometimes inhabit the rocks. Bring a dry bag to protect your belongings from splashes.
3. Anse Lazio (Praslin)
Anse Lazio, located on Praslin Island, is another world-renowned beach often considered one of the best in the Seychelles. While not primarily known for snorkeling like Coco or St. Pierre, it offers decent snorkeling on either side of the beach, near the granite rocks.
What to Expect: The snorkeling at Anse Lazio is best around the rocky areas at the far ends of the beach. You’ll likely see schools of small fish, such as wrasses and damselfish, as well some larger parrotfish. You might also encounter turtles, although it’s not as common as at Coco Island. Coral cover is patchy but improving.
Getting There: Anse Lazio is easily accessible by road. You can rent a car, take a bus, or hire a taxi to get there. The bus is the cheapest option but can be infrequent. The beach is public, so there is no entrance fee.
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time to snorkel at Anse Lazio is during calm weather, ideally in the morning. Avoid snorkeling if the waves are high, as the visibility will be poor, and the currents can be strong. Take extra care at low tide, when it can be difficult to get into the water because of exposed rocks.
Practical Tips: Be mindful of the currents, which can be strong at times, especially near the rocks. Swim parallel to the shore if you get caught in a current. Watch out for boats, as they often come close to the shore. There are restaurants and shops near the beach, so you can easily find food and drinks.
4. Baie Ternay Marine National Park (Mahé)
Baie Ternay Marine National Park, located on the northwest coast of Mahé, offers some of the best snorkeling on the island. This protected area is home to diverse marine life and relatively untouched coral reefs.
What to Expect: Expect to see a variety of fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and groupers. You might also encounter turtles, rays, and even dolphins. The coral is in good condition, with a mix of hard and soft corals. Visibility can vary depending on the weather conditions but is usually very good.
Getting There: Baie Ternay is accessible only by boat. Several tour operators offer snorkeling trips from Beau Vallon, the main tourist beach on Mahé. A half-day tour typically costs around €60-€90 per person. The journey by boat takes about 30-45 minutes.
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time to snorkel in Baie Ternay is during calm weather, preferably in the morning. The water is usually clearest during the dry season (May to September).
Practical Tips: Look for tours that include a visit to the mangrove forests, which are an important part of the ecosystem. Be aware of jellyfish, especially during certain times of the year. Avoid touching or disturbing the coral reefs.
5. Port Launay Marine Park (Mahé)
Another excellent snorkeling location on Mahé is Port Launay Marine Park. The calm, shallow waters make it a perfect spot for families and beginner snorkelers.
What to Expect: The shallow waters in Port Launay means you’ll be close to the marine life. The bay is teeming with schools of fish. Sightings of baby blacktip reef sharks are also common, which swim close to the shore (completely harmless). The water here is calm and generally clear. The coral growth isn’t as prolific as in other spots, but the abundance of fish makes it highly appealing.
Getting There: Port Launay is easy to reach by car or bus from Victoria, the capital of Mahé, or other major towns. The beach is public, so there is no entrance fee. The bus journey from Victoria takes about 45 minutes, and a taxi takes about 30 minutes.
Best Time to Snorkel: The best time is during high tide when the water is deeper. Mornings are usually calmer and offer the best visibility. The dry season (May to September) is often the best time to visit.
Practical Tips: There are restaurants and shops located right on the beach, so you don’t need to worry about bringing food and drinks. Shade is available from the trees lining the beach. Watch out for boats entering and exiting the bay. Be respectful of the natural environment.
Planning Your Seychelles Snorkeling Trip: Practical Considerations
Before you book your flights and pack your bags, here are some additional things to consider for a smooth and fulfilling Seychelles snorkeling adventure:
- Choosing the Right Time of Year: The best time to visit the Seychelles for snorkeling is generally during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these months, the weather is typically calm, the seas are clear, and the visibility is excellent. The trade winds are weaker during the shoulder seasons, resulting in gentler conditions.
- Accommodation: The Seychelles has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Consider staying on multiple islands to experience the different snorkeling spots and cultures. La Digue offers a charming, laid-back atmosphere, while Praslin is a bit more developed but still retains its natural beauty. Mahé has the widest range of accommodation options and is the most developed of all.
- Snorkeling Gear: You can either bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it in the Seychelles. If you plan to do a lot of snorkeling, it’s usually more convenient and cost-effective to bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins. Make sure your mask fits properly to avoid leaks. If you prefer to rent, you can find rental shops on the main islands. Make sure the equipment is in good condition before renting.
- Safety: Always snorkel with a buddy, especially in areas with strong currents or waves. Be aware of your surroundings, and keep an eye out for boats and other hazards. Wear a brightly colored rash guard to increase your visibility in the water. Consider bringing a small inflatable safety buoy to mark your location.
- Respect for Marine Life: The Seychelles has strict regulations to protect its marine environment. Never touch or disturb coral reefs. Avoid using sunscreen that contains harmful chemicals, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Do not feed the fish or other marine animals. Always dispose of your trash properly.
- Travel Insurance: It’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Make sure your policy covers snorkeling activities.
- Currency: The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and local markets.
FAQ: Your Seychelles Snorkeling Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about snorkeling in the Seychelles:
Is snorkeling in the Seychelles safe?
Yes, snorkeling in the Seychelles is generally safe, but it’s important to take precautions. Always snorkel with a buddy, check the weather conditions beforehand, and be aware of currents and waves. Follow the guidance of your tour operator, if applicable. Some areas may have stinging jellyfish, so it is good to be aware of the local conditions before entering the water. Avoid touching any marine life, particularly coral. Also, never snorkel alone and make sure someone knows where you are, which will give safety and peace of mind.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
It depends on your preference. If you plan to snorkel frequently, bringing your own gear can be more convenient and cost-effective, ensuring a good fit and hygiene. However, rental gear is available on most islands.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
The Seychelles boasts a rich diversity of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, rays, reef sharks (harmless species), and various coral species. The specific species you’ll see will vary depending on the location and time of year. Certain sites like the Coco Island Marine Park provide excellent chances to see a plethora of species. Be aware of your impact on the local ecosystem, and take steps to ensure its preservation, by never touching the coral or needlessly chasing the marine life.
Is it possible to snorkel from the beach, or do I need to take a boat tour?
Both options are available, depending on the location. Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio offer snorkeling directly from the beach. However, for spots like Coco Island and Baie Ternay, a boat tour is necessary. The choice will rely on how accessible a site is, and how much natural shelter it has.
What should I do if I encounter a strong current while snorkeling?
If you encounter a strong current, don’t panic. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to shore. Avoid swimming against the current, as it will quickly exhaust you. Signal for help if needed.
Are there any marine parks in the Seychelles where I need a permit to snorkel?
Yes, Coco Marine National Park needs a payment to enter the waters, which usually comes as part of a tour already. Tour operators usually manage the permit requirements for guided tours. Make sure your tour includes the necessary permits.
What is reef-safe sunscreen, and where can I buy it?
Reef-safe sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs. You can purchase reef-safe sunscreen at many pharmacies, supermarkets, and dive shops in the Seychelles, as well as online. Check the ingredients carefully to ensure it is genuinely reef-safe. Choosing to use reef-safe sunscreen allows you to protect not only yourself, but the ocean’s ecosystem.
Start Planning Your Seychelles Snorkeling Adventure Now!
Ready to dive into the breathtaking underwater world of the Seychelles? With its stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters, the Seychelles offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler. Start planning your trip today! Research flights and accommodation, book your tours, and pack your snorkeling gear. The adventure of a lifetime awaits!
References
- Seychelles National Parks Authority – Official Website
- Seychelles Tourism Board – Official Website
- Research Study on Coral Reef Health in the Seychelles, Marine Conservation Society.
