Luxury Diving Holidays in the Seychelles

Overview

Located in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago is made up of 115 islands of stunning beaches dotted with granite boulders and spectacular atolls which make for incredible diving holidays in the Seychelles. Whilst much of the Indian Ocean has suffered from coral bleaching, in the outer islands of the Seychelles it is a different story.

The coral is in pristine condition, the best we have seen in the Indian ocean, and marine life both big and small is abundant, making for the most exciting diving holidays. Add to this excellent scuba diving lodges and luxury hotels, and it is easy to see why the Seychelles is a Reefscape Travel favourite suitable for beginner to expert divers.

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Soft coral in Astove

Typical Seychelles beach

Diver and turtle in Astove

Lesser frigatebird and red-footed booby in Cosmoledo

Fan coral in Astove

Seychelles coastline

Overhang in Alphonse

Seychelles white sand beach

Coral grouper in Alphonse

Seychelles islets

In Depth

The remote Outer Islands of the Seychelles are spread across several untouched atolls, home to incredible marine biodiversity and the best diving holiays in the Seychelles. The kaleidoscopic reefs showcase an estimated 320 hard and soft corals, hawksbill and green turtles, over 1000 coastal fish species and 25 species of cetaceans. Regulars to the reef include eagle rays, manta rays, nurse sharks and spinner dolphins though the beauty of these remote atolls is that anything can turn up. The sheer size of the pelagic fish cruising past in the blue is a true indicator of the health of these ecosystems.

Alphonse Island, in the Alphonse Atoll, allows access to over 30 dive sites, as well an incredible house reef for snorkelling and the possibility to snorkel with manta rays and sailfish. Turtles nest and hatch on the shores, adding the possibility for another unforgettable experience. The Amirantes Group consists of around 20 islands, atolls and islets offering yet more of the best dive sits in the Seychelles. The topography is particularly interesting here, with over-hangs, drop-offs and swim-throughs. The coral reefs of St. Joseph and Poivre are pristine, accessed either by luxury yacht or day trips. The most remote islands and atolls in the Seychelles are located in the Aldabra Group and limited access means this is a bucket-list destination. Arguably the best dive sites in the Seychelles are to be found around Astove Island with its spectacular wall diving and very few divers have visited Cosmoledo, making this an explorer’s paradise with new dive sites being regularly discovered.

The Inner Islands of the Seychelles have suffered more at the hands of El Nino although there are still excellent opportunities for scuba diving. Whether staying on Mahe or on one of the private islands, a combinination of luxury and diving is easy with a range of stunning hotels and luxury private islands. The dive sites are dominated by granite boulders rather than coral reefs and divers and snorkellers can expect regular encounters with Napolean wrasse, bumphead parrotfish, turtles, sting rays, whitetip and nurse sharks.

Beyond the Reef

Diving holidays in the Seychelles have plenty in store for those wanting to explore on land. The biodiversity is equally impressive above the waves, with 238 species of birds including endemic species such as the Seychelles paradise flycatcher, and Aldabra giant tortoises. The Seychelles has been pioneering in conservation, with the Island Conservation Society (ICS) ensuring key aspects of the ecosystems are preserved and visitors can learn all about the efforts and get involved with activities such as beach clean-ups and turtle patrols on several islands throughout the country. The unique topography of the Inner Islands means that scuba diving holidays can easily be combined with hikes along dramatic ridges, visits to waterfalls and some of the best beaches on the planet. There is something for everyone on a diving holiday in the Seychelles, with suitable options for families, couples, honeymooners and solo travellers.