Best dives in Seychelles: seasons and spots

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Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago stands as a year-round haven for diving enthusiasts. Its azure waters are not just a visual treat; they are teeming with a diverse and vibrant native marine population that captivates divers from around the globe. However, what truly sets the Seychelles apart is the dynamic nature of its underwater world, where different seasons unveil spectacular visitors to our waters.  

Each season brings its own unique spectacle, ensuring that diving in the Seychelles is an unforgettable experience, no matter the time of year. Join us as we delve into why the Seychelles has rightfully earned its reputation as a top diving destination.

Let’s discover together which are the best seasons to go diving in the Seychelles and meet the most fascinating sea creatures underwater. 

Best time to dive in Seychelles

In Seychelles is diving all year round, but probably the best time for keen scuba divers to visit is during the calm climatic periods of April-May and October-November.  

During these times of the year the water temperature can reach 29ºC and visibility is excellent (up to 30 metres). 

 

Best season for diving in Seychelles with whale sharks

Probably the most famous and awe-inspiring guests are the vast whale sharks.

Although some of these gentle giants can be found in the waters of the inner islands all year round, large numbers pass through in August and again from October to January. The whale sharks are lured by the boom in plankton caused by warmer sea temperatures. Beau Vallon Bay on Mahe Island is the best spot to go on a dive with whale sharks in Seychelles. 

Also lured by the abundant plankton are the giant manta rays which delight many divers at this time of year.

Turtle nesting season in Seychelles

From October to February you are likely to see rare green turtles and hawksbill turtles.

The endangered hawksbill and green turtles return year after year to our quiet, idyllic beaches on the island of Praslin in the Seychelles between these months.

At Constance Lémuria our Turtle Manager monitors each nest and each turtle to ensure their safety. We will continue to watch the nests for the next two months until all the eggs have hatched.

Under the supervision of our Turtle Manager, guests at Lémuria can have the unique experience of watching the females come up on the beach to lay their eggs, and then in March to April see the baby turtles move down to the sea.

Top 5 Seychelles dive sites

Let’s discover together top 5 places to go diving in the Seychelles: 

• Shark Bank: This huge rock is a magnet for shark enthusiasts, offering encounters with various shark species, turtles and dolphins. 
• South Marianne Island: Located east of La Digue, offers exhilarating drift dives amidst powerful currents, showcasing impressive marine life and stunning underwater topography, making it a top choice for fast-paced diving adventures.  
• Brissare Rocks: A heaven for macro photographers, these granite boulders are adorned with colourful corals and are home to a plethora of small marine creatures like nudibranchs and shrimps.
• Aldabra Atoll: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aldabra boasts pristine reefs, massive coral formations, and a chance to spot rare marine species like the dugong and hawksbill turtle. 
• Ennerdale Wreck: For wreck diving enthusiasts, this sunken cargo ship offers a mysterious yet fascinating exploration, surrounded by schools of vibrant tropical fish. 

If you also want to learn more about the best dives in the Maldives, read our article!