Diving in Western and Northern Madagascar
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Western and Northern Madagascar's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Western and Northern Madagascar, ecoregion. This region features 82 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Western and Northern Madagascar has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Western and Northern Madagascar (3)
Popular Spots in Western and Northern Madagascar (82)
007 Sakatia
007 Sakatia is a dive site characterized by a large plateau abundant in coral formations. It is suitable for divers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced divers. The site offers opportunities to drift while observing the diverse marine life, including occasional schools of fusiliers that may accompany divers. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it easily accessible.
Abyss
Abyss is a dive site that descends to a depth of 25 meters, with a notable drop of over 3 meters leading to Abyss Alyosha. The best diving conditions occur during ebb tide. At around 20 meters, divers can observe a variety of marine life, including shoals of fusiliers, garden eels, and cowtail stingrays. This site is accessible from the shore.
Atnam
At Atnam, divers can explore a stunning underwater landscape, although fish sightings are limited. This site is recognized for its visual appeal rather than its marine life. Occasionally, divers may encounter species such as leopard sharks, giant humpback parrotfish, manta rays, whale sharks, and leopard eagle rays. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience its unique features.
Banc 06
Banc 06 is a dive site accessible from the shore, located approximately 5 kilometers behind Nosy Sakatia. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels. Visibility is generally good, with a high likelihood of encountering various fish species, although there are instances when fish presence may be unexpectedly low. Marine life observed at this site includes stonefish, crocodile fish, leaffish, antennae, stingrays, scorpion fish, and white tip reef sharks.
Banc des Fusiliers
Banc des Fusiliers is situated behind Nosy Sakatia, approximately 10 kilometers away. The dive site features depths ranging from 14 to 19 meters, making it suitable for a second dive. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of marine life, including bigeyes, groupers, snappers, barracudas, and fusiliers. The site is also noted for its macro opportunities, providing a chance to observe smaller marine species.
Banc des gorgones
Banc des Gorgones is situated near Ambatoloaka and is recognized as one of the initial dive sites where a significant number of gorgonian corals were identified close to the shoreline. Divers can observe various marine life, including gorgonians, ghost pipefish, nudibranchs, seahorses, lobsters, and turtles among other species.
Banc des Licornes
Banc des Licornes features plateaus ranging from 13 to 19 meters in depth, showcasing a well-preserved coral reef with a diverse array of marine life. The site is known for its abundance of larger fish species, including notable sightings of eagle rays and manta rays. Smaller species such as stonefish, leaf scorpion fish, rhinopias, and stingrays can also be observed among the vibrant coral formations. The reef appears to be in excellent condition with no visible damage, making it a prime location for underwater exploration.
Banc des Pirogues
Banc des Pirogues is a dive site located within a bay, typically accessible during the months of June, July, and August due to improved visibility. The dive site features a depth range of 14 to 20 meters, showcasing a diverse array of coral and a variety of marine life. Notable species include nudibranchs, crocodile fish, stonefish, scorpion fish, leaf scorpion fish, cowtail stingrays, and honeycomb stingrays. Outside of the peak months, visibility tends to be poor, making diving less favorable at other times of the year.
Banc Louis
Banc Louis is a notable dive site located at coordinates -13.313100, 48.139900, accessible via shore entry. This underwater plateau is approximately 15 minutes by boat from Sakatia Island and is suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site boasts a rich biodiversity, featuring healthy coral formations. Marine life commonly observed includes triggerfish, groupers, snappers, fusiliers, moray eels, and small reef sharks.
Banco Rosario
Banco Rosario is located on a rocky rise near the entrance to the Nosy Be plateau in the Mozambique Channel. This site is known for its rich marine life, including gorgonians and the possibility of encountering whale sharks. The dive site was first explored by an Italian named Rosario, and it has historical significance as the Cousteau crew once moored their boat nearby. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Bassas Da India
Bassas Da India is an underwater volcano with a diameter of 15 kilometers and a circumference of 32 kilometers, rising from the ocean floor to a ridge at a depth of 40 meters. The site is typically 5 to 8 meters underwater, allowing divers to walk along the rim and explore wrecks during low tide. The area is home to a diverse range of marine life, including up to eight species of sharks, large Potato Bass, rays, turtles, and whale sharks, which contribute to a unique ecosystem.
Boboss Epave
Boboss Epave features a trawler wreck that has been repurposed into a shrimp boat, providing an interesting dive experience. The site also includes a reef characterized by two large formations resembling potatoes, which are abundant in macro life. Divers can expect to encounter various marine species such as white tip sharks, frogfish, stonefish, crocodilefish, leaf scorpion fish, and barracuda. The site is accessible from the shore.
Boboss lalina
Boboss lalina is a dive site situated behind Nosy Sakatia, approximately 12 kilometers from the main area. The dive depth ranges from 14 to 25 meters, making it suitable for various skill levels. The site is best explored during a rising tide. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of macro species, including crocodile fish, scorpion fish, leaf scorpion fish, antennae, stone fish, and nudibranchs.
Chira Rani - Patate Bleue
Chira Rani - Patate Bleue features a prominent coral structure known for its bluish hues. The dive site is accessible from the shore and offers a depth range that extends down to 30 meters, making it suitable for both novice and experienced divers. Just below the surface, divers can observe a variety of marine life, including surgeonfish, various species of groupers, and resting green and hawksbill turtles. Additionally, large lobsters and an abundance of corals can be found throughout the site.
chira rochi
Chira Rochi is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -12.987500, 45.054100, just a short 10-minute boat ride from the diving center. The site features a coral plateau that is only a few meters below the surface, making it accessible for both snorkelers and divers of varying experience levels. The area is home to a large population of Capuchin Cream and turtles year-round. Additionally, the site boasts extensive table corals and well-defined cleaning stations, providing excellent opportunities for observing marine life.
Enzo
Enzo is a dive site situated approximately 10 minutes from the city center, featuring a minimum depth of 18 meters. This location is particularly appealing to divers interested in macro photography due to its diverse marine life. The site is characterized by vibrant soft corals, predominantly in bright pink hues, creating an attractive underwater landscape. Enzo is known for its population of seahorses and various shellfish. Divers should be prepared for potential currents, which can enhance the diving experience but may require caution.
Epave Mitsio
The Mitsio wreck is a 25-meter long trawler lying at a depth of 30 meters (100 feet). It was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef and is now home to various marine life, including jacks, red lionfish, rockfish, boxfish, eels, and frogfish. This site is accessible for exploration year-round, with notable marine activity.
Epave Zaida / Zaida Wreck
The Zaida Wreck is a deteriorated cargo barge located at a depth of 28 meters (91 feet). It is inhabited by various marine life, including sponges, nudibranchs, and lionfish. The site is accessible by boat.
Facci
Facci is situated 14 kilometers from the diving center, with depths ranging from 22 to 25 meters. This site is recommended as a first dive due to its accessibility. Divers can explore a remarkable plateau adorned with large gorgonians. The area is known for macro photography opportunities, and divers may encounter small white tip sharks, various groupers, and other predatory fish. Additionally, the site is rich in nudibranchs and frogfishes, making it a diverse environment for underwater exploration.
Grand Banc Extérieur
Grand Banc Extérieur is located near Shark Point and features a drop-off that ranges from 20 meters to 40 meters in depth. This site is accessible from the shore and is best explored during rising tides. It is situated approximately 50 minutes from the nearest center, covering a distance of 21 kilometers. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including hammerhead sharks, which are most commonly observed from December to February, as well as grey and white tip sharks, tazar, tuna, and schools of fusiliers and barracuda.
îlot Bambo #1
îlot Bambo #1 features an anchoring buoy positioned at the northern tip of the islet. Divers can explore small drop-offs and coral heads as they venture away from this point. The sandy areas are home to ribbon moray eels, which are frequently observed here. A dive light is recommended for examining the rocky crevices, where divers may encounter Gruyères.
îlot Bambo #2
îlot Bambo #2 features small drop-offs and coral patches, with a buoy positioned at the southernmost point of the islet. Divers may encounter ribbon moray eels concealed among the coral structures, and using a light can enhance visibility into the rocky areas where Gruyères can be found.
Îlot Bandrelé #1
Îlot Bandrelé #1 features a mooring buoy positioned near the beach, directly in front of the dive center. This site is ideal for novice divers due to its shallow depths and clear visibility. At approximately 10 meters, divers can observe a variety of coral fish inhabiting the boulder reefs. As divers venture further from the edge, they will encounter large coral formations.
Ilot Bandrelé #2
Ilot Bandrelé #2, located on the eastern side, is a typical reef found along the Mahoran coasts. The site is situated approximately ten minutes by boat from the club and features a fringe area near the entry point. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of common species that inhabit coral reefs during their dive.
L’arche de Bandrelé
L’arche de Bandrelé features a prominent arch that is several meters wide, with an old anchor situated at its center, which is encrusted with sponges and corals. The arch is surrounded by gorgonians and soft corals that thrive in the shaded areas. The upper section of the arch is adorned with large, colorful corals, providing a habitat for various gaterins that patrol the site.
La Barge Profonde (Wreck)
La Barge Profonde is a wreck located at a depth of approximately 35 meters. This barge, which previously transported large slabs of heather, now rests on the seabed. Divers can explore the exterior of the hull, where various types of corals and numerous hanging sponges are present, contributing to the marine ecosystem around the wreck.
La grotte Sakatia
La grotte Sakatia is located approximately 15 minutes by boat from the shore. This dive site is characterized by variable currents and changing visibility conditions. Divers can explore the underwater landscape using either normal air or nitrox. The site is home to a variety of colorful fish species, and divers may encounter stingrays resting beneath coral tables, as well as mantis shrimp and sea fans.
le dôme
Le Dôme is a dive site situated approximately 45 meters from the center, characterized by a prominent dome structure. The dive begins at a depth of 23 meters and continues to around 25 meters, requiring divers to navigate through deeper waters throughout the dive. One side of the dome is adorned with impressive gorgonian formations, while the opposite side is teeming with various fish species. Common marine life includes white tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, leopard sharks, and large schools of surgeonfish, snapper, barracuda, and fusiliers.
Le Laminoir
Le Laminoir is characterized by a collapsed high bottom, primarily covered with dead coral. The site features canyons that provide habitats for various marine life. Divers may encounter a variety of coral fish, and there are occasional sightings of stingrays utilizing the overhangs for shelter. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers.
Les Arches de Sakatia
Les Arches de Sakatia features a rock formation situated at a depth of 23-24 meters, with the summit reaching 19-20 meters. This site includes three small arches, with an additional smaller arch located 30 meters further along. Divers can explore a plateau at a depth of 15 meters. Marine life commonly observed here includes larger species such as white tip sharks and manta rays, as well as smaller creatures like antennae, leaf scorpion fish, stone fish, scorpion fish, crocodile fish, and ghostpipefish.
Little Shark
Little Shark is a drop-off dive site located approximately 30 minutes by boat from the Lodge. The site is known for its frequent sightings of various shark species, including blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, grey sharks, and leopard sharks. Divers can expect to encounter these pelagic species in the surrounding waters. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Louann
Louann is a dive site suitable for first dives, with depths ranging from 20 to 25 meters. The site features a significant drop-off that extends from 20 meters down to 50 meters. It is best to dive during ebb or flood tides, with optimal conditions occurring from low tide to high tide, as this increases fish activity. At the end of the dive, divers can observe a variety of small fish on the plateau near the drop-off, although no specific species are highlighted.
Madrépore Manta Point
Madrépore Manta Point is situated approximately 13 kilometers from shore, requiring a 40-minute boat ride for access. The dive site features a depth of 21 meters in the deeper section, while the shallower area reaches 15 meters, with a field of garden eels separating the two. The dive is best conducted during an ebb tide. The reef is characterized by healthy coral formations. Marine life commonly observed includes stingrays, crocodile fish, antennae, leaf scorpion fish, stone fish, scorpion fish, and lion fish.
Mahavelona
Mahavelona is situated approximately 15 minutes by boat from Sakatia Lodge. This dive site features both a wreck and a reef, making it suitable for advanced and expert divers. The area is known for variable currents and changing visibility, which divers should anticipate. The richness of the reef enhances the diving experience, providing opportunities to explore diverse marine life and the wreck structure itself.
Mahavelona Plateau
Mahavelona Plateau is situated approximately 20 minutes by boat from the lodge. This dive site is characterized by its easy navigation and notable visibility, making it suitable for divers looking for a straightforward experience. The plateau features a rich coral ecosystem and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including schools of fish, mantis shrimps, and stingrays. Divers can enjoy dive durations of at least 50 minutes, with the potential for encountering various underwater species throughout the dive.
Miora
Miora is a large coral plateau located at coordinates -13.313600, 48.138900, accessible via shore entry. The site is suitable for divers of all experience levels, although it is known for having currents and variable visibility. Marine life commonly observed here includes titan triggerfish, mantis shrimp, and stingrays, among others.
Mireille
Mireille is a dive site located at coordinates -13.316800, 48.158500, accessible via shore entry. This site is notable for its unique marine life, including seahorses and nudibranchs, making it an interesting spot for macro photography. Divers should be accompanied by a guide due to the site's specific orientation requirements. The dive site offers opportunities to explore the intricate details of its underwater ecosystem.
Mitsio Wreck
The Mitsio Wreck is the remains of a trawler that was converted into a shrimp boat, which sank in 2004. The wreck is located at a depth ranging from 27 to 28 meters, with the upper section situated between 20 and 22 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life around the wreck, including stonefish, scorpionfish, crocodilefish, snapper, flying scorpionfish, schools of lutjan, jacks, tazar, and barracuda. Access to the site is via boat.
Mitsio Wreck
The Mitsio Wreck is situated approximately 30 minutes from the Lodge, resting at a depth of at least 26 meters. This dive site is intended for experienced divers and is categorized as a deep dive, with nitrox recommended for optimal enjoyment. The area is known for its diverse marine life, particularly scorpion fish, which are adept at camouflage, along with other species such as stone fish, crocodile fish, and nudibranchs.
Olaf Sakatia
Olaf Sakatia is a dive site located just 5 minutes from the center by boat, making it easily accessible for divers. This site serves as a training location to assess diver skills before proceeding to other dive sites. It is characterized by its straightforward navigation and a variety of underwater fauna, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Additionally, Olaf Sakatia is an appropriate choice for night dives, offering unique visibility and marine life encounters after dark.
Pain de Sucre Nosy Be
Pain de Sucre, located in the Tanikély marine reserve, is a dive site accessible by boat. The area is protected from fishing, resulting in a diverse marine ecosystem. Divers can encounter pelagic species such as sharks, green turtles, large groupers, and hunting jack fish. The site features beautiful gorgonians and sponges, providing a rich environment for exploration.
Passe Bandrelé
Passe Bandrelé, also known as La Lolita, is situated to the north of its namesake islet. This site offers a drift dive experience characterized by a sandy valley interspersed with isolated stones. Divers can observe numerous large porcelain artifacts, particularly around the area with superimposed anchors. While exploring, it is possible to spot sharks and rays in the deeper blue waters.
Passe bateau nord
Passe bateau nord is a dive site that offers a rich marine environment, particularly in the 10 to 20 meter depth range. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including groupers, rays, and dolphins. For those diving deeper, the site features a bottom depth of 40 meters where sharks can often be observed. Experienced nitrox divers have the opportunity to explore depths of up to 50 meters. The presence of current at this site enhances the chances of spotting larger fish species.
Passe bateau sud
Passe bateau sud is a notable dive site in Mayotte, characterized by its impressive underwater features. At a depth of 25 meters, divers can explore a cave that offers a unique vantage point to observe the surrounding marine life. Common species include sharks, groupers, and schools of snappers and sweetlips. Occasionally, divers may encounter eagle rays, mobula rays, and manta rays within the pass. The site is accessible only by boat.
Passe boueni nord - patate barracuda
Passe Boueni Nord, also known as Barracuda Potato, is a rocky underwater formation that provides an opportunity to observe large schools of barracudas, along with other marine species such as bonitos, white tip sharks, surgeonfish, coachmen, trumpetfish, and grey sharks. This site is suitable for divers with level 2 or deep diving certification. The dive site is accessed by boat, and it features a diverse coral environment that supports the vibrant marine life present in the area.
Passe Boueni sud
Passe Boueni sud is recognized for its sheltered environment, making it a reliable choice during challenging sea conditions. The site is notable for its healthy coral formations, which serve as habitats for various marine species. Divers can expect to see moray eels, crustaceans, and juvenile sharks utilizing the coral structures for protection. Additionally, eagle rays are frequently observed gliding over the sandy bottom. This dive site offers a shore entry, allowing easy access to the underwater landscape.
Passe en S #1
Passe en S #1 offers a dive experience in 10-12 meters of water, where divers can navigate among large reef blocks. The site is characterized by brightly colored coral and typically mild currents. Marine life includes various coral fish and porcelain crabs, making it a visually appealing location for divers.
Passe en S #10
Passe en S #10 features a gentle sandy slope leading down to a depth of 30 meters, where the drop-off begins. At the site, divers can observe a blue anemone that hosts a family of clownfish. The marine life varies with depth, and divers may encounter grey reef sharks and large triggerfish during their exploration.
Passe en S #11
Passe en S #11 features a step-like drop-off, with the first ledge descending to depths of 15-20 meters and the second reaching 35-40 meters. The area surrounding the buoy is abundant in various coral species. Divers may encounter sharks and eagle rays in the blue waters, along with numerous porcelain species observed at this site.
Passe en S #12
Passe en S #12 features a gentle sandy slope that extends to a depth of 25 meters. The top of the drop-off is located at 30 meters, leading down to a depth of 55 meters. The wall is predominantly covered with white coral. Divers can observe typical coral fish found in Mayotte, including humpback parrotfishes, and there are occasional sightings of grey sharks.
Passe en S #1B
Passe en S #1B begins at a depth of 4 to 5 meters on a flat area before descending to 20 meters. Divers can observe a diverse array of marine life, including numerous green turtles and schools of batfish, which are known for their curiosity and may approach divers if they remain calm. The site features a notable coral structure that becomes prominent at the drop-off.
Passe en S #2
Passe en S #2 features a drop-off that begins at a depth of 30 meters and extends down to 60 meters. The area includes expansive sandy patches interspersed with isolated reef blocks. Divers can observe large gorgonians and a variety of marine life that inhabit the vicinity of these structures. The site is accessible from the shore.
Passe en S #3
Passe en S #3 features a drop-off that begins at a depth of 20 meters and extends down to 55 meters. The dive site is located near buoy 4, which is referred to as 'Merou Palace.' During the breeding season, divers can observe a significant presence of groupers. Additionally, it is possible to encounter solitary sharks traversing the pass.
Passe en S #5
Passe en S #5 is characterized by a valley of fine white sand interspersed with coral blocks. The contrast between the sandy bottom and the coral formations is notable, especially on clear days. Divers can observe various coral species and a variety of small fish inhabiting the area. Additionally, stingrays can be spotted as they blend into the sandy substrate, utilizing it for camouflage.
Passe en S #5B
Passe en S #5B features a sandy valley interspersed with coral blocks. The contrast between the white sand and the rocky formations is notable, especially on clear days. This site is home to various coral species, and divers may encounter stingrays that use the sand for camouflage.
Passe en S #6
Passe en S #6 features a significant drop-off reaching depths of 30 meters, located a distance from the buoy. Divers must navigate across a sand valley and small canyons, where coral heads and isolated rocks can be found. This site offers the potential to encounter a variety of marine life, including rays and sharks in the deeper waters, along with numerous species of coral fish inhabiting the area.
Passe en S #7
Passe en S #7 features a depth of 15 meters, with a steep drop-off reaching down to 55 meters. The dive site offers opportunities to encounter a variety of marine life, including sharks and rays, depending on the tides, weather, and lunar conditions. Divers are encouraged to look into the blue waters for potential sightings. The entry to this site is from the shore.
Passe en S #7B
Passe en S #7B is located at the last buoy of the S-shaped pass on the northern side. The dive site ranges from a depth of 4 meters to 65 meters. At the deeper end, divers can observe a white sand dune that spans the channel. The marine life varies significantly depending on the depth at which divers explore, providing opportunities to see a range of species.
Passe en S #8
Passe en S #8 is located at the second to last buoy of the S-Pass, featuring a dive depth that ranges from 4 meters to 65 meters. At the deeper end, divers can observe a white sand dune that spans the channel. The marine life varies significantly depending on the depth, allowing for diverse encounters with different species throughout the dive.
Passe en S #8B
Passe en S #8B is located at the last buoy on the southern side of the channel. This dive site is intended for advanced divers due to its significant drop-off, which reaches depths of 50 meters. The upper section of the drop-off is characterized by a diverse array of corals in various colors. Divers may encounter grey sharks and blacktip sharks as they navigate through the channel.
Passe en S #9
Passe en S #9 is situated in the southeastern section of the channel, with a dive orientation towards the west. The site features a staircase drop-off with notable ledges at depths of 25 meters and 40 meters. Divers can observe numerous emperor ballistas on the sandy plain above, but caution is advised to avoid approaching their nests during the egg-laying season.
Passe Sada Nord
Passe Sada Nord features a prominent wall dive that begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to 40 meters. This site is known for its rich marine biodiversity, particularly in the 10 to 20 meter range, where divers can observe a variety of species typical of the Indian Ocean. Marine life includes hard and soft corals, large grunters, sharks, turtles, groupers, gatorfish, and schools of blue triggerfish. The site is accessible from the shore.
Passe Saziley
Passe Saziley features a white sandy islet that becomes visible during low tide. The site is primarily accessed by boat and is known for drift diving, with currents that can vary from strong to mild depending on the tidal conditions. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including sharks, groupers, and jacks.
Piste de ski - Mayotte
Piste de ski is characterized by a steep sandy slope that serves as the entry point for divers and snorkelers. This slope is flanked by a diverse coral reef, providing a habitat for various marine species. Notable fish species include butterflyfish, bannerfish, trumpetfish, and anemones hosting clownfish, showcasing a range of colors and shapes. The site allows for safe exploration of the rich marine life found in the waters of Mayotte.
Plage aux tortues
Plage aux tortues is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -12.962700, 45.083000. This site is known for its frequent turtle sightings, often accompanied by Remoras. Divers can also encounter various marine species including jack fish, lobsters, and bat fish. The area features a notable coral drop-off that provides opportunities for diverse marine interactions. While it may not attract many experienced divers, it offers unique encounters and is suitable for those looking to practice diving skills safely.
Rolland
Rolland is characterized by a significant drop-off leading to a deep plateau, with the most notable features found at a depth of 35 meters. The plateau extends between 30 and 45 meters and is adorned with large gorgonian sea fans, providing an interesting landscape for experienced divers. While the site is more renowned for its scenery, divers may encounter various marine life including jackfish, wahoo, barracuda, white tip sharks, grey reef sharks, manta rays, mobulas, and giant humpback parrotfish.
Rosa 22
Rosa 22 is located approximately 12 kilometers from the nearest dive center. This dive site features a depth range between 17 and 23 meters, with the reef rising to 16 meters towards the end of the dive, allowing for extended dive times. The area is adorned with various gorgonian fans, both large and small. Divers may encounter a variety of marine life, including octopus, schools of alicorn fish, rhinopias, leaf scorpion fish, and stingrays.
Rosario
Rosario is a suitable dive site for a second dive, with depths ranging from 14 to 19 meters. The area is characterized by a notable field of fan corals and is particularly good for macro photography. Divers may encounter various marine life, including crocodile fish, rhinopias, antennae, leaf scorpion fish, and stingrays, as well as larger pelagic and predator species.
Sakatia
Sakatia is a dive site located approximately 12 km from the dive center, accessible from the shore. This site is known for its macro life, particularly nudibranchs. The coral formations are in good condition, although the visibility can sometimes be poor. Large fish are not commonly observed here.
Sakatia reef
Sakatia Reef is accessible via shore entry and features dive depths reaching at least 15 meters. The site is known for its rich underwater ecosystem, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Macro enthusiasts can expect to see a variety of marine life, including nudibranchs and crabs, among other species. The diverse seabed provides opportunities for exploration and observation.
Sea Fan’s Drop
Sea Fan’s Drop is located approximately 30 minutes by boat from the Lodge. This dive site features a significant drop-off that descends to depths of 25 meters or more, where garden eels can be observed on the seafloor. Positioned between the deep sea and the edge of the plateau, divers may encounter a variety of pelagic fish, as well as schools of mobula or manta rays in the area.
Shark Point Madagascar
Shark Point Madagascar is situated 21 kilometers from Nosy Be, accessible by boat. The site features a notable drop-off that provides excellent opportunities for observing various shark species, including white tip reef sharks, grey sharks, leopard sharks, and hammerhead sharks. Additionally, divers may encounter tuna, kingfish, parrotfish, and turtles in the area. Visibility is generally good, enhancing the experience of observing these predators in their natural habitat.
South Canyon Madagascar
South Canyon Madagascar is located near the Mozambique Channel and features a reef formation resembling a hand. Divers can expect strong currents at this site, with a maximum depth reaching 26 meters. The sandy bottom is often home to leopard sharks and coral sharks. Additionally, divers may encounter garden eels, big-eyed trevally, and schools of snapper among other marine life.
Southside Bassas
Southside Bassas is located on the lee side of the Atoll, where divers typically access the site by boat. The dive involves exploring the vertical walls of the Atoll, with routes available to the left and right that showcase a variety of marine life. Common sightings include sharks, groupers, and rays, along with a diverse array of Indian Ocean fish species. The area also features wreck scars from vessels that have run aground, adding to the site's unique characteristics.
Tagada
Tagada is a vertical drop-off that features gorgonian corals, with depths ranging from 18 meters to between 40 and 60 meters. Divers begin their descent in a half-cylinder formation and then proceed along the drop-off, keeping the wall to their left and open blue water to their right. Located approximately 20 kilometers offshore, this site does not have specific resident species, but it is frequented by pelagic fish and predators, providing opportunities to encounter larger fish.
Tanikely South
Tanikely South is a dive site with an average depth of 10 meters (33 feet). Divers can see various marine life including barracudas, moray eels, stingrays, and sea turtles, along with healthy hard and soft corals. Access to this site is via boat.
Tanikely sud
Tanikely Sud is a well-known dive site characterized by its healthy coral formations and abundant marine life. The site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for divers of all experience levels due to its shallow depths. Commonly observed species include whitetip sharks, guitar fish, stingrays, eagle rays, torpedo rays, leopard sharks, turtles, groupers, stonefish, and scorpionfish. The diverse ecosystem makes it a notable location for underwater exploration.
TIM’S REEF
Tim's Reef is located just a short distance from the lodge and features a unique composition of galaxea and halomitra corals. The site supports a diverse range of marine life, including turtles and nudibranchs, making it an interesting spot for divers. The entry to the site is from the shore, allowing easy access for divers looking to explore its underwater ecosystem.
Tombant Sakouli
Tombant Sakouli is an accessible shore dive suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features a fringing reef characterized by a diverse coral garden and a herbarium, which serves as a habitat for various marine species. The underwater landscape is typical of Mayotte, providing a unique opportunity to observe the local marine ecosystem. The dive site is located at coordinates -12.891300, 45.213600.
Wildside Bassas
Wildside Bassas is located on the nutrient-rich side of the atoll, where strong currents bring warm, nutrient-laden waters that support a diverse marine ecosystem. The site is known for its impressive coral formations and a variety of marine life, including wrecks, sharks, and groupers. This area showcases some of the finest coral structures found within the entire atoll, making it a prime location for divers interested in the rich biodiversity of the Indian Ocean. Conditions can be challenging due to strong waves and currents, so it is recommended for experienced divers. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Yohan’s Wreck
Yohan’s Wreck is a dive site featuring the remains of a sailboat that sank in 1980. Over the years, the wreck has become a habitat for various marine species. Located just a five-minute boat ride from the dive center, this site is particularly suitable for night dives. During nighttime, divers can observe crustaceans hunting, parrotfish resting in their cocoons, and turtles sleeping. Additionally, luminescent plankton can be seen reacting to divers' movements.
Zaida Wreck
The Zaida Wreck is a dhow that sank in 2004 while carrying a cargo of sand. Six months after the sinking, it was observed that the wreck had already attracted a variety of marine life. To enhance the dive experience, two additional wrecks were intentionally sunk nearby. Divers can expect to see a diverse array of fish species, including scorpion fish, moray eels, crocodile fish, stone fish, schools of snapper, barracuda, tazard, and jackfish. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers to explore the underwater environment.