Diving in Western Indian Ocean
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Western Indian Ocean's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Western Indian Ocean, province. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Western Indian Ocean 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
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Western Indian Ocean (13)
🇰🇲Comoros
🇸🇿eSwatini
🇹🇫French Southern and Antarctic Lands
🇰🇪Kenya
🇲🇬Madagascar
🇲🇼Malawi
🇲🇺Mauritius
🇲🇿Mozambique
🇸🇨Seychelles
🇸🇴Somalia
🇿🇦South Africa
🇹🇿United Republic of Tanzania
🇿🇼Zimbabwe
Sub-regions in Western Indian Ocean (11)
Cargados Carajos/Tromelin Island
ecoregion
Delagoa
ecoregion
Central Somali Coast
ecoregion
Bight of Sofala/Swamp Coast
ecoregion
Western and Northern Madagascar
ecoregion
Mascarene Islands
ecoregion
Natal
ecoregion
East African Coral Coast
ecoregion
Southeast Madagascar
ecoregion
Seychelles
ecoregion
Northern Monsoon Current Coast
ecoregion
Popular Spots in Western Indian Ocean (100+ spots)
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.
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.
2 Mile Reef Pinnacles
2 Mile Reef Pinnacles is a dive site characterized by its average depth of 10 meters and a maximum depth of 12 meters, accessible exclusively by boat. The site features several pinnacles, including the notable 'Old Woman Pinnacle,' which rises to a depth of 6 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, such as Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Geometric Moray Eels, Puffer Fish, Green Sea Turtles, Scribbled Filefish, Goldies, and Whitetip Reef Sharks.
2 Mile Reef Pinnacles
2 Mile Reef Pinnacles is a dive site characterized by its average depth of 10 meters and a maximum depth of 12 meters, accessible exclusively by boat. The site features several pinnacles, including the notable 'Old Woman Pinnacle,' which rises to a depth of 6 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, such as Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Geometric Moray Eels, Puffer Fish, Green Sea Turtles, Scribbled Filefish, Goldies, and Whitetip Reef Sharks.
2 Mile Stringer
2 Mile Stringer consists of two rocky outcrops surrounded by sandy areas, serving as a habitat for various marine species. This site is recognized as a nursery for juvenile fish and attracts game fish. The dive depth ranges from 10 to 13 meters and is located beyond the backline. Conditions are optimal for diving when the sea is calm, as strong currents can occur. Notable marine life includes paper fish, frogfish, harlequin shrimp, rays, potato bass, moray eels, and juvenile emperor angelfish. Access to this site is exclusively by boat.
2 Mile Stringer
2 Mile Stringer consists of two rocky outcrops surrounded by sandy areas, serving as a habitat for various marine species. This site is recognized as a nursery for juvenile fish and attracts game fish. The dive depth ranges from 10 to 13 meters and is located beyond the backline. Conditions are optimal for diving when the sea is calm, as strong currents can occur. Notable marine life includes paper fish, frogfish, harlequin shrimp, rays, potato bass, moray eels, and juvenile emperor angelfish. Access to this site is exclusively by boat.
3 Mile Reef Hotspots
3 Mile Reef Hotspots is a dive site accessed exclusively by boat. The site features an average depth of 25 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 32 meters. Divers enter the water using a negative entry technique. Marine life commonly observed here includes Whip Coral Gobies, Salt and Pepper Moray Eels, Lionfish, Gorgeous Gussies, Paperfish, Garden Eels, Manta Rays, Spotted Eagle Rays, and Golden Moray Eels.
3 Mile Reef Hotspots
3 Mile Reef Hotspots is a dive site accessed exclusively by boat. The site features an average depth of 25 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 32 meters. Divers enter the water using a negative entry technique. Marine life commonly observed here includes Whip Coral Gobies, Salt and Pepper Moray Eels, Lionfish, Gorgeous Gussies, Paperfish, Garden Eels, Manta Rays, Spotted Eagle Rays, and Golden Moray Eels.
7 Miles Reef
7 Miles Reef is a dive site with an average depth of 16 meters and a maximum depth reaching 22 meters, designated for advanced divers. Access to the site is exclusively by boat, and divers utilize a negative entry method to enter the water. The marine life here includes frequent sightings of turtles and rays, alongside schools of colorful goldies and various other reef fish that inhabit the coral environment.
7 Miles Reef
7 Miles Reef is a dive site with an average depth of 16 meters and a maximum depth reaching 22 meters, designated for advanced divers. Access to the site is exclusively by boat, and divers utilize a negative entry method to enter the water. The marine life here includes frequent sightings of turtles and rays, alongside schools of colorful goldies and various other reef fish that inhabit the coral environment.
9 Mile Coral Tree
9 Mile Coral Tree is located at 9 Mile Reef in Sodwana Bay, featuring an average depth of 18 meters and a maximum depth of 22 meters. This dive site is exclusively accessible by boat and is designated for Advanced Divers. The reef is inhabited by various marine species, including goldies, moray eels, tube anemones, frogfish, scorpionfish, and the notable green tree coral.
9 Mile Coral Tree
9 Mile Coral Tree is located at 9 Mile Reef in Sodwana Bay, featuring an average depth of 18 meters and a maximum depth of 22 meters. This dive site is exclusively accessible by boat and is designated for Advanced Divers. The reef is inhabited by various marine species, including goldies, moray eels, tube anemones, frogfish, scorpionfish, and the notable green tree coral.
Abbas reef
Abbas Reef is a small reef located at coordinates -6.440400, 39.458500, accessible via shore entry. The site features healthy coral formations and a diverse array of marine life, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. Notable species include tropical fish, blue spotted stingrays, seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, sand eels, boxfish, stonefish, scorpionfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, butterfly fish, and flounder.
Abbas reef
Abbas Reef is a small reef located at coordinates -6.440400, 39.458500, accessible via shore entry. The site features healthy coral formations and a diverse array of marine life, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. Notable species include tropical fish, blue spotted stingrays, seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, sand eels, boxfish, stonefish, scorpionfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, butterfly fish, and flounder.
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.
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.
Adventure Reef - 2 Mile Reef
Adventure Reef, located at 2 Mile Reef, features a stretch of coral reef on the seaward side, with sandy areas to the east and west. The site reaches a maximum depth of approximately 18 meters, with an average depth of around 16 meters. It is characterized by small coral domes and includes two notable shallow caves. These caves are often visited by Whitetip Reef Sharks and a Giant Moray Eel. Additionally, the southern section of the site is notable for a high population of Redbarred Rockcod.
Adventure Reef - 2 Mile Reef
Adventure Reef, located at 2 Mile Reef, features a stretch of coral reef on the seaward side, with sandy areas to the east and west. The site reaches a maximum depth of approximately 18 meters, with an average depth of around 16 meters. It is characterized by small coral domes and includes two notable shallow caves. These caves are often visited by Whitetip Reef Sharks and a Giant Moray Eel. Additionally, the southern section of the site is notable for a high population of Redbarred Rockcod.
Albatros
Albatros is a shore entry dive site characterized by a prominent rock formation that rises from the sea. The dive depths range from 12 to 25 meters, providing a variety of underwater passages to explore. Marine life is abundant, with potential sightings of Whale Sharks, Guitar Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, and schools of Eagle Rays numbering between 10 to 50 individuals. Additionally, divers may encounter Bumphead Parrotfish in this area.
Albatros
Albatros is a shore entry dive site characterized by a prominent rock formation that rises from the sea. The dive depths range from 12 to 25 meters, providing a variety of underwater passages to explore. Marine life is abundant, with potential sightings of Whale Sharks, Guitar Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, and schools of Eagle Rays numbering between 10 to 50 individuals. Additionally, divers may encounter Bumphead Parrotfish in this area.
Aldebaran Wreck
The Aldebaran Wreck is a 28-meter fishing vessel that was intentionally sunk in 2008. It rests on a sandy bottom at depths ranging from 28 to 40 meters, making it suitable only for experienced divers. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including small reef fish, moray eels, and various species of scorpionfish.
Aldebaran Wreck
The Aldebaran Wreck is a 28-meter fishing vessel that was intentionally sunk in 2008. It rests on a sandy bottom at depths ranging from 28 to 40 meters, making it suitable only for experienced divers. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including small reef fish, moray eels, and various species of scorpionfish.
Ali Baba
Ali Baba features a notable arch located at a depth of 35 meters. Divers can explore the area and observe lobsters hiding beneath the arch. At the entrance, a gorgonian sea fan can be seen, often accompanied by falcon fish. The site also offers the chance to encounter stingrays resting on the sandy bottom or gliding through the water near the arch's entrance. This dive is accessible from the shore.
Ali Baba
Ali Baba features a notable arch located at a depth of 35 meters. Divers can explore the area and observe lobsters hiding beneath the arch. At the entrance, a gorgonian sea fan can be seen, often accompanied by falcon fish. The site also offers the chance to encounter stingrays resting on the sandy bottom or gliding through the water near the arch's entrance. This dive is accessible from the shore.
Aliwal Shoal
Aliwal Shoal is a dive site located 5 km off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet). The site features rocky reefs and is known for diverse marine life, including various shark species, tropical and subtropical fish, and both hard and soft corals. Diving is typically accessed by boat.
Amanzi Harbour
Amanzi Harbour serves as a practical location for training in navigation, search and recovery, as well as night diving. This site is privately owned, and divers must secure permission prior to entry. During dives, divers can encounter various species including small mouth yellows, big mouth yellows, barbel, carp, and occasionally bass and trout.
Amanzi Rock Face
Amanzi Rock Face offers an easy dive experience at shallow depths, making it suitable for both novice and experienced divers. The site features several submerged trees and a small fishing boat that has sunk in the area. Marine life includes small mouth yellows, big mouth yellows, barbel, carp, and occasional sightings of bass and trout. This location is also noted for its suitability for night diving.
Amazon
The Amazon dive site features a C-shaped reef characterized by two ledges, craters, and expansive swim-throughs. This area is relatively untouched due to its remote location, resulting in generally excellent visibility. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including reef and pelagic fish, with leopard sharks being one of the notable species present. Additionally, sightings of other shark species such as Whitetip, Grey reef, Blacktip reef sharks, and scalloped Hammerheads are possible. Manta rays and spotted eagle rays may also be observed occasionally.
Amazon
The Amazon dive site features a C-shaped reef characterized by two ledges, craters, and expansive swim-throughs. This area is relatively untouched due to its remote location, resulting in generally excellent visibility. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including reef and pelagic fish, with leopard sharks being one of the notable species present. Additionally, sightings of other shark species such as Whitetip, Grey reef, Blacktip reef sharks, and scalloped Hammerheads are possible. Manta rays and spotted eagle rays may also be observed occasionally.
Amphitheater
Amphitheater is located less than a kilometer from the Marble Arch dive site. This dive reaches a maximum depth of 18 meters, making it suitable for divers looking to practice their open water skills before exploring deeper waters. The site features a sandy area surrounded by a vibrant reef, rich in coral and marine life. The abundance of sunlight enhances the colors of the underwater scenery, making it an excellent location for macro photography enthusiasts.
Amphitheater
Amphitheater is located less than a kilometer from the Marble Arch dive site. This dive reaches a maximum depth of 18 meters, making it suitable for divers looking to practice their open water skills before exploring deeper waters. The site features a sandy area surrounded by a vibrant reef, rich in coral and marine life. The abundance of sunlight enhances the colors of the underwater scenery, making it an excellent location for macro photography enthusiasts.
Amphitheatre
Amphitheatre is characterized by its vibrant marine life and unique underwater structures. The site features a maximum depth of 27 meters, with the upper section of the amphitheater starting at 18 meters. Divers can encounter a variety of species, including Sea Goldies, Fusiliers, and Batfish, which contribute to the colorful underwater scenery. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Anchor
Anchor dive site features an average depth of 18 meters, reaching a maximum of 21 meters. Access to this site is exclusively by boat. Divers can observe a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, nudibranchs, butterfly fish, bat fish, damsels, trumpet fish, starfish, feather stars, as well as various corals, sponges, and whip coral.
Anchor
Anchor dive site features an average depth of 18 meters, reaching a maximum of 21 meters. Access to this site is exclusively by boat. Divers can observe a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, nudibranchs, butterfly fish, bat fish, damsels, trumpet fish, starfish, feather stars, as well as various corals, sponges, and whip coral.
Anemona City
Anemona City is located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Kizimkazi. The dive site features a plateau at depths of 4-5 meters, where divers can observe a variety of corals and diverse marine life. As divers swim over the plateau, they will encounter a slope that descends from 7 meters to a maximum depth of 15-17 meters. The area is known for its coral gardens, large anemones, and clownfish. Additionally, divers can expect to see species such as pufferfish, boxfish, emperor fish, nudibranchs, surgeonfish, and trumpetfish.
Anemona City
Anemona City is located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Kizimkazi. The dive site features a plateau at depths of 4-5 meters, where divers can observe a variety of corals and diverse marine life. As divers swim over the plateau, they will encounter a slope that descends from 7 meters to a maximum depth of 15-17 meters. The area is known for its coral gardens, large anemones, and clownfish. Additionally, divers can expect to see species such as pufferfish, boxfish, emperor fish, nudibranchs, surgeonfish, and trumpetfish.
Anse Petit Cour
Anse Petit Cour is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -4.308100, 55.733400. The dive site is characterized by a calm bay environment, making it ideal for beginners and first-time divers. The underwater landscape primarily consists of both hard and soft corals, with most of the dive occurring at a depth of approximately 5 meters. The mooring area is well protected, ensuring stable conditions for divers.
Anse Petit Cour
Anse Petit Cour is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates -4.308100, 55.733400. The dive site is characterized by a calm bay environment, making it ideal for beginners and first-time divers. The underwater landscape primarily consists of both hard and soft corals, with most of the dive occurring at a depth of approximately 5 meters. The mooring area is well protected, ensuring stable conditions for divers.
Antonio Lorenzo
The Antonio Lorenzo is a wreck dive site located at coordinates -21.152100, 55.267700. The vessel was originally seized for illegal fishing in the TAAF seas in 1998 and subsequently sunk in a location accessible to divers after it was deemed a hazard in the Port of Pointe des Galets. Divers can expect to encounter open water conditions, often with exposure to currents. There are no designated anchor points at this site, and divers should utilize a DSMB for recovery during drift dives.
Antonio Lorenzo
The Antonio Lorenzo is a wreck dive site located at coordinates -21.152100, 55.267700. The vessel was originally seized for illegal fishing in the TAAF seas in 1998 and subsequently sunk in a location accessible to divers after it was deemed a hazard in the Port of Pointe des Galets. Divers can expect to encounter open water conditions, often with exposure to currents. There are no designated anchor points at this site, and divers should utilize a DSMB for recovery during drift dives.
Antons
Antons is a dive site located at coordinates -27.532700, 32.682100, accessible only by boat. The site features Anton’s Reef, named after one of the early dive operators in the area, Anton Buchel. The reef includes various gullies, a long swim-through, and boulders interspersed with sandy patches. The average depth is 12 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 16 meters. Divers can observe a variety of coral types, including fleshy soft coral, table coral, and spiral coral, along with colorful sponges. The reef is home to numerous reef fish, such as titan triggerfish, and offers cleaning stations located in caves and under overhangs. Regular sightings of rays and eels enhance the diving experience.
Antons
Antons is a dive site located at coordinates -27.532700, 32.682100, accessible only by boat. The site features Anton’s Reef, named after one of the early dive operators in the area, Anton Buchel. The reef includes various gullies, a long swim-through, and boulders interspersed with sandy patches. The average depth is 12 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 16 meters. Divers can observe a variety of coral types, including fleshy soft coral, table coral, and spiral coral, along with colorful sponges. The reef is home to numerous reef fish, such as titan triggerfish, and offers cleaning stations located in caves and under overhangs. Regular sightings of rays and eels enhance the diving experience.
Aquarium
Aquarium is characterized by a coral drop-off that begins at a depth of 15 meters, making it necessary for divers to hold an advanced certification. The reef is home to two prominent formations of Turbinaria, which attract a diverse array of marine life. Notable species include groupers, sweetlips, yellowfin fusiliers, and lionfish, creating a dynamic underwater environment. During specific seasons, divers may encounter large schools of barracuda, enhancing the site's biodiversity.
Aquarium
Aquarium is accessible from the shore and is located approximately 5 to 8 minutes from Beau Vallon Beach or 10 minutes from Bel Ombre marina. The dive site features three bommies that reach a maximum depth of 15 meters, with sandy areas surrounding them. Divers may encounter light currents at the surface, though the bottom typically experiences minimal current. Marine life includes batfish, anemonefish, hawksbill turtles, octopuses, stonefish, whitetail dascyllus, angelfish, pennant coral fish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and boxfish. Eagle rays may also be spotted on occasion.
Aquarium
Aquarium is accessible from the shore and is located approximately 5 to 8 minutes from Beau Vallon Beach or 10 minutes from Bel Ombre marina. The dive site features three bommies that reach a maximum depth of 15 meters, with sandy areas surrounding them. Divers may encounter light currents at the surface, though the bottom typically experiences minimal current. Marine life includes batfish, anemonefish, hawksbill turtles, octopuses, stonefish, whitetail dascyllus, angelfish, pennant coral fish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and boxfish. Eagle rays may also be spotted on occasion.
Aquarium
Aquarium is a dive site accessible by boat from Mnemba Island, featuring a coral drop-off that begins at 15 meters (50 feet). Divers can observe various marine life, including yellowfin fusiliers, sweetlips, lionfish, groupers, and barracudas. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to varying conditions.
Aquarium
Aquarium is characterized by a coral drop-off that begins at a depth of 15 meters, making it necessary for divers to hold an advanced certification. The reef is home to two prominent formations of Turbinaria, which attract a diverse array of marine life. Notable species include groupers, sweetlips, yellowfin fusiliers, and lionfish, creating a dynamic underwater environment. During specific seasons, divers may encounter large schools of barracuda, enhancing the site's biodiversity.
Aquarium
Aquarium is a dive site accessible by boat from Mnemba Island, featuring a coral drop-off that begins at 15 meters (50 feet). Divers can observe various marine life, including yellowfin fusiliers, sweetlips, lionfish, groupers, and barracudas. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to varying conditions.
Aquarium
Aquarium is a dive site situated at a depth range of 5 to 20 meters, making it suitable for novice divers. Access to the site is via boat. The area is populated with a variety of colorful reef fish, and divers may also encounter turtles and eagle rays. Increased marine activity is often observed when currents are stronger.
Aquarium
Aquarium is a dive site situated at a depth range of 5 to 20 meters, making it suitable for novice divers. Access to the site is via boat. The area is populated with a variety of colorful reef fish, and divers may also encounter turtles and eagle rays. Increased marine activity is often observed when currents are stronger.
Aquarium Flic En Flac
Aquarium Flic En Flac is a drift dive that starts at 7 meters (22 feet) and descends to 18 meters (60 feet). The site features boulders and rock formations covered with various corals, including black coral and gorgonians, along with numerous cracks and crevices that are home to diverse marine life. The low currents and good visibility make it suitable for divers of all levels, with shore entry available.
Aquarium Flic En Flac
Aquarium Flic En Flac is a drift dive that starts at 7 meters (22 feet) and descends to 18 meters (60 feet). The site features boulders and rock formations covered with various corals, including black coral and gorgonians, along with numerous cracks and crevices that are home to diverse marine life. The low currents and good visibility make it suitable for divers of all levels, with shore entry available.
Aride Bank
Aride Bank is located north of Praslin Island, accessible by boat in approximately 30-35 minutes, though travel time may vary with weather conditions. The dive site features submerged granitic rocks, with depths ranging from 12 to 22 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including Whitetip sharks, Nurse sharks, grey reef sharks, and Napoleons, depending on visibility and environmental conditions.
Aride Bank
Aride Bank is located north of Praslin Island, accessible by boat in approximately 30-35 minutes, though travel time may vary with weather conditions. The dive site features submerged granitic rocks, with depths ranging from 12 to 22 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine species, including Whitetip sharks, Nurse sharks, grey reef sharks, and Napoleons, depending on visibility and environmental conditions.
Atlantis
Atlantis features a unique reef structure resembling a submerged city, characterized by large square boulders that resemble building blocks on the ocean floor. The reef is adorned with whip corals and various tree corals, including Green, Black, and White varieties, which thrive in the crevices and along the walls. This site is notable for its diverse marine life, including the Spanish Dancer and the electric blue and yellow Sea Cucumber, commonly referred to as Sea Apple. The depth of the reef attracts game fish and sharks, making it a dynamic environment for divers.
Atlantis
Atlantis features a unique reef structure resembling a submerged city, characterized by large square boulders that resemble building blocks on the ocean floor. The reef is adorned with whip corals and various tree corals, including Green, Black, and White varieties, which thrive in the crevices and along the walls. This site is notable for its diverse marine life, including the Spanish Dancer and the electric blue and yellow Sea Cucumber, commonly referred to as Sea Apple. The depth of the reef attracts game fish and sharks, making it a dynamic environment for divers.
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.
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.
Auberge Reef
Auberge Reef is located approximately 10 minutes from Beau Vallon beach and 13 minutes from Bel Ombre marina. The dive site features a sandy area where boats anchor nearby. The maximum depth at this site reaches 13 meters. Divers may experience varying current conditions, ranging from light to strong. Marine life commonly observed includes moray eels, hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, triggerfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, damsel fish, and pufferfish.
Auberge Reef
Auberge Reef is located approximately 10 minutes from Beau Vallon beach and 13 minutes from Bel Ombre marina. The dive site features a sandy area where boats anchor nearby. The maximum depth at this site reaches 13 meters. Divers may experience varying current conditions, ranging from light to strong. Marine life commonly observed includes moray eels, hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, triggerfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, damsel fish, and pufferfish.
Ave Maria
Ave Maria is a dive site located between Praslin and La Digue, featuring depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters. The underwater landscape consists of rocky islands and canyons that host a diverse array of marine life. Notable species include Whale Sharks, Guitarfish, Grey Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, and schools of Eagle Rays numbering between 10 and 50 individuals. Additionally, divers may encounter Bumphead Parrotfish, as well as Green and Hawksbill Turtles. Multiple dives may be necessary to fully explore the richness of this site.
Ave Maria
Ave Maria is a dive site located between Praslin and La Digue, featuring depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters. The underwater landscape consists of rocky islands and canyons that host a diverse array of marine life. Notable species include Whale Sharks, Guitarfish, Grey Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, and schools of Eagle Rays numbering between 10 and 50 individuals. Additionally, divers may encounter Bumphead Parrotfish, as well as Green and Hawksbill Turtles. Multiple dives may be necessary to fully explore the richness of this site.
Baie Ternay Marine Park
Baie Ternay Marine Park is located approximately 20 minutes from Beau Vallon Beach and 18 minutes from Bel Ombre Marina. This protected marine area features a maximum depth of 20 meters and offers a variety of marine life including octopuses, rays, white tip reef sharks, hawksbill turtles, parrot fish, puffer fish, cornet fish, trumpet fish, box fish, stone fish, and barracuda. The site is characterized by beautiful hard and soft corals. Divers should be aware that currents can vary from light to strong. Entry to the site is from the shore, allowing for easy access to the underwater environment.
Baie Ternay Marine Park
Baie Ternay Marine Park is located approximately 20 minutes from Beau Vallon Beach and 18 minutes from Bel Ombre Marina. This protected marine area features a maximum depth of 20 meters and offers a variety of marine life including octopuses, rays, white tip reef sharks, hawksbill turtles, parrot fish, puffer fish, cornet fish, trumpet fish, box fish, stone fish, and barracuda. The site is characterized by beautiful hard and soft corals. Divers should be aware that currents can vary from light to strong. Entry to the site is from the shore, allowing for easy access to the underwater environment.
Baix De Naix
Baix De Naix is located approximately 45 minutes by boat from Inhaca. This dive site features an underwater reef system that is comparable to Aliwal and Two Mile. The starting point for dives is determined by the prevailing current, which influences the anchor position. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the eastern seaboard of Mozambique, including angelfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and triggerfish. The open water nature of the site allows for sightings of pelagic species, including rays and sharks. The dive is generally conducted with two tanks per diver.
Baix De Naix
Baix De Naix is located approximately 45 minutes by boat from Inhaca. This dive site features an underwater reef system that is comparable to Aliwal and Two Mile. The starting point for dives is determined by the prevailing current, which influences the anchor position. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the eastern seaboard of Mozambique, including angelfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and triggerfish. The open water nature of the site allows for sightings of pelagic species, including rays and sharks. The dive is generally conducted with two tanks per diver.
Bambous
Bambous is a dive site characterized by its steep walls and intriguing rock formations, reaching depths of approximately 34 meters. This site is recommended for advanced divers who hold the Deep Diver Specialty certification. While the underwater landscape is captivating, it does not particularly stand out for encounters with diverse marine life.
Bambous
Bambous is a dive site characterized by its steep walls and intriguing rock formations, reaching depths of approximately 34 meters. This site is recommended for advanced divers who hold the Deep Diver Specialty certification. While the underwater landscape is captivating, it does not particularly stand out for encounters with diverse marine life.
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 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 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 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 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 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 Doré
Banc Doré features a sandbank adjacent to a coral reef, with depths ranging from 6 to 12 meters. The southern area includes a series of coral cracks, while moving north reveals numerous fissures that support a diverse marine ecosystem. Notable species include tabular acroporas and stonefish, which are well-camouflaged against the reef structure. This site is accessible from the shore.
Banc Doré
Banc Doré features a sandbank adjacent to a coral reef, with depths ranging from 6 to 12 meters. The southern area includes a series of coral cracks, while moving north reveals numerous fissures that support a diverse marine ecosystem. Notable species include tabular acroporas and stonefish, which are well-camouflaged against the reef structure. This site is accessible from the shore.
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.
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.
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.
Bass City
Bass City is a dive site with an average depth of 20 meters and a maximum depth reaching 23 meters. Access to this location is exclusively by boat, utilizing a surf launch to enter the ocean. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Bass, Basslets, Lion Fish, Eels, Bat Fish, Dusky Sweepers, Box Fish, Garden Eels, Tropical Flounders, Frog Fish, and Paper Fish.
Bass City
Bass City is a dive site with an average depth of 20 meters and a maximum depth reaching 23 meters. Access to this location is exclusively by boat, utilizing a surf launch to enter the ocean. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Bass, Basslets, Lion Fish, Eels, Bat Fish, Dusky Sweepers, Box Fish, Garden Eels, Tropical Flounders, Frog Fish, and Paper Fish.
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.
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.
Bassin Verde
Bassin Verde is a small reef located at coordinates -20.265300, 57.371900, accessible only by boat. The site features a sandy bottom surrounding the reef, making it suitable for beginner divers to practice their skills. After completing training exercises, divers can explore the reef itself, which offers opportunities for further underwater exploration.
Bassin Verde
Bassin Verde is a small reef located at coordinates -20.265300, 57.371900, accessible only by boat. The site features a sandy bottom surrounding the reef, making it suitable for beginner divers to practice their skills. After completing training exercises, divers can explore the reef itself, which offers opportunities for further underwater exploration.
Batterie
Batterie is a dive site characterized by its shallow depths, making it suitable for beginner courses and exercises, particularly with children. Divers typically enter from the shore and follow the reef after entry. The site is home to a variety of common reef fish, including moray eels and other types of eels, providing an opportunity for divers to observe diverse marine life in a relatively calm environment.
Batterie
Batterie is a dive site characterized by its shallow depths, making it suitable for beginner courses and exercises, particularly with children. Divers typically enter from the shore and follow the reef after entry. The site is home to a variety of common reef fish, including moray eels and other types of eels, providing an opportunity for divers to observe diverse marine life in a relatively calm environment.
Bawe Island - North
Bawe Island - North is located just offshore from Stone Town and features a continuous coral wall rich in marine biodiversity. Divers can observe various species such as cuttlefish, moray eels, and seahorses among the blue sponges. In the open water, rainbow runners and longfin batfish are commonly seen. The sandy areas may host blue spotted stingrays and torpedo rays. This site is accessible via a shore entry.
Bawe Island - North
Bawe Island - North is located just offshore from Stone Town and features a continuous coral wall rich in marine biodiversity. Divers can observe various species such as cuttlefish, moray eels, and seahorses among the blue sponges. In the open water, rainbow runners and longfin batfish are commonly seen. The sandy areas may host blue spotted stingrays and torpedo rays. This site is accessible via a shore entry.
Bawe South
Bawe South is located on the southern side of Bawe Island, adjacent to Stone Town. This site features a long, shallow reef that extends along the entire side of the island, making it suitable for both snorkelers and novice divers. As divers explore deeper areas, they will encounter prominent coral bommies interspersed with sandy patches that support large barrel sponges. The marine life here includes Titan triggerfish, stingrays, kingfish, and thornback boxfish. Notably, the site is also home to green and hawksbill turtles, which are frequently observed in the area.
Bawe South
Bawe South is located on the southern side of Bawe Island, adjacent to Stone Town. This site features a long, shallow reef that extends along the entire side of the island, making it suitable for both snorkelers and novice divers. As divers explore deeper areas, they will encounter prominent coral bommies interspersed with sandy patches that support large barrel sponges. The marine life here includes Titan triggerfish, stingrays, kingfish, and thornback boxfish. Notably, the site is also home to green and hawksbill turtles, which are frequently observed in the area.
Beau Vallon Beach
Beau Vallon Beach serves as a convenient shore entry point for divers, particularly for Open Water Course confined water sessions. The sandy bottom reaches a maximum depth of 4 meters, and divers may experience slight surge conditions. The bay is known as a nursery area, where it is possible to observe juvenile eagle rays and sharks, as well as nudibranchs in the vicinity.
Beau Vallon Beach
Beau Vallon Beach serves as a convenient shore entry point for divers, particularly for Open Water Course confined water sessions. The sandy bottom reaches a maximum depth of 4 meters, and divers may experience slight surge conditions. The bay is known as a nursery area, where it is possible to observe juvenile eagle rays and sharks, as well as nudibranchs in the vicinity.
Benchmark
Benchmark is a notable dive site located approximately 30 minutes from Peri-Peri Dive Camp. The site features a spectacular reef known for its diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and groupers. Divers can expect to encounter potato groupers frequently, along with rays and large giant trevallies found beneath the ledges. The area is also known for sightings of dolphins and hammerhead sharks during the boat ride to the site.
Benchmark
Benchmark is a notable dive site located approximately 30 minutes from Peri-Peri Dive Camp. The site features a spectacular reef known for its diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and groupers. Divers can expect to encounter potato groupers frequently, along with rays and large giant trevallies found beneath the ledges. The area is also known for sightings of dolphins and hammerhead sharks during the boat ride to the site.