Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Dive Operators
There are at least 40 professional dive centres in Mauritius. Most belong to the Mauritius
Scuba Diving Association (MSDA; 454 0011; www.msda.mu ) , which is affiliated with CMAS and
makes regular and rigorous checks. Most dive centres are also affiliated with one or more
of the internationally recognised certifying agencies, usually PADI or CMAS. Many dive
centres in Mauritius are hotel-based, but they all welcome walk-in clients. In general, you
can expect well-maintained equipment, good facilities and professional staff, but standar-
ds may vary from one centre to another, so it pays to shop around.
SNORKELLING
If the idea of total immersion doesn't appeal to you, snorkelling is possible in the three countries. It's a great way
to explore the underwater world with minimal equipment and without the costs associated with diving. Even the
shallowest reefs are home to many colourful critters. In all three destinations, rental gear is widely available from
dive centres.
Mauritius
Top spots include the marine park at Blue Bay and along the west coast off Flic en Flac and Trou aux Biches, not
forgetting the lagoon around Rodrigues. Companies running trips on glass-bottomed boats will often include
snorkelling in the deal.
Réunion
The lagoon along the west coast between St-Gilles-les-Bains and La Saline-les-Bains offers great snorkelling,
with particularly good marine life off L'Hermitage-les-Bains. Take advice before leaping in as the currents can be
dangerous.
Seychelles
The sheltered lagoons provide safe havens for swimming and snorkelling. The Ste Anne and Port Launay Marine
National Parks are firm favourites in the waters around Mahé. In September and October, divers have a chance to
snorkel alongside whale sharks. Around Praslin, try off Anse Lazio and Anse Volbert beaches, or take a boat trip
from Anse Volbert to St Pierre islet. Close to La Digue, the submerged granite boulders around Coco, Grande
Sœur and Marianne islands are teeming with fish life.
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