Snorkeling in Seychelles
Including Anse Source d'Argent and St. Anne Marine National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Drifting over granitic reefs surrounded by clouds of fusilier and parrotfish feels refreshingly intimate compared to the massive commercial operations on typical resort islands. The underwater visibility peaks during the calm inter-monsoon periods when the seas turn gin-clear. You mostly pull on your mask right off the sand on a totally independent DIY schedule.
Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue
La Digue Group
otterboris / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Famed for its granite boulder scenery, this shallow lagoon offers clear, protected water ideal for casual wading and surface snorkeling. Visitors can spot small reef fish swimming among coral patches just off the white sand beach.
Access. Direct shore entry from the L'Union Estate park on La Digue. Snorkeling gear can be rented locally or brought along.
Notes. Low tide can make the water very shallow; watch out for reef shoes to protect against coral rubble and rocks.
St. Anne Marine National Park
Mont Fleuri
NorbertNagel / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Encompassing several small islands near Mahé, this protected park features shallow seagrass beds and coral reefs. Snorkelers can spot eagle rays, green turtles, and myriad reef fish in calm, sheltered channels.
Access. Short boat excursions and glass-bottom boat trips depart daily from Victoria or resort docks on Mahé.
Notes. Park conservation fees apply to all visitors.