Dive into the Seychelles

Picture postcard perfect, the Seychelles are 100 pieces of heaven for the sun-seeking holidaymaker.

The 100 or so islets that make up the dreamy Seychelles are blessed with pure, white beaches, coral reefs and some of the best diving in the world.

For this reason, the Seychelles is on the top of the list for many divers jotting down their dream destinations, and here are some pointers on where to dive once you arrive there.

The 43 inner islands are the best place to head if you want to delve into a rich ecosystem. Dives here are suitable for people of all proficiencies, satisfying the most hardened expert while breaking in the relative novice.

A vast array of marine-life circles around the shallow plateau on which the islands are based, and good diving facilities are available to take you between dive-sites.

The coral and granite reef formations are dazzling, as well as some truly notable diving spots, such as the famous Ennerdale Wreck, which lies just off Mamelles
Island.

Shifting the focus away from the more well-plumbed depths of the Indian Ocean around the Seychelles can reap spectacular rewards, such as around the islands of Marianne, Aride and Trompeuse.

The more experienced diver should consider motoring to the outer islands, which encompass sites off coral atolls and sand cays.

To get to these you will most likely have to take a chartered yacht, but will be worth it for the caves and canyons.

For the really adventurous, how about swimming with the sharks? You will be properly supervised by scientists, as you rub shoulders with the giant Whale Sharks, as well as having the chance to learn about their behaviour and history.

For more information on diving in the Seychelles visit www.seychelles.com

For information on the Whale Shark Monitoring Programme visit www.mcss.sc XXX