Scuba Diving in Mauritius
Mauritius is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering over 100 dive sites just a short distance from the coastline. From exploring sunken wrecks that have become thriving artificial reefs to navigating vibrant coral gardens, the island has something for every level of diver. Dive schools across Mauritius cater to both beginners and experienced divers, guiding them to some of the best underwater spots.
Top Dive Sites in Mauritius:
The Cathedral (West Coast, near Flic-en-Flac)
One of the most famous dive sites in Mauritius, known for its dramatic topography featuring deep drop-offs, arched caverns, and vibrant sea fans. The Cathedral is teeming with reef species and large schools of pelagic fish, offering an exhilarating diving experience.
Coin de Mire (North Coast)
Home to several stunning dive sites like Confetti Bay, Carpenter Reef, and Djabeda Wreck. Djabeda Wreck, a 10-meter-high Japanese fishing vessel sunk in 1998, has transformed into a rich artificial reef, housing schooling fish, moray eels, and octopuses.
Silver Star Wreck (Near Pereybere Beach)
This former fishing trawler, sunk in 1991, is now a thriving man-made reef. At a maximum depth of 40 meters, the wreck is ideal for Enriched Air (Nitrox) dives and PADI Wreck Specialty courses.
Merville Patches (North Coast)
A beginner-friendly dive site known for its abundant marine life, including turtles, rays, lionfish, and moray eels. This coral garden offers easy reef dives at depths between 12 and 15 meters.
Ti Corail (North Mauritius)
A shallow dive site perfect for all levels, Ti Corail is celebrated for its vibrant marine life, including lionfish, stonefish, and moray eels. The site offers something new to discover with each dive.
Grand Baie Aquarium (North of the Island)
Ideal for training, this site offers a depth of only 15 meters and features interesting rock formations. Divers can spot a variety of fish, including anthias, torpedo rays, and triggerfish.
Snake Reef (West Coast, near Flic-en-Flac)
Named for its snake-like shape, this flat reef is a haven for underwater photographers. The reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, from turtles to scorpionfish.
Silvana (Black River Bay)
Suitable for divers of all levels, Silvana offers depths ranging from 5 to 18 meters. The site is known for its resident green and hawksbill turtles, which are often seen during dives.
Safety First
Diving in Mauritius is governed by strict safety regulations under the Mauritius Scuba Diving Association (MSDA). Licensed instructors and regular equipment checks ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience. For added peace of mind, a decompression chamber is available at Victoria Hospital in Candos, with support from the Divers Alert Network (DAN).
Ready to dive into the underwater wonders of Mauritius? Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting, the island offers an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.