Baie Terney Marine Park in the Seychelles

Located on the northwest coast of Mahé Island in the Port Glaud area, Baie Ternay Marine National Park is one of the most breathtaking marine reserves in the Seychelles. This 80-hectare park, designated a protected area in 1979, borders Morne Seychellois National Park and encompasses diverse ecosystems, from seagrass beds and coral reefs to mangroves and rocky coastal areas. Despite its relatively small size, Baie Ternay plays a vital role in marine conservation, serving as a nursery for diverse marine species and supporting an incredible diversity of life.

This is interesting:

• Baie Ternay is part of a massive granite shard that once belonged to the ancient supercontinent of Gondwanaland, which began to break apart approximately 180 million years ago. Over time, the shards, polished by trade winds, formed the unique rock formations seen today.
• The park is named after Chevalier Charles Louis d'Arzac de Terneuil, a French officer who governed Mauritius and Réunion from 1771 to 1776.

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Ecosystems and marine life in Baie Ternay

The Baie Ternay Marine Park is home to a rich diversity of species living in harmony within distinct but interconnected ecosystems.

Corals. Baie Ternay was previously ranked among the top three areas with the highest coral diversity in the inner island group of the Seychelles. However, in 1998, the corals suffered a massive bleaching event, reducing coral cover to 5%. However, by 2013, the reefs had shown impressive recovery, reaching a coverage of approximately 60%—the highest on the northwest coast of Mahé.

Marine life. The most popular inhabitants of the local waters include emperor fish, mullet, porpoises, damselfish, clownfish, as well as rays, lemon sharks, and whale sharks. The latter migrate through Baie Ternay, typically between August and October. Endangered green and hawksbill turtles also frequently feed in the park's waters.

Flora. In addition to an abundance of corals, the park is home to one of the largest shallow seagrass meadows on Mahé Island, covering approximately 12 hectares. These meadows provide shelter and food for many marine organisms, including fish, squid, and rays. Seagrasses play a vital role in marine ecology, stabilizing sediments, reducing coastal erosion, and serving as a nursery for young marine life.

The mangrove forests of Baie Ternay, covering approximately 3 hectares, help stabilize the coastline and provide nesting sites for marine life and birds, remaining a crucial ecosystem for preserving the region's biodiversity. A mangrove tour is an excellent way to learn about these unique ecosystems and their role in preserving the marine environment.

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Things to do in Baie Ternay

The park is considered one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Seychelles thanks to its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

The park's mudflats and wetlands attract a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.

Tourists can book excursions with licensed operators, particularly at Beau Vallon Beach or Port Launay, which offer scenic boat rides to explore the coastline. Many boat excursions include stops for snorkeling and beach barbecues.

The secluded beaches of Baie Ternay, with their soft, clean sand and turquoise waters, are ideal for those seeking a relaxing holiday in a tranquil setting.

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How to get there

The park's secluded location ensures its pristine condition. The best way to get here is by boat, which can be chartered from Beau Vallon Beach or Port Launay. Many dive operators and guides offer packages that include snorkeling and sightseeing, including Baie Ternay.

During excursions, it is necessary to follow environmental recommendations, such as avoiding contact with corals, not disturbing marine animals, and disposing of waste properly.

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