Best water activities in the Seychelles: diving, snorkeling, fishing, surfing and cruises

Seychelles - is not only about white-sand beaches and relaxing by the ocean. The archipelago is considered one of the best destinations in the Indian Ocean for active water activities. Here you can explore coral reefs, go deep-sea fishing, watch the sunset from a yacht or paddle a transparent kayak along granite shores.

Most water activities are available on the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, while excursions and equipment rental can be arranged through hotels, diving centres or local tour companies.

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Diving in the Seychelles

The Seychelles are among the best places in the Indian Ocean for diving. Clear water, granite reefs, coral gardens and a rich underwater world make diving interesting for both beginners and experienced divers. The best conditions are usually in April-May and October-November, when the sea is calmest and underwater visibility reaches its maximum.

Most certified PADI centres operate on the larger islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, and many resorts organise dives directly for their guests.

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Snorkeling in the Seychelles

If you are not planning to scuba dive, the Seychelles offer excellent conditions for snorkeling. At many beaches, coral reefs are very close to the shore, so you can see colourful fish, sea turtles, rays and other inhabitants of the Indian Ocean even during a regular swim.

Some of the best places include Sainte Anne Marine Park and the coasts of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. In many hotels, masks, snorkels and fins can be rented or provided free of charge.

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Fishing in the Seychelles

The Seychelles have long earned a reputation as one of the world's best destinations for ocean fishing. Local waters are home to more than 300 fish species, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, wahoo, giant trevally, barracuda and bonefish.

Three main types of fishing are available in the Seychelles:

• shore fishing - suitable for a relaxing time on the coast;
• deep-sea fishing on a charter yacht - the best option for hunting trophy fish;
• fly fishing - one of the best-known activities on the archipelago's Outer Islands.

Most fishing charters depart from Mahé and Praslin, and an excursion can be booked through a hotel or specialised companies. The best time for fishing is April-May and October-November.

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Kayaking in the Seychelles

One of the calmest and most accessible ways to discover the coast of the Seychelles. Trips along the granite rocks of La Digue, through the sheltered lagoons of Mahé and in Sainte Anne Marine Park are especially popular. Many resorts provide kayaks to guests free of charge, while at popular beaches you can also rent transparent models that let you watch the seabed during the trip.

Types of kayaking:

• Lagoon and mangrove trips - calm routes for beginners.
• Sea kayaking between islands - multi-day tours for experienced travellers.
• Transparent kayaks - one of the most popular excursions on La Digue near Anse Source d'Argent beach.

Some tours require advance booking.

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Surfing in the Seychelles

Although the Seychelles are not as widely known as other surfing destinations, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and scenic coastlines make the islands attractive to surfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. The best surfing spots depend on the season and prevailing monsoon winds.

• October - December. At this time of year, the best waves can be found on Praslin, namely at Anse Lazio beach. The waves form on offshore reefs.
• April - July. The south-east monsoon creates waves at different beaches on Mahé - Grand Anse, Intendance, Anse Golette, Roche Copra & Plantation Club Beach: they also offer waves formed on offshore reefs. On La Digue, good waves can be found at Grand Anse, Petit Anse and Anse Coco. Anse Patate beach, although small, is also interesting for surfers. On Praslin, Anse Kerlan is worth noting.

Some locations offer good surfing conditions regardless of the monsoon season. These include Anse Lascars on Silhouette Island, where experienced surfers can find high waves.

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Kitesurfing and windsurfing in the Seychelles

During the season of steady winds, the Seychelles become a great destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The most popular locations are on Mahé, around Anse aux Pins, as well as near Cerf Island and La Digue. Here you can rent equipment, take lessons with an instructor or book an individual training session.

The best conditions are usually from May to September, when the south-east trade winds become stronger.

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Water skiing and wakeboarding in the Seychelles

Those who enjoy speed should consider water skiing and wakeboarding. These activities are offered by many beach resorts and water sports centres on Mahé and Praslin. Beginners can take lessons with an instructor, while experienced riders can rent equipment and a boat for independent riding.

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Sunset cruises in the Seychelles

A sunset cruise is one of the most popular ways to spend an evening in the Seychelles. Trips usually run along the coast of Mahé, around the islands of Sainte Anne Marine Park or through the scenic Baie Ternay. During the cruise, you can swim in the ocean, enjoy light snacks and drinks, and admire the sunset from a yacht or catamaran.

Most cruises depart from Eden Island or the popular resort area of Beau Vallon, and they can be booked through a hotel or local tour operators.

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Which water activities to choose in the Seychelles

For vivid underwater experiences, choose diving or snorkeling. Fans of active holidays will enjoy surfing, kitesurfing and kayaking, while those who want to spend the day in a calm atmosphere may prefer fishing or a sunset cruise. Whatever your preferences, it is easy to find a suitable activity on almost any island in the Seychelles.

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