Diving in Inner Islands

Explore 86 dive sites in Inner Islands, Seychelles. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Inner Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Inner Islands occur in April, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 26.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.7°C
  • February: 29.0°C
  • March: 29.8°C
  • April: 30.4°C
  • May: 29.8°C
  • June: 28.5°C
  • July: 26.8°C
  • August: 26.6°C
  • September: 27.4°C
  • October: 28.3°C
  • November: 29.0°C
  • December: 29.1°C

Marine Life in Inner Islands

Home to 184 recorded species including 156 reef fish, 8 hard corals, 6 sharks & rays, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 whales & dolphins, 2 other.

Recommended Packing List for Inner Islands

Based on average water temperature of 28.6°C, currents 11 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in Inner Islands

  • Ste. Anne Marine National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Port Launay Marine National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Cousin - Special Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • La Digue Shell Reserve - Shell Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Aride - Special Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Curieuse Marine National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Baie Ternay Marine National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Ile Coco National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Beacon - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category VI)
  • Ile aux Vaches - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category VI)
  • Booby Island - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category VI)
  • Mamelles - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category VI)
  • Silhouette Marine National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category II)
  • Port Glaud - Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site) (IUCN Category II)
  • Amirantes (Marine) to Fortune Bank (Marine) Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • North East Point Shell Reserve - Shell Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Aride Special Reserve - Special Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Praslin Shell Reserve - Shell Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Anse Aux Pins Shell Reserve - Shell Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Cousin Special Reserve - Special Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Recif - Special Reserve (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Ile Moyenne - National Park (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Curieuse - Special Reserve (IUCN Category II)
  • Bird Island (Ile aux Vaches) (Marine) National Park - Marine National Park (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Denis Island (Marine) Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (IUCN Category Not Reported)

Getting to Inner Islands - Nearest Airports

  • Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), Victoria - 22 km away, approx 38 min travel time
  • Praslin Island Airport (PRI), Praslin Island - 25 km away, approx 42 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water conditions like for diving in the Inner Islands of Seychelles, including visibility, currents, and temperature?
Divers in the Inner Islands of Seychelles can expect wonderfully warm water temperatures, with optimal months seeing averages up to 30.35°C in Month 4 and 29.84°C in Month 5. While specific visibility details are not provided, the presence of numerous drift dive sites, such as Channel Rock and Brizare Rock, Mahé, indicates that currents can be a factor. For more on optimal diving times, visit our When to Dive guide.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see in the Inner Islands of Seychelles?
The Inner Islands of Seychelles are renowned for their vibrant marine ecosystems. Divers can anticipate encountering a rich variety of reef fish and invertebrates across the 75 dive sites, many of which are designated as reef dives like L ilot Island and Monkey rock. A notable highlight for this region is the opportunity for whale shark visits, offering an incredible encounter with these gentle giants. Explore more about marine species in our Wildlife Database.
Are there opportunities to see larger pelagic species like whale sharks or manta rays in the Inner Islands of Seychelles?
Yes, the Inner Islands of Seychelles are indeed known for opportunities to encounter larger pelagic species. Specifically, the region is a destination for whale shark visits, providing divers with a chance to witness these magnificent creatures. While whale sharks are a highlight, information regarding manta ray sightings is not available in the provided data. Discover more about marine life in our Wildlife Database.
What are considered the best dive sites in the Inner Islands of Seychelles?
With 75 dive sites available, the Inner Islands of Seychelles offer a diverse range of experiences for intermediate divers. Popular sites include vibrant reef dives like L ilot Island and Paradise Rock, as well as exciting drift dives at Channel Rock. For those interested in historical sites, the Aldebaran Wreck and Corsair Reef (a wall dive) provide unique exploration opportunities.
What level of diving experience is recommended for diving in the Inner Islands of Seychelles?
An intermediate level of diving experience is recommended for exploring the Inner Islands of Seychelles. All listed dive sites, including popular spots like Monkey rock and Lost City, are rated for intermediate divers. This ensures divers are comfortable with varying conditions and the diverse types of dives available, from reef to wreck. Ensure your equipment is suitable for these conditions.
How do travelers typically get to and around the Inner Islands of Seychelles for diving?
Information regarding typical transportation methods for travelers getting to and around the Inner Islands of Seychelles for diving is not available in the provided data. We recommend consulting local travel guides or dive operators in the region for the most up-to-date logistical details.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in the Inner Islands of Seychelles for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
For optimal diving conditions in the Inner Islands of Seychelles, the months of March, April, and May are highly recommended. During this period, water temperatures are at their warmest, averaging up to 30.35°C in April and 29.84°C in May, creating a comfortable diving environment. These months are generally excellent for experiencing the region's rich marine life, including potential whale shark visits. For more details on seasonal conditions, check our When to Dive section.
How do seasonal changes, like monsoons or trade winds, affect diving conditions in the Inner Islands of Seychelles?
Information regarding how seasonal changes, such as monsoons or trade winds, specifically affect diving conditions in the Inner Islands of Seychelles is not provided in the available data. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for current weather and sea condition forecasts. You can find more general information on diving seasons in our When to Dive guide.