The Seychelles reputation was sealed when Jacques Cousteau filmed 'Monde du Silence' amongst its southern islands. Snorkelling gives you a taste of the treats on offer, but nothing beats scuba diving.

Memorable encounters include glimpses of rare Green Turtles and the chance to swim with gentle Whale Sharks between mid October and late November.




Divers Heaven
The Seychelles is one of the world's top ten diving spots, with underwater treats like wrecks, walls and pelagics. Colourful coral gardens swarm with brightly hued fish and plateaux boast pinnacles, overhangs and granite boulders, shaped over the years into weird formations.

Whilst El Nino damaged some shallower Indian Ocean reefs, divers are reporting rapid regeneration, and the marine life is as good as ever.

Coral islands like Denis and Alphonse are an experienced diver's dream, with cliff-like ledges that plunge from just 12 metres to the ocean floor 2,000 metres below. Encounters with groupers, barracuda and even sharks, are common during drift dives along the walls.

You can normally dive year-round, though seasonal changes may affect water temperature and and underwater visibility. April\May and October\November are especially good months, the sea is generally calm and the sea temperature can approach 30°C, with visibility of 100ft or more.



If you've never dived before

A proliferation of PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) accredited schools ensure that first-timers receive internationally recognised standards of instruction and safety. Beginners start with trial dives or a 4-day 'Open Water Course'.

Many resorts have PADI certified schools. Or complete the theory part of the course at home and do your practical training dives in the warm waters of the Seychelles.

Diving is a reasonably strenuous activity and requires a fair level of fitness. If you are planning to scuba-dive during your holiday please make sure you speak to your doctor to obtain the necessary medical clearance. Also please remember you must not fly within 24 hours of diving.

© 2008 Club Air Travel