Scuba diving in Mauritius

St. Jacques - Some say this drift dive is the best dive in Mauritius. Divers start this dive inside the lagoon in less than 5 metres of water. Upon descent, the current takes over and carries you through the pass, past coral walls and rock pinnacles. Keep an eye out for the local grey reef sharks! Divers will finish the dive on the outside wall of the reef and the maximum depth is about 30 metres. Turtles, stingrays, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays and other large pelagic species hang around this dive site, too.

The Cathedral - The most famous dive site is The Cathedral, which is perfect for divers of all levels. This dive site is a photographer’s dream as the warm sunlight filters through its arches and caverns. Between 18-30 metres deep, you can easily spot snappers, groupers, angelfish, surgeonfish and lobsters.

Hoi Siong 6 - This artificial wreck lies at the bottom of the Indian Ocean at a depth of approx. 29 metres. It’s home to large fish such as barracuda, tuna, butterfly fish and lionfish. It’s a great dive for photographers as it has attracted all kinds of marine life. This is a dive suited to all levels.

You’ll save on diving costs by taking up a dive package of some kind. Some diving centres offer a 5-day/10 dive packages. You can also book a one day / two dive packages. Rates will vary according to the types of dive (wreck, deep) and if you are planning to dive in a group (the larger the group, the cheaper the cost!).

Is it mainly liveaboards or day trips?

There are a lot of all-inclusive resorts that offer diving in Mauritius. Most lodging options can be found in the north and west of the island. Dive gear rentals are available at most dive operators and you will most likely get a discount if you bring your own gear. Diving is usually done in a group of two to seven divers led by one or two dive masters. English, French and German speakers can be accommodated by most dive shops.  

Liveaboards are available to explore Mauritius, but come at a cost. Like all liveaboards, the bonus is you get to visit less crowded dive sites, and if you’re lucky, tend to be the only divers there!