Scuba Diving in Balaclava, Mauritius
Balaclava is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island of Mauritius. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a great destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- The Cathedral, situated off the coast of Balaclava, is a popular diving spot for experienced divers. The dive is characterized by a deep cave that is accessible only to skilled divers. It has a maximum depth of 30 meters and features large schools of fish, rays, and reef sharks.
- Another popular spot for experienced divers is the Shark Pit, which is located approximately 15 minutes from Balaclava. As the name suggests, this dive spot is known for its abundant shark population, including grey reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, and black-tip reef sharks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- For beginners, the Turtle Bay Marine Park is an ideal location to explore the underwater world. It features calm, shallow waters with a maximum depth of 5 meters, making it a perfect spot for beginners. The marine park is home to various colorful coral formations, schools of fish, and sea turtles.
Dive Conditions:
The water temperature in Balaclava ranges from 24°C to 29°C, making it comfortable for diving year-round. The visibility ranges from 20 to 30 meters, offering divers excellent visibility of the marine life and the coral reefs.
Marine Life:
The waters around Balaclava are home to various marine life, including reef fish, moray eels, octopuses, rays, and sea turtles. Divers may also encounter dolphins, whales, and sharks on their dives.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Balaclava varies depending on the dive center and the type of dive. An introductory dive for beginners can cost around $60, while a two-tank dive for experienced divers can cost up to $150.
