Scuba Diving in Pamplemousses, Mauritius
Pamplemousses, located in the northwest of Mauritius, offers some excellent scuba diving opportunities. With warm and clear waters, divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even larger creatures such as sharks and rays.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
The Cathedral, located in the Grand Bay area, is a popular dive site for experienced divers. This site features a large, cathedral-like cave system that is home to many different marine species, including octopuses, moray eels, and lionfish. Another popular spot for experienced divers is the Shark Pit, located off the coast of Trou aux Biches. As the name suggests, divers can expect to see several species of sharks here, including blacktip reef sharks and nurse sharks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
For those new to scuba diving, Trou aux Biches offers a great spot to get started. The calm, shallow waters provide an ideal environment for beginners, with plenty of colorful marine life to discover. Another beginner-friendly spot is the Water Lily Garden, located off the coast of Pamplemousses. This site features a variety of coral formations and small fish, making it a great spot for practicing basic diving skills.
Marine Life and Dive Conditions:
Pamplemousses is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and larger creatures such as sharks and rays. The waters are warm and clear, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet). Water temperatures range from 24-28°C (75-82°F) throughout the year, making for comfortable diving conditions.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Pamplemousses varies depending on the dive center and the type of dive. Expect to pay around $60-$80 USD for a single dive, or $200-$300 USD for a beginner diving course. Equipment rental is usually included in the price of the dive, but check with the dive center beforehand to confirm.