Diving the Outer Islands of Seychelles

Made up of approximately 74 small reef islands and coral atolls, scuba diving the Outer Islands of the Seychelles is nothing but pure adventure. Getting here is a true expedition reserved for the most avid of divers. Diving these islands is best done via liveaboard. Most of the Outer Islands are uninhabited and make up a massive playground for the Seychelles liveaboard operators. There are five main liveaboard operations from which to choose. The two islands of Alphonse and Desroches do offer accommodations; however, if you are looking for zero crowds and coral reefs in their most pristine form, Seychelles liveaboard diving is the way to go. The best time to dive Seychelles’ outer islands is April, October, or November when calm seas allow easy passage for boats to reach these more remote dive spots. You are also more likely to encounter sharks and manta rays during these months. Diving these islands offers expansive reefs, dynamic canyons, pinnacles, and drop-offs, and spectacular wrecks to explore. Water temperatures are warm throughout the year, with temperatures consistently between 25 to 29 C. Diving the Outer Islands of Seychelles should be on every true adventurer’s bucket list.

Wildlife Encounters in Outer Islands

Marine life in the Outer Islands of the Seychelles is nothing short of spectacular. With untouched reefs, minimal pressure from commercial fishing, and crystal-clear waters, many have referred to this area as the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean. The flora and fauna biodiversity are some of the most prolific in the world. Expect to encounter plenty of curious groupers, wandering sea turtles, schools of parrotfish, huge humphead wrasses, rockfish, clownfish, triggerfish, and more! The shark population is healthy and thriving with grey, blacktip, and whitetip reef sharks, hammerheads, nurse sharks, and whale sharks, just to name a few!