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Scuba diving in Seychelles: 5 eco-friendly dive resorts

ByEcoOceanEscapes

Planning on scuba diving in Seychelles? Discover 5 eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts that are taking strides to reduce their environmental footprint.

Hailed as a paradise on Earth, the Seychelles has dedicated more than half of its islands and waters as protected areas. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, it’s a one-of-a-kind place.

The Seychelles has garnered a reputation as the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean.” (If you want to dive the actual Galapagos, head here.) It boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife both above and below the water’s surface. 

Needless to say, scuba diving in Seychelles is superb and we think it’s one of the best places in the world for a sustainable scuba vacation!

An eco-friendly dive trip to the Seychelles allows you to experience the country’s protected areas first-hand. All while leaving a minimal footprint.

Around its granite-based islands and outer coral atolls, you’ll be treated to world-class diving and snorkelling, with something for all experience levels.

On land, you can explore centuries-old rainforests, home to rare bird species, and get up close to giant Aldabra tortoises.

Due to the fragility of the Seychelles’ natural environment, many of the country’s dive resorts have taken an eco-conscious approach and implemented sustainable practices into their operations. 

It’s something we can’t get enough of! Properties helping divers to plan eco-friendly escapes while experiencing the best our underwater world has to offer.

In this article, we’ll share five eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts that will appeal to scuba enthusiasts wanting a sustainable vacation in paradise.

Looking for other Indian Ocean destinations for a dive vacation? Check out our scuba guides to the Maldives, Madagascar and Mauritius.

Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird's eye view of a coastal island road
Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird’s eye view of a coastal island road

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Constance Ephelia

Best eco-friendly dive resort on Mahé Island

Nestled amidst 120 hectares of tropical gardens on the northwest coast of Mahé lies an island paradise – Constance Ephelia.

This five-star Seychelles eco-resort is all about offering refined luxury. At the same time, it has taken significant steps to reduce its impact on the surrounding environment. 

Constance Ephelia’s dive centre serves as a gateway to discovering the incredible marine life that thrives in the surrounding waters. The well-equipped classroom provides a comfortable space to earn your PADI certification or refine your skills.

Meanwhile, nearby sites like the “Dredger Wreck” and “Trois Bank” offer plenty of thrills.

Beyond world-class diving experiences, Constance Ephelia’s dive centre works hard to preserve the Seychelles’ underwater environment. To name just a few, it runs volunteer reef restoration, coastal cleanups and education initiatives.

A luxurious suite at the eco-friendly Constance Ephelia in the Seychelles
A luxurious suite at the eco-friendly Constance Ephelia in the Seychelles (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Energy-efficient appliances, lighting sensors and water regulators are utilised throughout the resort to conserve resources. Meanwhile, the on-site desalination plant provides all drinking water, eliminating the need for wasteful single-use plastics.

Adding to Constance Ephelia’s appeal is the Spa Village. This expansive wellness retreat offers rejuvenating treatments overlooking the Indian Ocean. Oh, and did we mention there are FIVE pools to choose from?!

At the resort’s four gourmet restaurants, you can dine on fresh local seafood and organic produce from the on-site garden.

“We don’t usually holiday in resort environments, but Ephelia was exceptional.” – Maja (read more reviews here)

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Want to discover more of the best places to dive in Africa? Check out our detailed article here for inspiration.

Denis Private Island

Best eco-friendly private island resort in the Seychelles

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the Seychelles archipelago, Denis Island is an exclusive retreat where luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.

Located around 100 kilometres away from the main island of Mahé, this tiny coral islet is home to an innovative eco-resort striving for complete self-sufficiency.

Guests at this sustainably-run Seychelles resort can dine on farm-to-table cuisine featuring fruits, vegetables, meat and seafood sourced on and around the island. We also love that there’s an onsite carpentry workshop crafting custom furnishings made from locally sourced wood.

During your stay in one of the 25 beachfront villas at this eco-friendly Seychelles island resort, you’ll experience an unplugged ambiance. There are no TVs or radios and limited Wi-Fi access.

It’s the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty instead.

The dive centre at Denis Private Island offers daily trips to nearby sites. If you’re visiting from September to November, you may encounter whale sharks and manta rays.

On land, you’ll find gorgeous beaches, native forests and winding nature trails to explore. Trust us, you’ll never get bored!

Sun loungers fringe the swimming pool at Denis Private Island, an eco-friendly resort in Seychelles
Sun loungers fringe the swimming pool at Denis Private Island, an eco-friendly resort in Seychelles (photo courtesy of Expedia)

When staying at this eco-friendly Seychelles resort, you can also get hands-on with conservation projects. A highlight is monitoring giant Aldabra tortoises. 

In our opinion, Denis Private Island provides the kind of sustainable vacation in the Seychelles that we should all get around.

“Paradise on Earth!” – Vesna (read more reviews here)

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Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird's eye view of a rocky coastal island landscape
Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird’s eye view of a rocky coastal island landscape

Six Senses Zil Pasyon

Best eco-friendly resort on Félicité Island

With a mission to keep its environmental footprint to a minimum, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is an otherworldly oasis. In short, it provides luxurious dive vacations in the Seychelles.

Accessible by speedboat from Mahé, the resort’s secluded location on the private island of Félicité enhances its allure as an exclusive hideaway. 

Dotting the island are 30 spacious one- and two-bedroom villas. All feature sun-drenched decks, private pools and personal wine cellars.

During a sustainable dive vacation at Six Senses, you can indulge in cuisine showcasing local Seychellois flavours. In total, there are six venues, with dining experiences ranging from intimate meals to interactive chef’s tables. 

As part of its sustainability initiatives, this eco-friendly Seychelles dive resort produces over 7,000 kilos of organic fruits, vegetables and herbs throughout the year. Additionally, it has actively removed invasive species from the island and replanted over 15 acres with native plants like Coco de Mer palms.

A spectacular spa treatment room perched amidst the boulders of Six Senses Zil Pasyon, a luxury eco-resort in the Seychelles
A spectacular spa treatment room perched amidst the boulders of Six Senses Zil Pasyon, a luxury eco-resort in the Seychelles (photo courtesy of Expedia)

The resort’s spa, tucked amidst towering granite boulders, draws on the archipelago’s Creole heritage. Many of its treatments are infused with local vanilla and rum.

Yoga sessions take place in an open-air pavilion surrounded by swaying palms. We think it’s the perfect way to complement a day of diving.

With postcard-worthy beaches and crystalline waters in every shade of blue, the island offers plenty of activities, from guided walking trails to action-packed water sports. 

The resort has also partnered with local conservation organisations to restore Félicité’s coral reefs. 

“The staff were all exceptional – friendly, efficient and welcoming. The location is stunning, and the accommodation and facility superb.” – Matthew (read more reviews here)

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Anantara Maia Villas

Best ultra-luxurious eco-resort in the Seychelles

Perched atop a rocky peninsula on Mahé, Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas is an enchanting retreat above Anse Louis Beach.

It receives rave reviews, not only for its exceptional accommodations but also its staff. The private butlers always get a special mention!

Inspired by the native flora and dramatic granite boulders that define the Seychelles, the 30 exquisitely designed villas were envisioned by renowned architect Bill Bensley and are seamlessly integrated into the terrain. 

All of the villas come with private pools. If you can afford to splurge, this is the place for a high-end scuba vacation in the island nation!

Aside from its fine-dining experiences, guests at this eco-friendly Seychelles resort are treated to a range of wellness offerings. These include yoga, qi gong and luxurious spa treatments.

If you’re after a more adventurous vacation, the resort can arrange everything from yacht cruises to guided treks through the island’s forested interior and watersports to get the adrenaline pumping.

Magnificent ocean views from a luxury suite at Anantara Maia Villas, an eco-resort in the Seychelles
Magnificent ocean views from a luxury suite at Anantara Maia Villas, an eco-resort in the Seychelles (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Anantara Maia Seychelles partners with several reputable scuba operators in the area, who will whisk you away on underwater adventures. Whether you’re after introductory scuba experiences or specialty excursions to remote corners of the Seychelles archipelago, Anantara Maia can help make it happen. 

When it comes to sustainability, Anantara Maia proudly partners with the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS). This pioneering local NGO supports marine education and protection programs in the country.

As an eco-friendly Seychelles resort, Anantara Maia has also taken steps to reduce its impact on the environment. Over the years, it has invested in zero-emission buggies, plastic-free amenities and environmentally friendly laundry and cleaning products. 

“Best vacation ever. Truly a paradise.” – Vinay (read more reviews here)

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Scuba diving in Seychelles: Granite boulders lapped by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean
Scuba diving in Seychelles: Granite boulders lapped by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean

Les Lauriers Eco Hotel

Best eco-friendly dive resort on Praslin Island

Family-owned and operated for over 15 years, Les Lauriers Eco Hotel is a boutique resort on the north coast of Praslin Island. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. It really is the ideal tropical island escape.

With architecture inspired by traditional Pirogue houses, the laid-back vibe at this eco-friendly Seychelles dive resort creates a “home away from home” atmosphere. 

Les Lauriers Eco Hotel embraces sustainability through initiatives like solar water heating and rainwater collection. Plus, there’s an on-site organic garden that supplies the restaurant with freshly harvested goods.

Guests are welcomed with warm Creole hospitality and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in island culture through cooking classes, garden tours and folk music evenings.

Located just steps from Côte d’Or Beach, this eco-friendly Seychelles resort offers easy access to Praslin’s best snorkelling and scuba diving spots. The onsite PADI 5-Star centre, Octopus Diver, features professional and personable guides that lead small groups on up to four dives daily.

Whether you want a relaxing day discovering the colourful reefs and marine life nearby or crave thrilling underwater adventures further afield, Octopus Diver can make it happen. 

Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird's eye view of a rocky island in the Indian Ocean
Scuba diving in Seychelles: A bird’s eye view of a rocky island in the Indian Ocean

After a day spent diving, you can unwind poolside or on your private balcony, safe in the knowledge that conservation and sustainability are top priorities at this Seychelles eco-resort.

Solar panels, water recycling systems and locally sourced foods are among the green initiatives being implemented. Additionally, hiring local Seychellois staff and supporting community events demonstrates the resort’s commitment to social responsibility. 

“I would warmly recommend Les Lauriers Eco Hotel to everyone looking for a real Seychelles experience.” – Neven (read more reviews here)

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Best time to dive in the Seychelles

Diving in the Seychelles can be done year-round. But the best months are typically April/May and October/ November. During these periods, the waters are usually calm and visibility is at its peak.

From September to November is the whale shark season. These magnificent creatures come to feed on the abundant plankton that blooms around the islands.

In contrast, the months from December to March are the monsoon season. This can lead to reduced visibility and less favourable diving conditions.

FAQs about diving in the Seychelles

Is there good diving in the Seychelles?

The Seychelles offers exceptional diving opportunities, making it the perfect Indian Ocean destination for scuba enthusiasts. The archipelago is composed of 74 coral atolls and reef islands, which provide a diverse range of marine habitats to explore. 

The three main islands – Mahé, Praslin and La Digue – serve as the heart of the tourism industry. All offer a good choice of dive shops and resorts. T

hat being said, the Outer Islands are definitely worth exploring if you’re seeking uncrowded underwater experiences. 

Are there whale sharks in the Seychelles?

Yes, whale sharks can be found in the Seychelles! These marine giants migrate to the Seychelles between September and November to feed on the plankton blooms.

During this time, the warm, nutrient-rich waters create an ideal environment for whale sharks to spend a few weeks before continuing on their journey.

If you’re visiting the Seychelles in September, October or November, there is the opportunity to snorkel or dive alongside these inspiring creatures in their natural habitat. 

Is the Seychelles worth visiting?

Ringed by stunning beaches framed by unique granite formations, the Seychelles is a destination that lives up to its reputation as a paradise on Earth.

On land, it’s blanketed in protected rainforests that provide habitat for rare birds, not to mention the archipelago’s iconic Aldabra tortoises. 

The waters surrounding these islands are equally mesmerising, transitioning from soft aquamarine to azure blue as they deepen offshore.

Below the surface lie coral reefs that provide an essential habitat for tropical fish species, as well as being a feeding ground for larger pelagics. 

Which month is best to visit the Seychelles?

The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate This means it experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

The best months to dive in the Seychelles are from April to May and from October to November. During these periods, you can expect drier weather and milder winds, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

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About the authors

We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.

Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  

Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 

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