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Published on March 2, 2026

Sainte Anne Marine National Park: Snorkeling & Island Exploration

Sainte Anne Marine National Park, established in 1973, was the first marine protected area in the Indian Ocean. Located just off the coast of Mahé, near the capital Victoria, it offers an accessible escape into a vibrant underwater world and a cluster of captivating islands, perfect for a day of exploration.

Discovering Sainte Anne Marine National Park

Comprising six islands – Sainte Anne, Moyenne, Round, Cerf, Long, and Cachet – the park is a jewel of the Seychelles archipelago. It protects a rich diversity of marine life and coral reefs, making it a premier destination for snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping. Its creation marked a significant step in Seychelles' commitment to conservation, safeguarding crucial ecosystems for future generations.

Getting to the Park

Accessing Sainte Anne Marine National Park is straightforward, with numerous tour operators offering excursions from Mahé. Most trips depart from the main harbor in Victoria or from Beau Vallon, typically involving a short boat ride of 15-30 minutes. Options range from traditional glass-bottom boats, perfect for observing marine life without getting wet, to larger catamarans offering more amenities and comfort. It's advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

An Underwater Spectacle: Snorkeling and Diving

The park is renowned for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, which are ideal for snorkeling. Vibrant coral gardens teem with a kaleidoscope of fish, making every dip an immersive experience. For those seeking deeper exploration, several dive sites within and around the park cater to various experience levels.

Marine Life Encounters

Expect to encounter a spectacular array of species, including schools of colorful parrotfish, elegant angelfish, intricate butterflyfish, and various damselfish darting amongst the corals. Lucky snorkelers might spot graceful green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles gliding through the water, or even small, harmless reef sharks patrolling the deeper sections. The diverse coral formations, from brain corals to delicate fan corals, provide a stunning backdrop to this bustling underwater world.

Best Snorkeling Spots

While the entire park offers excellent snorkeling, popular areas include the waters around Moyenne Island and the shallower reefs near Cerf Island. Most tours will guide you to the best spots depending on the day's conditions. Many operators provide snorkeling equipment, but bringing your own ensures a comfortable fit and allows for spontaneous dips.

Island Exploration within the Park

Beyond its underwater allure, the islands of Sainte Anne Marine National Park each offer unique charms and histories, inviting visitors to step ashore and explore.

Sainte Anne Island

The largest island in the park, Sainte Anne, once hosted a luxury resort. Today, its pristine beaches and lush interior offer opportunities for leisurely walks and quiet relaxation. Historically, it was a significant site, serving at various times as a whaling station and even a leper colony, adding layers of intriguing history to its natural beauty.

Moyenne Island

Perhaps the most famous of the smaller islands, Moyenne has a fascinating history rooted in conservation. Once privately owned by Brendon Grimshaw, an Englishman who dedicated his life to transforming it into a self-sufficient nature reserve, it is now part of the national park.

Brendon Grimshaw purchased Moyenne Island in the 1960s for £8,000 and single-handedly planted over 16,000 trees, creating a sanctuary for giant tortoises and native birds. His legacy lives on, making Moyenne a unique ecological haven.

Visitors can explore well-maintained nature trails, encounter free-roaming giant tortoises, and learn about Grimshaw's incredible dedication. There's also a small museum and a "pirate's grave" that adds to the island's mystique.

Cerf Island

Cerf Island is known for its small, intimate guesthouses and stunning beaches. It's a fantastic spot for a quiet lunch or a swim, offering a more secluded and tranquil feel compared to the bustling main island of Mahé. Its calm waters are perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Round Island

Once a leper colony, Round Island is now home to a private resort, but its surrounding waters remain excellent for snorkeling and swimming. The island maintains a serene atmosphere, offering exclusive access to its natural beauty for guests.

Long Island & Cachet Island

Long Island was formerly a quarantine station and is now undergoing development. Cachet Island is the smallest and largely uninhabited, often serving as a picturesque backdrop for boat tours rather than a landing spot.

Conservation and Protection

As a marine national park,Sainte Anne Marine National Park plays a critical role in preserving the fragile marine ecosystems of the Seychelles. Strict regulations are in place to protect the coral reefs and diverse marine life, including 'no fishing' zones and guidelines for responsible tourism. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to these rules to ensure the continued health and beauty of this precious environment.

Best Time to Visit

The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The best times for snorkeling and diving in Sainte Anne Marine National Park are generally during the calmer inter-monsoon periods:April to MayandOctober to November. During these months, the seas are placid, and water visibility is at its peak, offering the clearest views of the underwater world. While still enjoyable, the trade winds from June to September (southeast monsoon) and December to March (northwest monsoon) can sometimes lead to choppier waters and reduced visibility.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Book in Advance:Especially during peak season, securing your tour ahead of time is recommended.
  • Sun Protection:The equatorial sun is strong. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and consider a rash guard for prolonged snorkeling.
  • Stay Hydrated:Carry plenty of water, as boat trips and island explorations can be dehydrating.
  • Respect Marine Life:Do not touch corals or marine animals. Observe from a distance to avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
  • Pack Essentials:Don't forget your camera (preferably waterproof), a towel, swimsuit, and a change of clothes.
  • Consider a Glass-Bottom Boat:If you're not a strong swimmer or prefer to stay dry, a glass-bottom boat offers a fantastic way to observe the marine life.
  • Waste Management:Help keep the park pristine by taking all your rubbish with you.

Beyond Sainte Anne Marine National Park

While the marine park offers a complete day of adventure, consider extending your Seychelles exploration. Nearby Victoria provides cultural insights and local markets. For more incredible snorkeling, a trip to Coco Island, famous for its granite rocks and vibrant fish, is highly recommended. For those seeking pristine beaches and unique granite formations, an excursion to La Digue Island is unforgettable.

A visit to Sainte Anne Marine National Park is an essential experience for anyone exploring the Seychelles. It combines breathtaking underwater encounters with intriguing island histories and pristine natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Dive in and discover the magic of this protected marine paradise.