Sainte Anne Marine Park

Sainte Anne Marine Park is the protected reef complex just off Mahé’s east coast — six islands (Sainte Anne, Cerf, Round, Long, Moyenne, Île Cachée) surrounded by shallow reef, mangrove, and turtle-grass beds. Day boats leave from Mahé’s Inter-Island Quay in Victoria, typically a 5-hour trip with three snorkel stops and a barbecue lunch.

The park is the country’s oldest marine reserve (created 1973) and the easiest snorkel for non-divers — knee-to-chest depth water with reef fish, occasional turtles, and a glass-bottom-boat option for non-swimmers. The crowds and the boat traffic limit how good it can be; Cap Ternay is a quieter alternative if you have time.

Best for

First-time snorkellers, families with children, anyone wanting an easy half-day boat trip from Mahé.

When to go

Year-round. The bay is sheltered and runs in most weather.

How to get there

Boat trips from Victoria’s Inter-Island Quay leave around 9am; book through Mason’s Travel, Creole Travel or Croisidive. EUR 80–120 per person including lunch and gear.

What’s nearby

Victoria itself for a walk after the boat. The boat trip can be paired with an afternoon at Beau Vallon.