The Ste Anne Marine National Park is a cluster of six islands in sheltered water just off Mahe near Victoria, one of the oldest marine parks in the Indian Ocean. Its warm, shallow, protected water makes for easy, rich snorkelling among reef fish and turtles, and it is the classic Mahe day trip, usually by boat with snorkelling stops, an island visit and a barbecue lunch. Glass-bottom boats suit non-swimmers.
Just a few minutes by boat off the east coast of Mahe lies one of the easiest great wildlife experiences in the Seychelles. The Ste Anne Marine National Park protects a cluster of islands and the warm, shallow water around them, and it has been doing so for decades, which is exactly why the snorkelling is so good and so accessible.
What it is
The park takes in six islands, including Ste Anne, Cerf, Round, Moyenne, Long and Ile Cachee, set in sheltered water close to Victoria. Established in the early 1970s, it is one of the oldest marine parks in the Indian Ocean. Protection over that long means healthy reefs and fish that are used to visitors, so the marine life comes close.
The snorkelling
This is the park’s main draw. The water is warm, shallow and calm, ideal for easy snorkelling even for beginners and children. You drift over reefs busy with colourful fish, and turtles are a regular sight. Because conditions are gentle and the visibility is usually good, it is one of the best places in the country to snorkel without experience or nerves.
The classic day trip
Most people visit on a day trip from Mahe. A typical outing leaves from near Victoria, makes a few snorkelling stops in the park, visits one of the islands such as Cerf or Moyenne, and includes a barbecue lunch. It is a relaxed, full day on the water and a highlight of many Mahe stays. Operators run these regularly, so it is easy to arrange.
For non-swimmers
You do not have to get in the water to enjoy the park. Glass-bottom boats and semi-submersibles let you see the reefs and fish from dry comfort, which makes the trip work for grandparents, very young children and anyone who would rather watch than swim. That mix is part of why it suits families so well.
Staying in the park
Cerf Island, inside the park, has small guesthouses and restaurants, so you can stay overnight close to the water and have the reefs almost to yourself early and late. For most visitors, though, the park is a day out from a Mahe base.
Watch responsibly
It is a protected park for a reason. Do not touch or stand on coral, keep your distance from turtles, and use reef-safe sunscreen. Good operators brief you and follow the park rules.
How to plan
Base on Mahe, ideally within reach of Victoria, and book a Ste Anne boat trip for snorkelling, an island and lunch in one easy day. Browse verified stays in our directory, including on Cerf if you want to sleep in the park, and look at boat-trip options to choose your outing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ste Anne Marine Park?
A cluster of six islands in sheltered water just off Mahe near Victoria, one of the oldest marine parks in the Indian Ocean. Its warm, shallow, protected water makes for easy, rich snorkelling among reef fish and turtles.
How do you visit Ste Anne Marine Park?
On a day trip by boat from near Victoria on Mahe, usually with snorkelling stops, a visit to an island like Cerf or Moyenne, and a barbecue lunch. Operators run these regularly, so it is easy to arrange.
Is Ste Anne good for non-swimmers?
Yes. Glass-bottom boats and semi-submersibles let you see the reefs and fish from dry comfort, which makes it work for grandparents, young children and anyone who would rather watch than swim.
Can you stay in the Ste Anne Marine Park?
Yes. Cerf Island, inside the park, has small guesthouses and restaurants, so you can stay overnight close to the reefs. Most visitors, though, come on a day trip from a Mahe base.
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