Hailed as a paradise on Earth, the Seychelles has dedicated more than half of its ocean and islands as protected areas. It has garnered a reputation as the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean,” with an incredible diversity of wildlife both above and below the water’s surface. Needless to say, the diving here is superb!
A dive vacation in the Seychelles allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s extensive protected areas, which encompass granite-based islands and outer coral atolls teeming with life. On land, you can explore pristine rainforests, marvel at rare bird species and monitor giant Aldabra tortoises, while the surrounding waters offer world-class diving and snorkelling experiences.
Due to the fragility of the Seychelles’ natural environment, many dive resorts have taken an eco-conscious approach and implemented sustainable practices into their operations.
In this article, we’ll share five eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts that will appeal to scuba enthusiasts wanting to reduce their impact while travelling.
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Nestled amidst 120 hectares of tropical gardens on the northwest coast of Mahé lies an unrivalled island paradise - Constance Ephelia. This five-star Seychelles eco-resort envelops guests in refined luxury while taking steps to reduce its impact on the surrounding environment.
At the heart of the resort lies the serene Spa Village, an expansive wellness retreat offering rejuvenating treatments overlooking the Indian Ocean. At the resort's four gourmet restaurants, you can dine on fresh local seafood and organic produce from the on-site garden, while the five pools mean you’ll always find a quiet spot to relax.
Constance Ephelia's world-class dive centre is a gateway to discovering the incredible marine life that thrives beneath the water’s surface. The air-conditioned classrooms provide a comfortable space to earn your PADI certification or refine your skills while 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' pristine underwater environment through volunteer reef restoration, coastal cleanups and education initiatives. Energy-efficient appliances, lighting sensors and water regulators are utilised throughout the resort to conserve resources while the on-site desalination plant provides all drinking water, eliminating the need for wasteful single-use plastics.
"Wonderful hotel to stay in. We don't usually holiday in resort environments, but Ephelia was exceptional…The food was incredible…ALL the staff were totally sensational.” - Maja (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts
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 while the onsite carpentry workshop crafts custom furnishings made from locally sourced wood. During your stay in one of the 25 beachfront villas, you’ll experience an unplugged ambiance, with no TVs or radios and limited Wi-Fi access. It's the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and truly immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
The dive centre at this eco-friendly Seychelles resort offers daily trips to nearby sites teeming with life and, from September to November, guests may even encounter whale sharks and manta rays. On land, you’ll find pristine beaches, majestic native forests and winding nature trails to explore. There’s also the opportunity to get hands-on with sustainability projects like woodland restoration and monitoring giant Aldabra tortoises.
Whether participating in conservation projects, exploring the incredible underwater world or simply relaxing in luxury, Denis Island provides a one-of-a-kind sustainable vacation in the Seychelles.
"Paradise on Earth!” - Vesna (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts
With a mission to keep its environmental footprint to a minimum, Six Senses Zil Pasyon is an otherworldly oasis offering guests a luxurious escape in the Seychelles. Accessible only by helicopter or 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 featuring sun-drenched decks, private pools and personal wine cellars. Guests can indulge in cuisine showcasing local Seychellois flavours across six distinctive restaurants and bars, with dining experiences ranging from intimate meals to interactive chef's tables.
The resort's spa, tucked amidst towering granite boulders, draws on the archipelago's Creole heritage with treatments infused with local vanilla and rum. Yoga sessions take place in a serene open-air pavilion surrounded by swaying palms. 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.
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 to feed its guests and staff. Over the years, it has actively removed invasive species from the island and replanted over 15 acres with native plants like the iconic Coco de Mer palm. The resort has also partnered with local conservation organisations to restore Félicité's coral reefs, which had suffered extensive damage from climate change and human activity.
"The staff were all exceptional - friendly, efficient and welcoming. The location is stunning, and the accommodation and facility superb.” - Matthew (read more reviews here)
Perched atop a rocky peninsula on Mahé, Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas is an opulent and remote retreat above Anse Louis beach. Inspired by the lush 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.
Aside from its exceptional fine-dining experiences, guests at this eco-friendly Seychelles resort are treated to a diverse range of wellness offerings, including yoga, qi gong and luxurious spa treatments. For those seeking adventure, the resort arranges everything from yacht cruises to guided treks through the island's forested interior and watersports to get the adrenaline pumping.
Anantara Maia Seychelles partners with several reputable scuba operators in the area, who will whisk you away on incredible 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), a pioneering local NGO that supports marine education and protection programs in the country. This eco-friendly Seychelles resort has also taken steps to reduce its impact on the environment by investing 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)
Eco-friendly Seychelles dive resorts
Family-owned and operated for over 15 years, Les Lauriers Eco Hotel is a boutique resort nestled on the north coast of Praslin Island. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, Praslin 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, rainwater collection and an on-site organic garden that supplies the restaurant. Guests are welcomed with warm Creole hospitality and can truly immerse themselves in authentic island culture through cooking classes, garden tours and folk music evenings.
Located just steps from the iconic Côte d’Or Beach, Les Lauriers lets you easily access Praslin’s best snorkelling and scuba diving spots. The onsite PADI 5-Star dive centre, Octopus Diver, features professional and personable guides that lead small groups on up to four dives daily. Whether you desire a relaxing day discovering the colourful reefs and marine life nearby or seek a more thrilling underwater adventure further afield, Octopus Diver can make it happen.
After a day of dive adventures, you can unwind poolside or on your private balcony with 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 while hiring local Seychellois staff and supporting community events demonstrates the resort’s commitment to social responsibility.
With personalised service and a prime beachfront location, Les Lauriers Eco Hotel is the perfect launchpad for experiencing Praslin’s natural splendour and charm.
“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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