Eden Island: Semi-Submarine Tour in St. Anne Marine Park in Mahé

Mahé, the largest island of the Seychelles, is a top destination for travellers seeking out tropical bliss. With its crystal clear waters, powdery white beaches and lush tropical foliage, it’s an unforgettable destination – and with dozens of attractions and activities available, there are endless ways to explore it. One of the most unique experiences is the Eden Island semi-submarine tour of the St. Anne Marine Park, which allows visitors to discover this majestic part of the island from the comfort of a subaquatic vessel. Keep reading to learn more about this unforgettable experience!

What is the St. Anne Marine Park?

The St. Anne Marine Park is a stunning area located off the south-west coast of Mahé. It’s home to eight stunning granite islands, which together form a stunning archipelago accessible only by boat. It’s not only a stunning landscape for photographs – it’s also an incredibly important ecosystem, home to a wide variety of marine life and coral reefs.

The St. Anne Marine Park was established in 1973 and is part of the Seychelles’ national park system. It’s the first-ever marine park in the Indian Ocean, and covers an area of close to 6,000 hectares (14,800 acres). Visitors come here to explore its unique undersea world, where they can observe all sorts of marine life, including crabs, starfish, jellyfish, sea turtles, and colourful tropical fish of all shapes and sizes.

What is the Eden Island Semi-Submarine Tour?

The Eden Island semi-submarine tour allows passengers to explore the St. Anne Marine Park from an entirely new perspective. Instead of sending everyone out on kayaks or boats – or even diving – the semi-submarine is equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating for up to 40 passengers. It also has an underwater viewing area where passengers can witness life beneath the waves without getting wet!

The tour is about two hours long and departs from Eden Island at 10am every morning, which gives passengers plenty of time to enjoy the sights before returning to shore in the late afternoon. Throughout the tour, experienced guides will point out interesting and informative facts about the area and its wildlife, so that visitors can truly appreciate this unique corner of paradise.

What Will You See on the Tour?

The tour allows visitors to explore a wide variety of habitats, including shallow reef areas, seagrass meadows and mangroves. This creates an opportunity to witness a variety of reef fish, as well as sea turtles, stingrays and octopuses. Get ready to be amazed by these incredible creatures as they go about their day!

The tour also provides a fascinating look at some truly majestic coral reefs teeming with life. There are all sorts of vibrant colours from the varied tropical fish and vibrant corals and sponges you’ll witness all around you – a truly mesmerizing sight!

What Else Do You Need to Know Before Booking?

If you’re interested in taking this fascinating journey beneath the waves, there are a few things you should know before booking your ticket.

First and foremost, the tour runs from April to October and is weather dependent – so if it’s raining or the weather isn’t conducive to a safe and comfortable journey out at sea, it may be cancelled or rescheduled.

Also keep in mind that due to the particular conditions of this tour (limited space and visibility underwater), there’s an age limit of 7 years old for children setting sail with their parents on the submarine.

Conclusion: Will You Set Sail on the Eden Island Semi-Submarine Tour?

The Eden Island semi-submarine tour is a unique way to discover the majestic beauty of Mahé’s St. Anne Marine Park. With its comfortable seating and air-conditioned interior, it’s the perfect way for everyone in the family (aged 7 years old or older) to experience this incredible ecosystem from the comfort of a subaquatic vessel – just sit back, look down into that magical underwater world, and allow the incredible wildlife to take your breath away!

If you want to experience this unforgettable tour for yourself, click here to book your tickets now – happy exploring!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Mahé Island, Seychelles

As the largest island in the Seychelles and home to the capital city, Mahé is an essential destination for any traveler visiting this exotic archipelago. The island boasts several beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, but there are also several hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s a guide to the best-kept secrets and off-the-beaten-path delights that Mahé has to offer.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Mahé is known for its picturesque beaches, there are several lesser-known but equally beautiful places to explore. For example, the Morne Seychellois National Park is a vast expanse of tropical rainforest that is perfect for hiking or bird-watching. The Eden Island Marina is also a hidden gem worth exploring. This modern, upscale marina has several restaurants, boutiques, and bars, as well as stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

Mahé’s cuisine is a melting pot of Creole, Indian, French, and Chinese influences. One of the best places to sample local cuisine is at the Bazar Labrin Market, a vibrant open-air market where locals sell their homemade food. The market offers a variety of seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, fish curry, and coconut milk seafood chowder. Another local favorite is Marie-Antoinette, a rustic restaurant serving traditional Creole dishes like shark chutney, bat curry, and coconut palm heart salad.

Cultural Experiences: The Seychelles’ Traditions

The Seychellois culture is a unique mix of African, Indian, and European influences, resulting in a vibrant and diverse community. Music and dance are an integral part of the Seychellois culture, with traditional dances like the ‘moutya’ and ‘seggae’ still performed during festivals and celebrations. The island also has a rich history of art, with several local artists showcasing their work in galleries and exhibitions.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Mahé has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of captivating stories to tell. One such story is about the island’s colonial past. Seychelles was initially a French colony, but the British took over in 1814. One of the legacies of this history is the Clock Tower, a prominent landmark in Victoria, Mahé’s capital city.

Another fascinating story is that of the Takamaka Rum Distillery, which has been producing rum since 2002. The distillery offers tours that give a first-hand look at the rum-making process and allow visitors to sample their award-winning rum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For those who want to experience something unconventional, Mahé has plenty to offer. For example, a semi-submarine tour of St. Anne Marine Park offers a unique perspective on the island’s marine life and coral reefs. Visitors can also take a hike to Anse Major, a secluded beach accessible only by foot or boat, and is the perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet swim.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Mission Lodge, a historic site offering stunning panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain. The site was once a school for the children of liberated slaves and now serves as a museum and a cultural center.

In conclusion, Mahé Island offers an array of hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, intriguing history, and unique suggestions for travelers who want to venture off the beaten path. With its rich cultural heritage and unspoiled natural beauty, Mahé Island is an excellent destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience.