Diving in Paradise

Explore underwater granite canyons, drift through teeming shoals of sparkling, rainbow coloured reef fish, marvel at the size and power of the world’s largest fish, the (vegetarian!) whale shark. Diving in Seychelles warm tropical waters opens up a world even more rich and varied than the lush forests above water.

Dive centres in Seychelles are staffed by qualified instructors and Dive Masters, most of whom boast years of diving experience from around the world and a special fondness for the unique underwater treasures Seychelles has to offer. PADI Instructors can offer a range of diving instruction, from one day introductory courses to full international diving licenses.

Diving is possible year round in Seychelles. Experienced divers wanting to take the plunge will need to bring along their logbook, proof of diving qualification and current medical certificate. For first timers ready for the first underwater adventure Mason’s Travel can easily organise a tailor made Seychelles diving experience to remember.

Situated only four degrees south of the equator, the waters of Seychelles are warm, clear and provide a wealth of marine life year round.

Seychelles offers hundreds of kilometres of coral reefs for visiting SCUBA divers to explore. Most of dive centres are situated in the hotels and diving options include:

• Wreck dives

• Night dives

• Wall dives

• Drift dives

• Adventure dives ( more remote diving sites)

 

In Seychelles, fishing can be enjoyed on very much a year-round basis that is divided into specific seasons, each one suited to a specific type of fishing and each one full of promise for the expert fisherman and novice alike.

For instance, big-game fishing is an all year-round activity, whereas the months of November to May are more appropriate for bottom-fishing and fly-fishing.

Throughout Seychelles the ocean is subject to currents with speeds of 0.5 up to 1.5 knots that develop with the trade winds. There are two opposing wind patterns in Seychelles, blowing seasonally either north-westerly (December to March) or south-easterly (May to September).

The north-westerly trades often have intermittent rain squalls and stronger winds during the period December to March. These are sometimes associated with the presence of tropical cyclones over the south-west Indian Ocean. Luckily, however, all of Seychelles' islands lie well outside the cyclone belt, with the exception of the most southerly outer islands.

The south-easterly trades are drier and tend to blow more consistently throughout the day and into the night, reaching its peak in July/August. In the months of April and November there are calm and sometimes windless periods when the trade winds change direction. These light and variable wind periods are accompanied by calm seas and clear waters.

The effects of the tides are more noticeable within the Inner Islands than the ocean currents and are generally less than a knot, increasing to up to 2 knots.

The types of fishing that can enjoyed here in the Seychelles are:  

1. Bottom Fishing
2. Trolling – Big Game Fishing
3. Fly fishing
4. Popping
5. Jigging

Faizal Suleman, the sole IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) representative in the Seychelles says that the most exciting thing about fishing in the Seychelles is that “You can always guarantee to catch a fish”. He also adds that the range of fish in our waters is un-comparable with other fishing destinations. For example, when out Big Game Fishing you can expect to catch anything from a marlin to a bonito, in fisherman jargon this is referred to as the “Mixed Bag” which lists:

• The prize winning Marlin
• Sailfish
• Yellow-fin tuna
• Dog-tooth tuna
• Skipjack
• Kingfish
• Dorado
• Rainbow Runner
• Green Job Fish
• Last but not least the Bonito!

Over the recent months, the level and quality of boats being offered to our guests has increased tremendously. We now offer 5 star quality boats with the latest equipment and technology to cater for the professionals looking to break a world record and amateur simply looking for a good time! The fishing knowledge and experience accumulated is also internationally recognized and valued. The Seychelles is also actively trying to promote Tag & Release.

We can arrange these with the local operators for you. Please contact us for more details.

Some of the pleasures in store for you are:

Wahoo - At 80 k.p.h one of the fastest fish and the most colourful.

Sailfish - highly acrobatic. Common from March to Jun and October to November.

Yellowfin & Skipjack Tuna - common in the south-east trades from May to September, two of the very best fighting fish.

Dogtooth Tuna – recently classified, found in only a few other areas on earth.

Barracuda – the Seychelles hold the Men’s 14 kilo world record for this vicious fighter.

Bonito (little tuna) - another record breaker, Seychelles hold the outright World Record of the Bonito Since 1975.

Marlin - the most sought after game fish. The Black Marlin is the most common. Sizes in these waters vary from 45 to over 455kilos.

Leave it up to us and our local fishing experts to provide you with the ultimate Seychelles fishing experience.....

Most people head for the paradise island of Seychelles for the sun and the sea, the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean being a wonderland for all sorts of water sports.

By contrast, it's by no means a hotbed for golf, though don't let that stop you giving the Seychelles some serious thought when considering your next golfing trip. Put it this way, if you are going to have just one 18-hole golf course somewhere, then you might as well make it something special - and that something special in the Seychelles is the Lemuria Resort on Praslin.

Rodney Wright, the man responsible for the famous Mana Lani course in Hawaii, and Marc Farry, the Frenchman who plays on the European Tour, designed the course and have conjured up an absolute gem.

Covering an area of nearly 6000 metres, it provides an excellent test to all levels of players from professionals to amateurs alike. This spectacular course borders the enchanting beaches of both the small Kerlan Cove and the Great Kerlan Cove, while the first 12 holes are lined and fringed by palm trees which allow the light to intermittently shine through.

From the 13th hole, the course extends over the steep slopes of a thickly forested hill, offering breathtaking views, and from here until the finish the challenge is particularly testing. The signature hole is the 15th, where you stand on the top of a rocky ridge overlooking the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Anse Georgette.

Club selection and a deft touch is needed to fine the green which sits some 50 feet below in the valley. Wright and Farry designed the course with the goal of providing an unforgettable challenge and the 18th hole in particular seems destined to become one of the great finishing holes in the world.

The elevated tee offers a breathtaking view of not only the green, clubhouse and resort but also the striking azure waters behind and, beyond that, the islands on the horizon. The fairway runs alongside a huge lake that stretches all the way to the green then surrounds it on three sides. Every hole on the course is unique and provides different challenges, but each is immensely enjoyable. A comfortable clubhouse is equipped with changing rooms, shops and a restaurant that overlooks the water hazard at the 11th green. The terrace is a delightful place to rest and recharge the batteries before tackling the back nine. The only other course on the Seychelles is a nine-holer attached to the Reef Hotel on the island of Mahe. This pretty little course is a pleasure to play, too.

There are few surprises and the better players will not be stretched. However, with sections of the course built over a mangrove swamp and the occasional hazard of the crabs, which have been known to steal balls, there is the guarantee of a very pleasant golfing experience. Yes, there may only be 27 holes in total in the Seychelles but boy is it worth jumping on a jet to go and play them. It will be a treat to savour.

Honeymoons hideaways in Paradise

Golden sunsets, the gentle breeze softly rustling through swaying palm leaves, the scent of the ocean and tropical flowers; Seychelles has all the ingredients for the perfect honeymoon.

Masons can hand craft the ideal honeymoon holiday (or combine it with an extended wedding in Seychelles), with an itinerary as full, or as empty, as you wish.

We can recommend the ideal honeymoon hideaways, the most deserted beaches and the hotels which combine the highest standards with the most unobtrusive service to allow you to enjoy a truly private paradise honeymoon.

Contact us ahead of your visit and we will develop your dream holiday for you and that most special person.

 

What our clients says:

"Just a brief note to thank you for all your help in arranging our Honeymoon, it was everything we wanted and more.

Denis Island is a very special place and I cannot compliment the hotel highly enough on its service and food. The outstanding feature of this holiday apart from the stunning location and unparalleled tranquility was without doubt the staff. Nothing was too much trouble and their enthusiasm and level of service is exemplary.

I would without hesitation recommend this Honeymoon to anyone looking to get away from it all for a complete chill-out, the opportunity to spend quality time with the person they love on a remote paradise island being looked after by the most amazing people and eating the freshest of produce prepared and presented with style and innovation making for a delicious variety of menus throughout the day.

Difficult to beat!" - Seychelles Travel client – UK

Nature walks and trails Seychelles has an effective environmental protection programme, with over 40% of its land mass having been designated as national parks. These islands are also one of the few places on earth where tourist activities are not only closely linked to the environment, but contribute positively to the conservation projects, allowing the endemic flora and fauna to continue flourishing in their natural habitat.

There are approximately 250 indigenous species of plants in the Seychelles, of which 75 of them are unique to our islands. Many of these rare plants grow in remote areas, only accessible by walking. Over the years, Mason’s Travel has researched and developed a variety of walks and trails for both the un-initiated and experienced naturalist alike. We have detailed below our more popular Walks & Trails, each is conducted with a specialist guide.

Mason’s recommends all participants bring the following items:

• Walking shoes
• Sun block/cream
• Back-pack
• Bottled water
• Packed lunch
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Camera and film
• Insect repellent
• Map and trail leaflet
• Plastic bag for empty bottles and wrappings
• Swimwear (for coastal trails)

Peak of Paradise Copolia

This fairly shady trail is graded as "medium" and runs through the forests of the Morne Seychellois National Park... Read more

 

 

Eco trail Jardin du Roi – Gratte Fesse

Discover the hidden treasures of Seychelles' largest island in the comfort of our airconditioned buses.

Invigorate your senses with a challenging mountain eco-trail combined with the exploration of the original spice plantation “Le Jardin du Roi’.

The two and a half hour walk graded as "Medium", is just to introduce you to the different types of endemic vegetations such as cinnamon, casuarina, millionaire salad, coco plum, coco maron, magasav, cashew tree, bwa calou, vanilla orchid.  As you go higher you will end up to discover the most spectacular views. The most interesting part is that you can view both sides of Mahe, the East and West Coast. A home made fruit juice from the garden will be offered to every participants.

Mare aux Cochons

Mare-aux-Cochon follows the path of the Roman Catholic priests' Holy Week Pilgrimage in the early 1900s. The trail meanders through the forest of endemic palms and Bois Rouge [Dillenia Ferruginea]... Read more

Weddings in Paradise

Before you say “I do” let Masons say “We do”. Masons can make all of the arrangements you need to make your wedding in paradise truly perfect, from a private two person romantic ceremony, to a lavish wedding extravaganza and everything in between.

Intimate Tropical Weddings

Let Masons organise your intimate tropical wedding day. For a “couple only” wedding in Seychelles Masons can make all of the advance preparations. Just select which island and location you want for your perfect day and leave the rest to us. And if you’re new to our islands, feel free to contact us for advice and recommendations. All you will need to do is turn up at the beautifully decorated venue, with that special person, and say "I do".

Exclusive wedding events

Let Masons bring your entire wedding celebration to Seychelles where we can co-ordinate weddings of any size. Spend quality time with all your guests and leave the stress and strain to Masons’ dedicated staff. Our co-ordinators can manage the entire itinerary, down to the smallest detail. We organise hotel accommodation, transfers and exclusive group tours and activities. For the big day we can plan your entire celebration from the menu to the decorations and the entertainment.

Masons are experts in adding that special touch; we can surprise your guests with flower garlands at the airport, a catamaran champagne cruise after your ceremony, island gifts and private beach barbeques. However simple or elaborate you wish your wedding to be, you can place confidence in our co-ordinators, there are no limits to what we can provide for your special event. Feel free to contact us for a quote; you may be surprised how affordable such a lavish event can be.

Getting Married on board Catalina

Imagine the romance of having your Wedding set against the glittering backdrop of the turquoise water of Anse Source d’Argent seas, fanned by the satellite islands of the Seychelles. Surrounded by immaculately decorated sun deck, your guests seated on covered chairs waiting excitedly for the first glimpse of the beautiful bride. As you step on board you see the overwhelming emotion reflected in your fiancés eyes: today you will live this moment of bliss…. You emerge from the ceremony, to be congratulated by friends and family, surrounded by the ones you love whom you’ve invited to witness this special moment in your life. With a smile, the photographer leads you away to capture forever this instant bliss ….

Mason’s Travel is offering you this opportunity to live the experience the sailor’s way on board it new catamaran of 25 metres & 11 metres wide …"Catalina" the name itself evokes passion for the new sea… Our dedicated wedding coordinator will tailor-make this special day for you.

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