Whale Shark diving conservation in Seychelles

Whale Shark conservation in the Seychelles - diving & snorkelling 

The Whale Shark is the biggest fish in the sea, reaching up to 18m in length. Although observations around the Seychelles are on the increase, elsewhere in the Indian Ocean Whale Sharks are indiscriminately slaughtered on an industrial level. For divers and snorkellers, the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants and assist in their conservation, is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.

In-water monitoring is carried out by snorkelling, providing memorable close encounters with these magnificent creatures, as well as excellent photo opportunities. The Marine Conservation Society Seychelles and Shark Research Institute have been monitoring whale sharks around Mahe for the past 6 years. According to the MCSS Whale Shark monitoring summary 2005, an incredible 318 sharks were documented in October 2006, the highest figure ever recorded in Seychelles. Whale sharks were spotted throughout 2005 by microlight resulting in a total of 987 whale shark sightings. On one flight the microlight pilot was lucky enough to see 43 individuals during his aerial survey! As regards the activities on the ground (rather on the water!), of the 43 boat monitoring trips undertaken throughout the year, only one trip was unable to get people into the water with a whale shark.

For divers, Whale Shark monitoring has been combined with an exciting morning scuba diving itinerary of the dive sites around Mahe. Non-divers can meanwhile take advantage of the many land-based activities offered around the island and take the opportunity to participate in one of the MCSS’s turtle conservation projects.

Whale Shark diving package includes: 8 standard range boat dives & 1 long range dive (cylinders & weights). Snorkelling package includes: 2 morning boat based snorkelling sessions. If whale shark monitoring cannot be carried out, an afternoon dive or snorkel will be offered in replacement. Dive locations are subject to change according to sea conditions and diving experience of the group.

Whale Shark conservation field expertise: The first two whale shark conservation trips will be led by Charlotte Caffrey, Marine Scientist and Director of our Company, and all trips supported by Dr David Rowat, chairman of the MCSS. Inspiring talks will provide an insight into other successful MCSS projects and an understanding of the marine biology of the Seychelles.

Experience/qualifications needed: Whale Shark diving package - qualified open water certified scuba diver or above. Whale Shark snorkelling package - no prior experience required.

Please note: The microlight pilot can be accompanied on the aerial surveys in return for a local donation to the Marine Conservation Society of Seychelles. This activity is undertaken at your own risk and should be covered by your travel insurance policy. The microlight programme is run and offered by the MCSS and should not be considered part of our company's experience.

Day 1:	Morning: Group briefing. Afternoon: Remainder of the day free to explore the island or relax on the beach. Evening: talk by Chairman MCSS..
Day 2:	Morning: Boat based snorkel/Twin tank dive. Afternoon: Whale Shark monitoring. Evening: talk on Whale Shark biology and behaviour.
Day 3:	Morning: Boat based twin tank dive. Afternoon: Whale Shark monitoring.
Day 4:	Morning: Boat based snorkel/Twin tank dive. Afternoon: Whale Shark monitoring.
Day 5:	Morning: Boat based single tank long range dive. Afternoon: Whale Shark monitoring.
Day 6:	Morning: Boat based twin tank dive. Afternoon: Whale Shark monitoring. Evening: talk and trip round up by group leader.
Day 7:	You will have plenty of the day to explore the main island of Mahe. You will need to check out of your room at midday, but you can leave luggage with the concierge.

Please note: Those on a flight inclusive package will arrive 1 day earlier with 1 extra night in the hotel.