WHAT TO EXPECT ON A CURIEUSE LIVEABOARD

Liveaboard diving in Curieuse visits this virtually uninhabited bio-reserve, only 2km north of Praslin. Its islanders and visitors have set up a conservation project specializing in the protection of turtles and Aldabra giant tortoises, approximately 500 of them. Most Seychelles liveaboards will depart from nearby islands of Mahe or Praslin to the granitic inner island of Curieuse.

Curieuse liveaboards will give divers a chance to explore this unique island in the Seychelles. Originally named Isle Rouge, for its notable red earth, it was renamed after a French schooner called ‘La Curieuse’ after French possession of the island. The contrast between this red and the green of the foliage is mesmerizing. A mangrove forest exists on the southern part of the island between Baie Laraie and Anse José, adding to the incredible landscape of the island.

Along with Praslin, it is famed for the unique Coco de Mer palms and the Seychelles black parrot. For its small size, its history is nothing short of interesting. Once a leper colony, ruins are still visible and the Doctor’s house at Anse José a reminder of such times, showcasing true Creole colonial architecture. A Curieuse liveaboard is a great chance to experience this area.

The Curieuse Marine National Park was declared in 1979 and its waters and wildlife protected. There are no hotels or restaurants on the island, liveaboard diving remains the best way to dive the area. Liveaboard.com offers a great range of liveaboards around Curieuse for all budget levels.

CURIEUSE UNDERWATER

Curieuse Marine National Park was designated to protect its outstanding natural beauty and ecological importance of its marine life. Liveaboards to the Curieuse Marine National Park anchor at Baie Laraie, where the shallow water is known for its population of humphead parrotfish, up to 1.2 m in length.

As well as enjoying the mainland topography and wildlife, liveaboard diving around Curieuse offers the opportunity to discover its underwater world. A pristine and untouched setting with vibrant corals amongst a backdrop of granite outcrops, it is a playground for marine species such as humphead parrotfish, surgeons, and emperor angelfish. There are a couple of great sites for night diving and macro photography with critters appearing from all sides making this Curieuse liveaboard itinerary an excellent addition to your dive trip. 

DIVE SITES OF CURIEUSE

Close to Curieuse, there are a few dive sites to be visited.  St. Pierre is a picturesque granite outcrop, situated within the Curieuse Marine Park. A shallow dive of 8-10m, it is a photographer’s paradise and an excellent night dive with luring octopus, lobster, Spanish dancers, sea hares, and more.

If possible, enjoy a dive at Coral Garden, pristine and untouched, this site is worth the dive. Adorned with fields of corals and an array of marine life from snappers, turtles, shoals of batfish, a few barracuda and for the lucky the migrating manta passing through.

A late afternoon dive at Point Rouge is the perfect way to end the day. This red granitic headland jutting out from Curieuse Island is surrounded by large granite rocks and coral reef and is a congregating place for shoaling jacks and barracuda. Gullies and overhangs serve as hiding places for giant stingrays and nurse sharks.

TOP TIPS FOR DIVERS

Diving is year-round with cooler temperatures between May and October when a southeast trade wind is present. From November to March, temperatures and humidity rise with the northwest monsoon wind.

Marine National Park fees apply

It is recommended to have your own diving equipment (although renting onsite is possible), logbook, recent medical certificate.

GETTING TO CURIEUSE

Air Seychelles, Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, Air Berlin, Kenya Airways, all fly into Mahé’s Victoria International Airport. Seychelles liveaboard itineraries covering Curieuse depart from either Mahé or Praslin. Air Seychelles, operates domestic flights from Mahé to Praslin. Alternatively, daily ferry connections from Mahé inter-island quay to the Baie Ste. Anne jetty on Praslin is available. Please ensure you arrive on Praslin in good time if your diving liveaboard departs from there.  Curieuse is only a 20mins boat ride from Praslin.