Reunion Island, an exceptional place to practice diving
Renowned for its numerous volcanoes as well as for its white sandy beaches, Reunion Island is also widely recognized for the splendor of its seabed. Multiple species, such as sea turtles, dolphins, rays or even swordfish and tuna, are present on the Reunionese coasts. Meeting them is a chance to fully immerse yourself in a rich and colorful universe, which will enchant young and old alike.
Snorkeling, an eco-responsible activity accessible to all
The practice of snorkeling (diving with mask, flippers, and snorkel) has become increasingly popular over the last few years. As it is respectful of the ecosystems, this experience is one of the most sustainable activities to be carried out on the island, while being one of the most wonderful. Moreover, since it involves observing the marine fauna and flora from the surface, it is possible to use swimming armbands or floats, which makes the activity particularly suitable for a family afternoon! It is also an opportunity to make the youngest ones aware of the beauty and fragility of the underwater world and the need to protect it.
Shallow, the lagoons of the west coast of Reunion Island will be the favorite playgrounds of snorkeling enthusiasts. The lagoon of l’Ermitage, with its warm and crystal-clear water and its multitude of coral reefs is surely the most visited lagoon on the island, but you can also discover magnificent seascapes at the Lagoon of Saint-Pierre, or at the Salt Pond, to name but a few.
Make the most out of your excursion to practice your drawing skills! In the heart of the Saline lagoon, Frédérique, a professional illustrator, offers young and old alike the opportunity to draw the ocean bottoms they observe using a drawing board and seawater-resistant chalk. You can then leave with your masterpiece, which will be a unique and unforgettable souvenir of your stay in the heart of the Vanilla Islands.
Diving in Reunion Island: an unforgettable experience in the depths of the sea.
Diving in the Reunion Island means having the chance to meet dolphins, whales, and many other species in the very heart of their natural habitat. It is also an opportunity to explore the many wrecks off the island.
To enjoy the seabed without disturbing its inhabitants, here are some practices to be respected:
- Do not touch the animals or the different corals and plants that you may see.
- Do not try to follow the fishes.
- Do not feed them so as not to disturb their habits.
In Reunion Island, diving is also declined in the form of underwater trekking: with the help of a guide, discover the richness of the underwater landscapes of the numerous lagoons of the island. This is the opportunity to discover all the beauty of a remarkable biodiversity in the company of a professional!
Responsible management of the marine environment, an indispensable condition for the protection of ecosystems
To respect biodiversity as much as possible, the marine natural reserve of the Reunion Island was created in 2007. This 3,500-hectare area is dedicated to the protection of underwater species. Its main goal being to safeguard the island’s marine ecosystem, the organization has a scientific unit and carries out awareness raising actions.
How to adopt a responsible attitude during your diving session?
- Choose your sunscreen wisely.
It is now common knowledge that the chemical components of industrial sunscreens have harmful effects on the species living in our oceans, yet 25,000 tons of sunscreens are spread there every year. However, especially when snorkeling, it is essential to have an effective sunscreen (combined with anti-UV protection if possible). Fortunately, responsible alternatives without undesirable side effects have been developed in recent years. Therefore, it is important to choose a sunscreen with a cleaner composition, which will also have the advantage of being better for your health!
So, what are the criteria for a respectful sunscreen?
- Mineral UV filters (already present in the environment)
- Components mainly from organic farming
- To protect the environment as a whole, remember to select a sunscreen with recycled and recyclable packaging.
How to choose your diving center?
The choice of the diving center is essential for a responsible practice. The best is to favor centers that put in place at least the following actions:
- Use of rinsing tanks and showerheads with pressure reducer to save fresh water.
- Washing of diving gears with ecological cleaners.
- Use of a mooring system that respects the soil.
Cleaning up the ocean
Another way to give the environment a boost is to pick up any garbage you may find during your trip. Without turning your experience into an ocean clean-up session, every piece of garbage removed from the ocean helps preserving it. Who knows, your simple gesture may save the life of a turtle!
Respect for ecosystems and scuba diving are therefore perfectly compatible. So, put on your flippers and put on your wetsuit, it’s time to discover the marvelous seabed of the Indian Ocean!
