Belle Mare Aquarium

Overview

Belle Mare Aquarium is one of the most celebrated beginner dive sites along the east coast of Mauritius. Sitting just offshore from the picturesque village of Belle Mare, this sheltered lagoon reef offers depths ranging from a comfortable 8 metres to a maximum of 15 metres, making it accessible to newly certified divers and confident snorkellers alike. The site earns its colourful nickname from the extraordinary density of reef fish and corals that carpet every surface, creating the impression of drifting through a living, breathing aquarium.

The reef structure itself is a patchwork of coral gardens, sandy channels, and rocky outcrops that provide shelter for an astonishing variety of marine species. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 15–20 metres thanks to the protected lagoon environment and minimal run-off from this stretch of coastline. With virtually no current to contend with, divers can take their time exploring every nook and crevice without fighting the water.

Marine Life

The star attractions at Belle Mare Aquarium are undoubtedly its resident green sea turtles, which can frequently be spotted resting on coral bommies or gracefully gliding through the water column. Patient divers who approach slowly and respectfully are often rewarded with extended, close-up encounters with these magnificent creatures.

• Parrotfish: Several species of parrotfish patrol the reef, their beak-like teeth constantly grazing on coral, creating that distinctive crunching sound underwater. Their vivid turquoise and pink hues add enormous visual drama to every dive.
• Anemonefish: Clusters of anemones dotted across the reef host resident anemonefish, whose darting orange-and-white forms are irresistible to underwater photographers.
• Butterflyfish & Angelfish: A rich variety of butterflyfish and angelfish weave between coral heads, providing a constant moving tapestry of colour.
• Moray Eels: Keep an eye in the crevices – spotted and honeycomb morays are common residents here.
• Lionfish & Scorpionfish: Camouflaged perfectly against the reef, these species reward observant divers who look carefully.
• Reef Sharks: Occasional blacktip reef sharks cruise the outer edges of the reef, adding a thrilling element to the dive.

Dive Conditions

Belle Mare Aquarium is renowned for its forgiving conditions. Current is essentially absent within the lagoon, and wave action is minimal thanks to the outer barrier reef that shields this part of the coast. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from around 24°C in winter (June–August) to 29°C in summer (December–February), so a 3mm wetsuit is sufficient for most divers at any time of year.

The sandy bottom and calm water column make buoyancy control practice effortless here, which is why many dive centres use this site for Open Water certification dives. The maximum depth of 15 metres means bottom time is generous, and divers can comfortably enjoy a 45–60 minute dive without rushing.

Best Season

Belle Mare Aquarium can be dived every single month of the year, and all twelve months are listed as optimal for this site. However, the summer months from October through to April offer the warmest water and the highest likelihood of turtle sightings, as sea turtles tend to be more active in warmer conditions. The trade wind season from May to September brings slightly cooler but very clear water, and this period is excellent for underwater photography due to superb visibility. There is no true off-season here – even during the occasional summer cyclone alerts, the sheltered lagoon usually remains diveable.

Tips for Divers

• Arrive early in the morning for the calmest surface conditions and the best light penetration for photography.
• Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid touching the corals – the reef is delicate and easily damaged.
• Move slowly around turtles; sudden movements will cause them to flee. Keep a respectful distance of at least one metre.
• Bring an underwater torch even during the day to illuminate crevices where morays and lobsters hide.
• If you are completing an Open Water course, this site is perfect for confined-water-style skills practice in a real reef environment.
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water to protect the fragile coral ecosystem.