The Kei Sei 113 is one of Mauritius's most celebrated wreck dives, lying off the west coast near Flic en Flac — one of the island's most popular diving destinations. This former fishing vessel was deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef, and over the decades it has become a cornerstone dive of the region. The wreck sits at a depth accessible to intermediate divers, making it a versatile site that attracts a wide range of skill levels. The silhouette of the hull, now draped in soft corals and encrusting organisms, provides a dramatic backdrop for underwater photography and exploration.
The vessel's structure remains largely intact, offering penetration opportunities for those trained and equipped for wreck diving. Even divers who prefer to swim around the exterior will find hours of interest in the marine communities that have established themselves both above and below the hull. The sandy seabed surrounding the wreck adds contrast and often harbours flatfish, rays, and small cephalopods that complete the biodiversity picture.
The Kei Sei 113 is renowned for the sheer diversity of life it supports. The transformation from steel hull to living reef has created a layered ecosystem that rewards patient observation. Among the most commonly encountered species are:
The west coast of Mauritius is sheltered from the dominant south-east trade winds, giving the Flic en Flac area generally calm and clear conditions for much of the year. Visibility at the Kei Sei 113 typically ranges from 15 to 30 metres, depending on season and recent weather. Currents at the site are generally mild, making it comfortable for extended exploration, though a gentle drift can occasionally sweep across the site during tidal changes — something to factor into your dive plan. Water temperatures range from around 23°C in the austral winter months to 28°C or above in the summer.
Diving on the Kei Sei 113 is a year-round proposition, but the optimal window falls between October and April, when warm surface temperatures and extended daylight hours enhance the overall experience. The dry season months of May through September bring slightly cooler water and occasionally stronger winds on the exposed eastern side of the island, but the west coast remains largely protected. November through April corresponds with the austral summer and the cyclone season — while actual cyclone strikes are rare, passing tropical systems can reduce visibility temporarily. Overall, any visit outside of major storm events will yield an excellent dive.
The Kei Sei 113 is serviced by numerous dive centres based in Flic en Flac, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Port Louis and about an hour from the main tourist hub of Grand Baie. Most dive operators offer morning and afternoon boat departures, with the short boat ride to the site taking roughly 10 to 20 minutes from the Flic en Flac marina area.