Three Anchors East

Overview

Three Anchors East sits within the protective embrace of the eastern reef system of Mauritius, a stretch of coastline renowned for its calm, turquoise lagoons and diverse marine habitats. The site takes its evocative name from a cluster of old anchors – relics of trading vessels and fishing boats that once navigated these waters – which now lie partially encrusted with coral, serving as artificial reef structures that attract a wealth of sea life. The dive is generally accessible to a broad range of experience levels, making it a popular choice for dive centres operating out of the east coast's resort villages such as Belle Mare, Trou d'Eau Douce, and Palmar.

The reef topography here is pleasingly varied. Divers descend through the clear water column to encounter a landscape of coral heads, sandy channels, and low-profile rocky outcroppings. The seabed transitions gently from shallow reef flats to slightly deeper sections, giving divers plenty to explore as they navigate the site at a relaxed pace.

Marine Life

The biodiversity at Three Anchors East is one of its strongest draws. The coral gardens support a colourful community of reef fish that provide constant visual entertainment throughout the dive. Expect to see:

• Parrotfish and Surgeonfish – grazing busily across hard coral surfaces, their vivid hues catching the filtered sunlight.
• Moray Eels – tucked into crevices and beneath coral overhangs, occasionally extending their heads with characteristic curiosity.
• Lionfish – hovering gracefully near the reef, their elaborate fins a reminder to maintain respectful distance.
• Octopus – masters of camouflage that reward patient observers with a fleeting glimpse of their intelligence.
• Trumpetfish and Scorpionfish – blending almost perfectly with the substrate, testing your eye for detail.
• Schools of Fusiliers and Snapper – streaming through the water column in shimmering silver clouds.

Lucky divers may also spot green sea turtles resting on the reef or cruising overhead, as the east coast of Mauritius is a well-known corridor for these gentle reptiles. Reef sharks, including whitetip and blacktip varieties, are occasionally sighted on deeper passes of the site.

Dive Conditions

The east coast of Mauritius benefits from the shelter offered by the outer barrier reef, which dampens ocean swells and keeps inshore conditions relatively calm for much of the year. Visibility at Three Anchors East is generally good, often ranging between 15 and 25 metres depending on the season and recent weather. Water temperatures sit comfortably between 24°C in the cooler austral winter months (June to September) and up to 29°C during the warmer summer period (November to April).

Currents at this site tend to be mild to moderate, making navigation straightforward for most divers. Occasional tidal currents can pick up slightly, which simply serves to bring in nutrient-rich water and increase fish activity – an added bonus for underwater observers. A 3 mm wetsuit is sufficient for most of the year, though a 5 mm suit may be preferable during June through August.

Best Season

Three Anchors East can be dived year-round, but the optimal window for clarity and marine activity falls between October and April, when the south-east trade winds ease and the sea settles into a glassy calm. This period also coincides with warmer water temperatures and the presence of migratory pelagic species. The winter months (May to September) offer their own rewards, with excellent visibility and frequent turtle sightings, though wind-driven chop on the surface can occasionally make boat rides less comfortable.

Practical Tips

• Book your dive through a PADI- or SSI-certified dive centre on the east coast for the most reliable local knowledge and safety briefings.
• Arrive early in the morning for the calmest surface conditions and the best light penetration into the reef.
• Carry an SMB (surface marker buoy) as a safety precaution, especially if conditions change and boat traffic increases.
• Respect the anchors and coral formations – buoyancy control is essential to protect these delicate structures.
• Bring an underwater torch even during the day to illuminate the interiors of crevices where eels and crustaceans shelter.
• Check local weather forecasts the evening before, as the east coast can experience sudden afternoon squalls during the summer months.