Scuba dive the Cathedral reef
A spectacular offshore reef formation featuring dramatic swim-throughs and archways that give the site its ‘Cathedral’ name. The site is known for good visibility, healthy hard and soft corals, and a rich variety of reef fish, turtles and occasional rays. Suitable for certified divers with moderate experience due to depth and occasional currents.
Location
Cathedral Reef (off Flic‑en‑Flac), Flic‑en‑Flac, Mauritius
Duration
Typical half-day trip: 3–5 hours (includes briefing, 2 dives and surface interval). Single dive option: 2–3 hours.
Best Time to Visit
April to December for calmer seas and best visibility; avoid the cyclone season (January–March) when conditions can be rough.
Pricing
Approx. €60–€120 (US$65–US$140) per person per two-dive half-day trip. Single dives typically €40–€70 (US$45–US$80). Prices usually include guide, boat transfer and basic tank & weights; rental gear, park fees and transfers may be extra.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Distinctive swim-throughs and large arch formations resembling a cathedral
Healthy hard and soft coral gardens
Excellent visibility (often 15–30 m) on good days
Regular sightings of green and hawksbill turtles
Occasional eagle rays, reef sharks and large pelagic visitors
Vibrant reef fish — parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish and schools of snapper
Itinerary
Meet at dive centre / equipment fitting
Complete paperwork, confirm certification, assemble gear and brief on site conditions and safety.
Boat transfer to Cathedral Reef
Short ride offshore — weather-dependent. Listen to captain’s instructions for boarding and entry procedures.
First dive (down to 18–30 m depending on profiles)
Explore arches and swim-throughs; typical bottom time 40–50 minutes depending on air consumption and depth.
Surface interval
Light snacks/refreshments; brief for second dive; swap tanks or adjust weights if needed.
Second dive or shore dive alternative
Second dive focuses on different section of the reef or shallower coral slopes — often 12–20 m for relaxed exploration.
Return to shore and debrief
Log the dive, secure equipment and arrange transport if required.
Safety Requirements
Minimum certification: PADI Open Water, CMAS or equivalent for most operators; some sites may require Advanced Open Water for deeper sections
Medical fitness to dive — complete medical form and consult a doctor if you have recent health issues or chronic conditions
Maximum recommended depth: follow guide instructions (often 30 m limit) and dive within your training and logged experience
Buddy system and following guide briefings at all times
Observe no-fly/no-high-altitude rules: avoid flying for at least 18–24 hours after diving (longer recommended for multiple or deep dives)
Carry appropriate dive insurance covering emergency evacuation and recompression chamber access
Tips
Book with a reputable local dive centre in Flic‑en‑Flac and confirm boat and guide experience
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water — protect the reef and yourself
If you plan underwater photography, secure buoyancy and bring a surface marker buoy for the boat
Check tides and possible currents; some dives at Cathedral can have moderate currents, so good buoyancy control is important
Log your dives and mention any recent experience with current or deep dives when booking
Consider combining the dive with a half-day exploring other nearby dive sites around Flic‑en‑Flac
