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Trou aux biches · Mauritius · Indian Ocean
Max. depth · 30 mCaravelle, Trou aux Biches: Mauritius plateau dive
Descend the northern plateau of Caravelle, where unique Platax species congregate and strong currents sometimes bring barracuda and trevally schools.
What makes this site special
- Gradual northern plateau descending from 13 to 30 metres.
- Home to three species of Platax, including the rare Platax boersii.
- Strong currents sometimes bring dense schools of barracuda.
- Frequent sightings of various trevally species.
- Presence of emperor, semicircular, and three-spot angelfish.
- Occasional encounters with rays, juvenile sharks, and turtles.
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Caravelle about the site
Diving Caravelle, you'll begin your descent onto a distinct northern plateau that starts at 13 meters. This initial section provides ample opportunity to orient yourself to the site's layout before exploring deeper. From this starting point, the topography gently slopes through stepped formations, allowing for a gradual exploration of the reef's rich biodiversity.
The plateau continues its descent, progressively reaching a maximum depth of 30 meters. This layered structure creates varied habitats, attracting a remarkable concentration of Platax. Keep an eye out for three distinct species: the orbicular batfish (Platax orbicularis), the rare Boers batfish (Platax boersii) which is not commonly seen in the Indian Ocean, and the longfin batfish (Platax teira).
Caravelle is often influenced by significant currents, which can transform the dive experience by bringing in impressive pelagic visitors. These currents are a key feature of the site, transporting dense schools of barracuda and various species of trevally. Observing these predatory fish in their element, often hunting, is a thrilling aspect of diving here.
Beyond the pelagics, the reef itself teems with vibrant life. Emperor angelfish, semicircular angelfish, and three-spot angelfish are regular inhabitants, their bright colours adding to the tapestry of the reef. While not guaranteed on every dive, conditions permitting, you might also have encounters with rays, juvenile sharks, and the serene presence of turtles navigating the plateau.
Diving Caravelle: the marine life you’ll meet
Diving conditions
Caravelle is accessible to all certified divers who are comfortable handling currents, with a depth range from 13 to 30 meters. While conditions can be calm, prepare for potentially strong currents at times. Mauritius boasts year-round diving conditions on the northwest coast, ensuring good diving opportunities throughout the year.
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Frequently asked questions about Caravelle
When can you dive Caravelle?
Caravelle can be dived throughout the year because Mauritius offers year-round diving conditions on the northwest coast. Conditions at the site can be calm, so you may find suitable opportunities across the seasons. Even so, your planning should account for the possibility that currents may become strong at times.
What level of experience do you need for Caravelle?
Caravelle is accessible to all certified divers who are comfortable handling currents. You should therefore consider your own confidence in current management before choosing the site. The depth range extends from 13 to 30 metres, while the plateau’s stepped formations allow gradual exploration after you begin the descent.
How deep is Caravelle, and what is the underwater terrain like?
Caravelle begins on a northern plateau at 13 metres and descends gradually through stepped formations to 30 metres. This layout gives you space to orient yourself at the start before exploring deeper sections. The changing levels create varied habitats across the reef as you continue along the slope.
What currents and marine life can you encounter at Caravelle?
Caravelle can be influenced by strong currents, which may bring dense schools of barracuda and various trevally species. You may also see three species of Platax, including Platax boersii, as well as emperor, semicircular, and three-spot angelfish. Rays, juvenile sharks, and turtles appear occasionally, depending on conditions.
