Blue Water Divers

Blue Water Divers has been a fixture of the Mauritian diving scene since 1987. Located along the coastal road on the northwest coast, between Trou aux Biches and Mon Choisy, the centre has established itself as a specialist in the region's diverse marine ecosystems.

The centre operates with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, acting as a partner to the MMCO NGO for the conservation of cetaceans, sharks, and sea turtles. This dedication to the ocean is reflected in their operational habits, such as the use of mooring buoys to protect the reef flats from anchor damage.

Led by Hugues Vitry, a renowned naturalist and CMAS 3* instructor, the centre carries a deep knowledge of local biodiversity. The team is experienced in guiding divers through everything from shallow reef explorations to advanced technical dives.

Instruction is provided across multiple international frameworks, including PADI, CMAS, and FFESSM. The centre is well-equipped to handle a wide range of divers, offering specialised training in underwater photography and video, as well as formal instructor development programmes.

The training catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of diver progression. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or PADI Open Water Scuba Diver, while more advanced divers can pursue PADI Divemaster or the PADI Tek Diver courses.

For those following the CMAS path, the centre offers everything from CMAS Level 1 (1 STAR diver) through to CMAS Instructor (2 STAR instructor). Specialized certifications are also available, including PADI Deep Diver, Nitrox, and professional training for Confined Instructors and Assistant Instructors.

The fleet includes the BWD 1, an open dive boat powered by twin 140 HP Suzuki outboards, with a capacity for 16 passengers. For different requirements, the BWD 3 is a modified pleasure craft that can accommodate up to 20 passengers.

Onboard, you will find water, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, with cold meals provided during shark safaris. The boats are equipped to handle various trip types, including full-day excursions to the Northern Islands, whale and sperm whale watching, and night dives.

The shore facilities are comprehensive, featuring a reception, boutique, classroom, and a social area. Divers have access to changing rooms, showers, and toilets, alongside a dedicated equipment storage area and a veranda for relaxing between dives.

On the technical side, the centre operates two compressors, a Bauer and an LW 450 ES Silent, to ensure reliable gas supply. Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom time, and the centre also supports Trimix diving for technical profiles.

The reefs are teeming with colourful life, including various species of Angelfish (Pomacanthidae), Butterflyfish (Chaetodon), and Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae). You will frequently encounter schools of Fusilier (Caesio), much of which is accompanied by colourful Wrasse (Labridae) and various species of Triggerfish (Balistidae).

Macro life enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, from Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) to various species of Octopus (Octopus vulgaris). The sites are also home to interesting crustaceans such as red crabs and cleaner shrimp (Lysmata), alongside various species of Scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) and Stonefish (Synanceia).

For those looking for larger pelagics, the area hosts Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), various types of sharks (Selachimorpha), and rays including the Southern stingray (Hypanus americanus) and Eagle ray (Aetobatus). During the correct seasons, you may also encounter Humpback whales or Sperm whales.

Seasonal sightings include Humpback whales from late April to October, while Sperm whales can be found year-round, with adult males appearing more frequently between November and April.

Most dives in the area are drift dives, and the local currents can be influenced by distant winds as well as the tides. Some sites, such as Caravelle and Whale Rocks, can experience strong currents that require confident divers.

Accessibility to the Northern Islands and certain sites like Nab Reef is seasonal, typically best from October to April when weather conditions are more favourable. During the southeast monsoon from late May to late October, certain northern sites may be less accessible.