Dive Site: Twin Barges Wreck

About Twin Barges Wreck

The Twin Barges Wreck, located near Mahé Island, offers a captivating dive into an artificial reef created when two barges were purposefully scuttled in 1989. This initiative, undertaken by the Association of Professional Divers of Seychelles, aimed to enhance marine habitats. Over the decades, these wrecks have become heavily encrusted with an array of hard corals, fan corals, and sponges, now serving as a thriving sanctuary for abundant marine life. The site's maximum depth reaches 35 meters, though a typical dive often ranges around 25 meters, making it accessible for open water certified divers. The wrecks lie at the foot of Corsair Reef, providing a unique combination of history and exceptional biodiversity. Divers can expect excellent visibility, often up to 30 meters, contributing to a clear view of the wrecks and their inhabitants. The absence of strong currents at this site makes it particularly appealing, even for night dives. The calm conditions allow divers to thoroughly explore the intricate details of the barges and observe the myriad creatures that have made these structures their home. This dive offers a serene yet engaging underwater adventure for those looking to experience Seychelles' underwater heritage.

Dive site facts: Twin Barges Wreck

Depth

14–35 m

Typical dive

25 m

Current

Low to none

Visibility

10–30 m

Water temperature

26–30 °C

Entry

Boat

Level

OWD

Dive type

Wreck, artificial reef

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Mahé Island, Seychelles

Coordinates

-4.635, 55.425

Conditions & Currents

The Twin Barges Wreck is renowned for its low to non-existent currents, offering a remarkably calm and stable diving environment. This makes the site highly suitable for divers who prefer relaxed exploration without the challenge of strong water movement. Entry and exit are typically straightforward, benefiting from the placid conditions. Visibility is generally excellent, often reaching 10 to 30 meters, and is not significantly impacted by current-induced particulate matter. The consistent lack of strong currents also means divers can enjoy extended bottom times and meticulous wreck exploration, with minimal concerns for drift or surge. This tranquil setting is particularly advantageous for night dives, where stability is paramount for detailed observation and safety.

Marine life & sighting chances

Pufferfish

common

Porcupinefish

common

Lionfish

common

Octopus

common

Scorpionfish

common

Stonefish

occasional

Crocodilefish

occasional

Moray eels

common

Golden trevally

occasional

Jackfish

occasional

Catfish

occasional

Stingrays

occasional

Sweetlips

common

Parrotfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at the Twin Barges typically begins with a boat entry directly over the wreck site near Mahé. Descend slowly along one of the barges, which rests at an average depth of 25 meters, though parts extend to 35 meters. Explore the exterior, observing the vibrant coral growth and abundant reef fish that have colonized the structures. You can then navigate along the length of both barges, moving between them to appreciate their transformation into a thriving artificial reef. Keep an eye out for hidden creatures like moray eels and octopuses within the nooks and crannies. The relatively mild currents allow for a relaxed pace, providing ample time for photography and close observation. The turn point is determined by your air consumption or planned bottom time. Your ascent will typically follow a controlled path back towards the boat, with your safety stop conducted at 5 meters over the top of the wreck or nearby reef structure.

Underwater photography

The Twin Barges Wreck offers exceptional opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography due to its diverse marine life and the structural integrity of the wrecks. For wide-angle shots, a fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal to capture the full scope of the barges, adorned with corals and schools of fish. Consider natural light or external strobes to illuminate the vibrant colors of the hard and fan corals, especially at deeper sections. For macro enthusiasts, a macro lens is perfect for capturing the intricate details of lionfish, scorpionfish, and various invertebrates sheltering within the wreck's crevices. Given the calm conditions, you'll have ample time for precise focusing and composition. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid stirring up sediment and to protect the delicate coral growth on the wreck surfaces. Respect marine life by observing from a distance and avoiding any disturbance.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Ennerdale Wreck

  A deeper tanker wreck also near Mahé.

• White Bank

  A bank dive site known for pelagic encounters.

• Lighthouse Reef (Mahé)

  A popular reef dive site with diverse marine life.

• Shark Bank (Mahé)

  Known for potential shark sightings.

Getting there & logistics

Access to the Twin Barges Wreck is primarily via liveaboard cruises or day trips departing from Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé is the main gateway, with flights from various international carriers. Liveaboards typically offer itineraries ranging from 7 to 10 days, often combining wreck dives like the Twin Barges with visits to pristine reefs and other outer island sites. Land-based divers can arrange day trips from dive centers located near Beau Vallon beach. There are no specific additional park fees for this wreck site, as it is generally included in organized dive packages. It's often combined with other Mahé-area wrecks and reef dives to provide a varied itinerary for divers.

Safety & environment

Diving the Twin Barges Wreck generally presents a safe environment due to its mild currents. However, divers should always adhere to standard safety protocols. Ensure your dive equipment is well-maintained and conduct thorough buddy checks. The nearest recompression chamber is located on Mahé Island, making emergency medical care accessible, though evacuation to the facility can take time depending on your exact location and sea conditions. Dive insurance covering emergency medical treatment and evacuation is highly recommended for all divers. While exploring the wreck, avoid penetration unless specifically trained and accompanied by a qualified guide. Respect the marine environment by not touching corals or disturbing marine life to preserve this artificial reef for future divers.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Twin Barges Wreck FAQ

Liveaboards diving Twin Barges Wreck

These liveaboards may visit Twin Barges Wreck on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Explorer 1

Seychelles

6 guests17 m

$522/day

Sea Pearl

Seychelles

16 guests36 m

$211/day

Sea Bird and Sea Star

Seychelles

18 guests42 m

$288/day