Dive Site: Red Point

About Red Point

Red Point is a notable dive site located at the southernmost tip of Curieuse Island, within the protective boundaries of the Curieuse Marine Park. This site is conveniently accessible, often just a ten-minute boat ride from local dive centers, depending on sea conditions. Its underwater landscape is characterized by massive granite boulders, some of which are visible above the surface, creating an intricate topography of swim-throughs and formations below. Diving here typically ranges from a comfortable 5 meters down to a maximum of 15 meters, making it suitable for various experience levels. The submerged granitic structures are home to a vibrant array of marine life. The site is particularly renowned for encounters with larger species, including various shark types and schools of pelagic fish. Divers can anticipate regular sightings of spotted eagle rays and whitetip sharks patrolling the area. Schools of yellowfin soldierfish navigate the rocky formations, while Moorish idols and yellowbanded rubberlips add splashes of color to the reef. The overall dive experience at Red Point is active and engaging, offering a chance to explore a unique geological setting teeming with diverse marine inhabitants.

Dive site facts: Red Point

Depth

5–15 m

Typical dive

~15 m, ~51 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

14.6 m (average region)

Water temperature

27–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Beginner to Advanced

Dive type

Reef, Boulder formations, Marine Park

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Praslin, Seychelles

Coordinates

4.8262° S, 55.0424° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Red Point are generally described as mild, making it a manageable site for various diver levels. However, as is common with many dive sites in the Seychelles, conditions can occasionally involve some current, particularly around prominent rock formations. Divers should always be attentive during the briefing for specific current directions and entry/exit procedures, as these details are crucial for safety and enjoyment. Visibility tends to be good, averaging around 14.6 meters in the wider Praslin area, though it can fluctuate. The water temperature is consistently warm, ranging between 27-30°C, which helps maintain comfort during dives. Divers should still plan their air consumption considering the potential for drift or extended exploration around the large boulders.

Marine life & sighting chances

Spotted Eagle Ray

common

Whitetip Shark

common

Yellowfin Soldierfish

common

Moorish Idol

common

Yellowbanded Rubberlip

common

Whale Shark

October-February · occasional

Nurse Shark

occasional

Blacktip Reef Shark

occasional

Hawksbill Turtle

occasional

Green Turtle

occasional

Giant Moray Eel

occasional

Napoleon Wrasse

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Red Point begins with a boat entry, typically a short ride from the dive center. Following the briefing, which will detail current direction and entry technique, divers will descend as a group. The dive profile involves exploring the dramatic underwater topography created by gigantic submerged granite boulders, some of which break the surface. The route will generally follow the contours of these formations, allowing divers to navigate between them and observe the diverse marine life found in their crevices and along their slopes. Depths typically range from 5 to 15 meters, providing ample bottom time for exploration. Divers should maintain good buoyancy control to avoid contact with the reef and to navigate swim-throughs safely. The dive concludes with a gradual ascent, ensuring a three-minute safety stop at 5 meters, before surfacing near the boat, which tracks the group throughout the dive.

Underwater photography

Red Point provides excellent wide-angle opportunities due to its impressive granite boulder formations and the potential for pelagic encounters. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the underwater landscape, as well as schooling fish and larger animals like spotted eagle rays or whitetip sharks. For macro subjects, the crevices and coral patches on the boulders can yield interesting finds. Natural light photography is often effective given the relatively shallow depth and good visibility. If using strobes, diffuse light to reduce backscatter, especially when plankton is present, and maintain a respectful distance from marine life. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the fragile ecosystem and to achieve stable shots in potentially mild currents.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Ave Maria (Praslin)

  Rocky islands with canyons, rich in pelagic and reef life, 5-25m.

• St. Pierre

  Island north of Praslin, suitable for all levels, 4-12m.

• White Bank

  East of Praslin, submerged granitic rocks with sponges and corals, 15-22m.

• Channel Rocks

  East of Praslin, submerged granite reef, 10-25m.

• Curieuse Marine Park

  Red Point is located within this park, offering a broader protected area.

Getting there & logistics

Red Point is typically accessed via day boat trips departing from Praslin, which is served by Praslin Island Airport (PRI) with connections to Mahé (SEZ). Dive centers on Praslin, such as those found on the eastern side, are the primary operators for this site. The journey to the site is short, often around 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for half-day excursions. Red Point is located within the Curieuse Marine National Park, which may entail a park fee per diver, usually around $15 USD. Liveaboards operating in the Seychelles may also include this site in their itineraries, particularly those focusing on the inner islands. Trips often combine Red Point with other sites around Curieuse Island or nearby Praslin.

Safety & environment

The nearest recompression chamber for the Seychelles is located on Mahé, approximately 44 km from Praslin. In the event of a dive emergency at Red Point, evacuation would involve boat transfer to Praslin, followed by potential onward transfer to Mahé for specialized medical care, highlighting the importance of proper dive planning and safety protocols. Divers should ensure they have comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Red Point is generally suited for most divers due to its mild currents and moderate depths, but always pay close attention to the dive briefing regarding site-specific conditions and entry/exit procedures. Adhere to depth limits and never dive alone. Staying with your dive guide or buddy is crucial in areas with complex topography or potential currents.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Red Point FAQ

Liveaboards diving Red Point

These liveaboards may visit Red Point 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

$212/day

Sea Bird and Sea Star

Seychelles

18 guests42 m

$288/day