Octopus Dive Centre is a family-run PADI 5 Star dive center on Côte d’Or beach in Praslin. With more than 20 years of experience, the team offers introductory programs, PADI training, guided dives, night diving and nitrox courses.
Reef sharks and seasonal whale sharks
Whitetip reef sharks may be encountered year-round around Praslin and at the granite dive sites visited by the center. Octopus Dive Centre includes sharks among the region’s larger marine animals but does not guarantee a particular species or sighting. Encounters take place during regular dives.
Whale sharks visit the Inner Islands mainly from August to November. The nearby Île Cocos Marine Park gives the same period, although sightings during dives or boat trips from Praslin are considerably more opportunistic than on a dedicated search from Mahé. Octopus Dive Centre does not advertise a guaranteed whale shark tour.
Season and dive program
Diving is possible throughout the year. April and May and October and November often bring calmer water and make it easier to reach more distant sites. During stronger trade winds, the center selects more sheltered alternatives around Praslin.
The regional program includes sites near Curieuse, Ave Maria and White Bank. The route actually chosen depends on the day’s weather, currents and the group’s experience. Guests should also ask about possible surcharges for longer-distance sites.
Several dives are advisable for a trip focused on sharks. Whitetip reef sharks do not have a narrow season, while August to November is the most sensible planning window for whale sharks. Even during those months, every encounter remains unguaranteed.
