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| Sainte Anne Marine Park - Seychelles Island Information & Guide | |||||||
 Tel: 0844 412 0848 Int'l: +44 1428 620012 Islands, Reefs, Mountains & Rainforests
Kenya Safari Extension
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Area Size: 14.43 Km²
Introduction The Sainte Anne Marine National Park lies approximately 5 km from the nation's capital of Victoria, Mahé. It was accredited its National Park status back in 1973 and was to be one of the first Marine National Parks in the Indian Ocean. The total land area of the six islands is 3.80 km, while the total Marine National Park area equates to 14.43 km². It comprises of 6 small islands, including Saint Anne (2.19 km²) Cerf (1.27 km²), Île Cachée (0.02 km²), Round (0.02 km²), Long (0.21 km²) and Moyenne (0.09 km²), all of which form the Mont Fleuri district. Exploration of this beautiful and unique Marine National Park provides an enjoyable yet quiet alternative to Mahé, for those who have one or two nights to spare. The Marine Park looks absolutely wonderful from the air either on an inbound flight to Mahé or alternatively on one of our microlight aerial whale shark surveys. The Marine Park can also be passed through on ferry crossings between Mahé and Praslin. The underwater area of the Saint Anne Marine Park was once a thriving area for coral reefs. Unfortunately, its proximity to local development and the direct impact of El Niño events have caused the reef to deteriorate. However, close studies of the reef area have indicated signs of recovery. The Marine National Park boasts one of the largest areas of sea grass of the granitic islands. The crystal clear waters of the Marine Park harbour an abundance of beautiful marine life, just waiting to be explored. In amongst the kaleidoscopic colours of coral, anemones and algae lives a whole host of fascinating fish species. Consequently, snorkelling and diving are very popular here, with local guides on hand to provide an incredible insight into the natural history of the reefs and the marine life that dwell within them. Motorised sports are not permitted anywhere within the Marine Park, which is great news for the marine life and bathers, but also helps to preserve the peaceful tranquillity of the islands.
The Marine National Park is an excellent location for kayaking, an environmentally friendly activity which is not only relaxing, but also allows one to explore the islands from a completely different perspective. The Marine National Park now protects more than 150 different types of fish. Fishing is of course forbidden anywhere within the park area, as is the collecting of shells and coral. Furthermore, all motorized water sports are prohibited within the Park vicinity so as not to disturb the local wildlife. All non residents wishing to enter the park must be able to present a valid entrance ticket, which can be purchases from one of the ticket outlets. These tickets must be retained and surrendered on request to park rangers when they carry out their daily routine patrols. The conservation and maintenance of Sainte Anne National Park is considered dearly by the Seychelles people and is an important part of their cultural heritage. A polite notice that can be found within the park reads, "Take away nothing but photographs and memories." Photographs kindly provided by Holly Payne |
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