Mauritius : Dolphins Swim and Ile Aux Bénitiers with BBQ

If you’re dreaming of a day in Mauritius that mixes marine wildlife encounters, stunning island scenery, and a laid-back island vibe, then this Dolphins Swim and Ile Aux Bénitiers tour might be on your radar. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, based on detailed reviews and the tour’s offerings, it looks like a fantastic way to experience some of Mauritius’s best highlights — especially if you love spotting wild dolphins, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and enjoying a hearty BBQ on a beautiful island.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to swim with wild spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat — a rare and exciting experience. Second, the snorkeling along colorful coral reefs offers a glimpse into the vibrant marine life Mauritius is famous for. Third, the lunch on Benitiers Island with its laid-back BBQ setting promises both great food and a relaxing break.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size — with a maximum of 14 travelers, some reviews mention that larger boats can sometimes make dolphin sightings a bit more challenging, especially when many boats are chasing the same dolphins. Also, since dolphins are wild animals, there’s no guarantee they’ll be nearby on every trip, which is important to keep in mind for expectations.

This experience suits travelers who are eager for an authentic marine adventure, enjoy snorkeling, or simply want a memorable day exploring Mauritius’s west coast and island scenery. Families with moderate physical fitness should find it manageable, but those who love wildlife, water activities, and scenic boat rides will find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Authentic dolphin encounters: Swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment, not captive or in controlled settings.
• Snorkeling at coral reefs: Explore vivid underwater life with provided equipment.
• Beautiful island setting: Relax on Ile aux Bénitiers, enjoying a tasty BBQ meal.
• Professional guides and boat crew: Well-reviewed guides like Lolo and Bryan ensure a friendly, safe experience.
• Group size limitation: Max 14 travelers, which helps keep the tour intimate but might mean some crowding at times.
• Price and value: At around $73, it offers a good balance of activities and scenic beauty for the cost.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins early, with pickup at your hotel around 6:00 or 7:00 AM, depending on your location. The meeting point is Tamarin Public Beach, a spot known for its easy access and laid-back vibe. You’ll head out by speedboat around 7:30 AM, giving you the opportunity to beat some of the crowd and enjoy the morning light reflecting off the water.

The Dolphin Encounter

One of the main highlights is the chance to see and swim with wild dolphins. The guides’ names—as shared by reviewers—are Lolo and Bryan, and they’re praised for their professionalism and friendliness. They keep a close eye on the dolphins, which are free to swim where they please, and do their best to get everyone close enough for a swim.

Authentic dolphin sightings depend on luck and the dolphins’ mood—they’re wild animals after all. Some reviews mention that visibility can vary, with one traveler noting, “the water wasn’t real clear so seeing the dolphins was not easy.” But overall, most travelers leave with at least some encounters, often describing it as “an amazing chance” and “incredible.”

Snorkeling at Coral Reefs

Post dolphin swim, you’ll have time for snorkeling along a vibrant coral reef. The provided equipment makes it easy to explore, with many reviewers emphasizing the beauty of the tropical fish and the colorful underwater scenery. Expect to see an array of tropical fish and corals, which makes for perfect Instagram shots and memorable underwater moments.

Ile aux Bénitiers and the BBQ Lunch

Next, the journey takes you to Benitiers Island, a stunning spot characterized by white sands and crystal-clear water. Here, you’ll enjoy a barbecue meal—a mix of generous portions and flavorful grilled meats and seafood, often described as “copious” and “very good” by travelers.

The island itself is quiet and scenic, offering a relaxing environment to unwind after your water activities. Reviewers mention the friendly, convivial atmosphere and the helpful guides who ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Return and Drop-off

After the BBQ, your boat will head back to the starting point, with the driver returning you safely to your hotel. The entire trip lasts approximately six hours, making it a full but well-balanced day of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing.

The Value of the Experience

At around $73 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded package that includes snorkeling gear, a speedboat ride, and a hearty BBQ lunch. While some reviews note the necessity of discussing transport costs separately or paying cash for additional services, the overall value seems fair given the activities involved.

The small group size (maximum 14) enhances personal attention, though travelers should be aware that dolphin sightings are never guaranteed—a reality for any wild animal encounter. Despite this, the expert guidance and the scenic boat ride alone make it worthwhile for many.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

Many travelers emphasize the quality of guides like Lolo and Bryan, praising their professionalism and friendliness. Reviewers mention the beautiful views of the west coast, especially from the boat, describing it as “stunning,” and the guides’ efforts to get close to the dolphins as “top-notch”—though it is sometimes a bit of a chase due to the presence of multiple boats.

Some guests highlight that swimming with dolphins is a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” and that the snorkeling was “more colorful than expected,” with vibrant fish darting among the corals. Others appreciated the laid-back island atmosphere and the generous BBQ.

A few reviewers noted that water clarity was sometimes less than perfect, which can make dolphin spotting tricky, but overall, most found the experience engaging and rewarding.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular and typically booked about 26 days ahead, so reserve early if you want a spot.
• Bring swimwear and a towel: You’ll spend a lot of time in the water, so being comfortable is key.
• Prepare for early pickup: The tour starts early, so plan your morning accordingly.
• Expect variable dolphin sightings: Dolphins are wild, and their presence isn’t guaranteed, so keep an open mind.
• Consider your physical fitness: Moderate fitness levels are advised, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel extensively.
• Transport costs: If your hotel is not included in pickup, you might need to pay extra or arrange your own transfer.

The Sum Up

This Dolphins Swim and Ile aux Bénitiers tour offers a memorable slice of Mauritian life, combining wildlife encounters, underwater exploration, and island relaxation. The small group size, friendly guides, and scenic boat rides deliver genuine value, especially for travelers eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy authentic island BBQ.

While dolphin sightings depend on luck, most guests leave with stories of beautiful marine life and scenic views. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize authentic wildlife experiences, snorkeling, and leisurely island days. If you’re after a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup is not included but can be arranged at an extra cost. The meeting point is Tamarin Public Beach.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup around 6:00 or 7:00 AM, and the boat departs at approximately 7:30 AM.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 6 hours, including water activities, island time, and return.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 14, which helps keep the experience more intimate and personal.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, moderate physical fitness is recommended, as swimming and snorkeling are involved.

Can I see dolphins on every trip?
No, dolphins are wild animals, and sightings depend on their mood and location. They swim freely, so sightings can vary.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, offering a chance to see marine wildlife, snorkel among colorful fish, and enjoy a tasty island BBQ. It’s suited for travelers looking for an authentic, fun-filled day that captures the essence of Mauritius’s marine and island beauty.