If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water with some of the ocean’s most graceful creatures, this Mauritius tour promises a memorable experience. While it’s marketed as a chance to swim with dolphins in their natural environment, some travelers have found their expectations unmet. Still, many enjoy the combination of dolphin encounters, snorkeling, and island cuisine, making it a well-rounded day out.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on respectful interaction with wildlife, the stunning setting of Crystal Rock, and the chance to relax over a hearty island lunch. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup makes it easy to join without extra fuss. However, it’s worth mentioning that reviews highlight some reliability issues, so this is a tour best suited for those flexible and comfortable with potential unpredictability.
If you’re after a full-day adventure that mixes marine encounters, scenic views, and local flavors, this tour could be just the thing. But do keep in mind the mixed reviews about punctuality and communication. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and are willing to roll with the punches.
Key Points
- Wildlife Respect: The tour emphasizes respectful dolphin interactions, which is great for eco-conscious travelers.
- Variety of Activities: You’ll enjoy dolphin swimming, snorkeling at Crystal Rock, and a scenic island lunch—all in one day.
- Transport Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save you time and hassle.
- Mixed Reviews: Some guests experienced no-shows or communication issues, so flexibility is advised.
- Value for Money: At $106, it offers a comprehensive day but consider the reliability concerns.
- Guides & Atmosphere: Friendly guides like Faiz receive praise, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Looking for more options in Port Louis? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What to Expect from the Itinerary
Starting Point: Flic En Flac or Tamarin
The day begins early, with hotel pickup around 6:30 am. We appreciate the convenience of door-to-door service, especially after a good night’s sleep. The journey to Flic En Flac or Tamarin takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy some scenic coastal views along the way. While some reviews mention missed pickups, many travelers found the driver, such as Faiz, to be punctual and friendly.
Dolphin Encounter
The highlight for most is definitely the dolphin swim. You’ll board a speedboat with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way. The emphasis here is on respectful interaction, with the crew carefully managing the swim so that marine life isn’t disturbed. Many reviews mention the emotional impact of seeing dolphins in the wild—“a unique and moving experience,” as one guest put it.
However, some reviewers, such as Evgenii, felt the actual dolphin encounter was less impressive due to the number of boats competing for the dolphins’ attention. The experience can sometimes be slightly rushed or crowded, which slightly diminishes the intimacy of the moment. Still, most find it rewarding to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.
Snorkeling at Crystal Rock
After the dolphin swim, you’ll head to Crystal Rock, a striking natural formation just off the coast of Le Morne. The water here is crystal-clear, perfect for snorkeling and photography. You can expect to see vibrant fish and coral, creating a lively underwater tableau. Many guests mention the stunning views and peaceful environment, which makes for a relaxing break from the boat ride.
Guests have noted that the snorkel gear is provided, making it easy to jump right in. The boat’s crew often helps with equipment and safety tips, ensuring even beginners feel comfortable exploring the splashy surroundings. From reviews, it’s clear that this stop offers beautiful scenery and a chance to capture memorable photos.
Ile aux Benitiers: The Island Lunch
After the water activities, you’ll arrive at Ile aux Benitiers for a 3-course BBQ lunch. The meal includes grilled seafood, fish, chicken, sausages, garlic bread, salads, and a decadent Banana Flambé for dessert. For many, this is a real highlight; guests describe the food as delicious, with generous portions and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
During lunch, unlimited local drinks are available, which means you can enjoy a cold beer or refreshing soft drink while taking in the coastal views. Reviewers like Lori appreciated the great ambiance and tasty barbecue, making the meal feel like a true island feast. The setting is laid-back, allowing you to unwind, soak up the sun, and admire the expansive lagoon.
Post-meal, guests often explore the beach or stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the tranquil environment and crystal waters. Some reviews mention the surrounding reefs and lagoons are perfect for further snorkeling or simply relaxing with a book.
Return Journey to Flic En Flac
The day wraps up with a one-hour transfer back to Flic En Flac, where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation. The return trip gives you time to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy some final scenic views.
The Practical Side: What You Need to Know
Duration and Group Size
Spanning approximately 7 to 8 hours, this tour offers a full day of activities. With a maximum group size of around 30 travelers, it offers a comfortable yet lively atmosphere. The group size means you’re likely to meet fellow travelers but still have space for personal moments.
Pricing and Value
At $106, the tour provides a comprehensive experience—dolphin swims, snorkeling, a hearty lunch, and transportation. The inclusion of unlimited local drinks during lunch enhances the value, especially considering the scenic setting. However, some reviews express disappointment over reliability issues, including missed pickups, which can impact perceived value. It’s a good idea to reconfirm your booking or stay in close contact with the operator to minimize surprises.
Transportation & Logistics
The hotel pickup simplifies logistics, especially in a busy tourist destination like Mauritius. The tour uses private transportation to get you to the starting point, which is appreciated for its comfort. It’s worth noting that the meeting time is early, so preparing the night before can help.
Food & Drinks
The BBQ lunch at Ile aux Benitiers receives positive remarks for its flavor and variety. The unlimited drinks add to the leisurely vibe of the meal, making it suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed, island-style feast. Vegetarians and vegans might find limited options—though the menu indicates both veg and non-veg choices—so it’s worth confirming dietary needs ahead of time.
Snorkeling & Equipment
Snorkeling gear is included, making it easy for beginners or those who don’t want to bring their own. The crew generally assists with safety and gear, enhancing confidence in the water. Be aware that some reviewers noted the crowd of boats can sometimes disturb the calmness of the dolphin sightings, so patience may be required.
Authentic Experiences & Caveats from Guests
While many guests praise the knowledgeable guides, like Faiz, some reviews highlight service unreliability. Anton_K, for instance, shared that the tour operator did not pick them up, which was a huge disappointment, especially after traveling from afar. Similar sentiments are expressed elsewhere, with mentions of poor communication and no-shows.
Other travelers, like Lori, described the experience as “awesome from start to finish,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the enjoyable atmosphere. Conversely, Evgenii felt the dolphin encounters were not as impressive due to the number of boats, and the reality of spotting dolphins was sometimes less spectacular than expected.
This variability underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable. It’s also wise to confirm bookings and maintain communication with the tour provider to avoid mishaps.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who are eager to experience dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy a scenic, full-day outing. It suits those who appreciate authentic marine encounters and don’t mind some logistical uncertainty, as long as they’re flexible. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a balanced mix of activity and relaxation will find plenty to enjoy.
However, if you’re highly particular about punctuality or prefer guaranteed wildlife sightings, it’s worth considering the mixed reviews. The value for money is there, especially with the included meal and drinks, but it’s best to go with an open mind.
The Sum Up
The Full Day Shared Speedboat Tour offers a significant window into Mauritius’ marine life and coastal beauty. The chance to swim with dolphins (in a respectful manner), snorkel at Crystal Rock, and indulge in a local island feast makes for a rich experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, authentic interactions, and relaxed island lunches.
While there are reliability concerns raised in reviews, many guests still leave with fond memories of their day on the water. The guides’ friendliness, the breathtaking vistas, and the delicious food combine to make this a worthwhile outing—if you are prepared for the unexpected.
This tour isn’t for travelers seeking perfect logistics or guaranteed wildlife sightings, but it’s a solid choice for those wanting to connect with nature, enjoy Mauritius’ stunning coastlines, and share a hearty meal with new friends.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your accommodation around Mauritius, making participation hassle-free.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time for each activity without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes dolphin encounters, snorkeling gear, a 3-course BBQ lunch, unlimited local drinks, and transportation.
Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities are not included but are optional. You might also want to bring extra cash if you wish to buy souvenirs or additional drinks.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the operator about age restrictions or special needs.
Is it possible to miss the tour?
Yes, as some reviews reveal, missed pickups have happened, so confirm your booking and stay in contact with the operator.
How crowded is the tour?
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the group size is moderate, allowing for a social yet intimate experience.
In summary, this tour offers a blend of marine wildlife, scenic snorkeling, and a relaxing island lunch, making it a good choice for travelers keen on experiencing Mauritius’ natural beauty. Just remember to keep expectations flexible, especially regarding punctuality and wildlife sightings, and you’re likely to enjoy a memorable day out on the water.