Traveling to Mauritius offers endless opportunities for sunshine, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. One experience that consistently catches attention is the “Pieds dans l’eau” tour—an all-in-one day adventure combining snorkeling, oyster and sea urchin harvesting, and a seaside barbecue on Benitier Island. As a travel writer, I’ve thoroughly researched this trip to help you decide if it’s worth the $129 price tag and how it might fit into your Mauritian itinerary.
What immediately attracts us to this tour are the promise of stunning snorkeling spots, the chance to collect fresh oysters and sea urchins, and the allure of a seafood barbecue on soft white sands. We love that it combines activity, culinary delight, and a scenic setting. The private boat aspect suggests a more intimate, personalized experience—perfect for those wanting a break from crowded tours. But it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t tailored for wheelchair users, given the nature of the boat and beach access.
The only possible consideration is the timing and pace. It’s a full day, and some travelers might want more free time on the island or at the snorkeling spots. Nonetheless, this trip appeals most to adventurous spirits, food lovers, and those seeking authentic marine encounters in Mauritius.
Key Points
- All-in-One Experience: Combines snorkeling, oyster harvesting, and a seaside BBQ.
- Stunning Marine Locations: Snorkel around Crystal Rock and see vibrant tropical fish.
- Private Boat Ride: Offers a personalized and relaxed journey from Le Morne Beach.
- Authentic Mauritian Cuisine: Choose from three BBQ options—seafood, chicken, or lamb.
- Inclusive: Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and fresh seafood are part of the package.
- Ideal for Active Travelers: Best suited for those comfortable in water and outdoor activities.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
Looking for more options in Ile Aux Benitiers? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Meeting at Le Morne Beach
You’ll start your Mauritian adventure right at Le Morne public beach, in front of the Emba Filao Restaurant. If you’re staying at nearby hotels such as JW Marriott, Paradise, or Dinarobin, the tour company can arrange a boat pickup directly in front of your hotel’s beach. This level of convenience is a big plus, saving you from extra transfers and ensuring a smooth start.
Private Boat Ride & Snorkeling Near Crystal Rock
Once aboard your private boat, the journey kicks off with a scenic ride across the clear waters. The highlight here is snorkeling around the famous Crystal Rock—a large coral formation rising from the water that’s perfect for spotting tropical fish and coral reefs. The guides, including Lydia from Lydia Boat Mauritius, are seasoned and friendly, making sure everyone gets the best experience whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner.
What makes this stop special: The shallow waters and abundant coral reefs provide an ideal environment for observing marine life without needing advanced swimming skills. The water’s calmness and clarity mean you’ll get great views of the underwater world, making it feel like swimming in an aquarium.
Oyster and Sea Urchin Collection
One of the unique aspects of this tour is the chance to collect oysters and sea urchins directly from the water. The guides take you to spots where you can gather these delicacies, making the experience not just visual but also tactile and interactive. This activity adds a genuine local flavor, giving you a taste of Mauritian coastal traditions.
This part of the tour has been highly praised—reviewers like Sini mentioned swimming with turtles and fish, while noting the beauty of the island and the freshness of the food. The chance to participate in harvesting adds a memorable, hands-on element to your day.
More Great Tours NearbyArrival at Benitier Island & Seafood BBQ
After snorkeling and harvesting, you’ll head over to Benitier Island for your main event: a seaside barbecue on soft white sands. The scenic setting, with the soft sounds of waves and panoramic views, sets the perfect mood for a relaxing meal.
You can select from three barbecue menus—seafood, chicken, or lamb—and all are served with garlic bread. The seafood option features lobsters, shrimps, and fish, which are fresh and beautifully cooked. For non-seafood eaters, the tour offers alternatives like chicken or lamb, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.
According to reviews, the food quality really stands out. Sini called it “fresh and tasty,” emphasizing how the seafood BBQ was a highlight of her trip. Drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, are also included, allowing you to toast your Mauritian adventure without extra cost.
Final Relaxation & Return
After lunch, there’s time to relax, soak up the sun, or take a last swim on the island’s tranquil sands before heading back. The tour concludes at the same meeting point, ensuring a hassle-free return.
What Travelers Love About This Experience
From reviews and descriptions, it’s clear that the stunning scenery and delicious food are prime highlights. Henrietta’s review simply states, “We recommend!!” underscoring the overall satisfaction. Sini’s glowing review mentions swimming with turtles and fish, and the “beautiful” island, emphasizing how vibrant and memorable the snorkeling and island scenery can be.
Many appreciate the personalized touch of the private boat, which feels more intimate than group tours. The inclusion of drinks and fresh seafood adds strong value, transforming a day out into a true Mauritian feast.
Practical Details and Tips
- Pricing at $129 per person, the tour offers good value considering the private boat, snorkeling equipment, and a tasty BBQ lunch.
- Booking flexibility is available—reserve now and pay later, which suits travelers trying to keep their plans loose.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to boat and beach access limitations.
- Remember to bring a towel, as swimming and sunbathing are central to the experience.
- Requesting specific BBQ options (chicken or lamb) in advance ensures your dietary preferences are accommodated.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re an adventurous traveler keen on exploring Mauritius’s marine life, this tour is a fantastic choice. It combines active snorkeling, interactive oyster harvesting, and delicious Mauritian cuisine in a setting that’s simply breathtaking. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a good meal paired with scenic views and are comfortable around water.
However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less active day or require accessible facilities, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s focus on outdoor water activities and beach access means it’s best for those in good health and comfortable in aquatic environments.
Final Thoughts
This “Pieds dans l’eau” tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culinary delight, and natural beauty. The chance to snorkel near crystal rock, gather sea urchins, and indulge in a Mauritian seafood BBQ makes it a memorable day out. The private boat adds an exclusive feel, and the fresh, tasty food comes highly recommended by past travelers.
For those wanting a genuine, activity-packed experience that showcases Mauritius’s marine treasures and local flavors, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day on the water, surrounded by stunning scenery, delicious food, and the company of friendly guides.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While the tour involves snorkeling, the shallow waters near Crystal Rock are generally suitable for swimmers of all levels. However, non-swimmers should be comfortable in the water or have basic swimming skills.
Can I choose a different BBQ option?
Yes, you can request for chicken or lamb barbecue while booking if you prefer non-seafood options.
Are drinks included?
Yes, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are part of the package, so you can enjoy a refreshing beverage with your meal.
What should I bring?
Bringing a towel is recommended, especially after swimming. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also advisable for sun protection.
Is this activity suitable for children?
The experience suits most travelers comfortable in water and outdoor activities, but age restrictions or specific safety considerations should be checked with the provider directly.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Le Morne public beach in front of the Emba Filao Restaurant, with pickup options from nearby hotels. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.
How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded day of marine exploration, culinary pleasure, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to experience the best of Mauritius’s waters and island charm. If you’re after a memorable adventure filled with authentic touches, this trip is likely to stand out as one of your highlights in Mauritius.
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