Blue Bay Glass Bottom Boat, Adventure Park & Gris Gris

This tour offers a glimpse into both the vibrant marine life and stunning land formations that make Mauritius unique. We’ve looked into the experience based on reviews and detailed descriptions to give you an honest sense of what to expect.

What we love about this tour is its combination of underwater exploration, scenic coastal views, and exhilarating activities at La Vallée des Couleurs. It’s a well-rounded way to see the South of the island without sacrificing adventure or relaxation. The knowledgeable guides also make all the difference, adding local insights that enrich the experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the timing can feel a bit unpredictable—some guests have experienced longer waits or crowded boat rides, which can affect the overall flow. For travelers seeking a smooth, hassle-free day, this is something to consider.

This tour is best suited for adventurers, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of both sea and land. If you’re after a comprehensive day out that covers snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, and active pursuits, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences combining marine activities, scenic cliff views, and nature exploration
• Flexible itinerary with some variability depending on pickup location and weather
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and safety
• Includes transportation making logistics easier
• Cost-effective for what’s offered, especially with multiple attractions in one day
• Not suitable for pregnant women and involves some walking or physical activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Blue Bay Marine Park and Glass Bottom Boat Ride

We start the day with a private pickup from your hotel, heading straight to Blue Bay Marine Park—one of Mauritius’s top snorkeling spots. The boat trip itself is described as very enjoyable, with the chance to see coral reefs and tropical fish, and maybe even a sea turtle if luck is on your side. The glass bottom boat offers a peek at marine life without getting wet, which is perfect if you’re not into snorkeling but still want to see underwater wonders.

A reviewer mentioned, “The boat trip in Blue Bay was very nice. First snorkeling in the coral area and then moving to the fish area was wonderful.” That highlights the variety of marine environments you’ll experience during the trip. The length of the stay on the boat was considered sufficient by most, giving enough time to observe the colorful fish and vibrant coral.

Relaxing on Blue Bay Beach

Post-snorkeling, there’s time to unwind on Blue Bay Beach. The reviews note that the views from here are stunning, especially in the southeast of the island. It’s a good opportunity to soak up the sun, take photos, or simply relax after the aquatic adventure.

Gris Gris and La Roche qui Pleure

Next, the journey takes us to the rugged southern coast, where Gris Gris and La Roche qui Pleure showcase the dramatic power of the ocean. These rocky formations are spectacular to see, with waves crashing violently onto the cliffs—an exhilarating sight that contrasts sharply with the calm, turquoise waters of Blue Bay.

One reviewer pointed out that Gris Gris was “beautiful to look at,” emphasizing the stunning natural sculptures. Watching the powerful waves hit the cliffs is a reminder of nature’s raw energy, making this a highlight for many visitors.

More Great Tours Nearby

La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park

The final stop is La Vallée des Couleurs, famous for its 23-colored earth—a naturally occurring geological wonder. This park is more than just a photo spot; it’s an adventure hub offering quad biking, zip lining, jeep tours, buggy rides, trekking, and suspension bridges.

The park’s elevated position on a hill offers sweeping views of the southern part of Mauritius, which many find breathtaking. Reviewers have praised the variety of activities available, noting that the park caters to different energy levels and interests.

End of Day and Return

After exploring the park and perhaps trying out a few activities, your private driver will bring you back to your hotel, ending a day filled with diverse sights and experiences.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are private transportation, the glass bottom boat ride, snorkeling, and the guided tour of the southern attractions. This makes logistics straightforward, as you don’t need to worry about arranging transport or coordinating multiple bookings.

Not included is lunch—though you’ll have opportunities to stop for a meal—and entrance fees to La Vallée des Couleurs (about 10 Euros). Activities within the park are optional and paid separately, so if you’re keen on zip lining or quad biking, plan your budget accordingly.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• What to bring: Swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves.
• Timing: The tour can last up to 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Weather considerations: As the coastal stops depend on good weather, be flexible if conditions change.
• Physical activity: Some walking and optional activities at La Vallée des Couleurs involve light to moderate exertion—wear suitable footwear.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Guests have shared mixed experiences, with one describing the trip as “recommended,” praising the local guides and the beautiful scenery. They appreciated the safety and friendliness of the driver and the value of combining snorkeling with land excursions.

Conversely, another reviewer expressed frustration over long waits and environmental concerns, such as boats maneuvering aggressively near the coral. This highlights the importance of choosing tour operators who prioritize habitat preservation and timely scheduling.

It’s worth noting that the guides are generally knowledgeable, adding context about the land formations and marine environments, which enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This option provides a well-rounded day that combines the best of Mauritius’s marine and mountainous scenery. If you’re someone who enjoys active days, stunning vistas, and underwater exploration, you’ll find plenty to love here.

The value for money is reasonable given the variety of attractions, especially with the convenience of private transport. Keep in mind that weather and timing can influence your experience, so flexibility is key.

For travelers looking to capture diverse sights in one trip, enjoy some physical activity, and benefit from guided insights, this tour offers a compelling package.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience on the beach, or have limited mobility, some parts of the day might feel a bit hectic or physically demanding.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the land portions at Gris Gris and La Vallée des Couleurs are guided, and guides are known for being knowledgeable. The boat ride is shared but still part of the organized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience can take up to 8 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, offering a full day of adventure.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to stop for a meal during the day.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to La Vallée des Couleurs costs about 10 Euros per person and is paid separately.

Can I do this tour if I don’t swim?
Yes, the glass bottom boat ride allows you to see underwater life without swimming, making it accessible for non-swimmers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most activities are suitable for older children, but the physical nature of some parts, like walking or active park activities, should be considered.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended for sun protection and comfort.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience Mauritius’s diverse landscapes—combining underwater marvels with striking landforms and exciting outdoor activities. Best suited for curious travelers eager to explore both the sea and the mountains, it delivers a full day of memorable sights and experiences. Just remember to go with an open mind about the schedule and weather, and you’re likely to walk away with plenty of beautiful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: