Île aux Bénitiers Speedboat + Dolphins Swimming & Lunch

Traveling to Mauritius offers a chance to experience incredible marine adventures, and this Île aux Bénitiers Speedboat Tour promises a full day of fun, discovery, and stunning scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a good picture of what travelers can expect.

We love that this tour combines the thrill of swimming with dolphins, the beauty of snorkeling at Crystal Rock, and the relaxing vibe of lunch on Benitier Islet. The chance to see sperm whales and enjoy a VIP-style experience adds extra allure. However, some reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations regarding the crowded boats or the approach to dolphins, which might feel less “VIP” at peak times.

This experience is best suited for those eager to combine marine wildlife encounters with scenic sightseeing and a laid-back island vibe. If you’re after a balanced adventure that offers both excitement and relaxation, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Dolphin encounters in their natural habitat offer an unforgettable connection with marine life.
• Snorkeling at Crystal Rock provides stunning underwater views near the iconic Le Morne Mountain.
• The all-inclusive day covers food, drinks, and activities, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Timing and group size are important; overcrowding can impact the feeling of exclusivity.
• Respectful approach to wildlife is emphasized, ensuring animals are not harmed.
• Reviews show a mix of experiences, highlighting the importance of choosing the right operator and time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting early in the morning at Tamarin Public Beach, where you’ll meet your crew, the tour runs from approximately 07:30 to 16:00. The journey kicks off with a speedboat cruise across the southwest coast of Mauritius, heading toward the open sea for the chance to swim with dolphins. The boat is typically shared with other groups, and while some reviewers find the number of boats a bit overwhelming, others have appreciated the knowledgeable guides.

The guides, like the friendly and informative crew mentioned in reviews, will explain the proper approach to dolphins to ensure respectful interactions. This is a critical aspect, especially considering feedback that the approach can sometimes feel aggressive, with some boats doing whatever they want—something to keep in mind if animal welfare matters to you.

Once at the dolphin spot, you’ll have the chance to jump in and swim alongside these intelligent mammals, a truly moving experience. Many travelers describe swimming with dolphins as a remarkable and therapeutic moment, with some mentioning the opportunity to capture photos of these playful animals. If you’re lucky, you might even spot sperm whales during the trip, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Snorkeling at Crystal Rock: A Scene of Natural Beauty

After the dolphin adventure, you’ll head toward Crystal Rock, a natural limestone formation just a few hundred meters from the shore of Le Morne. Here, you’ll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, marveling at the vibrant marine life and the stunning geological formation. The lagoon setting makes for excellent photos and a peaceful respite from the boat activity.

The snorkeling gear is provided, and the experience is suitable for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. The views of Le Morne Mountain from this vantage point add a majestic backdrop to the underwater scenery.

Benitier Islet: Lunch and Relaxation

Next, you arrive on Benitier Islet, where a delicious BBQ lunch awaits. The kitchens are ready to serve grilled seafood, fish, chicken, sausages, and garlic bread, along with fresh salads and a banana flambe dessert. Reviewers note that the lunch is a highlight, with many appreciating the generous portions and local drinks that accompany the meal.

Lunch is a great chance to relax, soak up the sun, and chat with fellow travelers. After eating, you can sunbathe on the sandy beaches or explore the coral reefs and lagoons around the island. Many find this part of the trip ideal for unwinding, with plenty of space for a gentle walk or a swim.

Additional Highlights & Considerations

While the main draw is the dolphin swim and snorkeling, some reviews point out logistical and operational issues. For example, one traveler noted their activity was scheduled from 07:30 to 14:30, though the tour officially ends around 16:00, which could be confusing when planning your day.

Another common concern is the crowd of boats—many tours run simultaneously, which some feel diminishes the “VIP” feeling and possibly scares away dolphins. A reviewer mentioned, “Too many boats and travelers that scare away the dolphins,” emphasizing the importance of choosing a slightly less busy day or operator.

The service quality varies; some guests found the skippers friendly and knowledgeable, while others noted the boats were not in the best condition and the crew’s attitude varied. Still, the majority appreciated the guides’ effort to give respectful and educational encounters with marine life.

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Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance and confirm if optional pick-up/drop-off is available—this tour generally starts at Tamarin Public Beach.
• Arrive by 07:15 to ensure a timely start and avoid missing the boat.
• Bring a camera, sunscreen, and some cash or cards for extra drinks or souvenirs.
• The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, and Romanian, so communicate accordingly.
• The price of $80 per person includes the BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and dolphin swim—consider this a good value for a full day of activities and scenic encounters.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy marine wildlife and scenic boat trips. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full-day, all-inclusive experience that combines wildlife encounters with relaxing beach time.

While some reviews mention overcrowding and inconsistent service, many guests still find the dolphin swim and lunch highlights that make the trip memorable. It also suits families, couples, or groups wanting a taste of Mauritius’s marine beauty without complex logistics.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Île aux Bénitiers Speedboat + Dolphins Swimming & Lunch tour offers a lively, scenic, and engaging day out on the water. It balances adventure and relaxation, with the standout moments being swimming with dolphins and snorkeling at Crystal Rock.

The value for money is reasonable given the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and activities, but travelers should be mindful of potential crowds and variations in service quality. If you prioritize wildlife encounters and beautiful coastal scenery, you’ll likely find this tour worth the effort.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for those eager to experience the best of Mauritius’s marine environment—with a sprinkle of unpredictability that keeps things genuine.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, optional pick-up and drop-off at accommodations are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Tamarin Public Beach.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a camera for photos, sunscreen to protect from the sun, and some cash or cards for extra drinks or souvenirs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from approximately 07:30 to 16:00, including dolphin swimming, snorkeling, and lunch.

Can I see Sperm whales during the trip?
Yes, there’s a chance to see Sperm whales as part of the experience, which adds an exciting element to the day.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by families, especially those interested in marine wildlife and scenic boat rides.

How many people are usually on the tour?
Group sizes can vary, but the experience may feel busier during peak times, which could influence the feeling of exclusivity.

To sum it up, this tour offers a compelling mix of marine adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed island charm. While it’s not perfect and some reviews suggest room for improvement, its highlights make it a worthwhile consideration for anyone wanting to make the most of a day in Mauritius’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: