La Preneuse: Dolphin Swimming and Snorkeling Speedboat Trip

Imagine the thrill of swimming alongside dolphins in their natural habitat, surrounded by the stunning West Coast scenery of Mauritius. That’s exactly what this La Preneuse Dolphin and Snorkeling Speedboat Trip promises — a quick, energetic escape into the ocean with a sprinkling of adventure and nature. While it’s a popular option for travelers seeking a memorable aquatic encounter, it’s worth noting that the tours can vary in organization and experience quality.

What we love about this trip are the opportunities to see dolphins up close, the professional guidance, and how accessible the snorkeling equipment makes exploring the vibrant marine life. Plus, the scenic launch from La Preneuse Beach offers a picture-perfect setting to start your day. The one potential caveat? The tour’s sometimes hectic pace and mixed reviews about organization and dolphin interactions suggest it might not be for everyone, especially those seeking a more relaxed, unstructured experience.

This activity is best suited for adventurous travelers, families, or anyone eager to enjoy an authentic marine encounter in Mauritius’s west. If you’re looking for a quick, lively outing with a good chance of seeing dolphins and exploring marine life, this tour could be a great choice.

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Key Points

Authentic dolphin encounters in their natural environment.
Professional guides who assist with timing and safety.
Snorkeling gear provided for exploring underwater.
Flexible booking options with pay-later and free cancellation.
Hectic pace and organization issues reported by some travelers.
Suitable for those with moderate mobility; no specific accommodations noted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Understanding the Experience: What to Expect

The tour kicks off early, with most departures around 7:30 am, starting at La Preneuse Beach — though occasionally the meeting point shifts to Tamarin. This early start means you’ll get the best chance to see dolphins when they’re most active, and the quieter morning hours provide a peaceful backdrop to your adventure.

Looking for more options in Tamarin? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Scenic Boat Ride

Once you’re on the boat, the journey itself is part of the fun. The boat departs from the beautiful La Preneuse Beach, known for its pristine sands and laid-back vibe. The ride is relatively quick but lively, with the guide providing insights into the marine environment and tips on the best times to jump into the water. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially if you’re on a group tour, but private options are also available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Dolphin Encounter

The highlight — and the reason many choose this trip — is the chance to swim with dolphins. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often able to tell you the best moments to jump into the water for a chance to see the dolphins playing. From reviews, we know guides like Ali and Miguel have been praised for their professionalism and navigation skills.

One traveler happily recounted, “Ali knows exactly what he’s doing and made our experience unforgettable,” especially with a family of three children. Another reviewer mentioned that the dolphins are used to guests and tend to play, swim, and even approach the boat, creating what many describe as a truly magical moment.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers expressed discomfort about the way dolphins are sometimes chased or herded by boats, which raises ethical questions. The practice of coordinating with other ships to trap dolphins has been noted as feeling rushed or slightly commercialized, which might detract from the authentic connection some seek.

Snorkeling and Marine Exploration

After the dolphin swim, snorkeling is often the next activity. Equipment is provided, making it easy for even first-timers to enjoy the underwater world. The waters around Le Morne and Ile aux Benitiers are known for their vibrant coral and fish, which you’ll see during your snorkel session. One reviewer mentioned that the snorkeling in the lagoon of Le Morne was a highlight, full of fish and colorful coral, though some found it comparable to exploring on your own.

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Return and Flexibility

The entire tour lasts roughly half a day, ending back at the starting point, which makes it a perfect morning adventure. You’ll want to bring essentials such as sunscreen, a towel, comfortable shoes, and your beachwear. The tour does not include hotel transfers, so plan accordingly.

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The Practical Side: Pricing, Booking, and Tips

At around $47 per person, this trip offers a decent value, especially considering the included snorkeling gear and guided assistance. It’s a quick experience packed with activity, making it suitable for travelers who want a highlight reel of Mauritius’s marine life without committing an entire day.

Booking flexibility is a plus — you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Keep in mind that the activity isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as stepping onto boats and swimming are involved.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Arrive early and confirm your meeting point the day before.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a towel, sunscreen, and your favorite beachwear.
Use the snorkeling gear provided but consider bringing your own if you prefer.
Be prepared for some noise and lively activity; if you prefer calm, this might not be your ideal trip.
For the best dolphin sightings, opt for the private tour if possible, as it offers more control over timing and approach.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Authentic feedback from travelers paint a nuanced picture. Some rave about guides like Ali and Miguel, who are praised for their knowledge and professionalism, making the experience unforgettable. One traveler shared, “Our guides were fantastic. Communication was great, and Miguel was excellent at navigating swimming with dolphins.”

On the other hand, some reviews highlight organizational hiccups and concerns about ethical dolphin interactions. A reviewer expressed disappointment about being herded by boats and touching reefs unintentionally, which dampened their experience.

The tour’s positive aspects revolve around the chance to see dolphins naturally and the professionalism of guides, while notable drawbacks include occasional disorganization and ethical concerns raised by some travelers.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This speedboat trip from La Preneuse offers a lively, engaging way to connect with Mauritius’s marine environment. If you’re seeking a family-friendly, adventure-packed morning with plenty of chances for photos and fun, this is a solid choice. The guided support and snorkel equipment provide good value for a quick, memorable experience.

However, if you’re more interested in a relaxed, unhurried encounter with marine life or are concerned about dolphin ethics, you might want to research alternative options or private tours with a focus on responsible wildlife viewing.

Ultimately, this tour is an excellent pick for those eager to tick off a dolphin swim from their bucket list and explore Mauritius’s vivid underwater scenery in a fun, energetic setting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should arrange your transportation to La Preneuse Beach or the designated meeting point.

What should I bring for the trip? Pack comfortable shoes, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and snorkeling gear (although equipment is provided).

Can I book the tour at the last minute? Yes, you can reserve and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, but consider the activity level and the need to swim or stay on the boat based on your children’s ages and abilities.

What happens if I want a private tour? Private tours are available and can be personalized, offering a more relaxed experience with tailored timing.

Are the dolphins used to humans? According to reviews, dolphins are accustomed to guests and often play with swimmers, making for a memorable interaction, but ethical considerations vary among travelers.

This lively, compact adventure packs a punch — with chances to swim with dolphins, snorkel in vibrant waters, and enjoy Mauritius’s stunning west coast. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo or simply eager for a splashy escape, this trip offers a spirited taste of ocean life.