Introduction
A trip to Mauritius isn’t complete without a taste of its vibrant marine life and stunning coastal scenery. This boat trip with seabob exploration and lunch offers a balanced mix of adventure, discovery, and relaxation. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded experience designed to give travelers a genuine feel for the island’s northern waters.
What we love about this tour is its combination of active underwater exploration with a scenic boat ride, the chance to see multiple prime spots in just half a day, and the delicious on-water lunch that makes the experience feel truly special. The seabob adds a fun, safe way to explore the marine environment, and the free refreshments keep the energy levels high. However, one point to consider is that it’s not suited for children under six, so families with young kids might need to look elsewhere.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced, authentic experience of Mauritius’s coast, enjoy a bit of adventure, and value local cuisine and stunning views. If you’re keen on exploring marine biodiversity with minimal fuss and maximum comfort, this could be your ideal day out.
Key Points
- Comprehensive northern Mauritius experience in a single half-day trip
- Seabob exploration offers a safe, exhilarating way to see marine life close-up
- Beautiful scenic spots including Coin de Mire, Trou aux Biches, and Pointe aux Piments
- Includes a tasty lunch right on the water, with local snacks and optional rum tasting
- Perfect for adventure-seekers and nature lovers aged 6 and up
- Good value considering the multiple stops, activities, and food included
Discovering the Best Marine Spots of Northern Mauritius
This tour packs a lot into just a few hours, starting bright and early at 9 a.m. from Pointe aux Piments. The first highlight? Heading out on a speedboat toward Coin de Mire, an iconic, uninhabited island surrounded by towering cliffs and teeming with marine biodiversity. As one reviewer mentioned, “It’s an unspoilt site accessible only by sea, perfect for nature lovers.” The boat ride itself offers fantastic coastal views and a chance to stretch your sea legs.
Once at Coin de Mire, you’ll get to snorkel and swim in what many describe as natural aquariums. The water here is crystal-clear, and the variety of colorful corals and tropical fish makes it a photographer’s dream. The boat crew is experienced and friendly, often providing snorkeling gear and safety instructions. Expect to spend around 30-45 minutes exploring this marine treasure, making it a highlight for anyone keen on underwater scenery.
Looking for more options in Balaclava? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Seabob Exploration: A Unique Way to Discover Marine Life
The seabob segment of the tour is what sets this experience apart. This underwater propulsion device allows you to glide effortlessly over the seabed, making exploration both easier and safer compared to traditional snorkeling or diving. Several reviews highlighted how intuitive and fun seabobs are, with one mentioning, “It’s like being a dolphin for a few moments,” and appreciating how comfortably it lets you see the underwater world up close.
The seabob exploration generally happens near Coin de Mire, giving travelers unmatched views of vibrant coral formations and schools of tropical fish. The operator provides snorkeling gear, but the seabob’s ease of use means even beginners can enjoy this activity without prior experience. This part of the tour tends to take around 20-30 minutes, and many find it to be the most memorable element of their trip.
Exploring Trou aux Biches and the Transparent Paddle Experience
After the seabob adventure, the tour continues to Trou aux Biches, celebrated as one of Mauritius’s best diving spots. Here, depending on weather conditions, you might try out the transparent paddle—a floating platform with a magnifying glass effect that lets you see underwater life beneath your feet without getting wet. One reviewer called it “a show under your feet,” which perfectly captures the experience’s novelty and visual appeal.
Trou aux Biches is also a fantastic place for snorkeling, with calm waters and abundant marine life. If you’re lucky, you might spot colorful fish, starfish, and even small coral formations. The transparent paddle is a bit of a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who prefer a relaxed, hands-free way of observing marine life. The scene offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply marvel at nature’s underwater artistry.
Tasting Break: Local Flavors and Refreshments
Midway through the tour, a break is scheduled for local snacks and refreshments. Reviewers appreciated the quality and authenticity of the offerings, noting the availability of fresh juice, rum tastings, and local snacks that really added to the immersive experience. One guest said, “The rum tasting was a nice touch—genuinely Mauritian and not commercialized.” This short pause provides a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the tropical surroundings.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Stop at Pointe aux Piments and the Lunch Experience
As the boat heads back toward land, you’ll visit Pointe aux Piments, renowned for its beautiful coral reefs. The calm, clear waters here make it ideal for a final swim or snorkel before returning to the boat. Many reviews mention how impressive the reef views are, with some calling the area “a true natural aquarium.”
The day concludes around 12:30 p.m. with a lunch on Balaclava Beach, set right at the water’s edge. Guests typically enjoy a hearty meal of local fare while gazing at the ocean—an excellent way to finish the experience. The lunch is included in the tour price, making it a great value considering the multiple activities and locations covered.
Practical Details and Tips
The tour is priced at $141 per person, which covers a wide range of experiences: boat transportation, seabob exploration, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and lunch. It’s a fair price when you consider the variety and quality of activities packed into just half a day. That said, there are optional extras like camera rentals ($20), mini snorkeling tanks ($15), and additional drinks tasting ($10). If you’re keen on capturing every moment, renting a 360° camera might be worth it, but be aware of the extra cost.
What to bring: Sunscreen, beachwear, and a towel are essentials. Since lunch and drinks are included, you won’t need to worry about packing snacks, but a waterproof camera or phone case can help preserve your memories.
Group size: While not explicitly mentioned, reviews suggest a small to medium group, which enhances the overall experience and allows for more personalized attention from guides.
Duration: The entire tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, from morning departure to early afternoon return. It’s a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed.
Suitability: Not recommended for children under six, but ideal for active travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of adventure without extensive planning.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
This boat trip with seabob exploration and lunch offers real value for anyone wanting to explore Mauritius’s northern waters without committing to full-day excursions. The combination of scenic boat rides, innovative underwater exploration, and an authentic local lunch makes it a memorable, well-rounded experience.
You’ll love the stunning views of Coin de Mire and the colorful marine life, the fun seabob activity that feels like flying underwater, and the chance to relax with good food and drinks in a beautiful setting. While it’s not designed to be an adrenaline-packed adventure, it’s perfectly suited for those looking to combine gentle adventure with natural beauty.
For travelers seeking a straightforward, authentic glimpse of Mauritius’s coast with plenty of opportunities for photos and underwater discovery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for families with children over six, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of marine exploration paired with local cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 6 and above. The activities, particularly seabob exploration, are generally safe and enjoyable for older kids and teens.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 3.5 hours, from departure at 9 a.m. to the lunch finish around 12:30 p.m.
What should I bring?
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a towel, and beachwear. A waterproof camera or phone case can be helpful to capture underwater moments.
Are snorkeling and swimming equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and swimming equipment are included in the tour.
Can I try the transparent paddle?
Yes, weather permitting, the transparent paddle is available at Trou aux Biches, offering a unique view of underwater life without getting wet.
What about additional costs?
Extras like a 360° camera rental ($20), mini snorkeling tanks ($15), and extra drink tastings ($10) are available if you want to enhance your experience.
Is the lunch on the water?
No, the lunch is at Balaclava Beach, set right at the water’s edge, providing a scenic dining experience.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve and pay later, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.
This Mauritius boat trip with seabob exploration and lunch offers a well-balanced day of marine discovery, scenic beauty, and genuine local flavors. It’s an excellent way to experience the island’s northern waters with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a family, this adventure promises memories that will stick with you long after you leave Mauritius.
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