If you’re dreaming of a day filled with marine magic and island charm, the Swim with Dolphins Full-Day Tour in Mauritius offers just that. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of an active, fun-filled day that combines wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and relaxing island stops.

What fans love most? The chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, the quality of the snorkeling spots, and the delicious BBQ lunch on Ile aux Benitiers. A common theme across reviews is the warmth and friendliness of the guides—especially the skippers. However, potential travelers should know that this tour can get quite busy, with several boats sharing the waters, which might make dolphin interactions less private than some hope for.

This experience is perfect for those who are eager for a lively day on the water, curious about marine life, and enjoy a good mix of adventure with some relaxing beach time. If you’re okay with a packed schedule and a bit of tourist buzz, this trip is likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks - Key Points

  • Wild Dolphin Encounters: Guaranteed sightings or full refund, depending on the day’s activity.
  • Snorkeling at Top Spots: Including the coral-rich “Aquarium” with abundant fish and coral.
  • Photogenic Highlights: Crystal Rock provides a quick but stunning photo opportunity.
  • Relaxing Beach Time: BBQ lunch on Ile aux Benitiers offers a laid-back break.
  • Professional & Friendly Guides: Skippers and crew are praised for their warmth and safety focus.
  • Flexible Booking & Transport: Optional private transfers add convenience, with flexible cancellation policies.
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A Balanced Look at the Itinerary

Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks - A Balanced Look at the Itinerary

Morning Meet & Greet & Breakfast

Your day kicks off early around 7:45 am at La Preneuse, near La Tour Martello. The light breakfast—bread, hot drinks, and juices—is a nice touch to fuel up before leaving the shore. This casual meet-and-greet helps set the tone, especially if you enjoy chatting with guides beforehand.

Speedboat Cruise & Dolphin Watching

The core of the experience begins at 8:00 am on speedboats—well-registered and insured, with experienced skippers who prioritize safety. As you cruise along the west coast, the focus is on spotting wild dolphins. Reviewers mention that dolphin sightings are quite consistent throughout the year, with some noting that the activity is designed to follow the dolphins as they feed closer to the shore.

You have two options here: watch from the boat or swim with them—snorkels and swim jackets are provided. Several reviews highlight how magical it is to go into the water and see these friendly creatures up close, with Irene noting, “We got to see and enjoy lots of dolphins. We did four dives and saw them on each one.”

Snorkeling at the Aquarium and Crystal Rock

Next, around 9:30 am, the tour takes you to the “Aquarium”, a coral barrier famed for its vibrant marine life. The snorkeling here is considered top-notch by most, with many reviewers saying that the abundance of colorful fish and coral makes it a real highlight.

At approximately 1:45 pm, the boat stops at Crystal Rock for a quick swim and photo. This geological formation offers a striking backdrop, and travelers love snapping shots of the rock protruding from the ocean—something that Gougeat found “just a shame I didn’t catch their names,” but appreciated the care taken during the stop.

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BBQ Lunch & Relaxation on Ile aux Benitiers

At around 11:00 am, the boat arrives at Ile aux Benitiers for a BBQ lunch. The menu includes vegetarian options, with alcohol and soft drinks available—reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food. Harald mentions, “The rum on the Isle de Benitiere was excellent,” which hints at a laid-back, festive atmosphere.

This part of the tour is about unwinding, exploring the island, or just soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches. Reviewers like Lucas describe it as a “really worth doing” experience, and Irene appreciated the good instructions from guides during the day.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks - Deep Dive into the Experience

The Passing Boats and Crowd Dynamics

A recurring theme in reviews, especially from Gougeat and Katrin, is the crowded nature of the waters. Multiple boats follow the dolphins, which can make the experience feel hectic—swimming with dolphins becomes somewhat hurried, and the sharing of space can be a bit overwhelming. Katrin mentions, “It was very hectic in the boat,” but still enjoyed the day overall.

While this is common in popular tours, it’s worth noting if you’re seeking a more exclusive encounter. The tour does mention that if you wanted to be the only boat at the spot, you’d need to pay a higher fee, which might be worth considering if privacy matters to you.

Guides and Crew

One of the standout points is the friendliness and professionalism of the crew. Harald describes the guides as “super friendly,” and Lucas praises the overall organization, while Katrin notes that her captain was “very friendly.” The crew, especially the skippers, are praised for their safety awareness and their ability to give good instructions, making the experience feel secure even when in open water.

Food and Beverage Quality

The BBQ lunch at Ile aux Benitiers receives positive feedback, with reviewers highlighting the delicious food and the relaxed vibe. While some mention that the lunch is “nothing special,” the attached drinks and laid-back setting add value to the day. Bringing along some extra snacks might be a good idea if you want to supplement the meal, especially if you’re used to a hearty appetite.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $96 per person, the tour is priced in the moderate range for a full-day excursion. Considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and multiple activities, it offers good value. Several reviewers feel the experience is worth the cost, especially with the chance to see dolphins and enjoy the island scenery.

Flexibility and Booking

The tour offers the convenience of reservation with the ability to pay later—great if your plans are still flexible. Cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand ensures peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks - Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers eager for marine wildlife encounters and willing to share space with other boats. It’s excellent for those who want a full day of activity, including snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing on the beach.

It’s also ideal for families or groups who appreciate friendly guides and good organization, and who don’t mind a lively, sometimes crowded atmosphere. If you’re seeking an authentic experience with wildlife and coral reef exploration, this tour hits plenty of high points.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If a private, more relaxed dolphin experience is your priority, this tour’s shared nature might be a drawback. Also, those seeking a very exclusive or tranquil environment could find the boat crowds and busy schedule less appealing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

  • Bring extra snacks if you’re a big eater or want to avoid relying solely on the provided lunch.
  • Wear waterproof sun protection—the boat sun can be intense, and the snorkeling gear offers some coverage.
  • Arrive early for the meet & greet to maximize your day.
  • Prepare for busy waters—if privacy matters, consider paying extra for a private transfer or private boat option.
  • Bring your camera for the photo stops, especially at Crystal Rock.
  • Book in advance as popular tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

FAQs

Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks - FAQs

Is the dolphin encounter guaranteed?
Yes, the tour promises guaranteed dolphin sightings or a full refund, making this a risk-free chance to see these animals in the wild.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, a BBQ lunch with drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and full safety gear are included, providing good value for a full day out.

Can I swim with the dolphins?
Yes, snorkels and swim jackets are provided, and you can choose to watch or swim closer with the dolphins, depending on conditions and your comfort level.

What are the snorkeling conditions like?
Most reviews praise the snorkeling spots, especially the “Aquarium,” for their vibrant coral and abundant fish, making it one of the highlights of the day.

Is transportation included?
Optional private transport is available, which can be especially convenient for door-to-door service and flexible timing.

What is the approximate duration of the trip?
The full itinerary runs from around 7:45 am to 2:30 pm, giving you a full, action-packed day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy water sports and wildlife.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and perhaps a light towel or change of clothes for after snorkeling or beach time.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lively and engaging way to experience the best of Mauritius’ marine life and scenic beauty. The combination of dolphin watching, snorkeling, and beach relaxation makes it a well-rounded choice for active travelers who want to maximize their day on the water. The friendly guides, good value, and stunning spots are definite pluses.

While it’s not a private experience, the vibrant atmosphere and authentic wildlife encounters create memories worth sharing. If you’re prepared for some crowding and busy waters, this full-day tour delivers a fun, colorful snapshot of island life and oceanic wonder.

Ideal for adventure seekers, families, and those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one day. Just remember to pack extra snacks, bring your camera, and go with an open mind—and you’ll return with plenty of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: