Speedboat excursion: Ile aux Bénitier/Dauphins/ Roche Crystal

Planning a day on the water in Mauritius? This speedboat tour from Tamarin offers a balanced mix of fun, discovery, and relaxation, all for just $59 per person. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to see the highlights of the coast without breaking the bank — and want a memorable encounter with marine life.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to swim with dolphins in their natural environment. Second, exploring the charming Ile aux Bénitiers, a tiny paradise with gorgeous beaches. Third, snorkeling at Crystal Rock, where vibrant coral and colorful fish await. On top of that, the BBQ lunch on board adds a tasty touch to an already exciting day.

A possible consideration? The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. This isn’t a dealbreaker but something to keep in mind when planning your day.

This trip suits travelers looking for an active, engaging day on the water—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who want a snapshot of Mauritius’s marine beauty. If you love wildlife, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure, this experience might just become a highlight of your holiday.

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Key Points

Authentic dolphin encounters in their natural habitat create memorable moments.
Exploration of Ile aux Bénitiers offers beaches, local charm, and scenic views.
Snorkeling at Crystal Rock introduces you to vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Includes a flavorful BBQ lunch on the boat, making the most of your day.
Flexible booking options with the ability to reserve now and pay later.
No hotel transfer included, so plan your transport accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure kicks off early at 7:30 am from Tamarin, which gives you a head start on the day’s activities. The boat, a speedboat named Bateau Rapide, is designed for quick journeys and fun rides, making the most of your day on the water. The departure time means you’ll avoid the midday crowds and enjoy calmer seas during your dolphin swim.

The Dolphin Encounter

The highlight for many is definitely the swimming with dolphins. In reviews, travelers mention the “magical” feeling of being in the dolphins’ natural environment, with moments described as “intimate” and “unforgettable.” Guides from Sea Dream are known for their professionalism, ensuring safety and respect for the animals. Since dolphins are wild, the experience can vary—some days you might see a pod, others just a few playful individuals.

Ile aux Bénitiers

After the dolphin swim, the boat heads to Ile aux Bénitiers, often called a “paradise” by visitors. It’s a small island dotted with pristine beaches and lush greenery. Many travelers enjoy wandering around the island, exploring local fishing villages, or simply relaxing on the white sands. The island’s natural beauty makes it a perfect spot for photos and downtime. The timing here allows for about an hour or so to soak in the scenery, take a walk, or even grab a quick drink.

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Snorkeling at Crystal Rock

Next, the tour moves to Crystal Rock, a well-known snorkeling spot. Here, the waters are clear, and the underwater world is teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Reviewers describe it as “a highlight for snorkelers” with “spectacular underwater biodiversity.” You’ll want to bring your own mask and fins if possible, but equipment may be provided on board. Expect to spend around 45 minutes exploring the vibrant marine life, which adds a fantastic layer to the experience.

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The On-Board BBQ

Midday, everyone gathers around for a tasty BBQ lunch prepared on the boat. It’s a simple but satisfying meal, often described as “delicious” and “well-seasoned,” with options to suit most tastes. Eating while cruising offers a relaxed vibe, letting you chat with fellow travelers or enjoy the scenery as your meal is served.

Return and Timing

The tour wraps up around 3:30 to 4:00 pm, returning to Tamarin. The cruise back is a good time to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the sea breeze. The flexible timing means you can plan your evening activities easily afterward.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Trip

Price and Value: At $59 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. The combination of dolphin swimming, island exploration, snorkeling, and a BBQ lunch provides a well-rounded day, especially considering the inclusions. The experience of swimming with dolphins, in particular, is quite special and often a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many.

What’s Included and Not: The fee covers the BBQ lunch on board but does not include transfers from your hotel. If staying outside Tamarin, you’ll need to arrange your transport — either by taxi or car rental. This can be an added cost but allows flexibility in where to meet the boat.

Booking and Flexibility: The tour offers a “reserve & pay later” option, which is handy if your plans aren’t yet fixed. Plus, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Group Size and Atmosphere: Typically, tours like this attract a mix of small groups and families. The smaller the group, the more personal the experience, especially during dolphin encounters.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Swimwear and towels for swimming and snorkeling.
Sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Snorkeling gear if you prefer your own; otherwise, check if provided.
A camera or waterproof phone case to capture the moments.
Light snacks or water, although the BBQ lunch is included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for adventurous travelers, animal lovers, and those eager to experience Mauritius’s marine environment firsthand. It’s perfect if you want a full-day activity that combines wildlife encounters, scenic island stops, and snorkeling—all at a reasonable price. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, engaging day on the water will find plenty to enjoy here.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour from Tamarin offers a great way to see some of Mauritius’s most beloved marine attractions in one day. The dolphin swim is genuinely a highlight, creating memories that last long after the trip ends. The visit to Ile aux Bénitiers provides a quiet reprieve and stunning scenery, while snorkeling at Crystal Rock adds a splash of underwater adventure. The onboard BBQ rounds out the day with tasty, casual dining.

The experience balances adventure with relaxation, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers. While you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the departure point, the tour’s overall value and authentic encounters make it a worthwhile addition to your Mauritius itinerary.

In short, if you’re seeking a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day on the water without high costs or complicated logistics, this tour is a reliable choice. It’s a straightforward way to experience Mauritius’s vibrant ocean life and beautiful islands in a single, well-organized package.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included in the tour? No, transfers from your hotel are not included, so you will need to arrange your own transport to Tamarin.

What time does the tour start? The tour departs from Tamarin at 7:30 am, so you should plan to arrive a little earlier to check in.

How long does the entire trip last? The tour runs until approximately 3:30 or 4:00 pm, giving you a full day of activities.

What’s the price of the tour? The cost is $59 per person, which includes the BBQ lunch but excludes transfers.

Can I cancel the booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? The tour mentions snorkeling near Crystal Rock, so equipment might be available; bringing your own is advisable if you have preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, family-friendly tours like this are common, especially with the dolphin swim and beach exploration.

Do I need to bring anything special? Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and towels. Optional snorkeling gear is also recommended if you prefer your own.

This Mauritius speedboat adventure offers a delightful mix of marine life, scenic islands, and relaxed dining—all packed into one affordable day. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a fun water escape, it has something to offer for everyone.