Catamaran Cruise to Ile Aux Bénitiers: Dolphin watch, Crystal Rock & Transfer

If you’re dreaming of a day out on Mauritius’ shimmering waters, a catamaran cruise to Ile Aux Bénitiers might be just what you need. This full-day adventure promises the chance to see dolphins in the wild, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and relax on beautiful beaches—all bundled with delicious food and scenic views. While it’s an experience many travelers enjoy, it’s worth knowing what to expect for a well-balanced, authentic day at sea.

What we do love about this tour is the opportunity to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat—a rare experience that brings a sense of connection to the ocean’s wild side. The lunch onboard is often praised as fresh and plentiful, and the views of Crystal Rock and Le Morne Mountain truly make it picture-perfect. Plus, the group size, capped at 30, keeps the atmosphere intimate enough to make new friends. On the flip side, the age and condition of the boat can raise eyebrows, and some reviewers mention crowded spots or less-than-stellar snorkeling gear.

This trip is best suited for animal lovers, families, or anyone wanting a laid-back yet scenic day on the water. If you’re seeking a quieter, more private cruise, this might feel a bit crowded or commercial. But if you’re after a fun, active day with plenty of local flavor, it’s certainly worth considering.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: See dolphins swimming in their natural environment.
• Beautiful scenery: Crystal Rock, Le Morne Mountain, and surrounding reefs.
• Authentic local experience: Crew shares folklore and plays local music.
• Pleasant food offering: BBQ lunch with salads, meats, and desserts.
• Transport included: Pickup from your hotel makes it hassle-free.
• Group size: Limited to 30 travelers for a more personal experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Riviere Noire & Pickup

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am with a complimentary pickup from your hotel anywhere in Mauritius. We appreciate this convenience, especially since the drive to Trou d’Eau Douce can take around two hours from the north side, as some reviews mention. This transport arrangement means you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking, letting you focus on the anticipation of the day ahead.

Once aboard the comfortable vehicle, you’re greeted by a certified guide—though specific guides’ names aren’t provided, reviews highlight friendly, helpful staff. The journey along Mauritius’ west coast is a beautiful introduction to the island’s wild, untouched coastline.

Stop 1: Tamarin Bay & Dolphin Watching

The main highlight here is the chance to see wild dolphins in Tamarin Bay. The boat departs from the harbor and heads along the coast, with the crew sharing stories about the dolphins, who travel in pods of around 20 or more. This part of the trip appears to be the most memorable for animal lovers.

Reviewers consistently mention the joy of spotting dolphins swimming freely—a truly special moment. One reviewer describes it as “a day of dolphins,” and many note the crew’s enthusiasm and effort to get everyone a good view. Some mention that the dolphins can be elusive, and not everyone will spot them on every trip, but the crew’s knowledge of their habits helps maximize chances.

Stop 2: Crystal Rock & Scenic Cruising

After dolphin spotting, the boat continues towards Crystal Rock, a famous limestone formation sitting near the Le Morne Mountain. This spot is a visual treat—crystal waters, steep rock formations, and mountain views create a postcard-perfect backdrop.

During this segment, the crew entertains with local folklore and music, adding an authentic Mauritian vibe. You’ll have opportunities to snorkel or simply relax on deck, soaking in the stunning scenery. It’s a busy spot, and some reviews advise choosing your moment carefully for photos—Crystal Rock can get crowded quickly.

Snorkeling at this point offers a glimpse into the marine life, although reviews indicate that gear may be limited and not all may find the conditions ideal. Some reviewers point out that the snorkel time is brief, and the coral and fish populations might not be as vibrant as in more remote locations like Seychelles or Maldives. Still, the experience of floating near such iconic formations remains enjoyable.

Stop 3: Ile aux Bénitiers & Lunch

Following the scenic cruise, the boat heads to Ile aux Bénitiers, where you’re treated to a barbecue lunch. The menu is praised for being generous, including fresh fish, chicken, sausages, rice, salads, and desserts. Many reviewers call the food “delicious” and note that it’s a highlight of the trip.

Once on the island, you’re free to relax on the beaches, walk along the sands, or explore the lagoons. The island’s calm, turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling again, and some guests enjoy observing local sega music and dance performances. It’s a blend of relaxation and lively local culture.

Final Relaxation & Return

After some leisure time, the boat departs back to Trou d’Eau Douce. The entire day spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most of the time spent cruising, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery. The return trip offers more vistas of the reef, mountains, and coastline, making it a memorable end to the day.

Practicalities & What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The group size is limited to 30, which balances a lively atmosphere with the potential for more personalized service. Keep in mind that some reviews mention the difficulty in matching the described experience with reality—boats may be older, and the actual number of people onboard can sometimes exceed expectations.

Duration & Timing

Starting at 7:00 am, the tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours. The early start is ideal for making the most of the day but could be tiring if you’re not a morning person. The schedule allows ample time for dolphin watching, scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing on the island.

Food & Drinks

Lunch is included and generally well-received, with some reviewers praising the quality of the barbecue and fresh salads. Be aware that drinks like beer and ice might run out by early afternoon, as a few mention. The onboard bar offers an unlimited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, making it a fun, casual experience.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

While snorkel gear is provided, some reviews highlight that gear may be limited and underwater exploration time is brief. The marine life near Crystal Rock isn’t as colorful as in other locations, but the experience of floating near such iconic formations is still enjoyable.

Weather & Cancellations

The tour is weather-dependent. If a cyclone or heavy rain occurs, a full refund or rescheduling is available. This makes it a somewhat riskier plan during the off-season or unpredictable weather days.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviews reflect a mix of happy memories and honest critiques. Reviewers like Sandra and Melissa rave about the friendly crew and delicious lunch, calling it a “fabulous day.” The dolphin encounters are often highlighted as the most exciting part, with one saying, “The crew were fantastic and entertaining, even when things did not go as planned.”

However, some reviewers point out limitations in the snorkeling gear, with one noting that “snorkeling gear was provided,” but others mention that gear is limited and not as comprehensive as some might expect. A few express disappointment in the boat’s condition, describing it as “old” or “shabby,” which could impact comfort and perceptions of value.

The experience’s value for money varies; at around $122 per person, it’s an accessible price point considering the full-day itinerary, but some feel that the crowded environment and boat conditions might detract from the overall value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits those who enjoy wildlife watching, scenic cruising, and relaxed beach time. It’s a great option for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a leisurely day in beautiful surroundings. It’s especially appealing if you prioritize dolphin sightings and a lively atmosphere over absolute privacy or top-tier snorkeling conditions.

If you’re someone who’s okay with a possibly crowded boat and older vessel, this tour offers a chance to enjoy Mauritius’ west coast with the added bonus of local music and folklore. For travelers seeking a more exclusive or boutique experience, other options might be worth exploring.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from your Mauritius accommodation, making transportation seamless.

What’s the best time to spot dolphins?
The tour departs in the morning, and dolphin sightings are most likely during the cruise along Tamarin Bay, when pods typically swim near the surface in the early hours.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available onboard, but some reviews mention that equipment may be limited, and conditions might not be ideal for all snorkelers.

What do I need to bring?
Bring towels, spare clothes, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. The tour provides food and drinks, but it’s wise to carry any personal medications or allergies noted beforehand.

Can vegetarians be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In case of cyclone or heavy rain, the tour is canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

To sum it up, this catamaran cruise offers a fun, scenic, and culturally rich way to spend a day on Mauritius’ west coast. While the boat’s age and crowd levels are considerations, the chance to see dolphins, enjoy a hearty lunch, and photograph iconic formations like Crystal Rock makes it a worthwhile experience for many. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, social day with plenty of stunning visuals—and a taste of local Mauritian hospitality.