Mauritius: East Belle Mare Scuba Diving Tour

What we love about this experience

This scuba adventure in Mauritius’s East Coast area truly offers a mix of accessibility and beauty. First, learning to scuba dive with a PADI-certified professional means you’re in safe hands, with clear instructions and a calm approach that makes beginners feel comfortable. Second, exploring the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs presents a vibrant underwater landscape that’s both colorful and lively—perfect for first-timers and those keen on underwater photography. Lastly, visiting shipwrecks and marine life adds an element of mystery and adventure, making this more than just a basic introduction.

However, a word of caution: the experience is primarily designed for beginners and those looking to try scuba for the first time. For seasoned divers, this may feel more like a gentle introduction than an advanced exploration. Also, while the price is quite reasonable, additional costs for transportation outside the included pickup zone could catch some travelers off guard.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving in Mauritius, especially those with limited time but eager to see the underwater magic. If you’re curious about marine life, enjoy water-based activities, or simply want a memorable, beginner-friendly adventure, this trip will suit you well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

  • Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for first-timers, with a safety briefing and expert guidance.
  • Stunning Underwater Views: Explore vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks in crystal-clear waters.
  • All-Inclusive Equipment: No need to rent gear separately; everything is provided.
  • Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, offering peace of mind.
  • Additional Options: West Coast dive available if preferred.
  • Small Group Feel: Guided by professional instructors, with personal attention.

In-Depth Look at the Scuba Diving Tour

Starting Point: Seamless Pickup and Introduction

Most guests, according to reviews, appreciate the convenient pickup from accommodations within 10 km. While some mention that the actual pickup fee may vary—some travelers reported paying extra when their hotel was slightly outside the usual zone—overall, the transport is straightforward. The experience begins with a comprehensive safety briefing. This sets the tone for the day, ensuring everyone understands the basics of underwater breathing, hand signals, and what to expect.

One reviewer, Saarah, said, “Fabulous! Guide was exceptional!” highlighting how supportive and professional the guides are right from the start. The focus is on making you feel comfortable, which is crucial for beginners nervous about taking the plunge.

Learning to Dive: The Core of the Experience

Under the watchful eye of a PADI instructor—most notably, guides like Jeremy and Curtis—participants get to learn the essentials of scuba diving. If you’re new, this is often the highlight: mastering your gear, practicing breathing techniques, and getting comfortable with the underwater equipment in shallow water. A review from Aylin highlighted how instructor Curtis made her and her group feel relaxed and confident before heading into open water.

This initial training usually lasts around 20 minutes, during which you’ll practice basic skills like equalizing your ears, using the regulator, and buoyancy control. For many, this initial step is surprisingly accessible, with clear instructions that demystify the process.

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The Main Event: Open Water Exploration

Once you’re comfortable, you’ll follow your instructor on a supervised open-water swim. Here, the real magic happens. Expect to see a vibrant array of tropical fish, colorful corals, and possibly other sea creatures like octopuses. One guest, Akshaya, described encountering a “curious octopus” during her dive—an exciting highlight that illustrates the richness of Mauritius’s underwater life.

The tour often includes visits to fascinating shipwrecks, which add a layer of intrigue and adventure. These wrecks are perfect for photography and interested explorers eager to see a different kind of underwater landscape.

The Sights and Encounters

Guests love how clear the waters are, allowing for excellent visibility—sometimes up to 20 meters. The reefs are teeming with marine life, and the coral formations are vibrant, providing a lively backdrop for your underwater pictures. Reviewers like Zinga noted how friendly and professional the instructors were, making even first-timers feel at ease, which is essential for a positive experience.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about three hours, with a good balance between instruction, gear setup, and the actual dive. Group sizes tend to be small, ensuring personal attention. This intimacy is reflected in reviews praising the knowledgeable guides—like Jeremy and Bruno—who pointed out interesting sights and kept safety a priority.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers all necessary equipment, safety briefing, guided instruction, and a recognition certificate at the end. Plus, the free pickup within 10 km simplifies logistics. On the flip side, food and alcoholic drinks are not included, so plan to eat beforehand or after your adventure.

Price and Value

At $158 per person, this experience offers great value for a beginner scuba session. Considering the quality of instruction, the inclusion of all gear, and the chance to see Mauritius’s stunning underwater scene, it’s a worthwhile spend. Some reviews emphasize the value for money, especially given the personalized attention and safe environment.

What You Need to Know Before Booking

  • Language: The guides speak English, French, and German, helping to accommodate a diverse group.
  • Rescheduling & Cancellations: Flexible policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—ideal if your plans change.
  • Suitability: Not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with heart problems, as safety is a priority.
  • West Coast Option: When booking, you can opt for a West Coast dive if you wish, which may offer different scenery and conditions.
  • Additional Costs: Be aware that transportation outside the free pickup zone may incur extra charges.

Authentic Experiences from Past Participants

Many guests have shared glowing reviews about the professional guides and the safety they felt throughout the experience. Akshaya raved about her instructor Jeremy: “He was fantastic, approachable, and gave clear instructions, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. The underwater world was mesmerizing.” Similarly, Curtis received praise for making beginners comfortable, ensuring they relaxed and enjoyed their first taste of scuba.

One guest, Ellie, appreciated Jeremy’s patience and kindness: “He was so kind and patient with us, which made it so much more enjoyable. Highly recommend this activity.” The common thread is how guides like Jeremy and Curtis make the process accessible and fun, even for nervous first-timers.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This East Belle Mare Scuba Diving Tour offers an excellent introduction to exploring life beneath the waves in Mauritius. The focus on safety, professional guidance, and stunning underwater scenery make it perfect for those new to scuba or anyone wanting a hassle-free experience. The inclusion of all equipment and a flexible booking policy add to its appeal, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking value and memorable sights.

If you’re an adventure seeker eager to see coral reefs, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life without diving deep into technicalities, you’ll love this tour. It’s especially suited for those who want a low-stress, guided introduction to scuba diving in a beautiful tropical setting. Keep in mind, it’s geared towards beginners, so if you’re an experienced diver, this may serve more as a fun beginner’s taste rather than an advanced exploration.

For anyone craving a safe, guided, and picturesque underwater experience, this tour hits the sweet spot—delivering professionalism, affordability, and unforgettable marine encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, this experience is designed with beginners in mind, including safety briefings and practice in shallow water before heading into open water.

What is included in the price?
All equipment, safety briefing, guided instruction, and a recognition certificate are included. Pickup from accommodations within 10 km is also part of the package.

Can I opt for a different location?
Yes, there’s an option to choose a West Coast dive when booking, which might offer different scenery.

Are meals included?
No, food and alcoholic drinks are not included. It’s best to eat before or after your dive.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including instruction, gear setup, and the dive itself.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup is available within 10 km, but some guests have reported they paid extra outside this zone. Confirm details upon booking.

What languages are guides available in?
The guides speak English, French, and German.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or those with heart problems?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with heart conditions due to safety concerns.

What might I see during the dive?
Expect vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and possibly fascinating creatures like octopuses or shipwrecks, depending on the site.

You can check availability for your dates here: