Mauritius: Snorkel and Swim with Dolphins on Speedboat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent surrounded by the beauty of the Mauritian coast, watching playful dolphins and exploring vibrant marine life, this speedboat tour from Tamarin Beach might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed reviews and glowing feedback suggest this is a well-organized, authentic experience with plenty of memorable moments.

What makes this tour stand out are its interactive dolphin encounters, the spectacular ocean views, and the friendly, professional crew. Plus, at just $49 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to tick off a major bucket-list activity. The potential drawback? It’s a sea-based activity that involves jumping into the water — so if you’re uncomfortable swimming or have mobility restrictions, you’ll want to consider other options. This tour is best suited for those who love adventure, enjoy marine environments, and are comfortable in the water.

Key Points

• Authentic Dolphin Experience: Swim and watch dolphins in their natural habitat, with the possibility of playful interactions.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking mountain backdrops and vivid ocean colors.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable crew ensure safety and enhance the experience.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Snorkelling gear and drinks are included for added convenience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and keep your plans flexible.
• Not for Everyone: Suitable for most, but not for those with mobility issues or medical conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Speedboat Dolphin Tour

This tour begins on the famous Tamarin Beach, a popular starting point for marine excursions in Mauritius. As you arrive, you’ll meet your crew — friendly, professional guides who will give a brief overview of the trip, emphasizing safety and what to anticipate. From there, you’ll board a lively speedboat, which whisks you out to the dolphin playground.

The journey lasts around two hours, during which you’ll experience magnificent views of mountains and scenic coastlines. The boat ride itself is exhilarating — the speed and open-air experience make it feel like a true adventure. Many reviews highlight the expertise of the captain and guides, like Jérôme, who ensure everyone is comfortable and informed.

Dolphin Encounter & Swimming

The highlight? Watching dolphins playfully swim alongside the boat — a sight that often leaves visitors in awe. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to swim with the dolphins in their natural environment. Guests are encouraged to jump into the water to swim with these intelligent creatures, which, according to reviews, is often a magical, unforgettable moment.

One reviewer, Noémie, mentioned that despite a minor disappointment about the fruit juices being missing (an extra touch some might expect), the activity was truly impressive. She called it an unforgettable moment, emphasizing the emotional impact of the dolphin swim.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

After the dolphin interaction, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs. The provided snorkelling gear makes it easy to explore the underwater world teeming with marine life. Several reviews praise the clarity of the water and the variety of colors seen beneath the surface, making it a worthwhile aspect of the trip even for casual snorkelers.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Light drinks are served post-swim, adding a relaxed, social vibe to the excursion. While reviewers didn’t mention specific details about the selection, the inclusion of beverages helps keep everyone refreshed, especially in the warm Mauritian sun.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point and briefing: The tour kicks off on Tamarin Beach, where the crew provides an overview of safety protocols and what to expect. This initial step ensures everyone is comfortable and well-informed.

Speedboat ride: The boat takes you a specific distance offshore, with the thrill of speed and open-air sailing. The ride itself is part of the fun, with many reviewers appreciating the professionalism of the captain and crew.

Dolphin watching and swimming: As dolphins are wild animals, their behavior can vary. Expect to see them playing in the waves, sometimes approaching the boat, and occasionally, guests jump into the ocean to swim alongside them. The guides are experienced at respecting the dolphins’ space, which is vital for conservation.

Snorkeling: After the dolphin encounter, you’ll don snorkel gear and explore the underwater scenery. Many find this part equally rewarding, with a diverse marine ecosystem waiting below the surface.

Return to shore: After approximately two hours, the boat heads back to Tamarin Beach, giving you a chance to reflect on the experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

With a price of only $49 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering it includes speedboat transport, snorkelling equipment, and drinks. Compared to other marine excursions, it provides an intimate, engaging experience with minimal additional costs.

The professional guides and crew contribute significantly to the value, ensuring safety and providing insights that enrich your understanding of the marine environment. Many reviews mention how guides like Jérôme go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable and informative.

Authenticity and Respect for Marine Life

One of the key points worth highlighting is the respect for dolphins and their habitat. The tour explicitly states that dolphins are not disturbed or chased — they are observed while freely swimming and playing. This respectful approach is crucial and appreciated by travelers who care about ethical wildlife tourism.

Guests should be aware that swimming with dolphins is a wild animal encounter, meaning dolphins do not stay still or perform on command. Some reviewers noted that dolphins often swim alongside the boat, and swimming with them is a chance — not a guarantee. This honest description helps set expectations.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Arrive early at Tamarin Beach to enjoy a relaxed briefing.
• Swimwear and towels are advisable since you’ll be in the water.
• The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or pre-existing medical conditions — check your comfort level with swimming in open water.
• The activity requires jumping into the sea, so be prepared to swim confidently or at least feel comfortable in the water.
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed, which adds flexibility to your plans.

How to Make the Most of the Tour

To maximize your experience, try to arrive with a positive attitude and patience. The dolphins are wild animals, and their behavior can vary. Some days you might see more dolphins or enjoy more interaction, but every trip offers an authentic look into their natural environment.

Pay attention to the guides’ instructions, especially when swimming with the dolphins, to ensure safety and respect for the animals. Reviewers like Anouar recommended having the right timing — early morning or mid-morning tours might offer the best chance of dolphin sightings.

The Sum Up

This Mauritian speedboat tour to swim with dolphins and snorkel offers a fantastic blend of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty for a fair price. The professional crew, the immersive marine encounters, and the stunning views make it an appealing choice for anyone craving authentic ocean experiences.

While it’s not suited for everyone — particularly those uncomfortable in open water or with specific health issues — for those eager to see dolphins in their element and explore vibrant coral reefs, it delivers real value. The respect for marine life and the emphasis on natural behavior help make this tour not just fun, but responsible.

If you’re looking for an active, memorable day on the water that combines wildlife, scenery, and a sense of adventure, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, provided children are comfortable in the water and can swim or are comfortable jumping into the sea. Always check with the provider if you have young children or specific concerns.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. Light drinks are served after the activities, but you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to Tamarin Beach.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Urdu, Spanish, and Hindi, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about two hours, including the boat ride, dolphin interactions, snorkeling, and return.

Is snorkelling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkelling gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer specific equipment.

What should I wear?
Wear swimwear and bring a towel. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended to protect against the sun.

Can I book this activity last-minute?
Yes, with the option to reserve and pay later, you can book close to your preferred date, subject to availability.

This tour offers a genuine chance to connect with nature, enjoy the stunning Mauritian waters, and create unforgettable memories. Perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: