Shared 10 Pax Boat Tour: Dolphin Watching, Snorkelling and BBQ

Introduction

This shared 10 Pax Boat Tour in Mauritius promises an exciting day filled with dolphin encounters, snorkelling, and a tasty barbecue on a picture-perfect beach. We’ve seen plenty of reviews praising its value and memorable moments, making it clear this is a popular choice for visitors eager to connect with the ocean.

What makes this trip stand out? For starters, the up-close dolphin swim, which reviewers describe as both mesmerizing and therapeutic. The vibrant coral reefs are another highlight—perfect for snorkelling and capturing stunning photos near the famous Crystal Rock. Lastly, the local lunch buffet offers a hearty, delicious meal, with fresh grilled fish and an authentic Mauritian vibe.

However, a possible consideration is the group size—since it’s a shared activity with a maximum of 10 people, some travelers might prefer private options. Still, this small group feel often means more personal attention from the crew.

This experience seems best suited for ocean lovers, families, or couples wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation amidst the breathtaking scenery of Mauritius’ south-west coast.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Encounters: Swimming with Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins offers truly unforgettable moments.
• Vibrant Snorkelling: Coral reefs near the iconic Crystal Rock provide colorful underwater scenery.
• Scenic Views & Relaxation: Endless beaches and the turquoise lagoon make for excellent photo ops and leisure time.
• Tasty Local Cuisine: The barbecue buffet includes grilled fish, chicken, sausages, and a unique flamed banana dessert.
• Expert Guidance: A dedicated skipper ensures safety, comfort, and respectful dolphin interactions.
• Value for Money: All activities, equipment, transportation, and lunch are included for around $111.58 USD per person.

The Full Experience: A Practical Breakdown

Departure & Timing

The tour starts early, at 6 am, from a convenient meeting point at One And Only Jackpot Dolphin on Remy Ollier Road, La Gaulette. Early mornings are typical for marine trips to catch dolphins before they head to deeper waters, and the trip lasts about 7 hours—making it a full but rewarding day.

The Dolphin Encounter

The core focus is the dolphin quest—a chance to watch, swim with, and respect these incredible mammals in their natural habitat. Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of the crew and the respectful approach to wildlife. One reviewer shared, “The crew stayed in the area until everyone was happy with their experience,” highlighting the crew’s dedication to customer satisfaction and animal wellbeing.

The skipper’s role is crucial here. Their local knowledge guides the boat to optimal spots, where they carefully balance getting close enough for a memorable experience while ensuring minimal disturbance to the dolphins. This respect for the environment is critical, especially since the reviews emphasize how well the crew handled the situation—other boats nearby were noted, but the captain managed to give a respectful, non-intrusive experience.

Snorkelling & Crystal Rock

After dolphin fun, the boat takes you to snorkelling spots near vibrant coral reefs and the iconic Crystal Rock—a stunning limestone formation that’s perfect for photos and exploring. Reviews mention that the reefs are majestic, with colorful corals and clear waters that make snorkelling particularly enjoyable. You’ll get snorkelling equipment and a life jacket included, making it accessible even for beginners.

Lunch & Leisure

Post-snorkel, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring grilled fish, chicken, sausages, and fresh salads. The flamed banana dessert offers a sweet end to the meal. As one reviewer put it, “the local grilled food is so tasty,” highlighting how the meal adds genuine value to the experience. Beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—are included, allowing you to relax and unwind after the morning’s activities.

Following lunch, there’s free time for sunbathing, strolling along the endless sandy beaches, or simply soaking in the turquoise lagoon. Many reviewers find this leisure period to be a highlight, complimenting the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

Final Drop-Off & Overall Timing

The boat returns to the original meeting point around 1 pm, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in Mauritius. The small group size and attentive crew create a personalized and relaxed atmosphere throughout.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

Compared to private boat options, this shared tour offers great value at $111.58 per person, including all activities, meals, equipment, and transfers. It’s a cost-effective way to access marine life and scenic spots without sacrificing quality or safety.

The small group size (maximum 10 travelers) fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for more interaction with guides and less crowding during the dolphin swim and snorkelling. Plus, the early start means you beat larger crowds and experience the morning marine magic, which is often when dolphins are most active.

Authentic & Safe Marine Encounters

Reviewers repeatedly praise the respectful handling of dolphins, with one noting that the crew stays in the area until everyone is satisfied. This shows a focus not just on fun, but on ethical wildlife tourism. The skipper’s local expertise ensures you’re directed to the best spots safely, making for a trustworthy marine adventure.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera to capture those epic moments.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and light clothing for sunbathing.
• The tour is most suitable for most travelers, but if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to notify the team beforehand.
• Remember, it’s a shared activity, so arrive with a positive attitude and readiness for interacting with other travelers.

The Sum Up

This Shared 10 Pax Boat Tour in Mauritius strikes a compelling balance between adventure, relaxation, and authentic wildlife encounters. It offers a well-rounded day—from dolphin swims and colorful snorkelling to a hearty local BBQ. The small group size, knowledgeable crew, and stunning scenery make it a great choice for ocean lovers seeking a memorable, value-packed experience.

Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, it provides accessible, responsible marine interactions with plenty of leisure time to soak up Mauritius’ beautiful south-west coast. The tour’s focus on respectful wildlife observing and beautiful vistas ensures genuine memories—perfect for sharing long after your trip.

If you’re looking for a balanced, fun-filled day with high-quality guides and scenic highlights, this tour should definitely be on your Mauritius bucket list.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6 am, allowing you to catch dolphins early when they’re most active.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers snorkelling equipment, life jackets, bottled water, and a full lunch buffet with grilled fish, chicken, sausages, salads, beverages, and dessert.

Can I swim with the dolphins?
Yes, the skipper guides you for safe swimming with both Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins, with the crew staying until everyone is satisfied.

What is the group size?
It’s a shared activity with a maximum of 10 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

Where do we meet?
Meet at One And Only Jackpot Dolphin, Remy Ollier Road, La Gaulette. The tour ends back at the same point around 1 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the activities are generally family-friendly, especially the calm snorkelling spots.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and any personal necessities for comfort and capturing memories.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Mauritius boat tour offers a meaningful blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and local flavor, making it a fantastic choice for a day of oceanic exploration.