Snorkeling : Coin de Mire en speedboat Nord île Maurice

If you’re dreaming of exploring vibrant coral reefs and spotting a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, a snorkeling tour to Coin de Mire (Gunners Coin) in Mauritius might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits—perfect for anyone craving a relaxing yet exhilarating day on the water.

What we love about this experience includes its stunning marine scenery, the friendly crew that ensures safety and fun, and the boat’s chilled-out music that sets a laid-back vibe. However, a word of caution: since weather conditions can influence the trip, it’s wise to stay flexible with your plans.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking authentic marine encounters in a serene environment without the hassle of overly crowded or commercial excursions. It’s also great for those who appreciate good value—covering transportation, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and the chance to relax amidst Mauritius’s natural beauty.

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Key Points

Stunning underwater scenery with colorful fish and coral formations
Friendly, attentive crew focusing on safety and comfort
Speedboat ride offers an adrenaline rush with scenic views
All-inclusive with snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks
Flexible departure times in the morning or afternoon
Weather-dependent activity—possible rescheduling in bad conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a lively, well-rounded adventure that balances the thrill of a speedboat ride with the tranquility of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Starting either at 09:00 or 13:00, you’ll be greeted by a cheerful crew ready to make your journey enjoyable from start to finish. The boat itself is designed with a relaxed atmosphere, featuring chilled music to set the mood, making the trip feel less like a tour and more like a floating party.

The main highlight, of course, is reaching Gunners Coin / Coin de Mire, a small rocky island surrounded by vibrant marine life. Our sources describe the water here as “breathtakingly clear,” giving you an almost surreal view of the coral formations that blanket the seabed. One reviewer specifically remarked, “The corals create a mesmerizing landscape, filled with intricate patterns and a kaleidoscope of colors.” This vivid imagery hints how mesmerizing the underwater scenery truly is.

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The Journey to Gunners Coin

The 20 to 30-minute speedboat ride is more than just transportation—it’s part of the fun. The boat is described as “fun and friendly,” with enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery. The ride provides excellent photo opportunities, with views of the coastline, offshore reefs, and sometimes even playful dolphins.

Travelers note that the boat’s lively atmosphere, combined with music, makes the journey fly by. It’s also an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers, many of whom come from various parts of the world, all eager to see the same stunning sights.

Snorkeling at Gunners Coin

Once you arrive, the crew will assist with your snorkeling gear—mask and fins are included—and give a safety briefing. You’ll want to listen carefully because the crew’s professionalism and focus on safety shine through.

The underwater scene here is what makes this tour stand out. The water’s transparency allows you to see the coral formations vividly, while the abundance of colorful fish adds to the spectacle. One review mentions, “We loved the way the coral and fish looked like they were straight out of a postcard.” Many also appreciated that the crew was attentive, serving drinks and snacks during your time in the water, which helps you stay energized.

For those wanting to capture the moment, bringing an underwater camera is recommended, since the tour does not include rentals. The clarity of the water makes it a perfect spot for photos, so you’ll want to seize the opportunity.

Refreshments and Crew Service

Throughout the trip, the crew plays a big role in making everyone comfortable. They serve refreshing drinks—water and soft drinks—along with tasty snacks, which are perfect after snorkeling or during the boat ride. Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s friendly attitude and attentiveness, which adds to the overall positive vibe of the experience.

The music on board also enhances the fun, creating a laid-back atmosphere that suits the tropical surroundings. One traveler mentioned, “The chilled-out music made the boat feel like a floating lounge, perfect for relaxing in between swims.”

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Return Journey and Reflection

After a couple of hours at Gunners Coin, you’ll head back, taking in the scenic coastline and enjoying the relaxed mood on the boat. Many travelers find this part of the trip a good time to reflect on the incredible underwater sights they’ve just witnessed.

The journey back is smooth, with plenty of opportunities for photographs and conversation. The boat typically returns to the starting point, where you can continue exploring Mauritius or head to your accommodation with a treasure trove of memories.

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What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour offers excellent value, covering speedboat transportation, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and the friendly crew. The cost of $528 for up to 4 people is quite reasonable when you consider the full experience—transport, safety, fun, and the chance to see one of Mauritius’s most beautiful spots.

However, if capturing photos is important, bringing your own underwater camera is advisable since rentals are not included. Wetsuits are also not provided, so bring your own if you prefer to snorkel in cooler waters or want extra buoyancy.

The activity is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the trip might be rescheduled or canceled—so flexibility is essential. The meeting point details are sent beforehand, making planning straightforward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling trip is perfect for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic, and authentic marine experience without the crowds. It’s suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, appreciate beautiful vistas, and are comfortable in a group setting. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable day on the water will find it appealing.

People who love lively atmospheres will enjoy the music and friendly crew, while those seeking tranquility can simply float and take in the underwater colors. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time but wanting a comprehensive, fun-filled excursion.

The Sum Up

A speedboat trip to Coin de Mire offers an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. The highlight—the chance to snorkel among coral reefs teeming with colorful fish—makes this tour particularly attractive for marine lovers. The friendly crew, onboard music, and inclusive refreshments add to the laid-back island vibe.

The value offered by this experience, with transportation, gear, and snacks included, makes it an accessible way to enjoy Mauritius’s marine beauty without breaking the bank. While weather conditions can influence your plans, the overall experience promises memorable underwater sights and a fun boat ride.

This tour is most suited for travelers who want an authentic, engaging, and scenic day out on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add some tropical magic to your trip, it’s a wonderful choice.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
You can choose either a morning departure at 09:00 or an afternoon one at 13:00, depending on your schedule.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, the tour provides masks and fins as part of the package.

Can I bring my own underwater camera?
The tour does not include camera rentals, so bringing your own waterproof camera is recommended if you want to capture underwater moments.

What should I bring for the trip?
It’s best to bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, water, snacks, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.

Is the activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on safety and the nature of snorkeling suggests it can be suitable for older children comfortable in water. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the activity may be rescheduled or canceled. You will be notified in advance and can typically rebook or receive a full refund.

This snorkeling tour to Coin de Mire combines natural beauty, friendly service, and genuine relaxation—an experience that’s not to be missed when visiting Mauritius.