Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise w/ Snorkeling

Mauritius is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island vibe. This catamaran cruise along the west coast offers a fantastic way to experience all that in one memorable day. We’ve gathered detailed insights into this tour to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Mauritius trip.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat at Tamarin Bay is a real highlight. Second, the snorkeling opportunities at La Preneuse and LHarmonie promise vibrant underwater scenes filled with tropical fish and corals. Lastly, the relaxed island stop at Ile aux Bénitiers for leisure time lets you unwind on its beautiful sands. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a shared tour, so if you’re after a completely private or flexible experience, it might not suit you. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a social, active day on the water with plenty of sightseeing and relaxing.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day that combines marine wildlife, scenic views, and great food, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic marine encounters and don’t mind a full day out on the water. Now, let’s explore the details that truly make this cruise worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic dolphin spotting in Tamarin Bay, with a good chance to see these playful creatures in the wild.
• Snorkeling at La Preneuse or LHarmonie offers vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Delicious BBQ lunch served on board, with options for vegetarians and kids, plus a variety of drinks.
• Leisure time on Ile aux Bénitiers allows for relaxing on sandy beaches or wandering the island.
• Comfortable, spacious catamaran with friendly, attentive staff praised for their helpfulness.
• Flexible booking options with the ability to reserve now and pay later, plus full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 6.5-hour guided cruise departs from Le Morne Anglers Club jetty, giving travelers a chance to explore Mauritius’s rugged west coast in comfort and style. With a starting time around 9:00 am, the day is carefully paced with plenty of highlights along the route.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Dolphin Watching in Tamarin Bay
The journey begins early, with a friendly crew welcoming guests at the jetty. As the catamaran sets sail, the first stop is Tamarin Bay, renowned for its dolphin populations. According to reviews, there’s a real chance to see spinner dolphins frolicking near the boat—some guests mention a “magical” encounter, with dolphins swimming close enough to watch in awe. The guides typically keep a watchful eye, and the experience is gentle and respectful of the marine life.

Snorkeling at La Preneuse or LHarmonie
Next, the boat heads to coral-rich spots like La Preneuse or LHarmonie. Here, snorkelers can expect to see schools of vibrant tropical fish, colorful corals, and possibly even turtles, depending on the day’s conditions. The reviews reinforce this, with travelers noting the “crystal-clear waters” and “beautiful underwater scenery.” Snorkeling gear is on board, but you can bring your own if you prefer, and the crew is attentive to safety and comfort during these swims.

BBQ Lunch on Board
After working up an appetite, everyone gathers to enjoy a savory BBQ lunch served on deck. The menu features grilled fish, chicken, seafood delicacies, and vegetarian options like grilled vegetarian sausages. Accompanying salads and seasonal fruits round out the meal. Guests often mention the “generous” portions and tasty food, with one review praising the “great variety” of drinks, including local rum, wine, beer, and soft drinks. The friendly staff ensure that everyone stays refreshed and satisfied.

Island Stop at Ile aux Bénitiers
Post-lunch, the boat anchors at Ile aux Bénitiers, a small island with stunning beaches and lush greenery. This is your time to relax—whether you want to sunbathe, take a leisurely walk, or snap photos of the turquoise waters and golden sands. The reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic this stop is, with many guests saying it’s “the perfect place to recharge.” You’ll have roughly an hour or so to enjoy this slice of paradise before heading back.

Return Journey and Reflection
As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Black River. The atmosphere on board is described as friendly and lively, with plenty of drinks and good company. Many reviewers emphasize the “helpful and cheerful” crew, making the experience feel seamless and enjoyable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Comfort and Group Size

The vessel is noted to be spacious and cozy, accommodating guests comfortably without feeling crowded. Guests like Philipp mention it being the “biggest boat” with “more than enough space,” which adds to the relaxed vibe. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering camaraderie among travelers.

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Authentic Encounters with Marine Life

Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed but are highly probable, and the guides seem skilled at locating them without disturbing the animals. Gibril appreciated the “friendly and energetic staff,” who are attentive without being intrusive. This respectful approach enhances the experience, making wildlife sightings feel natural rather than staged.

Food and Drinks

The BBQ menu is hearty and well-regarded, especially given the length of the tour. Travelers consistently mention the good quality and generous servings of both food and drinks, including alcoholic options, which adds a celebratory mood to the day.

Scenic and Relaxing

From the stunning marine scenery to the tranquil island stop, this cruise offers a perfect mix of activity and leisure. The reviews point out how peaceful and picturesque Ile aux Bénitiers is—a natural highlight for many.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Booking & Payment: You can reserve your spot online with flexible options, including pay later and full refunds if canceled 24 hours before.
• What to Bring: Snorkeling gear (if you prefer your own), swimsuits, sun protection, towel, waterproof bag, and an extra layer or jacket just in case the sea breeze gets chilly.
• Timing: The tour departs early at 9:00 am and returns around 3:30 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Sea Conditions: The captain reserves the right to change routes if the waters become rough, ensuring safety for all guests.
• Suitability: Not recommended for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness, as the tour involves some time on open water.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

• Philipp described the experience as “a perfect day,” praising the spacious boat and crew’s friendliness.
• Gibril appreciated the “great welcome” and “excellent excursion,” highlighting the variety of food and drinks.
• GetYourGuide reviews frequently mention how attentive staff made the experience memorable and how the dolphin sightings added a special touch.
• Several travelers, including Paul, emphasize the good value for money, citing the crisp, clear waters and the friendly crew as key highlights.

The Sum Up

This Mauritius catamaran cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s west coast in a relaxed, engaging manner. From dolphin watching and snorkeling to island lounging and a delicious BBQ, it combines adventure with comfort. The positive reviews and the attentive crew suggest it’s a dependable choice for travelers seeking marine encounters and scenic downtime.

It’s especially suited for those who want a full-day, social experience with great food and beautiful views. If you prefer a small, private tour, or want to customize your day, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone wanting a well-rounded, value-packed marine adventure, this cruise offers an authentic taste of Mauritius’s coastal charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour offers a kids menu identical to the adult options, and children often enjoy the boat ride, snorkeling, and island stop. However, parental supervision is advised for snorkeling and swimming.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided on board, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer a specific mask or snorkel.

What should I wear?
Bring swimsuits, a cover-up, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for the return trip if it gets breezy.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s a variety of beverages, including cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water, served throughout the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan without worry.

What happens if the sea is rough?
The captain may change the route or activity for safety reasons, possibly limiting dolphin sightings or snorkeling, but safety comes first.

This catamaran cruise offers a delightful combination of marine wildlife, scenic beauty, and good food—all in a friendly, comfortable setting. Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled day or a relaxing escape, it’s a solid choice to experience the best of Mauritius’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: