Tamarin: Dolphin Snorkel, CrystalRock, ile o Benitiers Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius and love the idea of combining marine wildlife with scenic island views and delicious food, this tour packs a punch. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and details suggest it offers a solid mix of adventure, relaxation, and learning.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the chance to swim with dolphins in their natural environment, the spectacular sights of Crystal Rock, and the chance to indulge in a local beach BBQ on Benitiers Island. It’s the kind of trip that feels both exciting and laid-back, perfect for travelers who want a genuine taste of Mauritius’s marine life and coastal beauty.

One thing to consider is that the activity involves energetic swimming and snorkel sessions, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water. If you’re after a serene, leisurely boat ride, this might be a bit more active than you’re looking for. Overall, it’s a fantastic pick for adventure lovers, families with older children, or anyone wanting a memorable day on the water.

Contents show

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Swim and snorkel with dolphins in their natural habitat, guided by licensed and knowledgeable crew.
Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, the famous Crystal Rock, and lush mountain backdrops.
Authentic Food: Tuck into a tasty local beach BBQ, prepared fresh on Ile aux Benitiers.
Value for Money: The tour combines multiple activities, a guide, snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch all at a reasonable price.
Family Friendly: Suitable for those comfortable in the water, with an energetic but well-organized schedule.
Respect for Marine Life: The tour emphasizes respectful observation, with strict regulation and guidance to avoid disturbing dolphins.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour starts at Tamarin Public Beach, where you’ll meet your crew, and then it’s all about heading out onto the water. The main draw? The chance to see and swim with dolphins. These aren’t captive animals; they’re in their natural environment, and the guided experience is designed to be both ethical and exhilarating. Expect to see dolphins jumping and playing, with opportunities to snorkel alongside them if the conditions allow.

The guide will give instructions, so even if you’re not an expert swimmer, you should feel confident enough to enjoy the activity, provided you’re comfortable in open water. Reviewers like Laura and Gregory & Peanut mention how caring and attentive the crew is, making sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Gregory and Peanut, in particular, go above and beyond to ensure guests see everything promised and even more.

After dolphin encounters, you’ll make a stop at Crystal Rock, which offers excellent photo opportunities and the chance to marvel at this natural sea formation. Its clear waters and unique shape make it a highlight for many visitors, with some noting that it’s a perfect scenic break for relaxing and snapping pictures.

The final part of the trip takes place on Ile aux Benitiers, where a beach BBQ awaits. Prepared fresh by your crew, the meal features local flavors and seafood, creating a friendly, convivial atmosphere. Reviewers like Patricia and Marc talk about how delicious the food was, and the setting is described as relaxed and welcoming.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tamarin

The Route and Key Stops

Meeting Point at Tamarin Public Beach

The tour kicks off here, with the representative from VACANCES OH SOLEIL waiting to check you in. It’s a straightforward location, and contact details will be shared beforehand, making it easy to find your start point.

Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling

This part of the trip is the highlight for many. Expect to see dolphins in their natural environment, with guides like Gregory and Peanut ensuring you get close but respect their space. The activity is energetic but well-organized, with reviews emphasizing how much guests appreciated the care taken with the marine animals.

More Great Tours Nearby

Crystal Rock

A short stop to admire this stunning natural formation. It’s an ideal spot for photos, and some guests have found it to be a peaceful moment amid the excitement. The waters around Crystal Rock are perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing on the boat.

Want to see more dolphins? We've reviewed these other marine encounters in Tamarin

Ile aux Benitiers and Beach BBQ

The last stop features a delicious local BBQ, where the crew grills fresh seafood and offers drinks. The atmosphere is described as friendly and laid-back, with many reviews mentioning the quality of the food and the warm hospitality of the crew, particularly hosts like Jordan.

Return to Meeting Point

The trip wraps up back at Tamarin Public Beach. The schedule is typically flexible, with the overall experience lasting around half a day, making it a manageable and rewarding outing.

What Makes This Tour Worth It

Wildlife Encounters

Swimming with dolphins is a rare experience, and doing so in their natural habitat makes it all the more special. Guides like Gregory and Peanut are praised for their professionalism and for making sure everyone has the chance to see and interact with the dolphins respectfully. Some reviewers even mention spotting turtles, adding extra wildlife moments to the trip.

Scenic Beauty

From the boat, you’ll take in spectacular sea views and mountains in the distance. The sight of Crystal Rock creates memorable photo moments, while the crystal-clear waters invite a quick snorkel or swim. For many, the beauty of the Mauritian coastline shines brightest here, making it more than just a wildlife tour.

Authentic Food and Relaxed Atmosphere

The beach BBQ on Ile aux Benitiers is not just about filling your stomach but enjoying authentic, local seafood in a relaxed setting. Many guests have commented on the quality and freshness of the food, with some describing it as a highlight of the day.

Good Value for Money

At $77 per person, the tour covers a lot – transport, guide, snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch. Considering the multiple stops and activities, many reviewers feel it’s a good deal, especially when compared to more passive or less comprehensive alternatives.

Practical Details

Duration & Timing

Most trips last around half a day, starting in the morning and ending back at the meeting point. This makes it suitable for travelers who want a detailed yet not overly long adventure.

Transportation & Accessibility

The meeting point is at Tamarin Public Beach, and transfers are available for an extra fee if needed. The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments, mainly due to getting on and off boats and swimming activities.

What to Bring

Swimwear and change of clothes
Towel
Sunscreen
Beachwear
Optional: underwater camera for capturing dolphin moments

Booking & Cancellations

You can reserve your spot with flexibility to pay later, which is handy for planning. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Guests consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Gregory and Peanut receive special praise for their dedication, making sure guests saw everything promised. The lunch experience is often highlighted as a genuine slice of local Mauritian cuisine, with many noting the quality of the seafood and the friendly service.

Several reviewers mention how respectful the guides are towards marine life, confirming that this tour adheres to regulatory standards. This is important for eco-conscious travelers who want to enjoy wildlife responsibly.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers comfortable in the water, families with older children, and anyone eager to see Mauritius’s marine life while enjoying a scenic boat ride. It’s a lively, energetic outing with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife encounters. If you’re someone who values good food, friendly guides, and ethical wildlife watching, this tour fits well.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, leisurely cruise with minimal physical activity, it might be a bit too energetic. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the physical demands involved in jumping in and out of boats and swimming.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s best for those comfortable in the water, as snorkeling and swimming with dolphins are core parts of the experience. Guides will give instructions, but confidence in water will help you enjoy it fully.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are paid extra but can be arranged easily 24 hours before the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for comfort during and after the activities.

How long does the trip last?
Most experiences last about half a day, making it a manageable and fulfilling outing.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is best suited for older children and adults comfortable in the water. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility impairments.

Are the dolphins wild and free?
Yes, the dolphins are in their natural environment; the activity is regulated by government licenses to ensure ethical treatment and respect for wildlife.

Can I swim with turtles?
While not guaranteed, reviewers have mentioned spotting turtles during the trip, adding another memorable wildlife sighting.

What happens if bad weather occurs?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, with full refunds available if canceled.

Is the food on the island local?
Yes, the BBQ features traditional Mauritian seafood, praised for its freshness and authentic flavors.

How many people are typically on the boat?
The group size can vary but is generally small enough to maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere, as noted by reviewers who felt well looked after.

This tour offers an engaging, well-rounded day in Mauritius — perfect for those seeking a taste of marine wildlife, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine all in one go. Whether you’re a dolphin enthusiast or simply after a memorable day on the water, it delivers on charm, value, and authenticity.