Mauritius: Benitier Island – Swim Dolphins – Speedboat & BBQ

Thinking about a day out on Mauritius that combines wildlife, stunning scenery, and relaxed island vibes? This Benitier Island tour offers just that, providing an engaging way to experience the turquoise waters and vibrant marine life of the west coast. If you’re eager to see dolphins, snorkel among coral reefs, and unwind on a beautiful island, this trip might be just what you’re looking for.

What we love about this experience is its personalized small-group setting and the chance to swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment—something that often feels more authentic than just watching dolphins from afar. Plus, the cruise past the famous Crystal Rock with Le Morne Brabant looming in the background is a photo opportunity not to be missed.

The downside? The tour’s timing is early, which means waking up a bit before breakfast, but that’s the trade-off for possibly catching dolphins in their most active hours.

This tour is ideal for those who love marine encounters, stunning scenery, and a relaxed island atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy nature and authentic experiences will find plenty to love here. If you’re after a lively party or a luxury cruise, this might not be your best fit. But for genuine Mauritian adventure and a taste of island life, it hits the mark.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Tamarin.

Key Points

• Wild dolphin swims in their natural habitat, offering an authentic marine encounter.
• Snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons reveals vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Scenic cruise past Crystal Rock with views of Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO site.
• Relaxed island stop on Benitier Island for swimming, sunbathing, and local shopping.
• Includes a hearty BBQ lunch with drinks, adding to the full-day experience.
• Small-group tours ensure personal attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Early Departure and Dolphin Watching

This tour kicks off early in the morning, which makes perfect sense because dolphins are most active in the morning. We love the idea of setting out at dawn—less crowded waters and a better chance to see the pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins. The speedboat ride itself is part of the thrill, offering a quick, exhilarating way to cover the open waters of the west coast.

Once aboard, your crew and guide will navigate the waters, often with frequent dolphin sightings. The key here is patience and respect for the animals—your guide will assist you in swimming alongside the dolphins without disturbing their natural rhythm. As one reviewer noted, this approach results in a “memorable, respectful encounter” that leaves most people emotionally touched.

The small group size, typically around 15 people, helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. It’s also worth noting that the tour offers personalized assistance, so if you’re new to swimming with marine life, you’ll be in good hands.

Snorkeling in the Coral Reefs

After the dolphin experience, the tour continues with a guided snorkeling session. The selected spots—La Preneuse Reef or Crystal Rock Reef—are known for their exceptional visibility and diverse marine life. You’ll find yourself swimming among colorful fish, corals, sea urchins, and perhaps even spotting a sea turtle or stingray.

The snorkel gear is provided, but if you have your own, bringing it along could enhance your comfort. The guided aspect is crucial because your guide will point out interesting marine creatures, making the experience educational as well as fun.

Good reviews highlight how beautiful these snorkeling locations are, with one guest calling them “very beautiful”—a testament to Mauritius’s underwater appeal. The calm waters and shallow reefs also mean you don’t need advanced swimming skills for this part.

Cruising Past Crystal Rock and Le Morne Brabant

From the water, you’ll get a fantastic view of the iconic Crystal Rock, a natural coral formation that emerges dramatically from the sea. Your guide will stop here for photos, so don’t forget your camera. The backdrop of Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds a spectacular touch.

This part of the trip offers more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to appreciate how geological formations and volcanic landscapes shape Mauritius’s coastline. Many visitors find this segment mesmerizing, appreciating the dramatic scenery and photo opportunities.

Relaxing on Benitier Island

The boat then heads to Île aux Bénitiers, a flat, tranquil island with shallow waters and stunning lagoons. Here, the pace slows down, allowing plenty of time for relaxing, swimming, or strolling along the beach. The island also hosts small stalls selling local souvenirs, providing a taste of island life and craft.

Guests often comment on the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a lazy afternoon, with the chance to sunbathe and swim in the calm waters.

More Great Tours Nearby

The BBQ Lunch Experience

The highlight for many is the delicious BBQ lunch prepared on the island by the boat crew. The menu typically includes grilled fish, chicken, sausages, garlic bread, salads, and a flambéed banana dessert. Drinks—soft, beer, or Mauritian rum—are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy.

Guests often remark on the freshness of the food and the generous portions. This laid-back meal, served in a picture-perfect setting, encapsulates the carefree island vibe.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Expect

For $69 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the activities, gear, boat transfers, and lunch. The speedboat ride is a key feature, providing a quick and lively way to explore the coastline.

Included in the package are snorkeling gear, a guided swim with dolphins, drinks, and a hearty BBQ lunch. The tour is led by experienced crew and local guides who focus on safety, respect, and making the experience enjoyable.

While the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, the meeting point is straightforward once you reach the west coast. It’s important to bring essentials like sunglasses, hats, swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and your camera.

Considering the Schedule and Group Size

Starting early is a plus for dolphin sightings, though it means waking up a bit before most travelers. The group size of around 15 people balances social interaction with a personal touch, avoiding the overwhelming feel of larger tours.

The total duration is a full day, but the pace is relaxed. You’ll get enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed, which is especially important if you want to truly savor each part of the experience.

Authenticity and Reviews

From the positive reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and stunning views elevate this experience. One guest called it “an amazing day,” while another appreciated the excellent communication and flexibility, as they were able to postpone the tour due to weather.

The consistent praise for the marine encounters and beautiful snorkeling spots suggests this tour delivers on its promises. Many reviewers feel that the personalized assistance and respect for marine life make this experience stand out.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and relaxed island stops. If you appreciate authentic encounters and want a value-packed full-day adventure, this is a solid choice.

Families with children comfortable in water, couples seeking a memorable day, or solo travelers looking to meet others will find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a luxurious cruise experience or are not comfortable with early mornings and boat rides, you might want to explore other options.

This Mauritius tour offers a genuine taste of island life, marine wildlife, and scenic beauty, all bundled into a well-organized day. The swim with wild dolphins is a highlight that makes it stand out, providing a rare chance to connect with nature in a respectful way. The snorkeling and Crystal Rock views add further layers of adventure, while the island BBQ caps off the day with good food and relaxation.

It’s a well-rounded experience that balances active marine encounters with chilling on the beach—ideal for travelers who want both excitement and tranquility. The small-group format enhances the personal touch, ensuring you’re well cared for without feeling crowded.

If your goal is to create memorable moments in Mauritius—whether spotting dolphins, exploring underwater life, or simply soaking in stunning scenery—this tour offers strong value and an engaging atmosphere.

What time does the tour start?
It begins early in the morning to maximize dolphin sightings, typically around sunrise or shortly after, but exact times depend on your booking details.

Is swimming with dolphins safe?
Yes. Your guide will assist and supervise you during the swim to ensure safety and respect for the dolphins in their natural habitat.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, and Mauritian rum are included during the day, especially with the BBQ lunch.

Can I postpone or cancel the tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s recommended to confirm your booking and be flexible with weather considerations.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the designated point on the west coast of Mauritius.

This tour combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic Mauritian charm—a great way to spend a memorable day on this beautiful island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby