Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise w/ Snorkeling

Travelers seeking a day full of sun, sea, and scenic beauty in Mauritius will find this Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling offers a compelling mix of adventure and relaxation. Operated by Blue Safari Mauritius, this tour promises a chance to spot dolphins, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and unwind on a dreamy island beach — all for around $85 per person.

What makes this trip stand out? We love how it combines wildlife encounters with culinary delights and the serenity of island life. Plus, the relaxed pace means you can truly soak in the scenery without rushing. However, a potential consideration is the sea conditions; if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer waters, it’s worth noting that the captain might change course for safety.

This tour is best suited for those who want a full day of outdoor activities, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate authentic Mauritian hospitality. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and leisure will find plenty to love here.

This experience made our article of Our 15 Favorite Grande Riviere Noire Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Encounters: Chances to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Beverages, BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, and island leisure are included.
• Flexible & Scenic Itinerary: Stops at Tamarin Bay, La Preneuse, and Ile aux Bénitiers.
• Comfort & Space: The catamaran is spacious, offering plenty of room to relax.
• Great Value: At $85, this trip covers a lot of sightseeing, food, and fun.
• Expert Crew: Knowledgeable guides contribute to a safe, enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins at Le Morne Anglers Club Jetty, where you’ll meet the crew around 9:00 am. From there, the boat departs on a 6.5-hour journey along Mauritius’ stunning west coast. The initial focus is on dolphin watching in Tamarin Bay. Many reviews highlight the thrill of seeing playful dolphins in their natural environment — a highlight that travelers consistently praise. As one reviewer remarked, “A perfect day! Very cozy, the crew was great, and this was the biggest boat with more than enough space for everyone.” The chance to see these marine mammals in the wild is a major reason to choose this tour.

Next, the cruise takes you to L’Harmonie in La Preneuse for a snorkeling stop. The reef here is renowned for its vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish, giving you a vivid underwater experience. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, but you can bring your own if you’d like. The water at these spots is crystal-clear, making for excellent photos and memorable swims. Reviewers describe the snorkeling as “rejuvenating,” with plenty of time to explore and enjoy the marine life.

Following the snorkeling, a sumptuous BBQ lunch is served on board. The menu includes grilled fish, chicken, seafood, and plenty of salads and bread. Vegetarian options are also available, with vegetarian sausages and fresh seasonal fruits. Drinks are unlimited and include local rum, wine, beer, fruit juices, soft drinks, and mineral water — ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day. As one guest noted, “The drinks were endless, and the food was great.”

After lunch, the boat heads to Ile aux Bénitiers, where you get free time to relax, swim, or stroll along the sandy beaches. The island offers a peaceful break, with lush greenery and turquoise waters providing a perfect backdrop for photos or simply soaking up the sun. Reviews often mention the leisure time on the island as a relaxing highlight, with many saying it’s ideal for unwinding and recharging.

The return journey to Black River begins around 3:30 pm, bringing the day full circle. The cruise offers a well-paced schedule that balances sightseeing, activity, and relaxation.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Wildlife Spotting: The chance to encounter dolphins in the wild is a unique selling point. Many reviews mention the thrill and joy of watching these intelligent creatures, and some even catch glimpses of turtles. One traveler shared, “We even got to see dolphins and a turtle!”

Snorkeling Opportunities: The coral reefs at La Preneuse and L’Harmonie are vibrant and teeming with marine life, making the snorkeling breaks both scenic and exciting. The fact that all gear is provided on board simplifies preparations—though bringing your own fins or mask is optional.

Excellent Food & Drinks: The BBQ lunch is a highlight, with generous portions and a variety of options. The inclusion of local drinks and soft beverages adds to the relaxed, festive atmosphere.

Spacious & Comfortable Boat: Unlike smaller vessels, this catamaran provides plenty of space to spread out, relax, and enjoy the views. Reviewers repeatedly pointed out the comfort and ambiance onboard, making the trip feel more like a floating lounge than a crowded tour.

Authentic Experience: The crew’s warmth and attentiveness shine through. Multiple reviews praise the friendly guides and their helpful explanations, which enhance the overall experience.

The Downsides & Considerations

While the tour offers outstanding value, it’s not without a couple of caveats. Sea conditions can vary, and the captain has discretion to change course if necessary for safety, which might mean fewer dolphin sightings on certain days. If you’re especially sensitive to motion sickness, bring your medication.

Another consideration is that the tour does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Le Morne Anglers Club Jetty. The meeting point is straightforward but planning ahead helps ensure a smooth start.

Lastly, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as the boat and island excursions involve walking and some climbing.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

At just $85, this cruise packs in a full day of varied experiences, from dolphin watching and snorkeling to delicious food and leisurely island time. It offers genuine value for travelers eager to explore Mauritius’ marine environment without breaking the bank. The inclusion of drinks, a hearty BBQ, and flexible itinerary makes it stand out among similar tours.

The positive reviews consistently underscore the professionalism of the crew, the quality of the food, and the memorable wildlife encounters. Travelers often mention how this tour exceeded expectations — “great value,” “excellent atmosphere,” and “a perfect day for families and couples alike.”

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventure combined with relaxation. If you’re interested in seeing dolphins in the wild and snorkeling among colorful fish and corals, you’ll be happy here. Families with children, couples seeking a romantic day at sea, or solo travelers wanting a lively yet laid-back experience all find something to cherish.

If you prefer calmer seas or have mobility issues, it’s worth considering the sea conditions or alternative options. But for most, this tour offers a delightful taste of Mauritius’ natural beauty.

This catamaran cruise along Mauritius’ west coast offers a wonderful blend of wildlife, scenery, and tasty food. The chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, snorkel in vibrant reefs, and unwind on a pristine island makes it a well-rounded day trip. The crew’s professionalism, the comfort of the boat, and the inclusive nature of the experience add to its appeal.

For travelers looking to fill a day with adventure, relaxation, and authentic Mauritian charm, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially valuable for those who want a high-quality experience at an affordable price.

In short, if you’re after a memorable day on the water with plenty of opportunities for fun and discovery, this catamaran cruise should be high on your Mauritius list.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Le Morne Anglers Club Jetty, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation there.

What should I bring?
Bring your snorkeling gear if preferred, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat or cap, sunglasses, cover-up, change of clothes, and a jacket for the return.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
While dolphin sightings are possible and many guests do see them in Tamarin Bay, they are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed.

How long is the whole trip?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, from 9:00 am to around 3:30 pm, including stops and free time on Ile aux Bénitiers.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, families with children often enjoy this trip, but note that it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness.

What if the sea is rough?
The captain has discretion to change course for safety, which may affect the dolphin sightings or route. Be prepared for possible adjustments.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what awaits on the Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your Mauritian adventure.

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