Snorkeling and Swim with Dolphins in Mauritius

Jump in the water with wild dolphins, then drift over a coral reef full of tropical fish

Swim with spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat off Mauritius, then snorkel a coral reef in the Black River region and finish with a BBQ lunch on Ile Aux Bénitiers. The excursion runs 6 hours from a 6:00 or 7:00 AM hotel pickup depending on where you stay on the island, and includes snorkeling equipment, all drinks, and the speedboat ride. A live guide speaks English and French.

The Experience

You start before dawn. Hotel pickup happens at 6:00 or 7:00 AM—the time depends on which part of the island you're staying on—and then the speedboat heads out into the Black River region where spinner and bottlenose dolphins move through the water in pods. You watch them from the boat first, then slip into the sea to swim alongside them in their natural environment. After that comes the snorkeling: you drift over a coral reef where the tropical fish move through the colors in real time, and the reef itself is the whole point—no narration, just the water and what lives in it.

The boat then takes you to Ile Aux Bénitiers, a small island where a BBQ lunch waits. You eat there, take in the west coast views from the water, and then the driver brings you back to your hotel. Snorkeling equipment is included, as are all drinks throughout the day. The guide speaks English and French, so you can follow along or just listen to the water.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (available at extra cost).
• snorkeling equipment.
• BBQ lunch on Ile Aux Bénitiers.
• all drinks throughout the 6-hour excursion.
• speedboat ride.
• live guide in English or French.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Sam tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you're staying on the west coast of Mauritius and have a free morning—the early 6:00 or 7:00 AM start is what puts you in the water with the dolphins before they move deeper offshore, and it leaves the afternoon free. The moderate fitness requirement means you need to be comfortable swimming in open water without a pool edge or the seafloor nearby; if you have spinal injuries, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns, this activity is not safe for you.

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Top questions

Can I swim with the dolphins even if I'm not a strong swimmer?

The activity requires at least a moderate level of physical fitness, and you'll be entering the water in the open sea where the dolphins are. The speedboat crew will be there, but you need to be comfortable in deeper water without touching the bottom. If you have concerns about your fitness or swimming ability, check with the operator before booking.

What time does the snorkeling happen during the day?

Snorkeling at the coral reef happens after the dolphin swim, once the boat has moved on from the Black River region. The exact timing depends on how long the dolphin encounter lasts, but it's typically mid-morning, before the boat heads to Ile Aux Bénitiers for lunch.

Is the BBQ lunch included in the price, or do I pay extra?

Lunch on Ile Aux Bénitiers is included in the excursion, along with all drinks for the full 6 hours. No additional meal costs.

What if I don't want to swim with the dolphins—can I just stay on the boat?

The activity is built around swimming with the dolphins in the water. If you prefer not to enter the sea, you can stay on the speedboat and watch from there, but the core experience is the in-water encounter.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No. Snorkeling equipment is provided and included. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes; the boat will have fresh water for rinsing off after the snorkeling.

Is hotel pickup really included, or is there an extra charge?

Hotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged, but they are not included in the standard price—there is an additional cost if you want the driver to collect you. Confirm the pickup fee with the operator when you book.