Private Catamaran Snorkeling: Île aux Bénitiers & Crystal Rock

Sail to dolphins and tropical fish, then beach on an island in the lagoon

A private catamaran cruise from La Balise Marina on Mauritius's west coast includes snorkeling gear and crew; you depart at 9am, spot dolphins en route, snorkel in the lagoon, pass the iconic Crystal Rock, and visit Île aux Bénitiers before returning around 3:30pm. The Nautitech 46 Fly offers spacious decks and sun trampolines. BBQ lunch is optional and added at checkout; transport to the marina is not included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private catamaran cruise and island visit

• Meet at La Balise Marina embarkation point
• Sail to spot playful dolphins
• Snorkel among tropical fish
• Pass by Crystal Rock formation
• Arrive at Île aux Bénitiers lagoon
• Enjoy optional BBQ lunch on board
• Relax on deck or stroll island beach
• Return to marina around 15:30

The Experience

You arrive at La Balise Marina and board the Nautitech 46 Fly, a catamaran built for small groups and couples. The boat leaves at 9am and heads toward the west coast, where the crew watches for dolphins in their natural habitat. The spacious decks and sun-drenched trampolines give you room to settle in as the turquoise water opens up around you.

The first snorkeling stop puts you in the lagoon among tropical fish; snorkeling equipment is provided and the crew stays with you. Afterward, the boat continues toward Île aux Bénitiers, passing Crystal Rock—the small, distinctive formation that sits alone in the middle of the lagoon and is one of the most photographed rocks in Mauritius. You'll recognize it immediately.

At Île aux Bénitiers, you can relax on deck or take a tender ride to the island's beach for a walk. If you've added the optional BBQ lunch, you eat onboard. The return to the marina happens around 3:30pm, giving you a full afternoon on the water without the logistics of arranging transport or managing a larger group.

What’s included

• Crew members.
• snorkeling equipment.
• fuel surcharge.
• local taxes.

Good to know

Easy physical level

Operated by Catamaran Cruises Mauritius

Is this one for you?The boat departs at a fixed 9am and runs a set route with snorkeling and island stops built in, so the day holds together without you arranging transport between sites or managing timing—you show up at the marina and the crew handles the rest.

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Top questions

What's the snorkeling like on this catamaran cruise?

The snorkeling stop happens in the lagoon where you swim among tropical fish; snorkeling equipment is provided by the crew, and you're in the water as part of the day's route between the dolphin-spotting leg and Île aux Bénitiers.

Do I need to arrange my own way to the marina?

Transport to and from La Balise Marina is not included, so you'll need to arrange your own ride or book a separate transfer to get there for the 9am departure.

What is Crystal Rock and will I see it on this cruise?

Crystal Rock is a small rock formation in the middle of the lagoon and one of the most photographed rocks in Mauritius; you pass it on the route toward Île aux Bénitiers.

Is lunch included on the private catamaran?

Lunch is not included in the base price; a BBQ lunch can be added as an optional extra during checkout if you want to eat onboard.

How long is the full cruise and what time does it end?

The cruise runs about six hours total, departing at 9am and returning to the marina around 3:30pm, giving you a full afternoon on the water.

What's included in the snorkeling equipment?

Snorkeling gear is provided as part of the cruise; you bring your own suntan lotion, cap or hat, and beach towel.