The calm waters off Mauritius’s western coast are perfect for spotting spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Two standout operators serve this region: Whale Dream Ltd offers intimate small-group excursions with expert marine guides, while Dolphins Encounter provides a more comprehensive package including snorkeling gear and underwater acoustics.
I’m particularly fond of morning tours, when dolphins are most active and the waters are calmest. The 3-hour excursion from Whale Dream Ltd stands out for its conservation-minded approach and skilled local guides who know exactly where to find pods without disturbing them.
Let’s explore Mauritius’s most reliable dolphin watching experiences.
Good To Know
Whale Dream Ltd offers immersive whale watching and dolphin swimming experiences in southwest Mauritius, with personalized tours and flexible cancellation policies.
Dolswim Ltd’s Dolphins Encounter and Whale Watching Tour provides an intimate experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, including swimming with dolphins and whale watching.
JPH Charters’ 2-Hour Dolphin Excursion offers a highly rated and recommended dolphin encounter, with a maximum group size of 8 and professional guides.
Guided Kayak Dolphin Activity by a highly rated operator offers a unique way to spot dolphins in Tamarin Bay, with a maximum of 10 participants.
Full-Day Swimming and Nature Park Tour combines swimming with dolphins and exploring Casela Nature Park, though reviews mention concerns about overcrowding and environmental impacts.
Whale Dream Ltd – Whale Watching and Swim With Dolphins
Whale Dream Ltd, a reputable operator in Mauritius, offers an immersive whale watching and dolphin swimming experience.
Situated in the southwest region, the company’s half-day tour allows visitors to observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. With a maximum group size of 4, the private tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment and a hydrophone to locate marine life.
Travelers can expect to see, and even swim with, dolphins, while swimming with whales is prohibited. The tour’s inclusions, such as snacks and soda, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
Bookings can be secured with a flexible cancellation policy and a “reserve now, pay later” option, making Whale Dream Ltd a convenient choice for dolphin enthusiasts.
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Dolphins Encounter and Whale Watching
The Dolphins Encounter and Whale Watching tour in Mauritius offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Operated by Dolswim Ltd, this tour features a 92% recommendation from travelers and allows guests to swim with dolphins using their own snorkel gear.
Along With the dolphin encounter, the tour includes whale watching, with the ability to listen to the whales via onboard hydrophones.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, the experience provides a personalized and intimate encounter.
Highlights include sighting humpback and sperm whales, the professional guidance of the crew, and the overall satisfaction of the tour.
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2-Hour Dolphin Excursion in Mauritius
Although the Dolphins Encounter and Whale Watching tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness marine life, the 2-Hour Dolphin Excursion in Mauritius provides a more focused experience.
Operated by JPH Charters, this highly-rated tour (4.6 stars from 70 reviews) is recommended by 90% of travelers. The experience includes a professional guide, snorkeling equipment, and hotel pickup and drop-off, all for a reasonable price of $58.97 per person.
With a maximum of 8 people per booking, the tour offers an intimate encounter with dolphins. Positive reviews highlight the staff’s professionalism and the close interactions with dolphins, making this excursion a must-try for those seeking a memorable dolphin-watching experience in Mauritius.
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Guided Kayak 2-Hour Activity With Dolphins
For those seeking a more hands-on dolphin encounter in Mauritius, the Guided Kayak 2-Hour Activity with Dolphins offers an unparalleled experience.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 by 47 travelers and recommended by 98%, this activity takes participants on a two-hour kayak journey through the stunning Tamarin Bay.
Equipped with life vests and bottled water, guests can spot dolphins in their natural habitat while surrounded by Mauritius’ breathtaking scenery.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the activity caters to moderately fit individuals and excludes non-swimmers and those with certain medical conditions.
Boasting free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure for dolphin enthusiasts.
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Exciting Dolphin Encounters in the Maurtiuss Lagoon
Thrilling dolphin-watching adventures await in the serene Mauritius lagoon, where visitors can witness these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Offering exciting encounters, the activity boasts a 90% recommendation rate from travelers and a 4.5-star rating.
Located at the public beach of La Preneuse, the experience runs daily from 8 AM to 10 AM, with an extended schedule on Fridays until 10:30 AM.
Participants will enjoy snorkeling equipment and breakfast, though strong physical fitness and swimming ability are required.
With a maximum group size of 14, this immersive activity provides an unforgettable glimpse into the vibrant marine life of Mauritius.
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Mauritius : Dolphins Swim and Ile Aux Bénitiers With BBQ
Visitors to Mauritius can embark on an exhilarating day trip that combines swimming with dolphins and exploring the picturesque Île aux Bénitiers, complete with a delectable BBQ lunch.
This day-long adventure starts at 7:30 AM, with a maximum group size of 14 travelers. It includes a speedboat trip to the dolphin swimming locations, use of snorkeling equipment, and a BBQ feast featuring chicken, fish, sausages, salad, and grilled banana.
While the experience isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, it’s an ideal choice for moderate fitness levels. Priced from $67.55 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
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Full-Day Swimming With Dolphins and Casela Nature Park Tour in Mauritius
This full-day tour in Mauritius combines the thrill of swimming with dolphins and the exploration of the diverse Casela Nature Park. Priced at $92.21 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, snorkeling equipment, and a professional driver/guide.
While there’s a 60% chance of seeing whales, no refund is offered if they’re not spotted. The tour can accommodate up to 14 travelers aged 18 and above, with a minimum of 2 people per booking.
Customers have reported mixed experiences, with some praising the friendly driver and wildlife sightings, while others complained about long wait times and additional costs at Casela.
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Eco-friendly Dolphin Watching Tour in Mauritius
Situated along the serene Le Morne Public Beach, the Eco-friendly Dolphin Watching Tour invites travelers to embark on an immersive marine adventure in Mauritius.
Operated by Flipper Dolphins and Whales Watching, this private tour offers the chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat for $321.68 per group (up to 2 people).
The tour includes a delightful breakfast spread and the use of snorkeling equipment.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accessible via public transportation.
With 6 glowing reviews and a 5.0 average rating, this eco-conscious experience promises a memorable encounter with Mauritius’ vibrant marine life.
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Exclusive Dolphins Encounter
Embarking on an exclusive dolphin encounter in Mauritius, travelers board a speedboat at Black River to watch or swim with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The excursion includes live commentary, free use of snorkeling gear, and refreshments.
After the dolphin viewing, guests will enjoy a snorkeling session in a coral reef.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but assistance is provided for boarding.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Priced at $382.80 per group of up to 6 people, the experience has an overall rating of 3.3 based on 20 reviews, with positive feedback on the crew and dolphin sightings.
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Private Boat Tour From Mauritius
A whale and dolphin watching private boat tour from Mauritius offers travelers an intimate, up-close encounter with these majestic marine creatures.
Operated by Dolswim Ltd, this highly-rated tour boasts a 4.8 rating from 14 reviews and is recommended by 93% of travelers. For $637.99 per group (up to 6 people), the tour includes beverages, live commentary, snorkeling equipment, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes children accompanied by adults. Travelers praise the knowledgeable skippers and the private nature of the tour, which allows ample time for enjoyment and photography.
However, guests note the lack of towels and changing facilities, so they’re advised to bring their own.
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Full-Day Dolphin Watching Cruise in Mauritius
Travelers frequently embark on the full-day dolphin watching cruise in Mauritius, which departs from Tamarin Bay on the west coast.
The tour includes a swim with spinner and bottlenose dolphins, a snorkel at Crystal Rocks, and a barbecue lunch on Bénitiers Island.
The cruise starts at 8:00 AM, with pickup 2 hours before departure, and it accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers.
Inclusions cover hotel transfers, BBQ lunch, beverages, and snorkeling equipment.
However, gratuities aren’t included.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, and a minimum age of 18 years applies.
Positive reviews highlight the fun experiences, while some criticize the environmental impact and overcrowding.
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Dolphin Experience in Open Sea and South West Tour of Mauritius Including Lunch
Exploring the open waters off Mauritius, the Dolphin Experience and South West Tour offers travelers a captivating opportunity to swim alongside these majestic marine creatures.
The 2-hour tour, limited to just 15 participants, allows visitors to enjoy the natural habitat of dolphins. Highlights include hotel pickup, a local lunch, and rhum tasting.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and there’s a 60% chance of spotting whales. With a 5-star rating from previous guests, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and memorable moments.
Priced at $141.54 per person, the experience includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and flexible option.
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Ocean Swim With Dolphins
Ocean swimming with dolphins in Mauritius offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with these majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat.
The activity takes place in the waters off the island’s southwest coast, with a maximum of 14 participants. Highlights include snorkeling alongside the dolphins, exploring coral reefs, and enjoying a barbecue lunch on Ile Aux Benitiers Island.
While the tours generally receive positive reviews, some customers have reported issues like overcrowding and booking errors.
The operator emphasizes adherence to local wildlife laws and acknowledges the kindness of the skippers.
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Full Day Dolphins Encounter Ile Aux Benitiers and Crystal Rock
The full-day dolphin encounter at Île aux Benitiers and Crystal Rock offers travelers a chance to get up close with these marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Operated by Island Cove Mauritius, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 people and is priced from $77.20 per person. The tour includes lunch, beverages, snorkeling equipment, and all fees and taxes.
The meeting point is at La Tour Martello, and the tour returns to the same location. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and have the option to reserve now and pay later.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
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The Sum Up
Mauritius offers a variety of exciting dolphin watching and swimming experiences. From half-day tours to full-day cruises, visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you prefer a guided kayak adventure or an open-sea swim, there’s an option to suit every interest and budget. With stunning scenery and the opportunity to get up close with dolphins, these tours provide an unforgettable encounter in the beautiful waters of Mauritius.