Dauphins et baleines
Swimming with Dolphins in Mauritius: What to Expect
You can swim with dolphins in Mauritius on early-morning boat trips from Tamarin Bay and the west coast, where spinner and bottlenose dolphins come into the bays to rest. Trips usually leave between about 7 and 8 am and last a few hours. Sightings are common all year, but dolphins are wild animals, so nothing is guaranteed.
Dolphin trips are one of the most popular mornings in Mauritius. Here is what to expect and how to make it a good experience for you and for the animals.
Where and when
Most trips leave from Tamarin and the nearby west coast, early in the morning when the dolphins rest in the calm bays after feeding at night. Pick-ups from hotels on other coasts are possible, but expect a very early start. The sea is usually calmest in the morning, which also makes the boat ride more comfortable.
What happens on the trip
A small boat takes you out to where the dolphins are resting. If they are relaxed, the crew lets you slip quietly into the water with a mask and snorkel to watch them pass. If they are not, the boat moves on rather than chasing them. Many trips then continue with snorkelling, a visit to an island such as Ilot Benitier, or lunch on board.
Choose a responsible operator
Mauritius has rules for watching marine mammals, such as how close boats may come and how long they may stay. A good operator follows them.
- Small groups, and no crowding of boats around the dolphins.
- No chasing, touching or feeding.
- A crew that puts the animals first, even if it means a shorter swim.
- Life jackets for anyone who is not a confident swimmer.
Dolphin trips we arrange
- Swim with the Dolphins – La Pirogue
- Sea Kayaking with Dolphins – Tamarin Bay
- Catamaran Cruise – Ilot Benitier and Dolphin Watching
What to bring
Swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sun cream, a hat and a light layer for the boat. If you get seasick, take a tablet before you leave. A waterproof phone pouch is useful for photos.
From about July to October, humpback whales pass along the west coast. Read our whale watching guide if you are travelling then.
Frequently asked questions
Where can you swim with dolphins in Mauritius?
Off the west coast, mainly around Tamarin Bay, where spinner and bottlenose dolphins rest in the mornings.
What time do dolphin trips start?
Usually between about 7 and 8 am, when the dolphins are resting close to shore and the sea is calm.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No. Sightings are very common, but they are wild animals and good operators will not chase them.
Can non-swimmers or children join?
Yes. Non-swimmers can watch from the boat, and children can usually join with a life jacket, depending on the operator.
Want this planned around your dates?
Tell us where you are staying and when. We will book a responsible dolphin trip with hotel pick-up and send you a clear price.
Plan my tripTalk to our team
