Mauritius Island is not just a destination for beach lovers and hikers; it is also an excellent destination for urban experiences. One of the best ways to explore the different cities and towns in Mauritius is by taking a city cruise. Not only do you get to marvel at the picturesque coastline, but you also get to explore the rich history and culture of this beautiful island. In this post, we have rounded up the eight best city cruises in Mauritius Island that you need to experience on your next visit. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through Mauritius’ stunning cities and towns.
The 8 Best City Cruises in Mauritius Island
- Full-Day Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch Included
- Black River Swim with Dolphins Speedboat Tour
- Mauritius: Full-Day Speedboat Tour to Ile aux Cerfs & BBQ
- Mauritius: Full-Day Cruise with BBQ Lunch
- Black River: Dolphin Swim and Whale Watching by Speedboat
- Oceane Cruises Mauritius Île aux Cerfs Full-Day Cruise
- Mauritius: Ocean Swim with Dolphins & Benetiers Island Tour
- Mauritius: East Belle Mare Scuba Diving Tour
The 8 Best City Cruises in Mauritius Island
1. Full-Day Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch Included
Experience the stunning beauty of Mauritius with our full-day cruise to Ile aux Cerfs, complete with a delicious BBQ lunch and drinks out at sea. Sail from Pointe Jerome to Ile aux Cerfs, where you can enjoy snorkeling with colorful fish and incredible coral reefs, and keep an eye out for playful dolphins in the Indian Ocean. This tour also includes the option to book hotel transfers, as well as snorkeling equipment. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and that large bags and luggage are not allowed. Bring along comfortable clothing, a towel, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Vegetarian food is available upon request. Join us on this unforgettable excursion and discover the breathtaking beauty of Mauritius Island.
2. Black River Swim with Dolphins Speedboat Tour
Explore the stunning Black River region of Mauritius on a thrilling speedboat tour. On this excursion, you’ll have the opportunity to see spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and swim alongside them. You’ll also have the chance to discover the rich marine life of the area during a snorkeling session. Take in panoramic views of the west coast from the perspective of the sea, and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, snorkeling equipment, and refreshments. Please note that this excursion is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. Remember to bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Meet your guide at La Jetée Road Black River Mauritius for an unforgettable adventure.
3. Mauritius: Full-Day Speedboat Tour to Ile aux Cerfs & BBQ
Discover the beauty of Mauritius Island with a full-day speedboat tour to Ile aux Cerfs and BBQ. This tour offers an opportunity to snorkel in crystal clear waters and see the colorful marine life. The tour also includes a visit to the Lighthouse Island and a journey along the longest river in Mauritius which ends at a magnificent waterfall. A BBQ of grilled chicken and fish is served on Île aux Cerfs Island, followed by relaxing on the picturesque beach. The tour ends with a last drink at Ile aux Aigrettes, accompanied by the abundance of starfishes. Soft drinks, local beer, and rum are available on board. Vegetarian lunch is also possible on request. The meeting point is on the beach of the Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa. Make sure to bring sunglasses, hat, towel, and sunscreen. The trip/date can be modified depending on the weather forecast. Wear comfortable footwear and don’t forget your swimsuit.
4. Mauritius: Full-Day Cruise with BBQ Lunch
Experience a full day of relaxation and adventure on the Mauritius Full-Day Cruise with BBQ Lunch. Departing from The Morne Anglers Club at 9:15 AM, you’ll sail towards Tamarin Bay to spot wild dolphins from the boat. Then, make your way towards the stunning Crystal Rock and stop for some snorkeling and swimming near the coral reef.
After your swim, lunch will be served on board. Enjoy a delicious BBQ and unlimited drinks while soaking up the sun and admiring the beauty of the West coast. The tour continues with a stop at Ilot Benitier, where you’ll have 40 minutes to explore this unique island.
The tour ends with a relaxing sail back to Black River, arriving at approximately 3:30 PM. The Mauritius Full-Day Cruise with BBQ Lunch includes snorkeling gear, a BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks, and the option for a private tour. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and your swimwear. Note that smoking and intoxication are not allowed on the boat. Due to COVID-19 measures, snorkeling masks and snorkels are only available for purchase, and alcoholic drinks will be served after snorkeling. Book now for a day full of adventure and relaxation.
5. Black River: Dolphin Swim and Whale Watching by Speedboat
If you’re looking for an adventure during your time on Mauritius Island, look no further than the Black River speedboat tour. This exciting excursion allows you to swim with spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment, as well as look for resident sperm whales and migrating humpback whales in season. You’ll also have the opportunity to snorkel with the tropical fish of the colorful coral reef.
The speedboat has a capacity for no more than 8 people plus 2 skippers, so you’ll have a personalized experience with a professional guide. You’ll receive a detailed briefing on how to respect the environment and hear the rules of approaching the dolphins to cause them minimum disturbance.
The tour includes water and soft drinks, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off, and you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch. However, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Meet at La Jetée Road Black River Mauritius for this unforgettable experience. Just remember to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, and avoid bringing pets or large bags. Please note that swimming is not recommended for pregnant women.
6. Oceane Cruises Mauritius Île aux Cerfs Full-Day Cruise
Board a catamaran in the bay of Trou d’Eau Douce for a full-day Oceane Cruises tour to Mauritius’ Île aux Cerfs. Enjoy a day of snorkeling in the blue lagoon and exploring the underwater marine life. Indulge in a delicious BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks on board while taking in the breathtaking landscapes. Take a ferryboat to visit the Grand River South East Waterfalls. Lunch is served on the catamaran at anchor behind Île aux Cerfs, and you can choose to visit the island for sunbathing or a walk. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a change of clothes. Smoking is not allowed, and due to COVID-19 measures, snorkeling masks and snorkels are only available for purchase. Please arrive at Pointe Maurice Jetty Trou d’Eau Douce Mauritius 15 minutes before departure.
7. Mauritius: Ocean Swim with Dolphins & Benetiers Island Tour
The Mauritius: Ocean Swim with Dolphins & Benetiers Island Tour is a must-do for any adventurer visiting the island. Starting bright and early with a light breakfast, you’ll embark on a speedboat at 7:30 AM to observe Spinner and Bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Afterward, you’ll gear up for snorkeling at the “Aquarium,” one of the best-known snorkeling spots in Mauritius. Along the way, you’ll stop at Crystal rock for a breathtaking view of Le Morne mountain. The finale of the tour takes place on the beautiful Benetiers Island, where a delicious BBQ lunch and relaxation time await before heading back to the mainland. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, snorkeling equipment, and gratuities. Pregnant women and individuals with mobility impairments are not recommended to participate. Join us for an unforgettable adventure!
8. Mauritius: East Belle Mare Scuba Diving Tour
Explore the stunning underwater world of East Coast Mauritius on the Mauritian East Belle Mare Scuba Diving Tour. Learn the basics of scuba diving under the instruction of a PADI professional and get kitted out with the necessary gear. Practice your new skills in shallow waters before embarking on a supervised open-water dive. Discover the beautiful ocean creatures and colorful coral reefs while swimming in crystal clear waters. Visit fascinating shipwrecks in the Belle Mare area and explore the wonders of Mauritius’ East Coast which boasts some of the best scuba diving sites in the area. The tour includes a safety briefing, introduction to underwater breathing and basic skills, all equipment, and a guided dive with a professional instructor. Receive a recognition certificate at the end of the experience. The tour does not include food or alcoholic drinks. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women and people with heart problems. Opt for a West Coast dive when booking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mauritius Island
If you are planning a trip to Mauritius Island, whether it is for the first time or not, you may have several questions in mind. In this blog post, we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Mauritius Island to help you plan your travels.
1. Where is Mauritius Island located?
Mauritius Island is located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of southeastern Africa. It lies about 1,200 miles off the southeast coast of Africa, east of Madagascar, and about 2,000 miles from the nearest point in India.
2. What is the currency of Mauritius Island?
The currency of Mauritius Island is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). It is recommended that you change your currency to Mauritian Rupees at a bank or foreign exchange office in Mauritius Island, as you will get a better exchange rate compared to exchanging money outside the country.
3. What language is spoken in Mauritius Island?
Mauritius Island has two official languages, English and French. However, the majority of the population speaks Creole, which is a mixture of French, English, and African languages. You will find most locals speak at least some English, but it is always helpful to learn a few Creole phrases before your trip.
4. What is the best time to visit Mauritius Island?
The best time to visit Mauritius Island is from May to December when the weather is dry and temperatures are cooler. The island experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C throughout the year. January to April is the cyclone season, and the weather can be unpredictable during this time.
5. Do I need a visa to visit Mauritius Island?
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit Mauritius Island. Visitors from most countries can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, which is valid for 60 days. It is always advisable to check with your embassy or consulate before traveling.
6. What are the must-see tourist attractions in Mauritius Island?
Mauritius Island is famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush green forests. Some of the must-see tourist attractions include:
- The Black River Gorges National Park
- Chamarel Waterfall and Seven Colored Earths
- Le Morne Brabant Mountain
- Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
- The Trou Aux Cerfs Volcano
7. What are the popular water activities to do in Mauritius Island?
Mauritius Island offers a range of exciting water-based activities such as:
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Deep-sea fishing
- Swimming with dolphins
- Underwater sea walk
8. Is Mauritius Island a safe destination?
Mauritius Island is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Avoid wandering alone in isolated areas, especially at night. Keep your valuables safe, and be careful of pickpockets.
9. What is the cuisine of Mauritius Island like?
The cuisine of Mauritius Island reflects the island’s diverse cultural history, with African, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. Some popular dishes include:
- Curry
- Biryani
- Rougaille
- Dhall puris
- Pastries and gateaux piments
10. What is the etiquette for tipping in Mauritius Island?
Tipping is not an obligation in Mauritius Island, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of 10% is expected in restaurants, but it is always advisable to check on the menu if a service charge is already included. You can also tip your taxi driver and tour guide if you feel they have provided excellent service.
Final Thoughts
Mauritius Island is a beautiful destination that offers immense natural beauty and exciting outdoor experiences. With this guide, you should have a better idea of what to expect on your trip to Mauritius Island. Always remember to plan your travels well in advance to make the most out of your vacation!
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