Aerial view of a large pod of dolphins swimming in dark blue water

Dolphin Watching in Mauritius from Black River

Spinner and bottlenose dolphins live along the west coast of Mauritius all year round. From Black River we take you out to the bays and open water where the pods are regularly seen, to watch them play, leap and ride the waves in their natural habitat.

Our dolphin trips are for watching only: we observe from the boat, keep our distance and never chase, feed or touch the dolphins.

Two Ways to See Dolphins with Us

Private Speedboat Dolphin Trip – 3 Hours

The quickest way to the dolphins. Your private speedboat heads out early, when the sea is calm, to the spots the pods visit most often.

Includes: dolphin watching, a snorkelling stop on the reef, a visit to Crystal Rock, drinks and snacks.
Times: 06:00–09:00 or 09:00–12:00 in summer (Nov–Apr); 06:30–09:30 or 09:30–12:30 in winter (May–Oct).
Group size: up to 9 people including babies, private trips only.
Boarding: Le Morne Anglers’ Club, Black River.

Catamaran Day Cruise with Dolphin Watching

A relaxed full day on our catamaran O’Plézir, with dolphin watching on the way out, snorkelling, Crystal Rock, a stop at Île aux Bénitiers and a barbecue lunch on board.

Times: 09:30–15:30.
Shared or private: join the day cruise or book the whole catamaran for your group.
Children: half price from 4 to 12 years, free under 4.
Boarding: Le Morne Anglers’ Club, Black River.

Which Dolphins Will I See?

Two species live off the west coast. Spinner dolphins are the smaller of the two and famous for their acrobatic leaps and spins; they have a dark grey back, lighter grey sides and a pale belly. Bottlenose dolphins are larger and stockier, with a short, thick beak, and are often curious about boats.

Whales can be seen too: sperm whales live around Mauritius all year, and humpback whales visit from July to October with their calves. Ask us about our private whale watching trip.

Pair of dolphins swimming together in clear blue water
Map of the speedboat dolphin trip zone from Black River north to Albion

Watching Dolphins Responsibly

Dolphins are wild animals, and their wellbeing comes first. On every trip our skippers:

  • approach slowly and keep a respectful distance,
  • never chase a pod, cut across its path or separate mothers and calves,
  • limit the time spent with each group of dolphins,
  • never feed or touch the dolphins, and ask guests to do the same.

We follow the Mauritius rules for dolphin and whale watching, so the dolphins are still here for the next visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. 1
    Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?

    No. Dolphins are wild animals and we can never guarantee a sighting. Our skippers know the spots the pods regularly visit along the west coast and take you to them to give you the best chance.

  2. 2
    Can I swim with the dolphins?

    No. Our dolphin trips are for watching only: we observe the dolphins from the boat and leave them undisturbed. On the speedboat trip there is a separate snorkelling stop on the reef.

  3. 3
    What is the best time of year to see dolphins in Mauritius?

    Spinner and bottlenose dolphins live along the west coast all year round, so you can see them in any season.

  4. 4
    What time do the dolphin trips leave?

    Our private speedboat dolphin trip lasts 3 hours and leaves early: 06:00 or 09:00 in summer (November to April) and 06:30 or 09:30 in winter (May to October). The catamaran day cruise runs from 09:30 to 15:30.

  5. 5
    Where do the trips depart from?

    All our trips board at Le Morne Anglers’ Club in Black River (Rivière Noire), on the west coast of Mauritius.

  6. 6
    How many people can come on the speedboat?

    Our speedboats take up to 9 people, babies included, and dolphin trips by speedboat are private: the boat is reserved for your group only.

  7. 7
    Can children come?

    Yes. On the catamaran, children aged 4 to 12 pay half price and children under 4 sail free.

  8. 8
    What should I bring?

    Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear and a towel for the snorkelling stop, and a camera or phone. Our professional photographer can also join on request.

Plan Your Dolphin Trip

Tell us your dates and group size and we will suggest the best option for you. Message us on WhatsApp for the quickest reply.