Best Boat Trips in Mauritius: Exploring Paradise Sustainably

Image Credit: Blue Alizé

Mauritius, with its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, is a dream destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the ocean. As eco-conscious travel becomes increasingly important, it’s crucial to consider sustainable options when planning your adventures on the water. Here’s a guide to the best boat trips in Mauritius, highlighting sustainable practices that protect the island’s fragile ecosystems.

The Importance of Ecotourism in Mauritius

As a small island nation, Mauritius is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels and increased storm activity. Many beaches have shrunk by over 10 meters in the past decade, threatening the natural beauty that attracts millions of tourists. With tourism being a vital part of the economy, balancing visitor numbers with environmental conservation has never been more critical.

The pandemic further strained conservation efforts, leading to decreased funding for nature reserves and wildlife parks. As tourist numbers rebound, it’s essential to adopt sustainable practices to protect the marine environment.

Sustainable Boat Trip Options

When exploring the waters of Mauritius, opt for eco-friendly boat tours that minimize environmental impact. Here are some of the most sustainable options available:

Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards

For a truly immersive experience, consider kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. These non-motorized options allow for intimate encounters with nature without disturbing marine life. Check out our guide to kayaking in Mauritius for the best spots to paddle.

Sailing Catamarans

Sailing catamarans are an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers. Relying on wind power significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to motorized boats. Plus, sailing offers a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters. Check out our guide to the best catamaran trips in Mauritius.

Solar-Powered Boats

Some operators, like Moon’Bark on the West Coast, utilize solar energy to power their vessels, further minimizing their carbon footprint. This innovative approach ensures a quieter and cleaner experience on the water. Moon’Bark offers day tours on the west coast (3200 Rs), and takes reservations for sunset drinks and dinner.

How about glass-bottom boat trips in Blue Bay Marine Park?

Boat trips in Blue Bay Marine Park offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant underwater world. According to the website EnezGreen, the park, which spans 353 hectares, is home to an extraordinary array of marine biodiversity, including over 38 coral species and 72 fish species. Since the onset of tourist activities in 1992, the number of operators providing boat trips has increased significantly, with around fifteen glass-bottom boat operators now holding permits to conduct excursions.

The park is protected by the Marine Conservation Division, and the conservation efforts of NGOs such as Eco-Sud and its Blue Lagoon Programme.

Glass-bottom boat operators are required to adhere to strict regulations, including using permanent mooring buoys that prevent damage from anchors, thus ensuring the preservation of coral reefs and the overall health of the marine environment.

Prices for these outings start from approximately 350 to 500 Mauritian Rupees, for 1h tour including snorkeling, making this experience accessible for many. You can book directly at Blue Bay beach, where you’ll find many local operators ready to negotiate with you.

Which boat trips to avoid?

While there are many sustainable options, some types of boat tours can negatively impact the environment:

Large Motor Yachts: These boats produce high emissions and contribute to noise pollution, disturbing marine wildlife.
Speedboats: Known for their fuel inefficiency, speedboats can create waves that erode shorelines and disrupt marine habitats.

Tips for Responsible Snorkeling

During a boat tour, you’re likely to feel the urge to dive in and snorkel, as many tours often include this experience. Here are some tips for snorkeling:

Respect Wildlife: If engaging in whale or dolphin watching, choose operators that prioritize minimizing noise pollution and stress on the animals.
Avoid Touching Marine Life: Activities that involve touching or holding animals can be harmful, so it’s best to observe from a distance. A recent awareness campaign has been launched by UNDP Mauritius and Air Mauritius. This video is supported by the entire tourism sector of Mauritius and marks a major step forward in our commitment to protecting endangered marine species. As you fly with Air Mauritius or stay at local hotels, you’ll encounter this video designed to educate both visitors and residents about the laws and best practices for observing whales, dolphins, and turtles. By following these guidelines, you not only help safeguard these magnificent creatures but also promote sustainable tourism in our beautiful island nation.

3. Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect both yourself and the marine environment by using eco-friendly sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs. The local singer Annega recently associated with Attitude Hotels to bring this problem to the attention of the residents in Mauritius in this beautiful video. The song emphasizes the concerning effects of toxic sunscreens, which introduce around 14,000 tons of harmful substances into our oceans each year, causing coral poisoning and bleaching.

With its breathtaking scenery and rich marine biodiversity, Mauritius offers countless opportunities for unforgettable boat trips. By choosing sustainable options and respecting the natural environment, you can enjoy the island’s beauty while helping to preserve it for future generations.