South Mauritius Day Tour: Blue Bay Glass-Bottom Boat, Snorkelling & La Vanille Reserve
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves short walks, light stair use and boat embarkation
Overview
Spend a full day exploring southern Mauritius: glass-bottom boat and snorkel in Blue Bay Marine Park, watch waves batter the wild Gris Gris cliffs, meet giant tortoises at La Vanille, and tour the St. Aubin Rhumerie. This practical guide tells you what to expect and how to prepare.
South Mauritius Day Tour: Blue Bay Glass-Bottom Boat, Snorkelling & La Vanille Reserve
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The day opens with salt on the air and a driver who knows the island’s southern heartbeat. From an air-conditioned minibus the shoreline of Blue Bay appears as a band of electric blues—shallow turquoise that deepens to cobalt where the reef drops away. You step aboard a glass-bottom boat and the sea, as if moved by its own will, frames reefs and schools of trumpet fish beneath the hull; light fractures across coral heads and the guide points out the patchy gardens of brain coral and the occasional shy parrotfish.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Blue Bay is a protected marine park—use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply away from the water to protect corals.
Bring cash for entrance fees
Attraction fees (La Vanille, rhumerie tastings) are paid on site—carry small local currency or card where accepted.
Wear sturdy sandals or water shoes
You’ll board boats and walk on rocky viewpoints—grippy, quick-dry footwear protects feet at Gris Gris and beaches.
Time for motion sensitivity
Glass-bottom boats and open waters can be choppy—take seasickness precautions if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Giant Aldabra tortoises
- Nile crocodiles (viewable at La Vanille)
History
The south retains traces of colonial plantation-era estates and distilleries; St. Aubin Rhumerie continues the island’s long tradition of sugar-cane rum production.
Conservation
Blue Bay is a designated marine park with active reef protection—visitors should avoid touching coral and follow guide instructions; La Vanille participates in captive-breeding and education programs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Mahebourg
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects coral and prevents sunburn during snorkelling and boat time.
summer specific
Swimwear & quick-dry towel
Needed for snorkelling and comfortable transitions on and off the boat.
summer specific
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Grip for rocky viewpoints and protection while walking on sand and reef edges.
Light rain shell
South coast can be exposed—an ultralight shell blocks wind and sudden showers.
winter specific