Mauritius is rich in culture and customs and has lovely surprises in store. Through Océane, history fans can enjoy the pleasures of the sea after learning about the highlights of the Mauritian maritime history at the Martello Museum. Departing from Black River, you’ll first go in search of dolphins in Tamarin Bay. Then you’ll head towards the Martello Museum for aN interesting trip back in time. Back to the present, for a spot of snorkelling to play with lionfish or trumpet-fish then on to the famous ‘Crystal’ rock, a huge giant clam shaped coral, rising out of the turquoise lagoon. After a BBQ lunch served at anchor, a tender boat is there for those who would like to go on île aux Bénitiers. You’ll be back at Black River at around 4pm. Another fun cultural experience…. discover the secrets of “golette” fishing (with a bamboo rod) on the East coast with the local fishermen of Trou d’Eau Douce. Then back onto your catamaran for some well-deserved relaxation including a visit to île aux Cerfs. Would it be your catch on the menu? These two cultural experiences can be carried out in small groups or as a private cruise.
OVERVIEW
Duration
8hrs
Cruising Time
8.30am - 4.30pm
Departure
Four à Chaux, Trou D’Eau Douce (East coast) The Morne Anglers’ Club, Grande Rivière Noire (West coast)
Transport
Can be organized for a supplement depending on availability.
East
If you are on our East Coast cruise, seize the chance to experience the traditional fishing practices of Mauritius. A local fisherman will welcome you on his wooden pirogue and initiate you to the inspection of fishing traps. You might also have a go at the timeless practice of rod fishing on a simple bamboo pole. This tranquil and delightful immersion into the modest local’s daily routine will take you on a trip back in time, before you join the catamaran to continue a luxurious cruise in the Trou d’Eau Douce lagoon.
West
As the boat approaches the popular public beach of La Peneuse in Black River, a stone tower rises behind the filao trees. Hop aboard a shuttle to go ashore for a short visit at the Martello Museum.
Erected two centuries ago, this building tells a bit of the story of the British garrisons on the shores of the island then governed by the colonial authorities. The tower was restored thanks to the good care of the NGO “Friends of the Environment” with support from the Government of Mauritius, the National Heritage Fund and private funds.
Archaeological finds, old accessories and restored trap doors, as well as mannequins all dressed up in uniforms or reconstituted weapons of the time are staged to take the visitor back to the old times. The tour is led by guides who speak English, French or Creole. It ends at the top of the tower, where one can admire the stunning view over the bay of La Preneuse and its ancient canons. Make a request for our cultural experience when booking your private cruise.
YOUR EXCURSION WILL INCLUDE
Swimming in the sheltered lagoon
BBQ LUNCH
Unlimited drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
SNORKELING
Dolphin watching
Visit of Martello Museum
Swimming next to the ‘Crystal Rock’
Discovering île aux Bénitiers
Golette fishing in a typical pirogue boat
Swimming in the sheltered lagoon
Snorkelling
BBQ lunch
Unlimited drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
Visit of the Grand River South East Waterfall
Visit of île aux Cerfs
We recommend that you run through the following checklist before you embark on Océane’s cruises:
- Swimming costume
- High SPF sunscreen to protect you over a full day in the sun
- Your towel
- Hats or Caps to protect your face and neck from UV rays
- A camera to immortalise your experience.
Océane caps and T-shirts may be purchased from our crew on board.
1.How do I make a reservation? Contact us via phone or e-mail to secure your booking. All details are available in the “Contact Us” Section of our Website.
2.How do you take the weather into account on your cruises? While the weather is temperate to warm year-round, showers are not uncommon on our tropical island and rain may come and go during your cruise. In case of particularly bad weather, we will contact you to consult with you and advise you on the best decision to make. Please make sure you provide us with the correct contact information when you make your booking, in case this situation arises.
3.I am not a very confident swimmer or cannot swim at all. Can I still book a cruise with Océane? Our team is fully trained to provide the best safety measures for all persons on board. If you are not comfortable in the water, we have life jackets and other gear on board so you can cruise with us worry-free. However, please inform us about your swimming abilities when you make your booking and when you step on one of our boats.
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1.Alcohol Consumption Alcoholic drinks will be given after snorkelling time. The management reserve the right to cancel the snorkelling if ever alcoholic drinks are consumed before without prior notice.
2.Cancellation by You You, or any of your party, may cancel your booking at any time, via written notification to our office from the lead person on the booking, and applicable. Cancellation fees may be applied.
Read more (click to direct to the T&C page)