Santana Dolphins & Whales- Charter Mauritius

Santana Dolphins & Whales- Charter Mauritius operates whale watching and dolphin swimming excursions from the west coast of Mauritius, where the deep ocean channel south of the island provides some of the most reliable cetacean sightings in the Indian Ocean.

Humpback whales pass through the waters south of Mauritius between June and October on their annual migration between Antarctic feeding grounds and tropical breeding areas. Sperm whales — the largest toothed predators on Earth — are resident in the deep channel year-round and are regularly encountered on clear-weather excursions. The combination of seasonal humpback activity and year-round sperm whales makes the Mauritius south coast one of the best whale watching destinations in the southern Indian Ocean.

Excursions depart early morning from the west coast jetties and head south into the deep water channel. The crew uses hydrophones to listen for whale vocalisations and spotter vessels to extend the search area. Encounter rates are high by regional standards, and when humpbacks are active in August and September, breaching, tail slapping, and fin displays are commonly seen.

Dolphins are resident in Tamarin Bay year-round, and the morning excursion often begins by following the spinner dolphin pod as they move offshore. Swimming with the dolphins is offered when the animals are calm and moving slowly; all swimming is passive — guests float and let the dolphins approach rather than chasing them.

Excursions are 4–5 hours, departing around 7am. Bring seasickness medication if susceptible; the south coast is more exposed than the lagoon-protected north coast. Life jackets provided. Advance booking essential.