Our first stop: Tamarin Bay. Keep an eye out for pods of spinner or bottlenose dolphins that stay in our western coastline waters. If you are lucky, they might be in sight, just for you to admire these beloved mammals’ acrobatics that could be the highlight of your tropical holiday.

The boat then heads to Black River, all sails hoisted. In the lagoon, a patch reef about two meters deep, harbors colorful fishes and small crustaceans. Get into your snorkeling gear and chase after butterfly fish or tease passing trumpet fish while admiring the coral outcrops spread on the white sand. Taste the saltiness of the water as you swim under the vigilant and trained eye of the crew, ready to intervene should anyone need any help.

The boat is then steered towards the infamous Bénitiers Rock, which stands over the turquoise lagoon. As the boat anchors as close as possible, depending on the tide, be sure to snap a picture next to this mysterious outcrop that features endlessly on Mauritian postcards. The aqua water laps gently on the boat and the world is all blue and green as far as the eye can see, except for the Bénitiers Island, laden with coconut trees.

Hop onto a fisherman’s boat, which will ferry you to the island’s sandy beaches, where you can laze around in the sun or start an exploration on foot. A few hawkers scattered around the beach, sell straw hats, jewellery made out of seashells, sarongs and other souvenirs. While the island may attract a crowd during peak season, you can hope to find an almost desert beach on a quiet day.