Dolswim

Mauritius is an ideal destination for those who dream of discovering nature’s mysterious secrets. The island particularly promotes exclusive encounters with the wild, in ways which value proximity and for the wonders of nature. Dolphin and whale watching, proposed by the renowned Mauritian company Dolswim Ltd, is one such grand opportunity for adventurous souls to commune with nature in a unique and an unforgettable way.

The dolphin (from the Greek “Delphys” meaning “womb”) is a marine mammal which evolved about 25 million years ago. As an epitome of beauty, intelligence, and freedom, it has carved a special place in human culture. Poets, scientists, philosophers and artists worldwide describe the dolphin as a highly social animal, taking loving care of their babies and displaying friendly attitudes towards humans. Tales abound as to how these graceful and wise mammals have rescued humans and helped endangered ships in treacherous waters.

It’s no wonder that the Greek Sun God Apollo portrayed the dolphin as the quintessence of peaceful virtue, undisguised joy and as a guide to another world. Dolswim Ltd, registered in 2003, gears all its efforts towards realizing one’s dream of cruising on the wild side. Operating on the west coast of the island, in Rivière Noire, the company offers various recreational activities which allow visitors to behold the inspiring marine mammals as they engage in their daily routine of hunting, playing, courting, and socializing in the bay and beyond. The expeditions vary from two hours to a full day.

A typical full day excursion starts at 8:00 and includes a two-hour encounter with the dolphins as well as lunch on Benitiers Island where one may laze on the beach, admiring the splendid view of Le Morne Mountain. The adventure begins once you step in one of the three speed boats, each covered by insurance and properly equipped with life jackets and other safety gear. Indeed, one of the strong points of the company is its professionalism and uncompromising attitude towards safety. In each boat there are two highly experienced skippers whose expertise and knowledge of first-aid ensure a safe and enriching trip. The day begins with a briefing on the types of dolphins that you’ll encounter, their habits, security measures and swimming procedures.

Guidelines for sustainable dolphin watching are also emphasized. Indeed, Dolswim Ltd adamantly promotes the protection of these fascinating creatures and their natural habitat. The company encourages guests to come to an encounter in a spirit of respect, consideration and sensitivity. The dolphins are not harassed in any way; they are free to come and go as they please, choosing whether they want to make contact
with humans or not. Watching them frolic freely in their natural environment amidst their family makes us aware of the negatives of captivity. The excitement aboard is palpable once the wild dolphins appear in the clear open sea. Scanning the surface for the small dark fins, guests are thrilled when they spot the mammals.

As they glide gracefully, unfettered and serene, visitors cannot help but reflect on the wonders of nature. The high point of the journey is undeniably the swim with the dolphins. With the help of the skippers and the snorkeling equipment aboard, guests may dive in the warm water to be closer to the playful and curious animals. Being in their element, right next to them, as they dance, swim in synchrony, twist, turn and spin is an exceptional experience to cherish forever. The species observed are the Bottlenose and the Spinner dolphins.

During a trip you may observe from 15 to 100 Bottlenose Dolphins as they move in groups called pods. Spinners congregate in groups that vary from just a few dolphins to great schools numbering in the thousands. They are acrobatic and keen bow-riders. As for the whales, the two species that can be observed are the Humpback Whales and the Sperm Whales. Both species move away from the poles to warmer seas near the equator, to reproduce, give birth and breed, before getting back to the Arctic.

The Humpback Whales can only be observed between July and November. The Sperm Whales can however be observed all year round along the west coast of the island. (Whale watching is a different outing as one has to go further out to sea and the excursion will depend much on weather and sea conditions.) Dolswim Ltd organizes memorable trips which blend excitement and relaxation. While guests are often overwhelmed by the soothing magnificence of the marine mammals, they are also made aware of the need to protect them from extinction. Swimming with dolphins is a unique experience which uplifts the human spirit; their songs echo in our hearts long after we’ve left them behind in their world of freedom and innocence.

The excitement aboard is palpable once the wild dolphins appear in the clear open sea. Scanning the surface for the small dark fins, guests are thrilled when they spot the mammals. As they glide gracefully, unfettered and serene, visitors cannot help but reflect on the wonders of nature.

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Mahebourg

Mahebourg is a delightful blend of the old and new, with some buildings originating back to the 1800’s interspersed with modern island architecture. This historic port city was once the capital of Mauritius and is an excellent home base for your island vacation. This laid back, friendly city is a main fishing centre on the island but fishing is not necessarily the primary draw for tourists and other visitors.

The allure of Mahebourg’s attractive waterfront lies with views of the majestic Lion Mountain and its pristine blue lagoon in the distance.

A Brief History Founded originally by Dutch colonists around 1805, Mahebourg was named after a popular French governor Ber trand-Francois Mahé de La Bourdonnais during the French colonial period in history. The Dutch chose to colonise the site because of its proximity to abundant water supplies, namely nearby streams and rivers. It served as an excellent port city for trade. However, it was the Battle of Grand Port in 1810 that truly defined the port of Mahebourg.

The British tried to take over the entire island of Mauritius and failed, thanks to the French efforts to protect it. Eventually, the French chose Port Louis as their primary port, relegating Mahebourg to a small town with fishing and tourism as its primary commerce. Still, this historic city boasts the best of its founding fathers with the wide streets and hints of the Dutch and French influence in the architecture, particularly in the old areas of Mahebourg.

The waterfront, while not boasting beaches, has been developed and is now a huge draw for visitors. It is perfect for a stroll at sunset and there is even a pavilion to rest and enjoy the view. Things to See and Do Perhaps one of the most interesting draws to Mahebourg is the Naval Museum housed in a restored colonial French mansion that once served as a medical base during the 1810 war. Two of the three floors of the mansion house artefacts from historic battles
on the island.

View the cannons, swords and other weaponry from the war in addition to wreckage from ships. There is even a restored village settlement on site so that you can see the lifestyle of the settlers from several centuries ago. Biscuit Factory, dating back to 1870 has been in the Rault family since its inception and produces square, crispy cookies using a secret recipe without the implements of modern technology.

You can tour the factory located on the outskirts of Mahebourg and even sample their wares! History and architectural buffs can visit the Notre Dame des Anges Church, built in 1849. The timbers of the roof are quite grand and the statues are interesting too. Some of the locals even present offerings to the statues. The view from the tower spires provides a picturesque look at Mahebourg and the waterfront.

Another popular draw is the longest spanning bridge on the island which connects both banks of the La Chaux River. There is also the maritime monument on the coast of Mahebourg which honours those fallen in the naval battle in 1810. And thanks to the progressive development of the tourism industry, the new casino near the beautiful waterfront offers bright lights and entertainment.

There are also a number of nature activities to consider when visiting Mahebourg. You can take rides in glass bottom boats to neighbouring islands or snorkel in the clear waters to check out the sea life. Coral diving is popular as are visits to the Grand Waterfall nearby. The Lion Mountain area offers exploring such as hiking and nature tours. You can also witness additional local wildlife and flora at the Airgettes Bird Sanctuary. To see the sights of the area, you can walk to most destinations or hop on one of the buses that travel throughout the small city. If you want to see the sights on your own, you can hire a car or even rent a motorcycle or bicycle. Of course, you can also explore nearby waters and islands by boat.

If you want a Mauritius home base during your vacation, then Mahebourg can be a great choice. Because it is not a beach town, you will not have to fight crowds but you still get to enjoy the sea thanks to its beautiful waterfront and clear blue lagoon waters. Mahebourg offers a blend of cultures present in the population and in the entertainment and eateries in the city.

You can find Indian, Creole, Chinese, Dutch, German, French and other European influences. The city also boasts some great shopping, thanks to the local shops and weekly flea market where you can get some excellent souvenirs.

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