While visiting Mauritius, the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean, there are many opportunities to explore the Ocean itself.

The warm turquoise waters and rugged coral reefs make Mauritius a popular draw for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Like most exotic island locations, equipment is readily available to rent and excursions for the novice to the experienced divers can be booked through most hotels. There are even snorkeling opportunities in combination with unique adventures, such as a Catamaran Tour or a Pirate Cruise.

However, for travelers who are perhaps not the strongest of swimmers, Mauritius is one of very few places where the magic of the undersea world is still uniquely accessible. Here, one can book a 40 – 90 minute excursion on a submarine, take an undersea walk, sail about in a glass bottom boat or ride in a semi-submersible craft.

Blue Safari Submarine Excursions: The Blue Safari Submarine Tour Company provides a very unique experience. They have two submarines, the BS600 and the larger BS1100, and offer a variety of excursion options at the depth of 35m. The BS600 is a smaller, 5 passenger craft that allows for a 360º panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. Within the air-conditioned, pressurized cabin, one can enjoy a seafood lunch, champagne and canapés, or even get married in safety and comfort while surrounded by the colorful fish and romantic landscape of the undersea world. For a more family-friendly fee, one may choose to book a tour on the 10 passenger BS1100. This submarine has several portholes for ocean viewing, as well as a camera that broadcasts live pictures of the surrounding ocean to a television screen inside the submarine, for better sightseeing. Whichever your choice, the viewing opportunities are incredible. Besides the amazing marine life, magnificent plant life and interesting rock formations, you will also have the opportunity to view close-up the wreck of the “Star Hope”, a Japanese fishing boat, as well as the remains of a 17th Century sailing ship. This is definitely an experience not to be missed.

Le Nessee: Another comfortable, ride-along way to see the underwater world of Mauritius is on the semi-submersible craft “Le Nessee”. Here, you cruise comfortably and safely in the air conditioned sunken bottom of a boat-like craft. The transparent sides give you a panoramic view of the coral reefs and an up-close look at the various types of marine life. Although glass-bottomed boat tours are also available on this tropical paradise, this is a very unique and far more impressive adventure for travelers of all ages.

The Undersea Walk: If the idea of hands-on exploration appeals to you, but you are unwilling or unable to scuba dive or snorkel for whatever reason, then the Underwater Stroll is for you! This opportunity, available near Grand Baie, is available to everyone from 7 years of age and up. Even tourists without swimming ability or who may be limited by physical handicaps are able to participate in this unusual adventure. You will be provided with weighted boots and a completely transparent dive helmet connected to an above water air supply. Then, with your group of five other people, you will be able to walk along the ocean bed, touch the plant life and possibly even feed the fish. The water is shallow and calm so the experience is completely safe and unlike any other; truly a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Whether you are a marine enthusiast or simply a curious tourist, the underwater world of Mauritius is at your fingertips. How you wish to experience it is completely up to you!