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Reputed for its
sandy beaches and particularly for its turquoise lagoons, Mauritius offers
a wide range of water sports. Thus, this tropical location is the ideal
place to practise those sports. Surrounded by coral reefs, the crystal
clear water provides a safe environment for swimming, playing and for
the practice of some aquatic sports. Children have at their disposal kayaks,
hobbycats, pedalos, wind surfers, catamarans and snorkels which are free.
Paradiving and Scuba diving are also available at extra cost. For those
who want to discover the beauties of the lagoon around the island, glass
bottom boats are available and are at the charge of the hotel. Also watch
the countless number of brilliantly coloured fish and the delicate artistry
of the multicoloured corals. Discover the new craze: the provided Undersea
walk, where you are with weighted belts and head gear which allow you
literally to walk on the sea floor whilst breathing normally.
For those fond of diving, discover the coral gardens at a depth of 25
metres in the waters around Mauritius, home to more than a thousand different
species of fish. Diving is included on the sports list of most of the
large hotels in Mauritius. The magnificent under water scenery is protected
by law; spear fishing and the collection of shells, corals and fishes
are illegal.
Mauritius, a real paradise for deep sea fishing, holds several world records:
Mako shark - 1115 lbs, Blue shark - 400 lbs, Bonito - 41,5 lbs, and recently
the Blue Marlins - 1430 lbs and 1355 lbs respectively. Fishing is one
of the most popular sports enjoyed by holiday makers in Mauritius and
it is a very exciting experience that you will never forget. The waters
around Mauritius are full of large varieties of fish like the Black and
Blue Marlins, Sail fish, Dorados, Yellow-fin tuna, all types of sharks,
Bonitos, Baracuda... It's not sure that those big predators shelter so
close to the shore anywhere else in the world. Departure is scheduled
early in the morning so that you can reach the deep waters, a few nautical
miles beyond the reef when and where fishing is at its best. Each boat
is equipped with nine rods and two crew members. Highly coloured lures
are attached to the lines.
There are also
competitions organised from October to March during which about 600 Marlins
are usually boated and weighed. The Yellow-fin tuna's season is from March
to May. The main fishing activities are from the South West to the North
coast. Boats for deep sea fishing may be booked through most of the beach
hotels. Usual tariffs are as follows:
Half day - 6 hours
7 am to 1 pm: Rs 6 500 - 7 500
Full day - 9 hours
7 am to 4 pm: Rs 7 500 - 9 000
Drinks are free of charge but you are advised to bring packed lunches.
Discover the coastal islands surrounding Mauritius through yachting organisations.
Conditions for sailing are excellent due to the prevailing winds. Most
hotels put small boats at the disposal of their guests.
Nowadays, a holiday is no more a matter of lying on the beach and dipping
occasionally in the warm waters of the tropics. Health, that is, keeping
fit is at the top of the agenda and Mauritius offers many facilities like
gymnasiums or fitness centres at their disposal. Most of the hotels also
provide massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and reiki.
Mauritius also offers the traditional way of keeping fit:
hiking, trekking, cycling and horse riding. Through hiking discover the
mountain ranges of Mauritius. These activities are practised in a natural
atmosphere, free from pollution. For those who keep away from these energetic
sports, there is always a good swimming session in the blue lagoons. Those
activities are catered for in the hotels which also provide swimming pools,
tennis courts and squash courts.
There are excellent golf courses in Mauritius: Two 18 hole available at
Le Paradis Hotel-Le Morne and, at Belle Mare Plage Hotel-Belle Mare. There
are also five 9 hole courses at Trou aux Biches Hotel, Shandrani Hotel,
Saint Géran Hotel, Sofitel Imperial Hotel, Maritim Hotel. These hotels
offer a club house with practice nets and a store room for 'guests' equipment.
Practice balls, clubs and trolleys may be hired at the club house.
Bikes are on hire at various places in the island.
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