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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