Set sail with Réunion Diving and go dolphin and whale watching off the coast of Saint-Gilles to learn more about these amazing animals!

Looking for an unforgettable and enriching experience in Réunion for the whole family, as a couple, or with friends? Don't hesitate to join this dolphin and whale-watching excursion in Saint-Gilles! You will set sail aboard a Zodiac boat in search of cetaceans along the western coastline of Réunion, on an educational and magical excursion under the supervision of a professional.

From July to October, whales can be found off the island’s coast, while dolphins are present year-round. This tour, departing from the port of Saint-Gilles, will allow you not only to observe these animals if you spot them, but also to learn more about them. And, if the conditions are right for entering the water, you’ll have the pleasure of snorkelling with dolphins and whales! Of course, all of this is done with respect for the animals and in compliance with the law. Furthermore, if there are too many boats at a site where cetaceans are present, the animals' comfort will be prioritised, and you will move to another spot to avoid disturbing them and also to have a better chance of snorkelling.

Programme

• Welcome at the centre, introduction to the centre and the activity

• Distribution of equipment (fins, mask, snorkel, and 4 mm shorty wetsuit) before heading to the boat

• Briefing on board the boat in the shade, followed by a cruise of approximately 15 minutes

• First entry into the water without cetaceans to ensure that the entire group is ready and to increase the chances of success when the animals are present

• Return to the boat, then search for cetaceans while receiving information about them (time may vary, as cetaceans are wild animals)

• Once cetaceans have been located, they will be observed to determine whether or not to enter the water, depending on the conditions.

• If possible, entry into the water with the instructor to spend 15 minutes in the water at the legally required distance from the animals

• Return to the boat and continue the tour for another swim, time permitting, before returning to the centre

• Debriefing on the species encountered during the trip and removal of equipment

Prerequisites
To go snorkelling, it is mandatory to have prior experience using fins, a mask, and a snorkel.

Guests must also be comfortable using snorkelling gear and with the idea of swimming in the middle of the ocean.

Parental consent required for unaccompanied minors

You should not take part in this activity if you are pregnant.

Special conditions
Please note that, as dolphins and whales are wild animals, it is possible that you will not encounter them.

If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take a seasickness pill before the activity.