Take Off from the Lagoon
A seaplane experience in Mauritius combines the thrill of aviation with the magic of the ocean in a way no other activity can match. Imagine boarding an aircraft directly from a floating dock on the turquoise Grand Baie lagoon, feeling the spray as the floats skim the water surface, and then lifting smoothly into the sky to reveal the entire island spread out below you. This is not just a scenic flight — it is an adventure that begins the moment your feet leave the dock.
Our 40-minute seaplane tour covers more of Mauritius than any other aerial experience. The fixed-wing Cessna Caravan amphibious aircraft flies a complete circuit of the island, from the northern offshore islands to the dramatic south coast, giving you panoramic views of every major landmark. The flight is remarkably smooth and quiet compared to helicopters, making it ideal for photography, relaxation, and passengers of all ages.
The Water Takeoff Experience
The water takeoff is what makes a seaplane flight truly special. After boarding from the floating dock at Grand Baie, the aircraft taxis across the calm lagoon like a boat — you can see fish darting beneath the floats and feel the gentle rocking of the water. Then the pilot opens the throttle, the engine roars, and the seaplane accelerates across the surface, sending a plume of spray behind it. Within seconds, the floats lift free and you are airborne, climbing over the reef and out across the open ocean. It is an exhilarating moment that passengers describe as the highlight of their Mauritius holiday.
The water landing at the end of the flight is equally memorable. The pilot descends gently towards the lagoon, and the floats touch the surface with barely a splash — it is surprisingly smooth, more like a boat settling into the water than a conventional aircraft landing. You taxi back to the dock feeling like an explorer returning from an expedition over paradise.
Complete Island Circuit
The seaplane scenic flight follows a comprehensive route that reveals every face of Mauritius. Departing from Grand Baie, you first fly north over the offshore islands — Coin de Mire (Gunner’s Quoin) with its dramatic wedge shape, Flat Island, and Île Ronde. These uninhabited islands are surrounded by deep blue water that contrasts strikingly with the shallow turquoise lagoons closer to shore.
Turning south along the east coast, the star attraction is Île aux Cerfs — Mauritius’ most famous island, its white sand beaches and emerald golf course looking impossibly perfect from above. The surrounding lagoon displays every shade of blue and green, with the dark channels between reef patches creating natural abstract art. Further south, the coastline becomes more dramatic with rocky headlands and secluded bays.
The southern section of the flight delivers the most dramatic scenery. The underwater waterfall illusion off Le Morne is visible in all its glory — sand and silt cascading off the continental shelf create the appearance of a waterfall plunging into the ocean depths. Le Morne Brabant, the UNESCO World Heritage mountain, rises 556 metres from the peninsula below. Nearby, Chamarel waterfall plunges 100 metres through dense tropical forest, and the Seven Coloured Earth displays its surreal rainbow sand dunes.
The return leg follows the west coast, where extensive coral reef barriers protect calm lagoons stretching from Le Morne to Flic en Flac. The contrast between the deep ocean beyond the reef and the shallow turquoise water inside is mesmerising from above. You will also see Tamarin Bay, famous for its dolphins, before the seaplane descends for its smooth water landing back at Grand Baie.
Why Choose a Seaplane?
While helicopter tours are popular, a seaplane in Mauritius offers several unique advantages. The water takeoff and landing are experiences you simply cannot get anywhere else — they add an extra dimension of excitement to the aerial tour. The 40-minute flight duration is longer than most helicopter tours, giving you more time to absorb the views and take photographs. The fixed-wing design provides a smoother, quieter ride with less vibration, which is better for photography and more comfortable for passengers who may be nervous about flying.
The Cessna Caravan’s high-wing configuration means windows are below the wing, providing completely unobstructed downward views — perfect for aerial photography. The aircraft’s larger size also means more cabin space and comfort compared to smaller helicopters. For couples, families, and photography enthusiasts, the seaplane experience represents the premium choice for seeing Mauritius from above.
Practical Information
The seaplane tour in Mauritius operates daily with morning departures at 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM, weather and sea conditions permitting. Hotel pickup is included from anywhere on the island. Wear comfortable clothing, bring sunglasses and sunscreen, and secure cameras with wrist straps. Life jackets are provided and must be worn throughout the flight. The aircraft is not pressurised but flies at comfortable altitudes (1,000‑2,000 feet).
The best season for seaplane flights is May to November when seas are calmest and visibility is excellent. Morning flights offer the smoothest water conditions for takeoff and landing. The operator monitors weather and sea state closely — if conditions are unsuitable, you will be contacted to reschedule at no cost or receive a full refund.