Réunion is a land of cetaceans. Spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins frequent the west coast all year round, joined from June to October by humpback whales that come here to give birth. Getting in the water with cetaceans, observing them from the surface with fins on your feet and a mask on your face, is a rare experience, to be lived with the utmost respect for these wild animals, whose approach is strictly regulated in Réunion.

What does getting in the water with cetaceans mean?

It means observing cetaceans from the surface, with fins, mask and snorkel, accompanied by a guide. It is not diving: you don’t go down, you stay at the surface to watch the animals moving beneath you, at a respectful distance. It is a different approach from watching from the boat: for a few moments, you share their world.

At Bleu Marine Réunion, this activity always takes place under the supervision of a guide and in strict compliance with the regulations, to preserve the animals’ peace.

When to see cetaceans in Réunion?

Dolphins, all year round

Spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins are the stars of the west coast: you can meet them most of the year, often in groups of several dozen. Playful and curious, they offer unforgettable encounters, even outside whale season. That is what makes this activity possible almost all year round.

Humpback whales, from June to October

Every southern winter, humpback whales stop off in Réunion’s waters to give birth and raise their calves, with a peak in August and September. They can be seen along the west coast, off Saint-Gilles, Boucan Canot and Saint-Leu.

Strict regulations to protect cetaceans

In Réunion, approaching and entering the water near cetaceans is governed by a prefectoral order (order of 27 June 2025) and by the cetacean approach charter. These rules have one single aim: to protect the animals and preserve their peace, especially mothers and their young. The main provisions:

• In-water observation takes place in groups of 7 people maximum (guides included), for 30 minutes maximum.
• A maximum of three boats may approach the same group of cetaceans.
• Approach distances and conditions are imposed; the observation stops as soon as an animal shows signs of disturbance.
• You enter the water with a guide, calmly, without chasing or touching the animals.

Failure to comply with these rules is punishable. Choosing an operator that applies them means a respectful and sustainable experience.

How does a trip with Bleu Marine Réunion go?

Departure and briefing

Departure is from the port of Saint-Gilles. Before boarding, your guide explains how the trip works, the safety instructions and the rules of behaviour around cetaceans.

Search and responsible approach

Once a group has been spotted, the approach is gentle, respecting the regulatory distances. You only enter the water if the conditions and the animals’ behaviour allow it: these are free, wild animals, and sightings are never guaranteed.

A moment out of time

Fins, mask and snorkel at the surface, guided by your instructor, you observe the cetaceans in their element. A ballet of dolphins, the distant song of a whale: strong emotions, in calm and respect.

Our tips for your trip

• Be comfortable in the water and able to swim with mask and snorkel.
• Bring a swimsuit, a towel, a cap and a bottle of water.
• Use ocean-friendly sunscreen.
• Listen to your guide and stay calm: it’s the key to a great encounter.
• Be patient: nature cannot be commanded.

Prices and booking

• Cetacean trip: from €110 (off season), €135 during whale season.
• Trip duration: about 3.5 hours.
• Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season.

Observing a humpback whale or a group of dolphins in their natural environment is a privilege. Bleu Marine Réunion has been running these trips from Saint-Gilles since 1995, in compliance with the cetacean approach charter.

Want to experience whale season with us? Contact us for availability.