The unforgettable
Wonder for the whole family in Mauritius
Do you want to go on an unforgettable underwater adventure with your family? Mauritius is the ideal destination! Accessible almost all year round, it offers you a total change of scenery without the inconvenience of a significant time difference. Direct flights from France allow you to quickly reach this paradise.
For those who prefer to stay at the surface, many hotel resorts offer kids’ activity clubs, giving you the freedom to dive. Diving courses for young people are well-supervised and accessible. Flic en Flac beaches, particularly suited for beginners, offer natural beauty with numerous corals and tropical fish. For experienced divers, the exploration of the Cathedral, a unique underwater cave, awaits with its fascinating marine creatures. Between July and October, set out to observe the majestic humpback whales.
Head above water
Land excursions in Mauritius are just as captivating. Explore family-friendly hiking trails, discover magnificent waterfalls, and admire the colorful landscapes of the Seven Colored Earth while enjoying the warm atmosphere of local markets.
Practical
- Time difference: + 2 hours from April to October, + 3 hours from November to March.
- Water temperature: 24°C from June to November, 26°C from December to May.
- Ideal season: March to December.
- Necessary equipment: wetsuit 3 to 5 mm.
- Budget: 7 nights stay including flights, half-board and 10 dives in Flic en Flac, starting from €2,100.
- Organizers: The majority of tour operators.
The French-speaking
Discover the Antilles with your little tribe
Guadeloupe is a prime destination for a family trip, offering a total change of scenery with the French language as an asset. The climate is pleasant almost all year round, and airfare prices remain reasonable. It’s the perfect destination for winter vacations!
Underwater conditions are ideal for introducing children to diving or snorkeling in warm, clear water. Basse-Terre island, with the renowned Cousteau reserve, is sheltered from currents and will delight both beginners and experienced divers. On the reefs, you can admire corals, sponges, and a multitude of tropical fish. Don’t miss Malendure beach, known for its green turtles. More experienced divers can explore three fascinating wrecks: the Franjack, the Gustavia, and the Augustin Fresnel.
Head above water
Basse-Terre, wild and rich in nature, is perfect for family hikes. Discover tropical forests, waterfalls, and swimming pools. Visit banana, vanilla, and coffee plantations, and explore Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante or Les Saintes.
Practical
- Time difference: – 6 hours from April to October, – 5 hours from November to March.
- Water temperature: 28°C from June to November, 25°C from December to May.
- Ideal season: December to May.
- Necessary equipment: wetsuit 3 to 5 mm.
- Budget: 7 nights stay in Basse-Terre including flights, 10 dives and breakfast starting from €1,242.
- Organizers: Aquarev, Spots d’Évasion, Subocea, Nature Plongée, Ultramarina, C6Bo.
The ancient
Family getaway in Greece
Greece offers a great opportunity for a family road trip from Athens to the Peloponnese, along the Ionian Sea. As a European destination, it requires little travel time, no time difference, and a welcoming climate! It’s the perfect chance to immerse your children in ancient history.
Snorkeling is possible almost everywhere, thanks to clear and warm water. In Epidaurus, you will find less frequented sites, ideal for family diving. Don’t miss a snorkeling excursion over the remains of an ancient city where you can observe various marine species.
Head above water
Explore the ancient theater of Epidaurus, captivating even for the youngest. The rugged Mediterranean coast also offers great walks, and you might try a sea excursion to see dolphins.
Practical
- Time difference: + 1 hour all year round.
- Water temperature: 16°C from December to April, 23°C from May to November.
- Ideal season: May to October.
- Necessary equipment: wetsuit 5 to 7 mm.
- Diving level: from beginner to advanced.
- Budget: 7 nights stay in Epidaurus including flights, breakfasts and 10 dives, starting from €967.
- Organizers: Aquarev, Spots d’Évasion, C6Bo, Ultramarina.
The pros’ choice
Where to go with the family? Dive! Two tour operators share their recommendations with us.
A stay in Turkey
Claire from Awateha agency proposes a trip to Kaş. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and 40m visibility, this destination, part of a marine protected area, is a true haven for divers. Cultural activities and nearby shops make it an ideal family destination.
Learn more: 7 nights stay, including breakfasts, flights and 10 dives starting from €1,490.www.awateha.com.
A trip to the Bahamas
Romain from Seal Adventure invites you to discover the Bahamas. Dive with gray sharks, lemon sharks, and tiger sharks at Tiger Beach.
Ideal for families: From 8 years old, a first dive is possible. The SEAL Team program offers fun missions, and from 10 years old, children can dive up to 12 meters.
Learn more: 7 nights stay including 8 dives and full board starting from €1,995 (flights additional).www.sealadventures.fr.
GPS Coordinates
- Mauritius: 20°16’27”S – 057°41’27”E
- Guadeloupe: 16°10’16”N – 061°47’10”W
- Greece: 37°35’53”N – 023°21’49”E
- Bahamas: 25°02’26”N – 077°22’16”W
This article, originally written by Margot Harty for the print edition of PLONGEZ!, has been adapted for the web.
Images © Nicolas Barraqué.