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Frequently Asked Questions

We hope our website gives you a good idea of the experience you will have on a Wildwind Adventures holidays on the tropical island of Mauritius. You may however still have some questions. The Frequently Asked Questions below may help answer most of them. Because this information is updated regularly, we can unfortunately offer our FAQ only in English – we are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you. If you have trouble reading the FAQ in English or if you have any other question, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are a small company and we pride ourselves on our personal service.You can call , our representative in Ireland on +44 1992 879774, or you can send an email at john@wildwind.co.uk.
JohnHowell

Flights

What are the flight options?

We are an official agent for British Airways and are able to offer you a total package including BA flights direct flights from and to Gatwick, or from many other European airports. The BA flights usually depart Gatwick 4 times a week.. The flight time approximately 12 hours. In flight catering is included along with a complimentary bar service.

You are also welcome to investigate other carriers, such as Air Mauritius, Air France, Emirates and Condor among others. Your Wildwind agent will be happy to give you advice.

Flights and travel

How far is the hotel from the airport?

The hotel and sailing centre is approximately 60 minutes from the airport. Transfer to/from the resort is included in your package.

How much luggage can I take?

Airlines are getting much stricter with luggage allowances, both for hold and cabin baggage. There are also various restrictions in place due to airport security in respect of items that can be taken through security check in at airports, particularly in respect of liquids. Clients wishing to take personal equipment/sports clothing such as wetsuits etc. please note that airlines flying to Mauritius will usually charge for excess baggage above the normal baggage allowance of 20 kgs per person. (British Airways 23kg) Please check with the airline that you have chosen. Excess baggage charges are payable at check-in.

What should I do about Travel Insurance?

It is a requirement of our Booking Conditions that you take out adequate travel insurance prior to travel. We have arranged a policy with an insurance broker that covers the necessary requirements for our holidays as well as a general travel cover – in particular it covers you and your party for injury to yourself whilst participating in any of the watersports and other activities we offer. When you book a holiday with us, if you are a UK resident, along with your booking documents we will email you a link to the insurers where you will be able to book and pay for this insurance by simply clicking on the link we provide which takes you straight to the insurer’s website then follow the online instructions to book and pay for the insurance cover – your insurance policy will be emailed direct to you .

For those clients on our Sailing programme please note that under this travel policy third party liability is not covered for sailing. Many insurers are now reluctant to provide this cover so we have extended our marine insurance to provide this. Provided you have paid the damage/loss waiver as part of your holiday booking this now covers not only accidental damage to our boats and equipment but also covers you for injury to third parties whilst doing the sailing (please note that any negligent damage to our boats or equipment will be charged for locally). It does not however cover for injury to yourself whilst sailing so you do need to ensure you have adequate cover for this either through your own insurance or by taking out the recommended policy. Non Uk residents should source a relevant policy in their own country of residence.

Irrespective of whether you take our recommended travel insurance or another of your choice please do ensure you are fully covered for your holiday, including any sports or activities you may participate in which are included in your holiday and those you may decide to take part in whilst in resort.

Are any Vaccinations required for Mauritius?

At the time of issue, no compulsory vaccinations were required for EC Citizens but please check with your medical practitioner well in advance of travel for recommended inoculations. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritius/health

Is a visa required?

At the time of issue holders of UK Passports or European Community Members do not require a visa to visit Mauritius. Please check that your passport is still in date and valid for the duration of your holiday - there should be at least 3 months validity remaining from the date of return from holiday. Although this regulation is not necessarily enforced for travellers with less than 3 months validity, the arbiters are the check in and boarding staff of the airlines (who are responsible for any passengers refused entry into the country of arrival for passport irregularities or any other reasons). On the day of travel, if the airline staff refuse check in or boarding to anyone with less than 3 months passport validity, we are advised by the airlines we use that they are within their rights to do so. In such circumstances we will not be able to make any refund for lost holiday time, nor cover any additional costs incurred for new travel arrangements and our normal cancellation terms will apply if anyone is forced to cancel their holiday. Holders of non-uk/non-eu passports should check with the Mauritian embassy/consulate in case a full visa is required. http://passport.gov.mu/English/Passport%20and%20Visa%20Requirement%20in%20Mauritius/Pages/Visa-Requirements-in-Mauritius.aspx

Food

What is included?

Most of our clients choose the half board option at the Coral Azur hotel where you’ll be offered an extensive buffet breakfast, and a buffet dinner with a variety of meals every evening, often with a ‘local’ flavour. Lunches can be bought locally. If you have any specific dietary requirements please do let your agent know.

Hotel

Which meals are included?

The half board meal plan includes breakfast and evening meal (buffet style with ample choices). There also is a beach restaurant which offers fish and local specialties (not open all the time).

What if I want to travel further afield?

A return taxi fare from just outside the hotel into the main centre of Grand Bay costs approximately MUR800 and it takes about 15 minutes.  You can also take the bus, which is cheaper.

Practical matters

What should I bring with me generally?

Usually in winter (means May to October) the highest temperatures vary between 20°C and 26°C in the coastal regions. In summer (November to April) it’s slightly higher, meaning 26°C to 32°C. The water temperature of the Indian Ocean can go up to 28°C.

Do bring waterproof sun cream. Sunglasses. Beach Towel. Peak Summer clothing - very little - it is hot. Do bring at least one item of warmer clothing and a light rain-proof jacket for the occasional downpour (though it will still be warm)

Casual clothes are fine everywhere. Flip-flops or footwear for beach i.e. rubber shoes.

If you plan to explore the island we recommend you bring your driving license as you may wish to hire a car.

Sailing Clients - Buoyancy aids and trapeze harnesses are provided for all water based activities.

Sailing gloves and shoes are NOT provided, please bring your own (trainers are adequate as long as you don’t mind getting them wet).

What is the local currency?

The Mauritian Rupee (approx €1= 40 MRU Rupee). There are various places that money can be changed. Credit cards are widely accepted –but do ask first! Extra costs to consider; Hire of equipment/sports clothes locally. Local trips or excursions. Meals & drinks.

Wildwind Adventures Programme

What water sports are included in the package?

Sailing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boards is included in the price, Tuition is included for sailing, windsurfing and SUPs 6 days a week. Sailing takes place both inside and outside the reef, launching from a Pontoon (walkway to pontoon).

Windsurfing takes place inside the reef - beginners' equipment only - small sails, big boards. You can do stand up paddle boarding inside & around the reef.

Once a week we organise a ‘Sail-Away’ outside the reef to Grand Baie.

What are the sailing conditions?

Wet suits are not required, as water temperature is approximately 20+ degrees. Consistent trade winds are 10-15 knots (up to force 4) blowing in an offshore, cross direction.