An Honest Look at the All-Inclusive Catamaran to Ile Aux Cerfs and Waterfall Visit
If you’re heading to Mauritius and looking for a day packed with water-based fun, this all-inclusive catamaran trip might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and details highlight a vibrant experience that appeals to those craving sun, sea, and scenic views. From the serene beaches of Ile Aux Cerfs to the powerful splash of Grand River South East waterfalls, there’s plenty to love.
What truly stands out are the stunning scenery, the knowledgable guides, and the delicious Mauritian BBQ lunch. However, potential travelers should be aware that some reviews mention organization hiccups and logistical challenges—so patience is key. This trip suits anyone eager for a relaxed, adventure-filled day on the water, especially if they enjoy snorkeling or beach lounging.
Key Points
- Diverse itinerary combines island, waterfall, and water activities for a well-rounded experience.
- All-inclusive price covers meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfers, offering good value.
- Group size is limited to 24 travelers, creating a more intimate setting.
- Mixed reviews highlight excellent guides but occasional organizational issues.
- Duration of around 8 hours makes for a full, satisfying day without feeling rushed.
- Weather-dependent nature of the trip means you’ll want to plan for good conditions or flexible dates.
What to Expect from the Tour
This tour offers a taste of the best water-centric sights around Mauritius, with a mix of relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty. Starting at 9:00am, you’ll be picked up in a private, air-conditioned vehicle directly from your accommodation—an aspect many reviewers appreciated, as it saves the hassle of organizing transfers separately.
The day begins with a scenic drive to Trou Deau Douce, where you’ll board a catamaran. The boat itself promises a fun, lively atmosphere, often with music and plenty of space for sunbathing. As you glide across the water, you’ll take in vistas of the turquoise lagoon and the lush coastline, setting the tone for a memorable day.
Looking for more options in Chamarel? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Ile Aux Cerfs: The Highlight of the Day
The first stop is Ile Aux Cerfs, an island of around 87 hectares famed for its white sandy beaches and clear shallow waters. Many reviews mention the island’s beauty and the variety of activities available, from lounging on the beach to engaging in water sports. The island’s numerous restaurants and bars mean you can grab a snack or drink without straying far from the sand.
Travelers will likely appreciate the freedom to explore at your own pace, whether you want to snorkel, stroll, or just soak up the sun. With no admission fee, the focus here is on enjoying the scenery and the facilities.
Grand River South East Waterfalls: A Must-See
Next, you’ll visit the Grand River South East (GRSE) waterfall, a highlight for many water lovers and nature fans. This 20-minute stop offers a chance to witness one of the region’s most impressive cascades, surrounded by lush greenery. An included admission ticket makes this accessible, and reviews commend guides for sharing interesting insights about the waterfall and surrounding flora.
Many guests describe the waterfall as “spectacular” — a great photo spot and an authentic taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty. The tour’s focus on these scenic stops helps justify the trip’s overall value.
Water Activities and Lunch
After the waterfall, the trip continues with a Mauritian BBQ lunch on Ile Aux Cerfs—a treat for those who enjoy local flavors grilled fresh on the spot. The lunch, included in the price, is often praised as satisfying and well-cooked, with many reviewers mentioning the friendly service.
Post-lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the blue lagoon, with snorkeling gear provided. The reviews describe the waters as “beautiful,” and many guests appreciate the chance to see marine life up close. It’s a relaxing way to cool off and enjoy the vibrant underwater scenery.
Following snorkeling, there’s ample time for suntanning and relaxing on the island’s beaches or exploring further. The balance of organized activities and free time makes this tour appealing for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
The Pros and Cons
What We Love
Knowledgable guides make a big difference, with reviews noting friendly staff who go above and beyond to help. Their insights and assistance enhance the experience, especially during the waterfall visit and water activities.
Scenic highlights like Ile Aux Cerfs and the waterfalls are prime photo opportunities and give a real taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty. The boat ride itself offers fantastic views and a fun, lively atmosphere.
All-inclusive value means you don’t need to worry about extra costs for meals, drinks, or snorkeling gear. The unlimited beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.
What to Keep in Mind
Some reviews mention organization issues, such as delays or confusion during check-in, and problems with transfers, including one guest being stranded after the trip. While these seem isolated, they are worth considering if you’re relying on timely logistics.
Plus, the trip’s weather dependency means it won’t be as enjoyable in poor weather or rough seas. Always check the forecast and be prepared for possible rescheduling.
Transportation and Group Size
The private, air-conditioned vehicle to the departure point is a definite convenience, especially for those staying farther from Trou Deau Douce. The tour limits to 24 travelers, creating a more intimate experience compared to larger cruise boats, which can sometimes feel crowded.
The pickup time at 9:00am is standard, but some reviews mention early pickups—so be prepared for a possibly early start, particularly if you’re staying outside the main tourist areas.
Duration and Overall Value
An 8-hour tour strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried. The price of $110 per person includes a lot: transfers, a hearty lunch, snorkeling, and water activities, which many see as good value for a full day’s adventure.
However, the quality of the organization and the experience can vary. Some travelers have praised the friendly guides and scenic stops, while others experienced overcrowding and logistical hiccups—so managing expectations is key.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience is ideal for water enthusiasts who love being on boats, snorkeling, or relaxing on beaches. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive day out that combines natural beauty, good food, and a lively boat trip.
If you’re someone who prefers highly organized, seamless experiences with strict punctuality, you might want to prepare for potential delays or issues. For those open to a relaxed, sometimes chaotic, but ultimately rewarding adventure, this tour can become a cherished part of your Mauritius trip.
The Sum Up
This all-inclusive catamaran trip offers a solid way to explore some of Mauritius’s most iconic sights with a blend of sightseeing, water activities, and delicious local cuisine. The scenic stops at Ile Aux Cerfs and the waterfalls are definitely highlights, supported by knowledgeable guides who enhance the overall experience.
The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the tour, covering transport, meals, snorkeling gear, and drinks, making it a convenient option for travelers wanting a hassle-free day out. For those who love beaches, water sports, and stunning natural scenery, this tour is a good choice.
However, be prepared for possible organizational hiccups, especially regarding timings and transfers, and stay flexible if weather or logistics don’t go perfectly. Overall, if you’re seeking a fun, active day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty, this trip has a lot to offer.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up in a private, air-conditioned vehicle from your location and transferred to the departure point.
What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00am and ending in the late afternoon.
What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the catamaran ride, unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), snorkeling equipment, lunch at Ile Aux Cerfs, bottled water, snacks, and transfers.
Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities are optional. Outside of what’s listed, any extra activities or services are at your own expense.
Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests enjoyed exploring the underwater scenery in the blue lagoon.
What are the main highlights of the trip?
The standout moments are the visit to Ile Aux Cerfs, the Grand River South East waterfalls, snorkeling, and the delicious Mauritian BBQ lunch.
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18, and those with mobility issues may want to check accessibility details, as the tour involves boat and water stops.
In essence, this catamaran tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-rounded day for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts — with a few organizational quirks to keep in mind.