Catamaran cruise to Ile aux cerfs with bbq lunch

Mauritius is famous for its picture-perfect beaches and vibrant marine life, and what better way to experience both than on a catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs? This tour promises a mix of scenic sailing, snorkeling adventures, and a delicious BBQ lunch on a stunning island—delivered by Tino Boats, a trusted local operator. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this trip firsthand, highlighting what makes it special and what to consider before booking.

We love how this tour combines scenic views with active and relaxing moments—from sailing past waterfalls to floating in crystal-clear waters, all topped off with a tasty barbecue. The friendly crew and well-organized schedule consistently earn praise, making it clear that this is a well-loved excursion. However, some guests mention the timing can be slightly flexible and the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs might feel rushed for those wanting a thorough explore. This trip fits best for travelers seeking a fun, all-inclusive day on the water without the fuss of planning logistics.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and unique coastline views you can’t access by land
• Inclusive experience with snorkeling gear, drinks, and barbecue lunch
• Friendly, professional crew ensuring a smooth, enjoyable day
• Flexible options for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach
• Good value for money at around $63 per person
• Not ideal for travelers wanting a long, in-depth stay on Ile aux Cerfs

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This tour offers excellent value considering the all-inclusive nature—lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and boat transfers are included. The price is about $63.35 per person, which is reasonable for a six-hour adventure with multiple activities and scenic stops. You won’t need to worry about extra costs for food or gear, making it a great budget-friendly option for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to get a taste of island life.

However, private transportation isn’t included, nor is hotel pickup or drop-off. Most guests seem to organize their own transfers or book through the tour operator, which is straightforward given the meeting point at Trou d’Eau Douce. For those staying nearby, this isn’t a big deal, but if you prefer door-to-door service, you might want to arrange that separately.

The Itinerary: From Waterfalls to White Sand Beaches

The day begins bright and early at 9:30 AM from Tino Boats at Trou d’Eau Douce. The boat departs with a lively crew and sets sail toward the GRSE waterfalls, a lush spot where, if luck’s on your side, you’ll spot monkeys and enjoy the greenery. As one reviewer put it, “Thoroughly enjoyed the day,” especially with the friendly crew making everyone feel welcome.

Next, the boat glides through the water, giving you a chance to soak in the stunning turquoise hues and coastal scenery. The highlight here is the snorkeling stop, where many guests mention the abundant marine life and crystal-clear waters. The reviewer Craig W. shared that the crew was very friendly and the singer/guitarist during lunch added a lively, authentic touch to the experience. Expect to float over vibrant coral reefs, possibly spotting fish or even small sea creatures, as several travelers noted the “good snorkel equipment” and “stunning views.”

After snorkeling, it’s time for a BBQ lunch, often described as “delicious” with “plenty of drinks flowing.” The music, the relaxed vibe, and the tasty fare combine to create a memorable mealtime. Multiple reviews mention the excellent BBQ, with some saying it’s “top quality” and “a highlight of the trip,” especially with the live musician adding to the festive mood.

Once refreshed, the boat moves on to the famous Ile aux Cerfs. Here, guests are free to sunbathe, swim, or explore at their leisure. Some reviewers, like Kellie B., appreciated the “just right” amount of time on the island, allowing them to enjoy the beaches without feeling hurried. Others mention the beautiful scenery and clean beaches, though a few noted that the island can be quite crowded and overhyped, which is worth considering if you’re seeking a quieter escape.

The return journey is around 4:00 PM, giving travelers plenty of time to unwind, take photos, and savor the day’s experiences. Most reviews agree that this well-paced trip delivers a good mix of activity and relaxation, with the crew making sure everything runs smoothly.

The Crew and Service

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the friendly, attentive crew. Many reviews highlight how “the crew looked after us really well,” ensuring everyone had enough drinks and felt comfortable throughout the day. The guides and staff are described as “professional,” “fun,” and “interesting,” which significantly enhances the overall experience.

Guests also appreciated the musical entertainment, with some mentioning the live guitarist as a particular highlight. The service seems to go beyond just logistical efficiency—many travelers felt genuinely welcomed and well cared for, which makes all the difference on a day out like this.

The Experience: What Travelers Love

Travelers consistently mention the stunning scenery as a major draw—crystal waters, lush waterfalls, and pristine beaches create a postcard-perfect backdrop. Many guests loved the variety of activities packed into the day, from snorkeling and waterfall visits to relaxing on the sands of Ile aux Cerfs.

The food and drinks are also a highlight. Multiple reviews talk about the barbecue lunch as “delicious,” “top-notch,” and complemented by abundant alcohol and soda choices. The inclusion of snorkeling gear allowed many to explore the marine life comfortably, and some reviewers mentioned spotting bats and monkeys on the waterfalls, adding a touch of wildlife to the adventure.

The value for money is well recognized, especially considering the inclusiveness of the package. For around $63, travelers seem to get a full day of entertainment, scenic views, and good food, making it a worthwhile investment.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention some minor downsides. Some found the timing a bit tight, with only about two hours on Ile aux Cerfs, which some felt was insufficient for a thorough exploration. Others experienced slight delays in departure, like starting an hour later than scheduled, which, although not a dealbreaker, might affect your overall day.

A couple of reviewers pointed out that Ile aux Cerfs can feel overcrowded or overhyped, especially during peak season, so if solitude is your priority, it’s worth managing expectations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is an excellent fit for those looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive experience that combines scenery, marine adventure, and good food. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Mauritius’ waters and beaches without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you prefer longer stays on the island or deeper exploration, this might not be your perfect tour. However, for a fun, lively day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy great food, this trip hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ lunch offers a memorable day on the water blending scenic sailing, wildlife encounters, and a delicious meal in a relaxed setting. With attentive crew, good value, and stunning views, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of the best Mauritius has to offer.

While the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs might be brief, the overall experience—surrounded by turquoise waters, lively music, and tasty barbecue—creates lasting memories. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a fun day out, this tour ticks many boxes.

Who Should Book This?

This experience suits travelers who want an easy, all-in-one day trip with plenty of activities and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who value good food, friendly service, and scenic views but don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized adventure that offers great value, this tour is a winner.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, private transportation isn’t included. Most travelers organize their own transfers or use the meeting point at Trou d’Eau Douce.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:30 AM, with the activity wrapping up around 4:00 PM.

What’s included in the tour?
Your ticket covers lunch, snorkeling equipment, alcoholic and soft drinks, and bottled water.

Can I swim and snorkel during the trip?
Yes, the trip offers snorkeling stops with provided equipment, and you can swim or relax at Ile aux Cerfs.

How long do we stay on Ile aux Cerfs?
Most guests have about two hours on the island, enough for a beach visit but not extensive exploration.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since snorkeling gear and calm waters are part of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the trip is generally suitable for all ages, provided they are comfortable with boats and water activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 16 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

This cruise offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized day out, perfect for those wanting to enjoy Mauritius’ waters without the hassle. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and delicious local food—sure to be a highlight of any trip to the island.