Catamaran, BBQ, Ile Gabriel , Ile Plate ,Coin de Mire

Traveling to Mauritius and eager to explore more than just the beaches? This two-day catamaran cruise offers a fantastic way to see the island’s northern waters and islands with a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what to expect—making it a solid choice for those craving authentic island experiences without breaking the bank.

What we like most about this tour:
First, the chance to hop between Ile Gabriel, Ile Plate, and Coin de Mire on a single trip. Each island offers its own unique scenery and charm. Second, the inclusive BBQ lunch with drinks—a highlight that balances delicious local flavors with a relaxed vibe. Third, the convenience of pickup and mobile tickets adds ease to your plans.

A potential downside? The tour is not private, so expect a lively, shared experience with other travelers, which may mean some crowded moments.

This experience caters best to travelers who love sun, sea, and a taste of local island life, particularly those interested in snorkeling, scenic views, and well-organized day trips.

Key Points

• Accessible for Wheelchairs: The tour is wheelchair friendly, opening up the experience for more travelers.
• Two-Day Adventure: Combines a full day on the water with a land-based exploration of Mauritius’s south coast.
• Inclusive Food and Drinks: BBQ lunch with beer and wine is included, making it a hassle-free feast.
• Authentic Island Visits: Includes visits to flat islands, nature parks, tea plantations, and rum distilleries.
• Private Accommodation Available: Optional overnight stay in a private villa for those wanting more comfort.
• Weather-Dependent: The sea trips are subject to weather conditions, but options for rescheduling or refunds are available.

The First Day: Setting Sail from Grand Bay

The adventure begins at Grand Baie, a popular hub known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The tour departs on a catamaran, a vessel that promises not just transport but a floating social hub. Expect a full day of sun, sea, and good company.

The Catamaran Ride and Flat Island

The main highlight is the cruise to Flat Island, which is located just outside the reef. According to reviews, the boat ride itself offers plenty of scenic views—waves gently rocking the boat, the wind in your hair, and the chance to snap photos of the coastlines and neighboring islands.

Flat Island is famous for its pristine sandy beaches and clear waters—ideal for a relaxing swim or snorkel. The shared nature of the tour means you’ll be in a lively group, often with other visitors enjoying the same activities. As Jennifer_J noted, the first day isn’t private and can get crowded, but that also adds to the social fun.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

The waters around Flat Island are generally calm and invite snorkelers to explore the vibrant marine life. From reviews, it appears snorkel gear is available, and the waters are clear enough to see colorful fish and coral formations.

Expect plenty of downtime for sunbathing, swimming, or just lounging on deck while enjoying the breeze. The boat crew typically offers drinks, and the BBQ lunch is served on board—a highlight for many travelers.

The Second Day: Land and Nature

Day two takes a different turn, focusing on the south coast of Mauritius, adding cultural and natural insights to your island adventure.

La Vanille Nature Park

A highlight for nature lovers, this park offers a chance to observe giant tortoises, crocodiles, and other wildlife. The reviews mention that the park is well-organized and the staff knowledgeable, making it easier to appreciate the local fauna.

Cultural and Scenic Stops

The tour includes visits to Hindu temples around Grand Bassin, a sacred crater lake, providing insight into Mauritius’s diverse cultural tapestry. You’ll also explore the rugged coastline, with stops at Gris Gris and La Roche qui pleure—famous for their dramatic rock formations and stunning ocean views.

Tea and Rum Experiences

A visit to the Bois Cheri Tea Plantation allows you to learn about tea cultivation and tasting, adding a flavorful local touch. The tour also features a trip to a rum distillery, where you can sample some of the island’s best-known exports.

Lunch and Private Transport

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hungry Crocodile restaurant, which is included with the tour price. A private car with a driver ensures comfortable, hassle-free transfers between sites, adding a layer of convenience to the day.

Pricing and Value

At $82.22 per person, this tour offers a compelling mix of water-based fun and land explorations. When you factor in snorkeling gear, lunch, and transportation, the value is quite fair, especially considering the opportunity to visit multiple islands and landmarks in just two days.

The optional overnight villa stay for an extra cost is a bonus for those wanting a more leisurely experience, combining a luxurious sleep with scenic views.

The reviews highlight that the tour is well-organized and offers a good balance between guided activities and free time to explore or relax. The inclusion of admission tickets for the parks and sites means you won’t be surprised by extra costs.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

From feedback, we learn that the boat crew is friendly and attentive, often making sure everyone is comfortable and has what they need. Many travelers have appreciated the informative guides who share local stories, adding cultural depth to the trip.

The BBQ lunch is described as delicious, with reviewers mentioning good quality meat, tasty salads, and refreshing drinks—perfect for a midday break. Beer and wine are included, making the meal more enjoyable for those who like to unwind with a drink in hand.

While the tour is not private, the shared experience can be lively and fun, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy social settings.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Mauritius seeking a comprehensive introduction to the northern islands and natural attractions. It’s also perfect for families and groups who want a mix of water activities, cultural insights, and scenic beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions.

Travelers who value value for money—including meals, transportation, and entry tickets—will find this package offers a lot for a reasonable price. If you’re comfortable with shared tours and unpredictable weather, this experience can be both fun and enriching.

The Sum Up

This two-day catamaran tour covers a wide range of Mauritius’s highlights, from stunning island beaches and snorkeling opportunities to fascinating land-based sites like tea plantations and nature parks. The inclusion of a delicious BBQ and drinks on board ensures a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making it suitable for travelers who want a laid-back yet enriching experience.

The accessibility features mean it’s open to a broader range of guests, and the optional private villa gives those seeking extra comfort a chance to extend their adventure overnight. The tour’s well-rounded mix of water, land, and cultural highlights makes it a practical choice for travelers looking for a comprehensive, value-packed exploration of Mauritius’s northern and southern treasures.

If you love scenic views, authentic local experiences, and a bit of adventure on the water, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to pack sunscreen, a camera, and an appetite for great food and good company.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour notes that it is wheelchair accessible, making it a feasible option for travelers with mobility needs.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the catamaran cruise, snorkeling opportunities, BBQ lunch with beer and wine, transfers, and admission tickets for the various sites visited on the land day.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the trip, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour private or shared?
It’s a shared, group experience, with other guests on the same boat and during the land activities, but only your group will participate once booked.

How long do each of the days last?
Day 1, on the water, lasts approximately 7 hours. Day 2, including land visits and activities, runs about 6 hours.

Are overnight accommodations included?
No, but you have the option to stay in a private villa for an extra cost, which provides a cozy base for exploring more of Mauritius.