Spectacular Catamaran trip to Ile Aux Cerf with Lunch & Transfer

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Mauritius, this catamaran adventure promises a combination of scenic beauty, fun activities, and delicious food. While reviews have highlighted some hiccups—like occasional miscommunications—most travelers appreciate the stunning views, friendly guides, and unique experiences.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to navigate among mountains and crystal waters, the opportunity to see wildlife and waterfalls, and the all-inclusive lunch and drinks that make relaxing easy. That said, potential travelers should keep in mind that some reviewers have encountered issues like overloading or mismatched expectations about activities like the undersea walk.

This trip suits those wanting a diverse day of sightseeing, marine adventures, and relaxation, especially if they’re comfortable with group tours and a bit of unpredictability. It’s a good choice for travelers looking for value, lively atmospheres, and memorable moments on the Mauritian coast.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and a chance to explore the Grand River South East.
• Varied activities, including waterfalls, snorkeling, and optional undersea walking.
• All-inclusive lunch with unlimited drinks, enhancing the leisurely vibe.
• Knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, making the day more enjoyable.
• Group size limited to 30, ensuring a personal experience.
• Potential communication issues or activity changes, so stay flexible.

A comprehensive look at the experience

Starting point: Trou d’Eau Douce and hotel pickup

The tour kicks off early, with pickup at your accommodation—something most travelers find convenient, especially since the transfer is in a fully air-conditioned vehicle. Meeting your guide, who is generally described as friendly and helpful, sets a positive tone. The ride to Trou d’Eau Douce, a charming fishing village on the East Coast, is about 15 minutes—short enough not to drag but enough to get you into the Mauritian vibe.

The departure: Catamaran cruise from Trou d’Eau Douce

At 09:30 a.m., you’ll board a comfortable catamaran poised for a full day’s adventure. The crew, often praised for their friendly demeanor, will entertain with local music, jokes, and stories, creating a lively atmosphere. The boat’s capacity is capped at 30 travelers, which helps maintain a more intimate and manageable environment—something you’ll appreciate after experiencing overcrowded alternatives elsewhere.

One recurring theme in reviews is the party mood onboard, with plenty of drinks flowing. Unlimited locally made beverages, including wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and Rhum, add to the festive vibe. However, some travelers note that loud music can sometimes overshadow the scenery and the informative aspect of the trip, especially if you’re hoping for a quieter, more educational cruise.

Visiting the Grand River South East Waterfall

The first highlight is the Grand River South East, where you get to see wild monkeys and bats in their natural habitat. The trip involves a boat ride upstream to about 500 meters from the waterfall, offering good photo ops and a chance to marvel at the lush surroundings. A quick 30-minute stop allows for photos and a bit of nature watching, with guides explaining some local details.

Multiple reviews mention the waterfall stop as a quick but worthwhile experience, with some enjoying the chance to see wildlife like bats and monkeys. A few, however, felt the visit was rushed, especially given the tour’s overall duration.

The water adventure: Snorkeling and the undersea walk

Next comes the snorkeling stop at Ile aux Cerfs lagoon, where the coral reefs and tropical fish create a colorful underwater tableau. We loved the way the calm waters allowed for relaxed swimming and observing marine life—something many reviews highlighted as a highlight.

However, there’s been some inconsistency around the undersea walk. Several guests report that staff at the catamaran weren’t aware it was part of their package, causing confusion or disappointment. One reviewer called this situation “a real deception,” pointing out that their activity was not delivered as promised. Others enjoyed the experience, describing it as feeding fish and walking in a small circle, but some felt it was a brief and not particularly worth the extra cost.

Pro tip: if the undersea walk is important to you, confirm beforehand and clarify what’s included.

Lunch at Ile aux Cerfs

The three-course BBQ lunch is served either on the beach or aboard the boat, depending on your preference. Travelers have described the meal as delicious, with options for vegetarians and non-vegans alike. The lunch includes vegetables, rice or pasta, and grilled meats or seafood, with unlimited drinks.

Many mention the lively ambiance during lunch, with guides and crew making sure everyone is well taken care of. This meal isn’t just about sustenance but also about soaking in the relaxed island atmosphere—palm trees swaying, white sands, and vibrant turquoise waters surrounding you.

Free time on Ile aux Cerfs

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to pure relaxation or playful activities. The island offers options such as parasailing and tubing, which are often booked separately and at additional cost. For those preferring quiet, the beaches provide ample space for lounging, swimming, or strolling amid the scenery praised by reviewers as “picture-postcard perfect.”

Guests appreciate the easy access to nature—bat sightings, monkeys in the trees, and the chance to just sit back on the white sands. Some reviews note that the water activities are limited to a small window, so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your time.

Return journey and final thoughts

Around 16:00, you’ll start sailing back to Trou d’Eau Douce, ending a day filled with scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and marine adventures. The journey back is relaxed, with some guests enjoying the sunset views or reminiscing about the day.

Most reviewers agree that the overall value is good, especially given the inclusions like lunch, drinks, and transport. That said, some comment on overcrowding and the lack of detailed commentary during the cruise, which could be improved with better communication from the crew.

What we love about this tour

Stunning scenery and wildlife encounters make this trip memorable, especially if you’re a nature lover. The all-inclusive lunch and unlimited drinks help keep the day stress-free, and the friendly guides often go the extra mile to share local insights.

The snorkeling stop offers a peek into vibrant marine life, and the group size keeps things manageable and less chaotic. For many, the waterfall visit provides a splash of adventure, especially with the chance to see monkeys and bats in their habitat.

Things to consider

While the experience is largely positive, there are some areas for improvement. The confusion surrounding the undersea walk activity has been a source of disappointment for some. Plus, the loud music and party atmosphere, while fun, might not suit travelers seeking tranquility or a more educational cruise.

Another consideration is the timing and pacing—reviews suggest that some stops, particularly the waterfall and island activities, can feel rushed, especially if you’re hoping for more time on the beaches or in the water. Overcrowding on the boat can also diminish the experience, so traveling in a smaller group or confirming the capacity might be worth exploring.

Who is this tour best for?

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and want a balance of sightseeing and fun. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Ile aux Cerfs, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a tasty meal without fuss.

However, if you prefer quiet relaxation, detailed wildlife spotting, or a smooth, well-organized itinerary, you might find some aspects a bit hectic. Those interested in the undersea walk should double-check that it’s included and confirmed before booking.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most of the time spent on the water, at the waterfall, and relaxing on Ile aux Cerfs.

Are drinks included during the trip?
Yes, unlimited locally made drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and Rhum, are available onboard, ensuring you stay refreshed.

Can I do activities like parasailing or tubing?
Yes, these water sports are available on Ile aux Cerfs but are usually booked separately and at an additional cost.

Is the undersea walk guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Some reviews mention confusion about its inclusion, so it’s best to confirm with the operator before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring your own towels, spare clothes, and sun protection. Although the lunch is included, packing a small snack or extra water isn’t a bad idea.

Final thoughts

This catamaran trip to Ile aux Cerfs offers an energetic, scenic, and tasty day out in Mauritius. It’s suited for those eager to combine wildlife spotting, marine adventures, and island relaxation all in one package. While it isn’t flawless—occasional communication issues and busy stops—most travelers walk away with fantastic memories and great value.

For anyone seeking a lively, well-rounded day with friendly guides, beautiful views, and lots of activities, this trip hits the mark. Just remember to confirm activity details, bring your own extras for comfort, and go with an open mind for a fun Mauritian adventure.

Happy sailing, and enjoy your Mauritian escape.