Catamaran Cruise to Ile Aux Cerfs with Lunch & Drinks

Mauritius offers countless ways to enjoy its natural beauty, but few experiences encapsulate the island’s charm quite like a catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs. This adventure combines sailing through sparkling waters, exploring stunning beaches, and enjoying a delicious onboard meal. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to relax, snorkel, and take in some of the most iconic scenery on the east coast.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the breathtaking views you’ll get from the deck as you cruise along the turquoise waters. Second, the chance to snorkel amidst vibrant marine life inside the lagoon. And third, the opportunity to visit Grand River South East Waterfall and see local wildlife like bats and monkeys. The only thing to consider? The day’s pace might feel a bit packed if you prefer a slow, unstructured day. Still, this cruise is ideal for travelers who want a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural sights in a single outing.

This experience would suit those who enjoy water-based activities, scenic sailing, and tasty meals on the water. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting a full-day excursion that balances sightseeing with relaxation, especially if you’re eager to explore Ile aux Cerfs’s postcard-perfect beaches.

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Key Points

Scenic sailing through crystal clear waters with stunning coastlines
Snorkeling opportunities to view tropical fish and coral reefs
Visit to Ile aux Cerfs for a relaxing beach day on white sands
Inclusion of a BBQ lunch and drinks makes for good value
Visit to Grand River South East Waterfall with wildlife viewing opportunities
Flexible options for vegetarians if notified in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Catamaran Experience in Mauritius

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Departure and First Impressions

The cruise departs promptly at 09:00 from Pointe Jerome Jetty, located in the south-east of Mauritius. From the start, the crew, notably friendly and professional, makes an effort to set a relaxed tone. The journey begins with a light breakfast on board — a simple but appreciated touch to fuel up for the day ahead.

Once on the catamaran, you’ll notice the spacious deck and open bar service, which quickly becomes a highlight for many travelers. The chance to sip on refreshing drinks while enjoying the views is a small luxury that enhances the entire experience. Expect the boat to be comfortably sized; not too crowded, yet lively enough to feel convivial.

Cruising and Snorkeling in the Lagoon

As the catamaran glides away from the coast, the scenery is immediately captivating. Expect crystal clear waters, with shades of turquoise and aquamarine that practically beg for photos. The first stop around 11:00 is at the lagoon inside Ile aux Cerfs, where snorkeling gear is provided.

Travelers who have tried snorkeling here mention the impressive marine life — brightly colored tropical fish dart among coral formations, making it a favorite activity. One reviewer shared, “The snorkelling was fantastic. We saw so many fish and coral, and it was surprisingly easy to swim among them.” It’s a relaxed experience, suitable for all skill levels, with enough time allocated to explore underwater before moving on.

Exploring Grand River South East Waterfall

After snorkeling, the cruise continues along the east coast, offering scenic views of the coastline and mangroves. The boat then navigates towards the mouth of Grand River South East, a notable highlight of the tour. Here, you’ll enjoy a view of the waterfall from afar, with the guide pointing out the habitat of bats and monkeys on the riverbanks.

While the waterfall itself isn’t directly accessible, many reviews note that this stop provides a good chance to see local wildlife and appreciate the lush surroundings. This adds a touch of adventure and nature to the day, especially for animal lovers.

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Lunch: A Delicious BBQ on Board

Around midday, the crew serves a delicious BBQ lunch that’s cooked fresh onboard. The menu is often described as well-prepared and flavorful, with the crew’s friendly service making the meal even more enjoyable. The selection includes meats and vegetarian options (advance notice required for vegetarians), alongside a variety of beverages — from soft drinks and non-alcoholic drinks to beer, rum, and wine.

Many guests comment that the lunch surpasses expectations for a day trip meal. The informal, relaxed setting, paired with good food and drinks, makes for a perfect midday break.

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Cruising into Ile aux Cerfs and Beach Time

After lunch, the catamaran cruises into the canal between Ile aux Cerfs and the nearby Anahita sanctuary. The highlight is arriving at the famous white sand beach of Ile aux Cerfs. Here, you’re free to relax on the postcard-perfect sands, take a swim, or snorkel again if you wish.

Travelers often note that the beach is truly picture-perfect, with swaying palm trees and clear waters. It’s the ideal spot to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the island.

Return Journey and Evening Vibes

Following some leisure time on Ile aux Cerfs, the boat begins its return trip to Pointe Jerome. The crew keeps the mood lively with local Mauritian sega music, creating a joyful atmosphere for the journey back. The expected arrival back at the jetty is around 4:00 PM, though it can vary depending on tide and wind conditions.

What to Expect from the Tour Duration and Logistics

This full-day experience runs from 09:00 to approximately 16:00, with the timing generally aligned with tides and weather. The tour is designed to balance active stops with leisure, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

The group size is moderate, ensuring a friendly ambiance without feeling crowded. Transportation to and from your hotel isn’t included, but the meeting point at Pointe Jerome is straightforward to reach if you’re staying nearby.

The cost of $76 per person is quite reasonable given what’s included — a full day of sailing, snorkeling, a quality BBQ lunch, drinks, and visits to key sights. Compared to the cost of individual water sports or private tours, this offers impressive value.

Practical Tips

Bring essentials: Hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and a change of clothes.
Notify about dietary needs: Vegetarian options can be arranged if specified beforehand.
Be prepared for a full day: Comfortable footwear, sunglasses, and a water bottle are handy.
Expect some wait times: The schedule depends on tide and weather, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day on the water with a good mix of adventure and comfort, this catamaran cruise offers excellent value. The stunning vistas, snorkeling in the lagoon, and delicious BBQ lunch make it a memorable way to experience Mauritius’s east coast.

It’s especially well-suited for those who love outdoor activities, appreciate authentic local experiences, and want a balanced itinerary without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable crew and lively atmosphere add a layer of authenticity, making the journey truly enjoyable.

If you’re after a full-day, all-in-one excursion with scenic sailing, wildlife spotting, and beach relaxation, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be sure to inform the crew about dietary preferences, and prepare for a day filled with beautiful views, good food, and fun.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start and end?
The cruise departs at 09:00 and returns around 16:00, depending on tide and wind conditions.

Where does the tour depart from?
It starts at Pointe Jerome Jetty in the south-east of Mauritius, with a representative meeting you in uniform with a “One Island Cruiser” badge.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes snorkeling with equipment, a traditional BBQ lunch, beverages (soft drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, beer, rum, wine), and visits to Ile aux Cerfs and the Grand River South East Waterfall.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, but the onboard bar is well-stocked with a variety of beverages included in the price.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if you notify the tour provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and a change of clothes for after swimming.

Is there any extra cost for water sports?
Water sport activities like parasailing, undersea walks, and tube rides are not included and may incur additional charges.

How many people typically join this tour?
Group sizes are moderate, making the experience friendly yet not overcrowded.

What is the price and is it good value?
At $76 per person, it offers great value considering the all-day itinerary, meals, drinks, and sightseeing.

In essence, this catamaran cruise offers a memorable slice of Mauritius’s beauty, perfectly suited for travelers wanting a laid-back yet lively day on the water, with plenty of photo opportunities and a tasty meal to top it off.