Catamaran Trip to Ile au Cerfs with Lunch and GRSE waterfall

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Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with sun, sea, and a splash of adventure, this catamaran trip to Ile aux Cerfs with lunch and GRSE waterfall promises exactly that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it’s clear from reviews and descriptions that it offers a memorable mix of relaxation and exploration.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the boat itself is a spacious 45-foot catamaran, providing plenty of room for lounging and socializing. Second, it combines a scenic waterfall visit with the allure of Ile aux Cerfs—one of Mauritius’s most gorgeous islands. And third, the onboard BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks elevate the whole day from simple sightseeing to a full-blown celebration on the water.

That said, it’s worth noting that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. This tour mainly suits those who love a laid-back day on the water with a touch of adventure and good food. If you’re after a lively, well-rounded day that balances sightseeing, swimming, and fun, this could be a good pick.

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Key Points

All-in-one experience: Combines waterfall visit, snorkeling, and island relaxation.
Great value: For $69, you get food, drinks, a guide, and multiple activities.
Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with plenty of options for relaxing or active time.
Authentic Mauritius experience: Local guides share tales, music, and jokes onboard.
Limited included transportation: You’ll need to organize your own transfer to the meeting point.
Weather flexibility: Tours are canceled or rescheduled in extreme weather, so stay flexible.

Looking for more options in Grand River South East? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Meeting

Your adventure kicks off at a designated meeting point, where a representative from Mauritius Taxi Service will brief you about the trip and help you board the catamaran. The meeting is straightforward, but punctuality is key—missed timings mean missing out, as the reviews suggest.

The Waterfall Visit at Grand River South East

The first stop is the Grand River South East Waterfall, located about 500 meters upstream. A quick 10-15 minute boat transfer takes you to this natural marvel. Here, you’ll get to see the cascading waters up close and enjoy some scenic views. Reviewers mention that this spot is particularly photogenic, with mentions of monkeys and local tales adding to the charm.

One traveler highlighted that the guide, Yash, was very friendly and kept everyone entertained with stories, making the short transfer even more enjoyable. Since it’s a quick visit, don’t expect a lengthy tour—it’s mainly a photo op and a chance to stretch your legs before heading back to the boat.

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Snorkeling Break and Marine Life

After leaving the waterfall, the catamaran slips into the shimmering lagoon, perfect for snorkeling. Expect to see vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, with reviews mentioning dolphins and monkeys as part of the fun. The crew is experienced and attentive, ensuring safety and sharing tips to make your snorkeling experience more rewarding.

Many guests appreciated the “breath-taking” water clarity, which enhances the feeling of floating in an aquarium. This part of the trip is ideal for those who want a splash of underwater exploration without needing prior experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Grand River South East

The BBQ Lunch Onboard

One of the highlights is the delicious barbecue lunch served onboard. The menu usually includes chicken skewers, fish, and chicken sausage, accompanied by sides like rice, pasta, and salads. Reviewers frequently mention the quality and flavors of the food, with some describing it as a “delicious” and “hearty” meal that fuels the rest of the day.

The open bar ensures guests can enjoy soft drinks, beers, and even wine throughout the trip. Several reviews praise the friendly crew for their attentiveness and ability to keep drinks flowing while sharing local music and jokes, creating a lively, festive atmosphere.

Ile aux Cerfs Exploration

After lunch, the boat makes its way to Ile aux Cerfs, a picture-perfect island known for its wide, sandy beaches and clear blue waters. The mooring spot is often described as “breathtaking,” with guests having ample time to relax, swim, or snorkel independently.

You might find water sports facilities or other amenities on the island, depending on the day, but the main draw is the tranquil beach setting. Several travelers mention that this island provides the perfect backdrop for lounging in the sun or taking a leisurely stroll on the sand.

Return Journey and Atmosphere

As the day winds down, you’ll sail back to Trou D’eau Douce, enjoying the scenic views and lively Mauritian music played by the crew. Many reviews note the friendly, multilingual guides who make the trip feel welcoming and authentic. The atmosphere on board is often described as fun and relaxed, with some travelers mentioning dolphins spotted during the sail as a bonus.

Practical Details & What to Know Before Booking

Duration and Group Size

The trip is designed to last a full day, typically around 7 hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop. While the exact group size isn’t specified, the boat is 45 feet long, suggesting a comfortable capacity that avoids overcrowding. The friendly, professional crew ensures everyone feels attended to.

Price & Value

At $69 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included amenities: the waterfall visit, snorkeling, a full BBQ lunch, unlimited drinks, and a guide. Reviewers like Alexandra mention the “delicious BBQ” and the variety of drinks, which enhance the experience without extra cost.

What’s Not Included

Transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included. Many guests arrange their own taxi or drive, which is straightforward if you’re staying on the east coast or nearby. The tour does not cover hotel transfers, so factor this into your planning.

Weather Considerations

Given the outdoor nature of this trip, weather conditions can impact the experience. A few reviews mention that in cases of extreme bad weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered. Always check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

What to Bring

Travel essentials include:

Comfortable shoes for walking on the island or waterfall
Towel for swimming or relaxing on the beach
Camera to capture the stunning scenery
Sunscreen to protect against strong sun exposure
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for a day in the sun

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

From detailed reviews, it’s clear that this trip is more than just a boat ride. Guests like Alexandra appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the friendly crew who made everyone feel comfortable and entertained. She mentioned seeing dolphins and monkeys during her trip, adding that “all of the team were very friendly, and could speak several languages”—a bonus for international travelers.

Another guest appreciated the lively atmosphere, noting the music and jokes that kept spirits high. The delicious BBQ lunch was frequently highlighted; one reviewer called it “a delicious BBQ style lunch” with a variety of meats and sides.

While most reviews are positive, there was an isolated complaint about a missed pickup, emphasizing the importance of confirming your meeting details and arriving on time to avoid missing the trip.

The Sum Up

This catamaran tour to Ile aux Cerfs with a waterfall visit and onboard lunch offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural flavor at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a full day of discovering Mauritius’s natural beauty without over-complicating the experience. The combination of snorkeling, a scenic waterfall, and time on a postcard-perfect island makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The lively crew, delicious food, and stunning views ensure you won’t forget this day. Just remember to organize your transport, arrive on time, and bring your sun protection. If you’re after a fun, authentic, and value-packed Mauritian adventure, this trip is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickups are not included. You will need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and light clothes suitable for a day in the sun.

How long does the tour last?
The trip typically lasts around 7 hours, including stops at the waterfall, snorkeling, and time on Ile aux Cerfs.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, there is a snorkeling break in the lagoon where you can explore coral reefs and tropical fish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with activities like swimming and relaxing on the beach suitable for all ages.

What’s the food like?
Guests rave about the BBQ onboard, with meats, sides, and salads providing a hearty, tasty meal.

What happens in bad weather?
In case of severe weather, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, and refunds are available.

Are drinks included?
Yes, an open bar offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.

This tour combines the best of Mauritius’s natural beauty, lively atmosphere, and delicious cuisine—all for a price that makes it a compelling choice for a memorable day trip.