Catamaran trip to Ile Aux Cerfs With Two Way Transportation

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing across turquoise waters, lounging on pristine beaches, and indulging in delicious food, the Catamaran trip to Île aux Cerfs might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the mix of reviews and tour details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone wanting a full-day escapade on the water.

There are several reasons this experience gets our attention: the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, the all-you-can-eat barbecue with unlimited drinks, and the chance to visit a scenic waterfall. However, potential travelers should be aware that some reviews highlight issues with crowding and organization. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy social, lively days on the water and aren’t fussed about a bit of unpredictability.

In this review, we’ll walk you through what to expect, the highlights, and some key points that will help you decide if this trip is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day of sunbathing or an adventure with some scenic sightseeing, this tour offers a lot of value for its price.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from your hotel to the harbor makes the start easy.
• Full-day experience with unlimited food and drinks, including barbecue and beverages.
• Includes a visit to a waterfall, adding a touch of exploration to your day.
• Group size varies, with some reviews mentioning larger crowds despite promises of intimacy.
• Food quality and organization seem to differ depending on the reviewer, so expect some variability.
• Safety and punctuality are points to consider, with some reviews noting fast driving and crowded conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour promises a full-day adventure on a catamaran, starting from your hotel in Mauritius. The process is straightforward: you’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, so you can relax and prepare for the day ahead. Once at the harbor, you’ll board a catamaran that can carry up to 40 passengers, designed for a lively, social atmosphere.

The main draw is the catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs, a stunning island famous for its clear waters and sandy beaches. But beyond the scenery, the tour offers a full buffet of food and drinks, with an emphasis on barbecue fare—fish, chicken, sausages, salads, and more. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and unlimited drinks ensure that you stay refreshed throughout the day.

One of the highlights is a complimentary visit to a waterfall, giving you a chance to see a different side of the island’s natural beauty. The day also includes swimming opportunities, so bring your swimwear and some towels.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start with hotel pickup—most travelers are pleased with the ease of being collected from any location in Mauritius, saving time and effort. The drive to the harbor typically lasts about 30-60 minutes, depending on where you’re staying, with the driver often friendly and professional, according to reviews.

Once onboard the catamaran, the atmosphere is described as upbeat, with good music and a convivial vibe. You’ll enjoy a hearty barbecue lunch with various options, served buffet style. Some reviewers mention the food as being plentiful and tasty, with plenty of soft drinks and alcohol to go around. That said, some guests felt the organization could be better, with reports of limited servings and a chaotic setup, especially when the boat gets crowded.

The waterfall visit is usually part of the package, providing a scenic stop. Expect to see lush surroundings and a peaceful setting away from the busy beaches. Afterward, many guests take the opportunity to swim in the clear waters of Île aux Cerfs, which is a true highlight. The island itself is famed for its beauty, but some reviewers note the limited time (about an hour) to explore—so don’t expect a full day of sightseeing on the island itself.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the tour states it caters to small groups (maximum 6 people), several reviews indicate that larger crowds are common, sometimes with up to 30-40 guests on the boat. This can impact the intimacy and comfort of the trip.

The crew’s friendliness is generally praised, with many reviewers mentioning the staff’s attentiveness and good humor. However, at least one reviewer experienced a more negative atmosphere, describing unruly passengers and poor organization, including delays for paid activities like parachuting.

It’s worth noting that live music and drinks help create a fun, lively environment, but very noisy or disrespectful behavior can detract from the overall experience.

Food and Drinks: What to Expect

The all-you-can-eat barbecue is a major selling point, with a variety of meats and salads served buffet-style. Most guests seem satisfied with the quality, describing it as “delicious” and “plenty.” Soft drinks, beers, and spirits are included, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing day without worrying about extra costs.

That said, some reviews mention poorly organized meals or limited options, especially when the boat is crowded. If you’re a foodie with high expectations, be prepared for some variability. Also, remember to bring your swimwear, as swimming in the clear waters is a key part of the trip.

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Safety and Punctuality: Considerations

While most guests had a positive experience, a few reviews raised concerns about fast driving on the transfer and unsafe overtaking, which is worth noting if safety is a priority. The boat’s capacity might also be a concern for those expecting a cozy, intimate experience, as some reviews mention cramped conditions.

On the plus side, the pick-up and drop-off service adds convenience and helps avoid logistical hassles, though the duration of transfers can be over an hour depending on your location.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $116 per person, the tour offers a relatively affordable way to experience the highlights of Île aux Cerfs, especially considering the included transportation, meals, drinks, and activities. The full-day format means you’re getting a lot for your money, but expect some variability in the quality and organization.

The value is particularly good for travelers who prioritize convenience and social fun over exclusivity. If you’re happy with a lively, slightly chaotic atmosphere, you’d find this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers wanting a hassle-free experience: The hotel pickup and drop-off system makes logistics easy.
• Food lovers: Unlimited barbecue and drinks keep everyone well-fed and happy.
• People looking for scenic views and water activities: Swimming, waterfall visits, and island exploration are key features.
• Groups seeking a social, lively day: The atmosphere is energized, with music and camaraderie.

On the other hand, if you’re after a quiet, intimate experience or are concerned about safety and organization, you might want to explore other options or consider private tours.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran trip to Île aux Cerfs offers a fun-filled day on the water, combining scenic beauty, great food, and lively company. The ease of transportation and inclusive meals make it a convenient choice, especially for first-timers or those wanting to maximize their time on the island.

However, the potential for overcrowding and organizational hiccups means it’s best suited for travelers who are flexible and enjoy a social atmosphere. The waterfall visit and swimming opportunities are definite highlights, ensuring you get balance between relaxation and adventure.

Ultimately, this tour provides good value for money, particularly if you’re looking for a full day of entertainment and scenic views without complicated planning. Just be prepared for some variability in experience quality and a lively crowd.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end your day without logistical worries.

What’s the food like?
Most guests find the barbecue plentiful and tasty, with a variety of meats and salads. Drinks are unlimited, including soft drinks and alcohol.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around a full day, with time allocated for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing on the island.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, swimming is included as part of the tour. Bring your swimwear and enjoy the clear waters.

Are there safety concerns?
While most reviews are positive, some guests have expressed concerns about fast driving and crowded conditions. Always follow safety instructions.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: