Mauritius: Catamaran cruise to 3 Northern Isles with lunch

Taking a catamaran trip around Mauritius’ Northern Isles sounds like a postcard-perfect adventure, but how does it really measure up? While we haven’t personally sailed this route, reviews and tour descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect. This experience promises a mix of scenic coastline, marine exploration, and tasty food — all for a reasonable price of $76 per person.

What draws us in? The chance to explore three separate islands, the opportunity for snorkeling in vibrant waters, and the meal that promises a hearty BBQ on board. However, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews point out a mixed experience regarding organization and activities, which is something to keep in mind. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a relaxed day at sea, are open to a bit of unpredictability, and enjoy exploring mangrove-lined beaches and coral gardens in a group setting.

Key Points:

Scenic exploration of Mauritius’ Northern Islands with a focus on natural beauty
Snorkeling opportunities amidst coral reefs and marine life
Delicious BBQ lunch and refreshing drinks included
Potential variability in itinerary due to weather or sea conditions
Great for relaxed travelers who enjoy water activities and scenic views
Not ideal for those seeking a highly structured or private experience

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What is Included and Not Included?

This tour offers a catamaran trip that takes you through three islands—Flat Island, Gabriel Island, and Gunners Coin. The cost of $76 per person covers the boat journey, visit to each island, snorkeling (equipment not included), and a three-course BBQ lunch with salads, rice, potatoes, pasta, and fresh fruit. Drinks such as water, wine, beer, local punch, and rum are freely available.

Snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so bringing your own fins and mask is advisable if you want to maximize underwater exploration. The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, which means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point in Grand Bay, or pay an extra fee if the provider offers a separate pickup service.

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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

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Departure from Grand Bay

The day begins with boarding a spacious catamaran, where you’ll likely feel the breeze and anticipation. The vessel is described as a fabulous experience, with some reviews mentioning the crew being fabulous and attentive. Expect a leisurely sail along the coast, with the captain and crew sharing insights into the islands and marine environment.

Gabriel Island: The Highlight

Disembark at Gabriel Island, renowned for its pristine sands and clear waters. Reviewers highlight beautiful snorkeling, which is a major draw here. The vibrant coral gardens attract a variety of marine life, and many guests mention how surreal the underwater world is. However, some point out that snorkeling equipment isn’t supplied, so bringing your own gear is a good idea.

Flat Island: Nature Reserve & Scenic Beauty

Next, the boat heads to Flat Island, a protected nature reserve. Here, guests can enjoy the unspoiled beaches and perhaps spot some local birdlife. The island offers a quiet contrast to the busier spots, making it an ideal place to relax, swim, or explore the shoreline.

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Gunners Coin: Potential for Additional Snorkeling

On the way back, the boat may stop at Gunners Coin, a site appreciated for its colorful marine life. The stop is subject to weather and sea conditions, and at the captain’s discretion, a brief snorkeling session may be offered. Some reviews note that, depending on circumstances, the stop might be cut short or skipped entirely, which is something to keep in mind.

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Lunch: BBQ on the Water

The highlight for many is the BBQ lunch served on board. Expect grilled fish, chicken, sausages, and a variety of salads, with fresh fruit for dessert. The food is generally described as delicious, with some reviewers mentioning it’s a generous and tasty meal. Drinks are unlimited, adding to the laid-back, picnic-at-sea vibe.

Return Journey

The return sail offers more scenic views and, if conditions permit, perhaps a final snorkeling adventure. Some reviews mention that the itinerary can vary based on weather and water currents, and the crew may adapt accordingly. The trip concludes around 4 PM at the original departure point.

Real Experiences and Insights from Reviews

While most travelers appreciate the beauty of the islands and the chance to relax on the water, some pointed out areas for improvement. One reviewer noted that the meeting point was confusing, being given three different locations via email, WhatsApp, and the app. Once found, they felt the trip was more of a boozy dance activity rather than a dedicated island cruise, with much of the time spent dancing and less on exploring or snorkeling.

Another reviewer, Meryem, described the trip as well-organized, praising the crew—especially Captain Pascal and Kevin—for their friendly attitude and clear explanations. She highlighted that the food, vibe, and service were fantastic, making it a memorable day.

However, not all reviews were glowing. Some travelers experienced poor weather or rough seas that limited activities, with one noting that only Gabriel Island was visited instead of both islands as planned. Others felt that more time could have been allocated to swimming and snorkeling rather than dancing or drinking.

A visitor who faced rough seas still appreciated the experience but suggested it’s better suited for travelers who are comfortable on boats and with water activities. The company does reserve the right to reschedule or modify the itinerary due to safety concerns, which is worth bearing in mind.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater, as equipment isn’t provided.
Pack a change of clothes, towel, and beachwear to stay comfortable during and after water activities.
Be prepared for possible weather changes; the trip might be rescheduled or altered if seas are rough.
Arrive early to ensure you find the correct meeting point, especially since directions may be confusing.
If you’re sensitive to loud music or dancing, consider whether this lively atmosphere suits your preferences.
For a more immersive experience, ask the crew about the islands’ natural features and marine life, as some travelers appreciated the explanations given by guides.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $76, this tour offers decent value considering the full day of sailing, island visits, snorkeling, and a hearty BBQ. The main attraction is the chance to see Mauritius’ Northern Isles’ stunning coastlines and marine environments without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple bookings.

If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed, social day on the water, this cruise hits most marks. The friendly crew, delicious food, and beautiful scenery make it a compelling choice. However, if you’re particularly eager for longer snorkeling sessions or a more structured itinerary, you might find other options offering more targeted activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love being on the water, enjoy casual social atmospheres, and are open to flexible plans due to weather-dependent conditions. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun-filled day with scenic views, marine exploration, and good food without breaking the bank.

It’s less ideal for families with very young children or travelers with mobility issues, given the boat-based nature and potential for slippery surfaces. Also, those looking for a highly organized or private tour might prefer alternatives, as this is designed for larger groups and spontaneous stops.

FAQ About the Mauritius Northern Isles Catamaran Tour

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
No, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so it’s best to bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

Can I expect to visit all three islands?
The itinerary generally includes Gabriel and Flat Islands, with a possible stop at Gunners Coin. However, weather or sea conditions can lead to changes, including skipping some stops.

What is the lunch like?
You’ll enjoy a BBQ with fish, chicken, sausages, and salads, accompanied by fresh fruit for dessert. The food is generally praised for being tasty and plentiful.

Is there a dress code?
Bring beachwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, returning to the jetty around 4 PM. The exact schedule may vary based on conditions.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, wine, beer, local punch, and rum are available free-flowing during the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are unsafe. A full refund is available if a suitable alternative date can’t be arranged.

Final Thoughts

A day on a Mauritius catamaran exploring the Northern Isles offers a blend of natural beauty, marine adventure, and relaxed fun. While the experience can vary depending on weather and other factors, most travelers find it a worthwhile way to see some of the island’s most picturesque spots. The combination of scenic islands, snorkeling, and a tasty BBQ makes it a solid choice for those craving a laid-back day at sea.

If you’re after a lively atmosphere, friendly crew, and a chance to unwind on beautiful beaches, this tour delivers. For travelers who value flexibility, good value for money, and memorable views, it’s a trip worth considering.

Remember: Always check recent reviews and confirm the itinerary before booking, especially if you’re particular about snorkeling or island visits. The natural Mauritian seas can be unpredictable, but with the right mindset, this cruise can add a refreshing chapter to your island adventure.