Mauritius: Private Catamaran Tour to île aux Cerfs

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Mauritius, a private catamaran trip to île aux Cerfs promises a blend of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and relaxed island vibes. This tour has garnered a near-perfect rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 18 reviews, and it’s easy to see why. From scenic rides along the coast to spotting wild dolphins, it’s a well-rounded experience that caters to those craving authentic adventure combined with comfort.

What really stands out is the personalized nature of this trip—being on a private boat means flexibility and a more intimate connection with the surroundings. The delicious Mauritian barbecue on the beach, the chance to marvel at the Grande Rivière South East waterfall, and the opportunity to witness dolphins in the wild all make this a compelling choice. However, one thing to consider is that the tour starts at a specific meeting point and doesn’t include hotel transfers, which might require some planning.

This experience suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, scenic boat rides, and want to explore Mauritius’s east coast in a relaxed, personalized setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a day of discovery, this tour offers real value—particularly for those who enjoy good food, breathtaking views, and genuine moments with nature.

Key Points

• Private catamaran offers flexibility, intimacy, and comfort.
• The tour includes exploration of île aux Cerfs and the Grande Rivière waterfall.
• Wild dolphin sightings are a highlight, with reviews describing them as “fantastic” and “unforgettable.”
• Local Mauritian barbecue adds a delicious, authentic culinary touch.
• The tour starts at a designated meeting point; no hotel pickup included.
• Cost is $1,173 for up to 10 people, delivering good value for a private experience.
• Well-rated guides and hospitable hosts contribute significantly to the positive reviews.
• The experience lasts approximately a full day, with flexible options for activity timing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Setting Out on the Water: A Scenic Start

The adventure begins at Chez Tino Restaurant, where you’ll meet your crew about five minutes before departure. From there, the journey kicks off with a ride along Mauritius’s coast, giving you a taste of the island’s natural beauty even before reaching the main attractions. The boat itself is a private catamaran, which means you’re not part of a large group—perfect for those seeking a more tailored experience.

The views along the coast are truly spectacular. You’ll see lush green hills, white sandy beaches, and the vibrant blue waters that make Mauritius so photogenic. Several reviewers, like Gugu, mention the “beautiful experience” and “top tier service”, which suggests the crew keeps comfort and hospitality high on the agenda.

île aux Cerfs – The Jewel of the Tour

The highlight for many is île aux Cerfs, a tiny island known for its postcard-perfect beaches. You’ll have time to lounge, swim, or simply soak up the scenery. The reviews emphasize the delicious local food served here; Chantal raved about the “food cooked to perfection,” making the beach lunch a memorable part of the day. Expect a buffet or set menu that showcases Mauritian flavors—simple, tasty, and satisfying after a morning on the water.

Exploring the Grande Rivière South East Waterfall

One of the more unique features of this tour is the trip inland to the Grande Rivière South East waterfall. This isn’t just a quick photo stop—visitors praise the “magnificent” waterfall and the surrounding lush rainforests. The landscape features white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and dense mangroves, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for nature lovers.

Traveling here offers a chance to see mountain ranges, black filaos, and even monkeys—some reviews mention feeding monkeys along the way, adding a fun, interactive element. The waterfall spot is often described as “breathtaking,” and many appreciate the opportunity to relax in untouched nature far from crowded tourist spots.

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Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins and Monkeys

A key draw is the chance to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat. As Sandra noted, watching dolphins during the tour was definitely a highlight, adding a magical touch to the experience. Guides like Ragvi are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making sightings more likely and enjoyable.

Some guests also encountered monkeys during their inland excursion, which they were able to feed—an unexpected highlight that adds a playful, wildlife-focused aspect to the tour.

Meals, Drinks, and Authentic Mauritian Flavors

The lunch on the beach is often described as “delicious” and “authentic,” with many reviewers mentioning Mauritian-style barbecue that is cooked to perfection. It’s a relaxed setting, allowing you to savor regional flavors while enjoying spectacular views of the lagoon.

Drinks are included, helping you stay refreshed during the day’s activities. This all contributes to a sense of genuine hospitality—reviewers frequently mention friendly hosts and top-tier service that makes the experience memorable.

Ending on a High Note

The tour wraps up back at the meeting point, with many noting the flexibility and personal touch provided by their crew. Some reviewers, like those who booked private speedboat tours, appreciated the tailored itinerary and ability to choose when to visit spots—something that makes this experience stand out compared to larger group excursions.

Analyzing Value and Practicalities

At $1,173 per group (up to 10 people), this tour offers good value for a private, all-day adventure. The cost covers lunch and drinks, guided excursions, and personalized attention—all important factors for a memorable trip without worrying about extra expenses.

However, it’s crucial to note that hotel transportation is not included. Travelers need to plan their own way to the starting point at Chez Tino Restaurant, which might be an extra consideration if you’re staying far from the meeting spot.

The duration is approximately a full day, giving ample time to explore, relax, and enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. Being on a private boat allows for flexibility—some guests noted how guides like Ragvi were attentive to their preferences, making the day feel tailored.

Highlights Based on Reviews

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their hospitality and ability to enhance the experience—“top-tier service”, as one reviewer put it. The dolphin sightings are often described as “magical” and “unforgettable,” reinforcing the tour’s appeal for wildlife lovers.

The scenery—mountains, waterfalls, lagoons—is frequently highlighted as breathtaking and perfect for photography. The local Mauritian barbecue earns commendations for cooking quality and authentic flavors, adding a culinary dimension to the day.

Potential Drawbacks

While the majority of reviews are glowing, one reviewer expressed some frustration with timing and the flexibility—noting that after about 20 minutes of the trip, there was an interruption with a reason to leave the boat for an hour or more, which could be a concern for those expecting a fully flexible schedule. Also, the lack of hotel pickup might be inconvenient for some, requiring additional planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private catamaran adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, scenic day on the water with opportunities to see dolphins, waterfalls, and lush landscapes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want a combination of relaxation and adventure without the crowds.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local food, stunning photo ops, and wildlife sightings, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding. However, if you prefer more structured or inclusive packages with hotel transfers, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Mauritius private catamaran tour offers a rich mixture of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural flavor. The personalized nature makes it stand out among many group excursions—guests are often praising the excellent guides and delicious food.

The scenery and wildlife encounters are genuinely memorable, and the inclusion of a Mauritian barbecue on the beach delivers a laid-back, authentic dining experience. Given the high reviews and the flexibility of a private boat, many travelers will find it well worth the price—especially those wanting a tailored, intimate day on Mauritius’s east coast.

This tour suits adventurous, nature-loving travelers who enjoy exploring diverse landscapes and wildlife spotting, making it a fabulous choice for a special day in Mauritius.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point at Chez Tino Restaurant. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from there.

What is the price for the private group?
It costs $1,173 for up to 10 people, making it an affordable option for small groups seeking a private experience.

What is included in the tour?
Your fee includes lunch and drinks, along with guided excursions to île aux Cerfs, the waterfall, and wildlife encounters.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the activities, it’s suitable for families with children and adults, provided they are comfortable on a boat trip.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately a full day, offering plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy all activities.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, guides like Ragvi are known for their attentiveness, and some flexibility may be available, but specific customization options aren’t detailed.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming isn’t explicitly mentioned, spotting dolphins and swimming in lagoons are common activities; it’s best to confirm if you’re unsure.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a camera. Since drinks are provided, you might also want a refillable water bottle.

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.

In essence, this private catamaran trip offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty and warm hospitality. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day immersed in the island’s scenic wonders, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: