North: Cruise to the flat island & Gabriel island.bbq lunch

If you’re dreaming of sailing across crystal-clear waters to explore Mauritius’ northern islands, this cruise offers a taste of paradise. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered insights from travelers and reviews to paint a vivid picture of what to expect. From stunning sea views to delicious food, this tour seems like a fantastic way to enjoy Mauritius’ untouched coastlines.

What we love most about this experience is the all-inclusive package that covers scenic cruising, island visits, and a hearty BBQ lunch. The catamaran ride promises a comfortable and lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or making new friends. The spectacular views of neighboring mountains and the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters are definite highlights. Plus, passing close to Coin de Mire offers picture-perfect moments.

That said, one thing to consider is that this is primarily a cruise experience—not a guided tour of each island—so if you’re looking to explore in-depth or on foot, this might not fully satisfy. Still, if your ideal day involves sailing, swimming, and sunbathing, this adventure is well worth it. It’s best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of leisure, scenic beauty, and good food in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: The package covers transportation, island visits, and lunch, giving great value.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking sea views and close encounters with islands like Coin de Mire.
• Flexible Island Time: About an hour on each island for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on pristine beaches.
• Delicious BBQ Lunch: Grilled fish, chicken, and sausages served with salads—worth looking forward to.
• Comfortable Catamaran: The vessel is described as feeling secure, with a lively atmosphere and good music.
• Snorkeling & Wildlife: Opportunities to spot marine life, including turtles and colorful fish, make it more exciting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Depth

Starting Point and Embarkation

The cruise begins at the beach in Grand Baie, where you’ll spot a recognizable guide with a list—making check-in straightforward. Once aboard, the transfer from the beach to the anchored catamaran is quick and smooth, setting the stage for a day of sailing and adventure. The boat ride itself lasts about 90 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the open sea, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and soak up scenic views.

Travelers mention the boat feeling safe and secure, with a lively, party-like atmosphere fostered by good music and friendly staff. This mix of relaxation and fun makes the journey enjoyable even before reaching the islands.

Cruising Near Coin de Mire

One of the tour’s spectacular features is passing close to Coin de Mire, a striking mountain island that rises dramatically from the sea. Guests can view this iconic formation from the comfort of the catamaran, making for some fantastic photo opportunities. Although the boat doesn’t stop on the island itself, cruising close allows for awe-inspiring views that are still worth the trip.

Island Stops: Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel

The two main stops are Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel, both offering serene beaches with soft, powdery sand. The tour provides about one hour of free time on each, giving guests the freedom to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or stroll along untouched shores. Reviewers highlight the clarity of the waters, with one noting “never seen more water clarity,” which makes snorkeling especially rewarding.

On the islands, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and the chance to spot marine life, such as turtles or colorful fish. The tours use small dinghies to transfer passengers from the boat to each island, which adds a bit of adventure to the experience.

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The BBQ Lunch Experience

A highlight for many is the lunch on Ile Plate, featuring grilled fish, chicken, sausages, pasta, rice, fresh bread, and a green salad. Reviewers rave about how delicious the food is, describing the BBQ as “awesome” and “delicious.” This is not a rushed affair—it’s a relaxed meal with drinks included, where you can unwind on the beach, enjoy the flavors, and chat with fellow travelers.

Some guests mention that the lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a social event that adds to the overall enjoyment of the day.

Return Journey to Grand Baie

After lunch, there’s time to relax or take a quick swim before the boat sets course for Coin de Mire for some last sightseeing from the water. You won’t set foot on this island, but cruising close provides a truly mesmerizing view of its towering silhouette. The trip back to Grand Baie is filled with music, laughter, and the warm glow of a tropical sunset, according to reviews.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included:

• Pickup and transfer from the beach to the boat
• Full cruise itinerary with island visits
• Taxi boat transfers to Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel
• Lunch with drinks on Ile Plate
• Close pass by Coin de Mire
• Unlimited drinks, juice, water, and cocktails during the trip

Not Included:

• Guided tours on the islands (this is more of a scenic cruise and leisure experience)
• Hotel transfers (you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point)

Guests are advised to bring essentials like a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The boat crew emphasizes safety, and in bad weather, the trip may be rescheduled or refunded if it cannot go ahead.

Real Traveler Insights

One traveler shared that “the entertainers on the boat are super nice,” with the lively atmosphere adding joy to the trip. Snorkeling is another favorite aspect, with sightings of turtles and a variety of colorful fish, making the water activities more enticing. The overall vibe is described as “fantastic,” with many praising the friendly staff and the beautiful water clarity.

Reviewers also appreciate the value for money, especially given the comprehensive package, quality of food, and scenic highlights. The experience is well-suited for those looking for a laid-back day of sailing with light adventure, rather than an in-depth island exploration.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
• Arrive early at the meeting point on the beach in Grand Baie; the guide is easy to spot.
• Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for comfort on the islands.
• Consider bringing your own bottled water for walks on the islands or waiting periods.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast—bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, with refunds available if necessary.
• The trip is in multiple languages (English, French, Hindi, Urdu), so communication is accessible for diverse travelers.

The Verdict: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with minimal hassle. The combination of beautiful island scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and a delicious BBQ lunch makes it a fantastic value for those wanting a taste of Mauritius’ maritime charm.

It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of leisure, nature, and social vibes. If you’re not looking for a guided tour with in-depth island exploration, but rather a day of sailing and soaking up the scenery, this experience hits the mark.

On the other hand, if you prefer guided activities or on-foot exploration, this cruise might feel a bit limited. Also, travelers should be prepared for a day that depends on weather conditions, as safety remains the top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The experience is priced at $76 per person, which provides a comprehensive, all-inclusive day with transportation, island visits, and lunch.

How long is the cruise?
The entire trip lasts around 7 hours, including transportation, island stops, snorkeling, and lunch.

Are there guided tours on the islands?
No, this is a cruising activity; you enjoy the islands at your own pace without guided tours or in-depth exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and possibly bottled water for walks on the islands.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Bad weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds, depending on the circumstances.

Is hotel transfer included?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point in Grand Baie.

This cruise offers a wonderfully relaxing day exploring some of Mauritius’ most picturesque northern islands. With vivid waters, powdery beaches, a tasty BBQ, and the thrill of sailing close to iconic landmarks like Coin de Mire, it’s an experience that balances scenic beauty with leisurely enjoyment.

Ideal for those who love sailing, snorkeling, and island scenery, this tour delivers good value and authentic tropical vibes. While it doesn’t include guided island tours, the stunning views and friendly atmosphere make it a memorable activity that captures the essence of Mauritius’ maritime charm.

If you’re seeking a laid-back day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities, delicious food, and a chance to unwind on pristine beaches, this cruise is a choice well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: