If you’re looking for a day filled with sunshine, sea breezes, and a dash of adventure in Mauritius, the North East Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Lunch might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a charming, relaxing voyage that offers a mix of scenic sailing, tasty food, and opportunities to swim or snorkel in some of the island’s most inviting waters.
What I love about this experience is its focus on genuine, laid-back fun—think a breezy sail along the coast, a hearty BBQ served in the open air, and free time on quiet beaches. The crew’s friendly approach and the chance to see Mauritius from a different perspective make it appealing. However, the snorkeling might not be a standout for everyone, especially if you’re expecting vibrant coral or abundant marine life.
This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable day out at sea with a good mix of activity and relaxation, especially those with an appreciation for good food and scenic views. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups who enjoy a social, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning multiple outings.
Key Points
- Scenic sailing along Mauritius’s northeast coast with professional crew.
- Tasty BBQ lunch served on the boat, with options for vegetarians and kids.
- Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling, with guided assistance.
- Free time on Bernaches Island and in the mangroves for exploring or relaxing.
- Inclusive beverages, including cocktails, wines, and soft drinks.
- Flexible itinerary that may adapt for safety in rough sea conditions.
- No hotel transfer included, so consider transport arrangements.
- Good value for a full-day experience with food, drinks, and activities.
A Close Look at the Tour Experience
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The Starting Point and Timing
The adventure begins at the jetty of Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel Resort in Grand-Gaube. Meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am, with departure at 10:00 am, giving you a bit of a leisurely start. The tour wraps up back at the same point around 4:00 pm, making for a full six-and-a-half hours aboard the catamaran. This length strikes a good balance—long enough to feel like a true day out but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring, especially in warm weather.
The Itinerary: From Mangroves to Islands
The first leg of the cruise takes you towards lîle d’Ambré, a lush island famous for its mangroves and birdlife. Here, the crew guides guests into the calm, turquoise lagoon for a swimming or snorkeling break. According to travelers, this part of the journey is quite relaxing, though some note that the snorkeling isn’t spectacular in terms of marine diversity. Still, the clear waters and serene environment make it a pleasant spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers.
One guest described the mangroves as feeling like a private island, emphasizing the sense of peace and exclusivity. The crew’s friendly assistance and the availability of refreshing cocktails add to the laid-back vibe. The experience isn’t about adrenaline but about enjoying the natural beauty from the water and on deck.
The BBQ Lunch: A Highlight
Post-swimming, everyone gathers on the deck for a delicious BBQ lunch. The menu features a variety of grilled fare: fish, chicken, sausages, and seafood delicacies, alongside salads, garlic bread, seasonal fruits, and vegetarian options like grilled vegetarian sausages. The food quality gets positive remarks, with guests appreciating the freshness and hearty flavors.
A reviewer noted, “The crew was great, and the BBQ was fresh with cocktails — everything that makes a cruising lunch enjoyable.” The relaxed setting, combined with panoramic ocean views, turns the meal into a memorable part of the day.
More Great Tours NearbyBernaches Island and Free Time
In the afternoon, the boat moves towards Bernaches Island, where guests can walk along sandy beaches, snorkel in the lagoon, or simply unwind under the sun. The island’s shallow waters and pristine sands are ideal for leisurely exploration. Reviewers mention that the free time here is a perfect way to soak up the peaceful surroundings, though some feel it’s more about relaxing than exploring extensively.
Return Journey and Final Thoughts
As the day winds down, the cruise sails back to the starting point, passing by more scenic coastlines and offering panoramic views of Mauritius’s northeastern coast. The entire experience is designed to be a peaceful, social outing that balances activity and downtime.
What to Expect: Practical Details
Included and Not Included
The price of $80 per person covers the boat trip, BBQ lunch, beverages (including nonalcoholic drinks, cocktails, and wines), snorkeling gear if you bring your own, and free time at the stops. It’s a comprehensive package, especially valuable considering the length of the trip.
However, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the jetty. The meeting point is straightforward, but travelers staying outside Grand-Gaube may want to plan accordingly.
What to Bring
Travelers should pack sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes. A waterproof bag or backpack is recommended for your valuables, as well as snorkeling gear if you prefer your own equipment. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness pills beforehand, as the captain may alter course if sea conditions worsen.
The Crew and Safety
Guests repeatedly mention the friendly, experienced crew, who are helpful with snorkeling and making everyone comfortable. The captain has discretion to change the route if sea conditions aren’t safe, which is a responsible approach and aligns with safety best practices.
Authentic Experiences & Guest Feedback
The reviews reveal some important insights. One traveler called the experience “a very friendly trip,” highlighting the crew’s upbeat attitude and good atmosphere onboard. The snorkeling didn’t impress everyone, with some noting it wasn’t worth much in terms of marine life, but others enjoyed the calm waters and scenic views.
Food quality is consistently praised, and the drinks selection—including local rum, wine, beer, and fruit juices—is a definite plus. Kids menus are available, making it family-friendly, and the unlimited drinks appeal to those wanting to relax without restrictions.
A less favorable review mentioned short sailing distances—some felt the boat only moved a few minutes before stopping—so if you’re expecting a long sail, this might be a consideration. However, most find that the cruise’s relaxed pace suits a leisurely day rather than an extensive voyage.
The Value Proposition
For $80, this tour offers a full day of scenic sailing, food, drinks, and island stops — a good deal for those wanting an authentic sea adventure without high costs. The focus on relaxation and natural beauty rather than high-energy activities** makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape.
Keep in mind, the lack of hotel pickup might be a drawback for some, especially if you prefer a seamless experience. The trip’s success largely depends on weather conditions; in rough seas, the route might change, but safety always comes first.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise is perfect for travelers who value a laid-back, scenic day at sea with good food and drinks. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy snorkeling in calm waters and want to explore Mauritius’s coast from the water without strenuous activities. Families and couples will find the experience relaxed and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a more vibrant marine ecosystem or longer sailing times, you might find this trip somewhat limited. However, if your goal is to unwind with beautiful views, friendly crew, and tasty food, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included? No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel Resort in Grand-Gaube.
What time does the tour start and end? The meeting is at 9:30 am, with departure at 10:00 am, and the trip returns around 4:00 pm.
What should I bring? Sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, towels, a waterproof bag, and snorkeling gear if preferred. A change of clothes is recommended.
Are meals included? Yes, a BBQ lunch with grilled fish, chicken, seafood, salads, and fruits is served onboard. Vegetarian options are available.
Can I snorkel during the trip? Yes, snorkeling is included at the turquoise lagoon near l’île d’Ambré, with equipment available if you bring your own.
Is the snorkeling worth it? Guest reviews suggest it’s a peaceful experience, though not highly colorful or abundant in marine life, so don’t expect vibrant coral reefs.
What beverages are available? A selection that includes local rum, wine (red, rosé, white), beer, fruit juice, soft drinks, and mineral water.
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, the kids’ menu is the same as the adult menu, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.
What happens if sea conditions are rough? The captain reserves the right to change the route for safety, possibly taking you to alternative beaches like Gunners Coin or Casita Beach.
Final Thoughts
A catamaran cruise in Mauritius’s northeast offers a perfect mix of scenic sailing, laid-back exploration, and delicious cuisine. It’s a great way to spend a full day soaking up the sun, enjoying good company, and discovering the island’s coastal beauty from the water.
While some may find snorkeling not as vibrant as other locations, the overall atmosphere, friendly crew, and tasty BBQ make this trip a worthwhile choice for those seeking relaxation and authentic moments. The flexible itinerary and inclusive drinks add value, making it an accessible option for many travelers.
Whether you’re floating in turquoise lagoons, strolling on sandy beaches, or simply lounging on deck with a cocktail in hand, this cruise provides a genuine taste of Mauritius’s maritime charm.
To sum it up, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic day with good food, friendly service, and beautiful ocean views, this catamaran tour is a solid pick. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the island’s coast with ease and comfort, especially if they’re happy with a relaxed pace and modest snorkeling. For those seeking a more energetic or coral-rich marine experience, exploring other options might be a better fit. But for pure, uncomplicated island bliss, this cruise hits the spot.
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