All inclusive CATAMARAN with BBQ : Ile aux cerf & GRSE waterfall

Planning a memorable day on the water in Mauritius? This all-inclusive catamaran tour promises a blend of relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery, all wrapped into an eight-hour experience. It’s a popular choice with a solid 4-star rating based on 22 reviews, offering everything from snorkeling to a scenic waterfall visit, plus a hearty BBQ lunch and drinks.

We particularly like the comprehensive package—including door-to-door pickup, snorkelling gear, and plenty of drinks—which makes this a hassle-free way to enjoy Mauritius’ coastline. The waterfall visit is a big draw for photography lovers, and the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs allows for relaxing on its famous white sandy beaches.

However, some guests have expressed concerns about crowd levels and organisational hiccups during busy times, so if you prefer a quieter, more exclusive experience, this might be worth considering. Overall, it’s well-suited for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a lively day on the water.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with pickup, lunch, drinks, and snorkelling gear included
• Scenic stops at Ile aux Cerfs and GSE Waterfalls offer diverse photo opportunities
• Relaxed atmosphere with music, food, and drinks served on the boat
• Crowd levels can be high, especially during peak season or busy times
• Excellent value for a full-day adventure with transportation and meals covered
• Suitable for those seeking laid-back fun with a mix of sightseeing and water activities

What to Expect from the Tour

This eight-hour journey kicks off early in the morning, with a private pick-up from your accommodation arranged by the tour operator—an excellent convenience giving you a smooth start. The drivers are knowledgeable, offering insights about Mauritius as they prepare you for the day ahead. Expect to arrive at the embarkation point around 9:15 am to avoid any late start issues, especially during busy periods.

Once on board the catamaran, safety briefings set the tone for a relaxed and fun-filled day. You’ll quickly notice that the atmosphere is lively, with onboard music adding to the festive vibe. The crew keeps the drinks flowing—rum, cocktails, and beer—so you can sip and socialize as the boat cruises along the coast.

GSE Waterfalls – A Photo Paradise

The GSE Waterfalls are a major highlight—an area often praised for being difficult to access, making it a special treat for visitors. The location offers fantastic photo opportunities, with lush greenery and cascading water providing a dramatic backdrop. According to reviews, this stop is quite unique, and guests appreciate the chance to visit a less-trodden spot.

Ile aux Cerfs – The Ultimate Beach Stop

Next, the boat anchors at Ile aux Cerfs, one of Mauritius’ most famous islets. Expect to see crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands where you can relax, swim, or explore. Some guests note that the beaches are often crowded, especially during high season, so plan accordingly if you prefer quiet time. This stop provides a perfect break from the boat’s lively atmosphere, with plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming in the warm waters.

Snorkelling & Water Activities

Included in your package is snorkelling gear, and the crew usually makes a stop for you to explore the vibrant marine life. While the duration depends on the number of swimmers, guests generally find this a fun addition, with some reviews mentioning extended snorkelling sessions. The water clarity is typically good, making it ideal for underwater photography and spotting tropical fish.

Food & Drinks – A BBQ Feast

A key highlight of this trip is the BBQ lunch served aboard the catamaran. You’ll have multiple options to choose from, with a variety of grilled meats and seafood, complemented by desserts and an open bar. Reviews praise the delicious food and generous drinks service, which keeps everyone in high spirits. The onboard amenities include toilets and music, ensuring your comfort and entertainment throughout the day.

Returning & Final Moments

As the tour winds down, the boat heads back towards Mauritius, with a few more drinks being served during the return trip. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music and chatter. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to take you safely back to your hotel or resort, completing this smooth, all-inclusive experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Pickup & Transfer
Starting at 7:30 am, the service includes private pickup from your preferred location in Mauritius, making transit simple. The drivers are described as helpful and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the island’s highlights en route to the boat.

Embarkation & Safety
Once at the port, you’ll be assigned a catamaran and given safety instructions. The crew’s reputation for politeness and helpfulness enhances the overall vibe, even if some reviews mention organizational issues during busy times.

GSE Waterfalls
This stop is often highlighted as a “fantastic” location that’s tough to access independently. It’s perfect for those who love nature and photography. Expect lush greenery, cascading water, and possibly some light hiking or exploring.

Ile aux Cerfs
Time spent on the island offers a chance to unwind on famous white sandy beaches. Despite some comments about crowding, it remains a top spot for relaxation. You can swim, sunbathe, or take informal walks to discover quiet corners.

Snorkelling & Marine Life
The snorkelling stop allows you to see coral reefs and tropical fish. It’s a highlight for many guests, though the duration depends on the number of swimmers participating. If you love underwater photography or just want to cool off in the water, this is a good addition.

Lunch & Beverages
The BBQ is a highlight—well-cooked grilled meats and seafood, with options for various tastes. The drinks flow freely, with rum, cocktails, and beer available throughout the day. Desserts and fruit are also served, adding a sweet finish to the meal.

Return & Drop-off
After a lively day, you’ll head back to Mauritius with music, drinks, and happy chatter. The final transfer back to your hotel is smooth, thanks to the pre-arranged private car.

What Reviewers Say

While most reviews are positive, some mention crowded conditions and organizational hiccups, especially during peak seasons. For example, one guest noted that it felt like many guests were “family friends” rather than paying customers, which could affect the experience’s exclusivity. Others appreciated the friendly staff and great value, especially given the inclusive nature of meals, drinks, and transfers.

A few guests felt the catamaran wasn’t luxurious, but most agreed that the price was reasonable given the full-day itinerary and all-included amenities. The snorkelling and waterfall visits are consistently praised for being memorable highlights.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance if you want to secure a spot, especially during high season, as the tour is often booked about 30 days ahead.
• Arrive early to avoid delays, especially if you’re relying on public transportation or want to beat the crowds.
• Wear sunscreen and bring a hat; you’ll spend lots of time in direct sunlight.
• Bring your underwater camera for the snorkelling and waterfall photos.
• Expect a lively atmosphere—this isn’t a quiet, secluded cruise but rather a fun, social experience.
• Check weather conditions in advance, as poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling for safety reasons.

Is This Tour for You?

This all-inclusive catamaran day trip is ideal if you enjoy a mix of water-based activities, lively social settings, and scenic stops. It offers excellent value for those wanting a hassle-free day with meals and drinks included. The stops at Ile aux Cerfs and GSE Waterfalls combine both relaxation and adventure, perfect for active travelers or those seeking picture-worthy moments.

However, if you prefer a more exclusive or tranquil experience, or dislike large crowds, you might find this tour a bit overwhelming during busy periods. Also, those looking for a luxury cruise should temper expectations—this is more about fun and value than high-end exclusivity.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 7:30 am with pickups and ending with a return to your hotel later in the day.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, your transportation from and back to your accommodation is included, with a private driver providing a smooth transfer.

What meals are provided?
A BBQ lunch with options to choose from, accompanied by desserts. Drinks such as rum, cocktails, and beer are unlimited during the trip.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Definitely. Snorkelling gear is available and the crew makes a stop for underwater exploration. The duration depends on how many guests participate.

Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention high crowd levels, especially during peak season, which can affect the feeling of exclusivity.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and your underwater camera. Light snacks or personal items are optional.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but check for specific age or health considerations with the tour provider.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, offering a fun day out with plenty of water activities and scenic stops.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive catamaran tour offers an exciting and convenient way to explore some of Mauritius’ best highlights without the hassle of planning multiple activities. The combination of scenic waterfalls, relaxing beaches, snorkelling, and a hearty BBQ lunch makes it a great choice for those wanting a full day of fun and sun.

While it’s not a private or ultra-luxurious experience, the value for money, lively atmosphere, and variety of stops make it appealing. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy social settings, scenic landscapes, and water adventures, all wrapped into a single, well-organized package.

If you’re looking for a lively, all-in-one day out in Mauritius with plenty of opportunities for photo ops, swimming, and good food, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

Note: Always check current availability, weather conditions, and specific details with the tour provider before booking to ensure a smooth experience.