Catamaran to Ile aux Cerf with Parasailing, Tube Riding & Lunch

Planning a day out on the water in Mauritius? The Catamaran to Ile aux Cerfs with parasailing, tube riding, and lunch promises a fun-filled escape, but how does it really measure up? From the reviews and tour details, we’ve gathered a balanced picture of what you can expect, highlighting both the highlights and the pitfalls.

This tour offers a smooth combination of scenic cruising, exciting water sports, and relaxing beach time—all wrapped into a full-day adventure. But, like any popular activity, it’s not without some bumps, especially in terms of organization and consistency. Whether you’re into adrenaline activities or just want a picturesque day on the water, this trip might be just what you need — or it might require some patience.

What we love about this experience? The variety of activities, the inclusion of a multi-course lunch, and the chance to see Mauritius’s stunning coastlines from the water. However, a potential downside is the mixed quality of the service, with some reviews pointing out over-crowding or organizational issues.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation in a group setting, especially if you’re keen on water sports but don’t want to organize everything yourself.

Key Points

• Variety of activities including parasailing, snorkeling, and tube riding keeps the day lively.
• All-inclusive lunch and unlimited drinks add value and convenience.
• Transport and pickup from your hotel remove logistical stress.
• Group size can be somewhat large (up to 30 travelers), which may affect intimacy.
• Weather dependency can impact certain activities like parasailing.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations about organization and crowding.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Pickup and Departure from Trou d’Eau Douce

The day kicks off early around 8:30 am with hotel pickups in fully air-conditioned vehicles. The guides, who are described as friendly and helpful, ensure a smooth start. The drive to Trou d’Eau Douce, a charming fishing village on the east coast, takes about an hour, giving you some time to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

You’re greeted by the crew and greeted with Mauritian music, which sets a lively tone for the trip. This initial energy is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into the local hospitality.

Stop at Grand River South East Waterfall

Before heading to the island, there’s a scenic stop at the Grand River South East Waterfall. This is a favorite among reviewers who appreciated the chance to see the lush surroundings and monkeys jumping from trees. The boat trip upstream to the waterfall is about 30 minutes, and those who’ve experienced it mention the chance to spot fruit bats roosting high in the trees.

Some guests have pointed out that this stop provides a refreshing contrast to the water activities and offers great photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned that the waterfall was muddy during their visit, which is a reminder that weather conditions can influence what you see.

The Lagoon Stop for Snorkeling & Swimming

The cruise then sails into the crystal-clear lagoon near Ile aux Cerfs, with a snorkeling break that showcases coral reefs and vibrant marine life. If you love underwater scenes, this is a real treat — many reviews mention seeing colorful fish and coral formations.

However, a few guests noted that the snorkeling experience was somewhat brief, and some felt there was a lack of time for proper underwater exploration. Still, the reef’s beauty is undeniable, and it’s a key highlight.

Beachside BBQ Lunch

After snorkeling, your crew will serve a delicious 3-course BBQ lunch, either on the beach or on the boat. Reviewers praise the meal, describing it as tasty and well-prepared, with a good variety of vegetables, rice, pasta, and fresh seafood options. Unlimited drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and rum, make the meal even more enjoyable.

Guests often mention how the lunch creates a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, with music and good vibes helping everyone unwind after the water activities.

Island Time at Ile aux Cerfs: Parasailing & Tube Riding

The main draw of the trip is spending time on Ile aux Cerfs, a picture-postcard island fringed with white sands and swaying palms. Here, you’re given a chance to choose between two popular water sports: parasailing and tube riding.

Parasailing offers guests a chance to enjoy spectacular panoramic views, flying high above the lagoon. It’s a favorite among those who want a scenic thrill, with reviews describing it as “exquisite” and “a must-do.” Expect to spend about two hours on this activity, often with helpful staff guiding you through the process.

Tube riding is perfect for adrenaline junkies craving high-speed fun. Many reviewers highlight it as the most exciting part of their day, with speedboats pulling banana-shaped tubes over waves, offering a dose of quick bursts of fun. It lasts roughly 40 minutes and is usually considered the highlight by those seeking pure thrills.

Relaxing on Ile aux Cerfs & Return Journey

After the activities, you’re free to take a stroll along the pristine beaches, enjoy a swim, or simply relax in the sunshine. Some reviewers mention sitting back and soaking in the natural beauty, while others use the time for a quick snorkel or a photo session.

The boat then departs back to Trou d’Eau Douce, with an expected arrival around 4 pm. The return journey is quiet and scenic, perfect for reflecting on a day well spent.

What to Expect: A Closer Look at the Experience

Transportation & Group Size

The trip starts with a hotel pickup in a private air-conditioned vehicle, designed to make your day hassle-free. The group size generally caps at around 30 travelers, which some reviewees found a bit crowded, especially on the catamaran. The large group can affect the intimacy of water sports and dining, so if you’re after a more exclusive experience, this might be a consideration.

Water Activities & Equipment

Water sports are the star of this tour. Parasailing, snorkeling, and tube riding cater to a range of adventure levels. From glowing coral reefs to high-speed tube rides, the variety is there, but some reviews mention issues like equipment quality and overcrowding. For example, some guests reported that the catamaran was overloaded, with not enough seats for everyone, requiring some to sit on the roof.

Food & Drinks

The included three-course BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks are a big plus, especially given the long day out. The meal is generally praised as tasty and filling, with soft drinks, beer, wine, water, and rum available freely. The food on the boat is described as marinated and flavorful, although some reviewers note that it could be more refined or better presented.

Crew & Guides

The staff, including guides and drivers, are often highlighted for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many reviews mention punctual pickups, welcoming atmospheres, and staff who are eager to share local stories and music. One guest even called the driver “helpful,” and another appreciated the crew’s effort to create a party vibe with music and dancing.

Weather & Safety

Weather plays a significant role; parasailing and water activities depend heavily on good conditions. Several reviews mention cancellations or delays due to rain or wind, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting a full day. The tour provider states that activities may be canceled for safety reasons, and refunds are offered if the weather is poor.

Overall Value

For $161.44 per person, the tour provides a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation. The inclusion of transport, meals, water sports, and scenic stops offers good value, especially for those looking for a full-day experience. However, some reviews point out the overcrowding and organization issues, which can detract from the enjoyment.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems from Reviews

While many guests enjoyed the trip, a few experienced logistical hiccups. Notably, several reviews mention overcrowding on the catamaran, with some feeling the vessel was not as luxurious as advertised, and others citing long waiting times. One reviewer shared that they had to take a speedboat to the catamaran, and the crew only spoke French, which could be a barrier for non-French speakers.

The water-based activities seem to be the main draw, with multiple guests describing parasailing as exquisite and worthwhile. The underwater snorkel was also a highlight, with many noting the vibrant marine life, although some felt the snorkeling time was too brief.

The lunch was consistently praised, with guests enjoying the BBQ and drinks, creating a convivial atmosphere. The overall vibe is lively and festive, with music and dancing often part of the experience.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day catamaran adventure is best suited for adventure seekers and beach lovers looking to pack a variety of water activities into one trip. If you appreciate scenic cruises, good food, and lively atmospheres, you’ll likely enjoy the experience.

However, travelers who prioritize luxury, exclusivity, or a well-organized itinerary might find the large group size and occasional logistical issues a bit frustrating. The weather-dependent nature of some activities also means you should be prepared for possible cancellations.

Ultimately, if you want a fun-packed day with plenty of options for adventure, this tour offers great value—just keep your expectations flexible about the organization and crowd levels. It’s a lively, activity-rich experience that can make your Mauritius trip memorable, especially if you’re into water sports and tropical scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from any hotel or accommodation in Mauritius, making it a convenient option.

What water activities are included?
Parasailing and tube riding are included in your package, along with snorkeling. Water sport activities for children are not included in this tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting around 8:30 am with pickups and returning by 4 pm.

What is the meal like?
A delicious 3-course BBQ lunch is provided, with options for vegetarians. Unlimited drinks are included, covering wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and rum.

Can I choose my water sport activity?
Yes, you can select between parasailing and tube riding upon arrival. The order can be flexible depending on weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring your own towels and spare clothes, especially if you plan to snorkel or swim. Towels are not provided.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Solo travelers can join, but be aware that some reviews mention delays or cancellations. Also, the group size can be large, affecting the intimacy.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities like parasailing might be canceled for safety reasons, and refunds are available if weather conditions prevent certain activities.

How crowded does it get?
Some guests have reported overcrowding, especially on the catamaran, which can impact comfort during water sports and meals.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, activity-packed day that beautifully combines the natural beauty of Mauritius with some adrenaline-fueled fun. If you’re ready for a day of exploration, good food, and lively companionship, it’s worth considering — just keep the organization hiccups in mind.