Exclusive Private Catamaran to Ile Aux Cerfs with Lunch

Mauritius is famous for its picture-perfect beaches and inviting waters, and this private catamaran tour offers a chance to see it all while enjoying some well-earned relaxation. While the experience comes with a handful of enjoyable highlights—like snorkeling in vibrant lagoons and a delicious barbecue lunch—it also has some areas that could be improved.

If you’re after a day of sailing through crystal-clear waters, soaking up sun on pristine sands, and exploring the island’s natural beauty with a small, intimate group, this cruise could be a great fit. But if you’re expecting top-notch amenities or a completely polished experience, it’s worth reading the fine print first.

Key Points

• Comfortable private catamaran suited for small groups up to 10 people
• Includes snorkeling, a barbecue lunch, and visits to Ile aux Cerfs and Grand River South East Waterfall
• Relaxing and scenic, with stunning views of Mauritius’s coast
• Potentially variable in cleanliness and onboard amenities, based on reviews
• Flexible booking options with pay-later and cancellation policies
• Ideal for travelers craving a personalized, scenic day out with water activities

When considering this cruise, it’s important to understand what the day actually looks like, from departure to return. The tour typically starts at 09:00 from the Pointe Jerome Embarkation Jetty in the southeast of Mauritius. Expect a roughly seven-hour journey, with the boat returning around 16:15—timing that depends on weather conditions like tides and wind.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Boarding and Breakfast
Your day begins with a light breakfast onboard, offering a nice start to what will be a busy day. The crew, part of One Island Cruiser, will greet you in their uniforms, ready to set sail. Though the specifics of the breakfast aren’t detailed, expect something simple and quick, perfect for fueling up before heading out.

Sailing and Scenic Views
The main joy of this tour is the sailing itself. You’ll cruise through Mauritian waters, taking in the breathtaking sights of the coast and open sea. You’ll be on a 42-foot catamaran, with comfortable trampolines perfect for sunbathing and relaxing, which are a highlight for many guests.

Snorkeling Break
At around 11:00, the boat stops for a snorkeling session in the island’s largest lagoon. You’ll get equipment to explore the underwater world—expect coral reefs teeming with brightly colored tropical fish. One guest review called the snorkeling stop “superb” and highlighted the marine life, which suggests you’ll have a good chance to see vibrant fish and coral formations.

Visit to Grand River South East Waterfall and River
Next, the cruise takes you along the east coast to see the Grand River South East Waterfall from afar. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot bats and monkeys living near the riverbank, as one review pointed out. While the waterfall isn’t included for a close-up visit, the river trip adds a touch of natural scenery and a little adventure.

Lunch on Board
After the river excursion, you’ll be served a BBQ lunch prepared by friendly crew members. The menu includes a selection of meats and sides, with vegetarian options available if requested beforehand. Reviewers have lauded the lunch as “one of the best” they’ve had on a Mauritian catamaran, with plenty of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to keep you refreshed.

Relaxation at Ile aux Cerfs
Post-lunch, the boat cruises into the canal between Ile aux Cerfs and the Anahita sanctuary, where you’ll disembark onto the iconic white sands of Ile aux Cerfs. This island is a postcard-perfect setting, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery.

Time on Ile aux Cerfs
Guests typically have some free time here to explore, unwind, or snap photos. The beach is known for its stunning beauty, and many find it a relaxing highlight of the day.

Return Journey
After your time on the island, the boat heads back, playing Mauritian sega music and sharing local tales to keep the atmosphere lively. The cruise is designed to be both scenic and laid-back, with a focus on enjoying the water and camaraderie.

While this experience offers many of the elements travelers seek—beautiful scenery, snorkeling, a tasty BBQ, and a private boat—the reviews highlight some practical points to consider.

Pros:

• The scenic sailing along the coast delivers breathtaking views that you’ll enjoy from the comfort of a private boat.
• The snorkeling stop in the lagoon allows guests to swim amongst colorful fish and coral reefs, a true highlight for marine life lovers.
• The lunch is well-reviewed, with many guests raving about the BBQ, describing it as “delicious” and one of the best in Mauritius.
• The small group size (up to 10) offers intimacy and personalized attention, making it a more exclusive experience.
• The comfortable trampolines are perfect for lounging in the sun, adding a fun and relaxed vibe to the cruise.

Cons:

• The interior of the boat has been noted as not very clean, which could impact comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to cleanliness.
• The amenities onboard are somewhat basic—no coffee or tea, and a simple snack might have been appreciated, as one reviewer mentioned.
• The price point ($997 for a group of up to 10) may seem high to some, especially considering the limited included activities and optional extras like watersports or lobster lunch.

If you’re looking for a personalized day on the water, this private catamaran cruise offers a good balance of scenic travel, water activities, and relaxation. It’s especially suitable for small groups or families who want to avoid large tourist crowds and enjoy Mauritius’s coast with a bit of exclusivity.

The balanced itinerary with snorkeling, sightseeing, and beach time makes it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive ocean experience without overloading the day. The inclusion of a delicious BBQ lunch and drinks adds value, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

However, if you prefer a more luxurious experience or highly polished amenities, you might find this cruise somewhat modest. The reviews suggest that the focus is on the activities and scenery rather than onboard comfort or gourmet cuisine.

This tour provides a beautiful and intimate way to explore the coastlines and waters of Mauritius. For those who love sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing on stunning beaches, it ticks many boxes. The small-group vibe and personalized service make it a more exclusive option compared to larger, more commercial cruises.

The highlights—scenic views, snorkeling, delicious barbecue—are well worth the price for many travelers, especially if you’re keen to avoid crowded tours. But be prepared for some basic onboard amenities and a less polished environment, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned the boat interior’s cleanliness.

In essence, this experience is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic escape with a personal touch. It’s perfect if you’re after the natural beauty and marine life of Mauritius, combined with a cozy, small-group atmosphere.

What time does the cruise start and end?
The tour departs at 09:00 from Pointe Jerome and typically returns around 16:15, depending on weather conditions like tides and wind.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarians can be catered for if advised before the tour. The BBQ lunch is generally delicious and well-reviewed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the cruise includes a selection of alcoholic drinks (beer, rum, cocktails) and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.

What should I bring?
You’ll want sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, towels, a change of clothes, and perhaps a hat. A spare set of clothes is also recommended.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. There’s a snorkeling stop at the lagoon with equipment provided, giving you a chance to see vibrant marine life up close.

Are watersports available?
Additional charges apply for watersport activities like parasailing and tube riding, though these aren’t included in the standard package.

What happens in bad weather?
If a cyclone or heavy rain occurs, you’ll receive a full refund if the operator cancels the tour.

Choosing this private catamaran cruise is all about enjoying Mauritius from the water—scenery, marine life, and relaxed beach time rolled into one tidy package. It’s an ideal outing for those craving a small-group, personalized experience with stunning views and good food.

While it might not be the most luxurious or fully equipped tour in Mauritius, the intimacy, scenic sailing, and delicious barbecue make it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. If you’re keen on seeing Ile aux Cerfs, snorkeling, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty with a small group, this cruise is likely to delight.

For travelers seeking a memorable day with a focus on scenic beauty and relaxed fun, this cruise offers solid value and a chance to create some special memories on the island’s sparkling waters.