Full-Day Northern Catamaran Cruise: Coin de Mire and Ile Plate Island

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day out on the water, this full-day catamaran cruise around Mauritius offers a chance to enjoy scenic coastlines, snorkeling, and island hopping. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect — and it looks quite appealing for those wanting a taste of island life.

What I love about this tour? First, the stunning views of Mauritius’s northern coast and the chance to visit two beautiful islands. Second, the inclusive barbecue lunch and drinks that make the day feel laid-back and indulgent. Third, the convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel makes logistics simple and stress-free.

However, one consideration is the group size — reviews mention it can sometimes be crowded, which might dampen the intimacy or comfort for some travelers. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy social boat excursions and are happy to share the space with others, especially given the boat’s capacity. If you’re after a quiet, secluded experience, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you’re keen on a lively, scenic day with good food and snorkeling, it’s a solid pick.

Who Is This Tour For?

This cruise appeals to travelers eager for a full-day adventure, scenic island views, and water activities. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet active day, and who appreciate a lively crew and good food. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors to Mauritius looking for an overview of the northern coast in one fun, inclusive trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Mauritius experience with island hopping and snorkeling
• All-inclusive package with barbecue lunch and drinks
• Round-trip hotel transfer simplifies logistics
• Potential crowding on the boat, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere
• Moderate price point considering the length and inclusions
• Varied reviews highlight great moments and some logistical hiccups

What to Expect from This Catamaran Tour

This tour offers a 7-hour journey along Mauritius’s northwest coast, starting with hotel pickup around 8-9 AM. The transfer usually takes about an hour depending on your location, so flexibility in timing is wise. Once aboard the catamaran in Grand Bay, you’ll quickly get a sense of the lively atmosphere — the crew, including Kevin, Rudi, Bruno, and Olivier, are often praised for their friendliness and professionalism.

The boat itself is described as spacious, but reviews suggest it can sometimes feel crowded, especially if the boat is overbooked. One review recounted being on a boat with around 30 guests, despite a supposed limit of 8. So, if space matters to you, it’s worth considering the season and booking early.

Scenic Sailing and Coastal Views

As the boat glides along the coast, you’ll enjoy views of iconic spots like Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and Grand Bay. These are great photo opportunities, especially with the sunlight casting reflections on the water, making for memorable snapshots. The captain will likely slow down or anchor at points where the scenery shines brightest, such as the lagoon near Île Plate.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Île Plate and Coin de Mire

The main highlights are the stops for snorkeling and swimming. The calm, clear waters of Mauritius’s lagoons are perfect for exploring marine life. The reviews note that snorkeling gear isn’t typically provided, so bringing your own or renting locally might be a good idea if you’re keen on underwater adventures.

The stops at Île Plate and Coin de Mire allow for a break from the boat’s deck, offering time to explore or relax on the beach. Île Plate, in particular, is praised for its natural beauty and the opportunity to wander freely after a hearty barbecue lunch.

Lunch and Drinks

The barbecue lunch serves up fresh fish and chicken with bread, salad, and dessert, making for a hearty meal after a morning of sailing. Reviewers describe the meal as tasty and satisfying, especially with the included drinks — beer, wine, local rum, water, or coke. The fact that alcohol is part of the standard package enhances the laid-back atmosphere, encouraging some light dancing and socializing on deck.

Post-Lunch Relaxation and Return

After lunch, many passengers take a walk on the beach or relax on the boat’s deck. The sail back to Grand Bay is often smooth, with some reviews mentioning the crew’s skill in handling challenging weather conditions. The return trip also gives a chance to enjoy more coastal views and perhaps spot dolphins or other wildlife.

The Realities: What Reviewers Say

Many travelers have had a positive experience, citing beautiful scenery, good food, and a lively crew. One reviewer mentioned that the staff, including Kevin and Rudi, made the trip memorable with their friendliness. The boat’s atmosphere is generally described as fun and convivial, perfect for social travelers or those wanting to unwind with drinks in hand.

However, not everyone was thrilled. Several reviews mention overcrowding, with one guest describing being on a boat with 30 people when the supposed maximum was 8. This kind of overbooking can detract from the comfort and intimacy of the experience. Others noted that the snorkeling gear was not always available or used, which might be disappointing if underwater exploration is a priority.

A few travelers also found the trip stressful due to logistical issues, like waiting for transport after the cruise or feeling seasick during rougher conditions. Still, many found that the overall experience outweighed these minor inconveniences.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $111.54 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive day on the water, including transport, lunch, and drinks. Compared to private or half-day options, this full-day package offers good value if you’re eager to maximize your time and experience multiple islands. The inclusions mean you won’t need to worry about extra expenses during the day, making it a straightforward choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a high-energy, scenic adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Full-Day Northern Catamaran Cruise is ideal for travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic views, and social atmospheres. If you enjoy lively boat trips with an energetic crew, ample opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, and a hearty barbecue lunch, this experience will likely satisfy your expectations.

Keep in mind that the boat can sometimes get crowded, and gear for snorkeling isn’t included, so come prepared if underwater exploration is a priority. The combination of beautiful islands, friendly crew, and inclusive drinks makes this a fun, hassle-free way to see some of Mauritius’s most iconic spots in one day.

For those seeking tranquility or a more exclusive experience, this trip might feel a bit too lively or crowded. But if you’re after a memorable, Instagram-worthy day with plenty of sunshine, good company, and beautiful scenery, it ticks many boxes.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The trip begins around 9:00 am, with hotel pickup taking place between 8:00 and 9:00 am depending on your location.

• Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from your Mauritius accommodation is part of the package.

• How long is the cruise? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including sailing, stops, lunch, and return.

• Are snorkeling gear provided? Snorkeling equipment is not included in the tour, so bring your own or rent locally if desired.

• What is the maximum group size? The tour can accommodate up to 20 travelers, though reviews mention instances of overcrowding.

• Can I request vegetarian food? Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking.

• What is the age minimum? The minimum age to participate is 18 years.

• Is alcohol included? Yes, beer, wine, and local rum are part of the included drinks.

• What should I bring? Swimwear, sun protection, a hat, camera, and snorkeling gear if you want underwater exploration.

• What happens in case of bad weather? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this cruise combines scenic sailing, island exploration, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to experience Mauritius from the water. With its inclusive lunch and drinks, friendly crew, and stunning views, it offers a well-rounded day out — perfect for those who enjoy socializing, sunbathing, and snorkeling in a vibrant setting. Just remember to consider the potential for crowding and plan accordingly for a truly enjoyable experience.