GBaie: 3 North Islands Cruise, Lunch & CoindeMire Snorkeling

Planning a day on the water in Mauritius? The 3 North Islands Cruise with snorkeling and BBQ offers a lively and scenic way to explore some of the island’s most beautiful spots. While it’s a popular choice for families and groups of friends, it comes with a few considerations that might influence your experience.

We love the unique opportunity to sail on a traditional catamaran, enjoy stunning views of Coin de Mire, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The onboard barbecue and drinks add a relaxed, festive touch, making it great for laid-back adventurers. However, a potential drawback is the crowded boat and some inconsistent meal experiences, which are worth keeping in mind. This tour suits those looking for a fun, social day at sea, especially if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic sailing, and a casual vibe.

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Key Points

Scenic catamaran experience with comfortable onboard facilities.
Excellent snorkeling spots, especially near Coin de Mire.
Good value for the price, including lunch and drinks.
Crowded boat conditions might detract from comfort for some travelers.
Flexible itinerary with options for island visits and snorkeling.
Variable meal quality; some reviews mention basic meals and limited drinks.

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Overview of the Tour

This Mauritian day cruise takes you aboard a well-maintained catamaran, sailing from Grand Bay toward the North Islands, including Ile Plate, Coin de Mire, and Ilot Gabriel. It’s designed as a fun, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The price point of around $74 per person makes it an accessible option for many travelers, providing a mix of adventure, scenic views, and casual dining.

The trip usually begins with a rendezvous on the beach, where your guide will coordinate the day’s activities. You’ll cruise across the ocean, enjoying spectacular sea views and the changing colors of the water. It’s a scenic journey that emphasizes the beauty of Mauritius’s northern waters.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point and Departure

Your day begins on the beach, where you’ll meet your guide—most often in the Grand Bay area—about 24 hours before the trip to confirm details. The boat departs in the morning, offering a leisurely start to your day on the water.

Sailing to Ile Plate and Snorkeling

Your first stop is Ile Plate, a stunning island with a fantastic beach environment. Here, you’ll have around an hour to relax, swim, or snorkel in the crystal-clear lagoon. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling here is truly marvelous, offering the chance to see vibrant marine life close to the shore. You’ll need to bring your own snorkeling gear, as it’s not provided.

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Ilot Gabriel and the Natural Reserve

Next, the boat heads to Ilot Gabriel, known for bird nests and the Paille en Queue. This serene spot is perfect for a peaceful break and more snorkeling or swimming. These stops are often the highlight for travelers who enjoy being close to nature and exploring quiet beaches.

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Visiting Coin de Mire

The most iconic stop is near Coin de Mire, a mountain emerging from the ocean. Although the boat does not stop on the island itself, it sails as close as possible, giving you a spectacular view. If the weather permits, you’ll get an opportunity to snorkel near the island, which many consider to be among the best spots. Keep in mind, you’ll need to bring your own snorkel equipment if you wish to join these near-island explorations.

Lunch and Relaxation

Lunch is typically served on the boat, featuring a barbecue, salads, and drinks. Several reviews praise the deliciousness of the BBQ, though some mention it can feel a bit rushed or basic. On rare occasions, the lunch may be served on the island itself, offering a different, more relaxed dining experience.

Return Journey

As you sail back, you’ll pass very close to Coin de Mire, soaking in the spectacular ocean vistas. The return trip offers more time for snorkeling near the third island (weather-dependent). The crew give you a safe, enjoyable experience, but the marine conditions can sometimes influence the snorkeling available.

What Travelers Can Expect

Onboard Facilities and Group Size

The boat is described as well-maintained, providing enough space for a large group, although some reviews note it can become quite crowded. When many boats are in the water at once, it can feel a bit congested, especially on the decks and at the snorkeling sites.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The snorkeling spots, especially near Coin de Mire and Ile Plate, are often praised for their vivid coral and marine diversity. Travelers should bring their own gear for the best experience, as equipment isn’t supplied. Clear waters make for great photo ops and memorable underwater encounters.

Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is a highlight for many, with salads, drinks, and grilled meats fueling your afternoon. Still, some mention that drinks are limited once on the boat, with some finding the selection somewhat disappointing or lacking ice. You might consider bringing some extra drinks if you prefer more variety or colder beverages.

Customer Feedback and Tips

Guides and Crew: Staff are generally friendly and lively, which helps create a fun atmosphere.
Crowds: The boat can get busy; if you value space and quiet, consider going early or asking about smaller groups.
Weather Dependency: The trip is vulnerable to sea conditions, with the captain sometimes rescheduling or adjusting plans for safety.
Duration: The tour typically lasts around 5 hours, which is enough to enjoy all the key spots without feeling rushed.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer, Nathalie, pointed out that while the catamaran is well-maintained, the captain’s behavior was less professional—arriving late and speaking poorly to crew members—highlighting the importance of choosing reputable operators. She also noted that snorkeling was selectively guided, sometimes at the request of VIP passengers, which could influence the experience.

Another contributor found the boat crowded and the islands’ shade limited, making hydration a concern. They appreciated the good food and friendly crew, but emphasized the importance of bringing your own water and snacks if possible.

Conversely, a family praised the tour as perfect for kids and a great way to relax—highlighting the lively crew and the stunning scenery—making it clear that the tour’s vibe can suit a variety of travelers.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring your own snorkeling gear for the best experience and to snorkel near Coin de Mire.
Pack sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear—the beaches and snorkeling spots call for it.
Consider bringing extra drinks or water, especially if you’re sensitive to dehydration or if the boat’s drinks are limited.
Arrive early at the meeting point to beat the crowds and secure a comfortable spot.
Check the weather forecast beforehand—sea conditions directly impact snorkeling and the overall experience.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $74, the tour offers a solid value considering the boat ride, snorkeling opportunities, lunch, and drinks included. However, the crowded boat and variable meal quality are factors to consider. For travelers seeking a relaxed, social day with scenic views and underwater adventures, it’s generally a good choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise fits families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a fun day out on the water. If you’re comfortable with crowded conditions and want a cost-effective way to see and snorkel around the North Islands, it’s a good deal. Those seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience might want to explore private boat options or smaller tours.

FAQ

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
No, you’ll need to bring your own snorkeling gear, as it’s not included in the tour.

Can I expect to see marine life?
Yes, especially near Coin de Mire and Ile Plate; the waters are clear and vibrant.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and preferably your own snorkeling gear for the best experience.

What is the meal like?
A barbecue lunch with salads and drinks is served, though some travelers find it basic or rushed.

How crowded is the boat?
It can get quite busy, especially with multiple boats in the water at once, which might affect comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain may reschedule the trip or adjust the itinerary for safety reasons.

Is there any guide commentary on the islands?
No detailed history is provided; the focus is more on enjoying the scenery and snorkeling.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including sailing, stops, and lunch.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the boat can be crowded.

Final Thoughts

The 3 North Islands Cruise with snorkeling and BBQ offers a lively, scenic day out that combines the thrill of sailing with stunning marine and island views. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, snorkeling, and outdoor adventures without the need for luxury exclusivity. While it’s not perfect—occasional crowding and variable meal quality—it provides a fun, affordable way to experience the northern waters of Mauritius.

If your priority is seeing beautiful islands, snorkeling in vibrant waters, and enjoying a relaxed day with friends or family, this tour delivers on those promises. Just remember to come prepared, keep your expectations flexible, and you’re likely to have a memorable day at sea.