Grand Baie: Catamaran 3 Islands Cruise & Lunch on the Island

When it comes to experiencing Mauritius beyond its beaches, a full-day catamaran cruise to the northern islands offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. From what we’ve gathered, this tour from Grand Baie takes you to Ilot Gabriel, Ile Plate, and the Coin de Mire, promising an exhilarating day with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, soak up the sun, and enjoy local flavors.

What makes this experience truly stand out is its combination of island landings and scenic cruising—giving travelers more than just a boat ride. Plus, the delicious BBQ lunch with drinks included ensures you won’t go hungry after all those underwater explorations. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the itinerary, especially in winter, which might mean fewer island visits or limited snorkeling.

This tour will suit adventurers who love the sea, nature, and good food. If you’re keen on photography, the panoramic views from the water alone are worth the price, and families or groups looking for an active, fun-filled day will likely find it very rewarding.

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Key Points

Authentic island experience with landings on Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate.
Scenic catamaran cruise with beautiful views of the turquoise waters.
Inclusive BBQ lunch and drinks, adding great value.
Flexible snorkeling opportunities tailored to your experience level.
Safety and organization are emphasized, with crew guiding the trip.
Weather-dependent—some activities may be adjusted or canceled for safety.

This tour begins with a beach pickup or meeting point in Grand Baie, usually on the beach itself. From there, you’ll board a comfortable catamaran that promises a smooth and lively journey. The vessel is said to be cheerful, with a crew known for their helpfulness and friendliness—something past travelers have appreciated deeply.

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Setting Sail from Grand Baie

The cruise kicks off with a beautiful departure, where you’ll see the vibrant colors of the ocean and get a glimpse of the islands even before you arrive. The boat’s crew often plays music and keeps the atmosphere lively, making the first part of your trip feel more like a floating party than a typical sightseeing tour.

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Stop at Ilot Gabriel

The first landing spot is Ilot Gabriel, where you’ll be transported in a dinghy—a small boat that transports you from the catamaran to the island. Reviewers mention that the beach here is pristine, perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and snorkeling. You’ll spend roughly 45-60 minutes on land, enough to explore the shoreline, enjoy the water, or just unwind in the sun.

Island Landings on Ile Plate

Next, the boat anchors near Ile Plate, where you’ll be served a delicious BBQ lunch right on the beach. The opportunity to land on the island and enjoy your meal amid nature is a highlight for many travelers. The food is described as tasty, with a good selection of meat, fish, and salads. Drinks like juice, beer, and rum are included, keeping you refreshed after your swim or walk along the sand.

Snorkeling and Free Time

After lunch, you’re invited to snorkel in the clear waters, with the crew typically encouraging you to explore at your own pace. Reviewers have noted that the snorkeling is self-guided and varies in quality depending on the day. Some mention that fins might be helpful as the waters can have strong currents or rocky patches, especially at certain spots.

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The Drive to Coin de Mire

Following your island adventures, the cruise continues toward Coin de Mire, a striking rocky islet. While you won’t be landing here, you’ll get to cruise close enough to see its rugged beauty up close. This part of the tour offers spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze.

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Back at Sea and Return

On the way back, the atmosphere often turns lively, with music, dancing, and shared stories. Many reviews highlight the friendly, cheerful crew that keeps spirits high. The boat usually arrives back in Grand Baie in the late afternoon, leaving you with lasting memories of a day spent at sea.

For $80 per person, this experience packs in a lot. You get land visits, snorkeling, a substantial BBQ lunch, and unlimited drinks, all aboard a well-organized vessel. Past travelers like Dominik and Dolphy have praised the delicious food and helpful crew, which significantly enhances the overall value.

The inclusive nature of transfers and access to the islands makes this an easy, worry-free way to explore the northern archipelago. While some note that snorkeling could be limited depending on conditions, the overall package offers enough variety to keep your day engaging.

Bring comfortable shoes for walking on the islands, as no shoes are allowed on the catamaran to prevent damage.
Pack a swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you have your own.
Prepare for a full day—the trip lasts several hours, so wear light, breathable clothing.
Be aware that weather can influence the itinerary; the captain reserves the right to cancel or reschedule activities for safety.
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking appropriate precautions, especially in rougher sea conditions during winter.
Hotel pickup isn’t included, so plan to meet on the beach in Grand Baie or contact the provider ahead of time for precise details.

Guests consistently mention the joyful energy of the crew—many describe crew members as vibrant, cheerful, and attentive. Jaconette appreciated that the lunch was served in a beautiful setting, giving her a sense of genuine connection with the nature around her. Others, like John, enjoyed the party atmosphere during the return journey, with celebrations like a 90th birthday adding a special touch.

The scenery is widely praised, with many noting stunning views of the islands and seas that look better in person than in photos. Angela pointed out that despite the short time spent swimming, the beautiful beaches made it worthwhile. Meanwhile, some reviews highlight crowding issues, especially on busy days, so arriving early or avoiding peak season may improve your experience.

This catamaran cruise is an ideal way to combine island exploration, snorkeling, and a feast of flavors into one memorable day. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a mix of activity and relaxation, with enough flexibility for different skill levels in snorkeling. The friendly crew and lively atmosphere make it especially suitable for those looking to enjoy Mauritius with like-minded spirits.

If you’re after stunning sea views, tasty local food, and a taste of island life, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a great value for travelers who appreciate good organization and genuine, fun-filled experiences at sea.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. You’ll typically meet at a designated spot on the beach in Grand Baie. It’s best to contact the provider at least 18-24 hours before to confirm the exact meeting point.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you have your own. Also, pack lightweight clothing and a hat for sun protection.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is available and generally self-guided. It’s advisable to bring fins if you have them, especially since some reviews mention rocky or current-prone waters.

How long do we spend on each island?
Expect about 45-60 minutes on Ilot Gabriel, with similar or slightly longer time on Ile Plate for lunch and water activities. The exact timing can vary depending on weather and sea conditions.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain holds the right to cancel or reschedule activities for safety reasons. If the weather prevents full island visits or snorkeling, you’ll be informed accordingly, and the trip may be adjusted.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, juice, beer, and other drinks are included in the price, offering good refreshment options throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, as the trip involves boat transfers and walking on islands.

This full-day cruise from Grand Baie combines scenic sailing, island adventures, and flavorful dining, all wrapped in an engaging and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re after photo-worthy moments, snorkeling fun, or simply relaxing under the sun, it’s a wonderful way to experience Mauritius’ northern waters.