Grand Baie: Northern Isles Catamaran Cruise with BBQ

Traveling to Mauritius and dreaming of sailing across turquoise waters to explore pristine islands? This Northern Isles Catamaran Cruise promises a day of sun, sea, and scenic views. But, as with many tours, it’s essential to weigh the real experiences against the hype. Based on reviews and available info, here’s an in-depth look to help you decide if this adventure is worth your time and money.

What immediately stands out are the stunning island vistas, the chance to swim and snorkel in clear waters, and the tasty BBQ and unlimited drinks on board. However, potential travelers should be aware of some issues reported by past users, mainly regarding the reliability of the service provider. If smooth sailing and genuine experiences are what you seek, keep reading. This tour might be best suited for those craving a scenic day on the water, open to some unpredictability, or those who prioritize value for money.

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Key Points

Beautiful scenery and peaceful beaches make this cruise visually rewarding.
Snorkeling on Île Plate offers a good chance to see marine life.
Food and drinks are included, adding to the laid-back vibe.
Customer reviews reveal concerns about reliability and service consistency.
Departure and return times are fixed, so plan accordingly.
Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking guaranteed service.

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What You Can Expect from the Tour

This catamaran cruise departs from Grand Baie at 8:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM, making it a solid full-day option for enjoying Mauritius’ northern islands. The experience is designed to be relaxing and fun, blending sailing with stops on the islands for swimming and exploring. But as with any experience, it’s important to understand the details to set proper expectations.

Looking for more options in Grand Baie? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Journey Begins: Departure from Grand Baie

The meeting point is conveniently located next to a bus stop near MCB Bank. This makes it straightforward to reach, whether you’re staying nearby or taking local transport. The tour includes unlimited drinks and a BBQ lunch, which means you can stay refreshed and satisfied without additional costs. However, the reviews suggest some travelers experienced issues with the provider, including difficulties reaching the guide or confirming bookings.

The Sailing Experience

Once aboard the catamaran, you’ll feel the wind in your hair as the vessel heads towards the northern islands. The ride offers panoramic views of the coastline and open sea, a highlight for lovers of scenic sailing. Music often accompanies the trip, enhancing the laid-back, party-on-the-sea atmosphere.

Island Stops and Snorkeling on Île Plate

The main stops include Île Plate, where snorkeling and swimming are key activities. You’ll likely have the chance to explore underwater life in the clear Indian Ocean waters—an attraction for marine enthusiasts. Reviewers note that this part is quite enjoyable, with one mentioning that the “marine wildlife is exceptional,” offering a rewarding experience for those interested in aquatic life.

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Gabriel Island and Beach Relaxation

The cruise also includes time to relax on the white sandy beaches of Gabriel Island, giving you a break from the water and a chance to soak up the sun. The beaches are described as “heavenly,” though their popularity means they might be crowded during peak times.

There's plenty more to explore in Grand Baie

The BBQ Lunch and Drinks

Back on the boat, a tasty BBQ is served, with unlimited drinks flowing freely. This creates a convivial atmosphere and is perfect for socializing or simply relaxing after some water activities. Several reviews highlight the value of the included food and drinks, even if some had varying expectations about the quality.

Return to Grand Baie

The tour wraps up around 4 PM, bringing you back to the starting point. The return journey offers one last chance to enjoy the sea breeze and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Realities of the Experience

While the itinerary sounds idyllic, reviews cast a shadow of doubt on the reliability of this tour provider. Several travelers report that the service was not as advertised, with claims of no-show guides or difficulty reaching the company. One reviewer, Axelle, explicitly describes the experience as a scam, with the provider failing to show up and unreachable contact numbers.

These issues are critical to consider if you’re planning to book. Booking with flexible options—such as paying later or canceling 24 hours in advance—can help mitigate some risks. Keep in mind that this experience might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, as logistics are not detailed and reliability appears inconsistent.

How the Tour Compares in Value

At $70 per person, the price seems reasonable for a full-day boat trip, including BBQ and unlimited drinks. However, the lack of guaranteed quality or reliable service can devalue the experience significantly. If the tour operates smoothly, you’ll likely find it offers good value for a day of sun, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.

Yet, based on reviews, travelers should approach with caution. It’s wise to verify recent feedback or consider alternative tours with better reviews and confirmed safety records. Many similar experiences are available on the same platform, many of which include more transparent reviews.

What To Bring and What To Expect

To make the most of the trip, bring a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The tour is typically conducted in several languages—English, French, Spanish, and Italian—so language barriers shouldn’t be a concern. You might also want to bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer specific equipment or want to ensure comfort.

Littering and touching marine life are not allowed, preserving the environment. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, and the fixed schedule means you’ll need to be punctual.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Isles Catamaran Cruise can be an enjoyable way to spend a day in Mauritius if everything goes smoothly. The scenic views, chance to snorkel, and relaxed beach time are genuine highlights. But potential issues with service reliability and communication are important to consider before booking.

If you’re an ocean lover who values sightseeing and socializing over guaranteed service, this could still be worth a try. Just remember to set your expectations accordingly and consider checking recent reviews or alternative tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Travelers craving a full day of sea, sun, and scenic islands
Those interested in snorkeling and marine wildlife
Beach lovers wanting a relaxing day on white sands
Visitors seeking an affordable way to experience Mauritius’ northern isles
People flexible about potential service hiccups, willing to take a chance for the views

Who Might Want to Skip It?

Anyone requiring guaranteed service or confirmed bookings
Travelers with mobility challenges
Those who prefer highly curated, professional tourism experiences
Visitors seeking luxury or high-end amenities

FAQ

Is transportation included to the departure point?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

What is the departure time?
The tour departs from Grand Baie at 8:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring your own if you prefer specific equipment, though snorkel gear is not included.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks are provided on board.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and no specific information about children is provided, so check with the provider before booking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and possibly your own snorkeling gear for added comfort.

Overall, this tour offers a decent chance to enjoy Mauritius’ northern waters, but with some caveats. Do your homework, consider recent reviews, and decide if this adventure aligns with your travel style and expectations.