Grand Bay: Catamaran Cruise to Flat Island with BBQ Lunch

If you’re after a relaxing yet adventurous day out in Mauritius, a catamaran cruise to Flat Island offers a fantastic mix of sailing, snorkeling, and delicious food. This tour promises scenic views, untouched beaches, and plenty of time to unwind in a peaceful setting. While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially if weather turns rough—it’s certainly an experience that highlights the island’s natural beauty.

What we really like about this trip? First, the spectacular sailing experience aboard a well-maintained catamaran, second, the chance to sample a hearty BBQ lunch on the island, and third, the freedom to snorkel and explore at your own pace. One thing to keep in mind is that the boat journey can be a bit choppy, especially if the seas are lively, which might be unpleasant for some travelers. This tour tends to be ideal for those who love the outdoors, enjoy water activities, and are looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.

If you’re curious about Mauritius’ coastlines, seeking a slice of tranquility, or simply want a fun day out with good food and scenic views, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can appreciate sailing and snorkeling.

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Key Points

Scenic sailing: The journey to Flat Island offers outstanding coastal views and photo opportunities of Mauritius’ northwest coast.
Relaxed island time: Ample free time on the island allows for lounging, walking, or exploring the trails at your own pace.
Delicious BBQ: The lunch is hearty—featuring fish, chicken, salads, and desserts—paired with drinks that suit most tastes.
Snorkeling options: You can snorkel in the lagoons or swim at your leisure, with the boat passing near Coin de Mire for nearby exploration.
Weather dependent: The trip’s success hinges on sea conditions; rough weather might limit snorkeling or extend travel times.
Limited on-island exploration: While the trip offers plenty of beach lounging, it is more about the boat experience than an extensive island exploration.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

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Meeting and Boarding at Grand Bay

The adventure kicks off right on the beach of Grand Bay, where a friendly representative will welcome you. From here, you’ll hop into a small boat that transports you to the larger catamaran. This short transfer adds a bit of anticipation and adventure before setting sail.

Cruising towards Flat Island

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy sailing along the coast, with the wind in your hair and spectacular views of Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and the bustling Grand Bay area. The crew, often praised for their professionalism—like Nadine’s comment about a “great crew”—ensure everyone is comfortable and safe during the trip. The boat is roomy enough for a relaxed experience, with enough space for lounging or taking photos.

Arriving at Flat Island (Île Plate)

Flat Island is about 11 kilometers north of Cap Malheureux, known for its pristine beaches and clear lagoons. Here, guests get free time to relax on the beach, walk along the trails, or swim in the calm waters. The island is peaceful, with chances to spot the endemic Paille en Queue bird, adding a touch of wildlife charm.

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The BBQ Lunch

Midday, a delicious BBQ is served—featuring fish and chicken, accompanied by fresh bread, salads, and dessert. Drinks—including beer, wine, local rum, water, or soft drinks—are available to complement your meal. Some reviews mention that the lunch is a highlight, with Nadine describing it as “marvellous and very nic,” and others noting it’s a filling, hearty meal that keeps you energized for the afternoon.

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Free Exploration and Snorkeling

Post-lunch, you can explore the island further, stroll along the trails, or lounge on the beach. The boat often passes close to Coin de Mire, offering an opportunity for self-led snorkeling in the lagoons. While the boat doesn’t stop on the island itself for snorkeling, the nearby waters are often suitable for swimming at your own pace. Some travelers, like the reviewer who mentioned experiencing strong waves, found the sea conditions challenging—so being prepared with travel tablets or sea sickness remedies might be wise.

Returning Sailing and Optional Snorkeling

On the way back, weather conditions permitting, there’s another chance to snorkel and enjoy the water. The crew is attentive to sea conditions, and if the weather is good, the experience is quite enjoyable, as one traveler noted, “the scenery as the boat glides up the coast is worth the trip.”

Transport, Duration, and Group Size

The entire trip lasts several hours—generally around half a day, which feels just right for a relaxed yet engaging experience. The meeting point is conveniently located on Grand Bay beach, with a welcome staff member to guide you. The group size is typically small to mid-sized, making the experience personable and less crowded. Note: No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point.

The Price: Is it Worth It?

At $70 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the inclusions—sailing, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling stops. You get a full day of entertainment, scenic beauty, and relaxation, making it a solid option for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and comfort. The cost covers transportation to and from the island, a hearty BBQ, and ample time to explore and unwind, which many reviews support.

What Do Travelers Say?

Most reviews highlight the friendly, helpful guides and the stunning scenery as top highlights. Nadine’s review stands out, mentioning the crew’s attentiveness and safety, especially in windy and rainy conditions. The food consistently receives praise, with many saying the lunch was “marvellous” and satisfying.

Some travelers, however, noted the rough sea conditions could lead to seasickness or discomfort—so if you’re prone, come prepared. One review pointed out that the music onboard was loud and not to everyone’s taste, which is worth considering if you prefer tranquility.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits outdoor lovers who enjoy sailing, beach lounging, and snorkeling at their own pace. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can handle a boat ride and a bit of water activity. The tour isn’t designed for those looking for extensive island exploring or for pregnant women, as noted in the guidelines for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran trip to Flat Island offers an excellent balance of scenic sailing, peaceful beaches, and a delicious barbecue lunch—perfect for a laid-back day in Mauritius. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, taking photos of stunning coastlines, and savoring hearty local food in a tranquil setting.

While weather can impact the experience, the crew’s attentiveness and the natural beauty of the islands make it worth considering for a memorable day. Keep in mind the limitations—such as limited island exploration time and the possibility of rough seas—but overall, this cruise delivers a charming and relaxing slice of Mauritius.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts directly from the beach of Grand Bay, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the trip last?
The full experience typically lasts several hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and have lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during water activities and sun exposure.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, you can snorkel in the lagoons at your own pace, especially around Coin de Mire, if sea conditions allow.

Is the lunch suitable for all diets?
The provided BBQ features fish and chicken, along with salads and dessert. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to clarify beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s better suited for older children and adults; the boat journey can be bumpy, and safety considerations are important.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The schedule may change if weather conditions are unsuitable, and some activities like snorkeling may be limited or canceled for safety.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks including beer, wine, local rum, water, and soft drinks are provided with lunch.

How many people are in a group?
Group sizes tend to be small to mid-sized, offering a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this catamaran trip to Flat Island from Grand Bay offers a wonderful way to enjoy Mauritius’ natural beauty with the added bonus of good food, scenic sailing, and water fun. It’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxed yet lively day on the island’s pristine waters.