Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

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Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch — A Detailed Review

Planning a day on the water in Mauritius? This catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs offers an excellent way to enjoy the island’s stunning scenery, delicious food, and a taste of local history. While it’s not a private charter, it strikes a good balance between comfort, adventure, and affordability—making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a laid-back yet engaging day at sea.

What really makes this trip stand out are the beautiful sailing experience, the all-day drinks (including rum cocktails!), and the delicious BBQ lunch served on board by friendly staff. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly outing that promises plenty of photo-worthy views and memorable moments. That said, one consideration is the weather—some guests have experienced less-than-ideal conditions, which can impact snorkeling and overall enjoyment.

This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, want a taste of Mauritian culture and history, and don’t mind a full day away from the beach resorts. If you’re looking for a relaxing, guided experience with good value, this cruise hits many of those marks.

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Key Points

Relaxing sailing within the largest turquoise lagoon in Mauritius
All-day drinks including soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails
Delicious BBQ buffet lunch with fresh, local ingredients
Visit a waterfall and historical sites with 18th-century ramparts
Suitable for those wanting a laid-back day, but less ideal in bad weather
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose that option

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Discovering the Itinerary: What to Expect

This cruise offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural intrigue. The journey begins at Pointe Jerome, just outside the village of Mahebourg and near the Blue Bay Marine Park—both lively local spots with a genuine Mauritian vibe. For those who opt for hotel transfers, you’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation, making the start seamless and stress-free.

The Sail to Ile aux Cerfs

Once aboard, you’ll glide across the tranquil waters of the largest turquoise lagoon in Mauritius. The sailing experience is notably peaceful—most guests mention the calm, scenic ride that sets the tone for the day. The boat’s crew is often praised for being friendly and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable and well-cared-for during the trip.

Snorkeling and Swimming

After about 1-1.5 hours of sailing, the boat anchors for snorkeling and swimming. The clear waters invite you to explore the vibrant marine life, although some reviews note that the weather can influence the experience. For example, a few travelers mentioned being made to board in “bad weather” with strong winds, which made the conditions cold and less enjoyable for snorkeling. That said, on days with better weather, expect excellent visibility and a chance to spot colorful fish in the shallow waters.

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Visiting the Grande Riviere Sud Est Waterfall

Next, the adventure continues with a visit to the Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall. You’ll take a smaller boat to reach this scenic spot, which offers a peaceful natural setting. Some historic remnants, like 18th-century ramparts, are still visible here—reminders of the area’s past naval struggles and corsair activity. Several guests mention how special it is to see these old fortifications and imagine the history unfolding around them.

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Time on Ile aux Cerfs

Finally, around an hour is allocated for free time on Ile aux Cerfs. This small island is famed for its pristine beaches and lush scenery. Visitors often rave about the stunning views and the tranquility of the island—perfect for relaxing, soaking up the sun, or strolling along the shoreline. However, some reviews note that the time on the island feels a bit rushed, with around 1 hour not quite enough to fully unwind or explore.

The BBQ Feast on Board

A highlight for many is the onboard BBQ buffet. The crew prepares a spread featuring smoked marlin mousse, grilled fish, chicken, sausages, along with rice, potato salads, fresh vegetables, and bread. The dishes are said to be flavorful and generous, with fresh fruits and coffee rounding out the meal. Guests definitely appreciate the quality and variety, considering it’s included in the price.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails. The drinks flow freely, adding a festive note to the relaxing vibe. Several reviewers mention how important this is for keeping everyone refreshed and in good spirits, especially during the warm Mauritian sun.

Pricing and Value

At $70 per person, this cruise provides good value, especially considering the included transfers, guided stops, and a hearty lunch. While not ultra-luxurious, it balances cost with a satisfying experience of the natural beauty and culture of Mauritius. For travelers wanting a comprehensive day out without breaking the bank, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Some reviews note that the total duration is about 7-8 hours, which is reasonable given the activities included. The slight variation in timing—some guests mention being out just under 7 hours—means you get a full, satisfying day, but with some flexibility depending on weather and group size.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides and crew play a vital role in the tour’s success. Several guests highlight how helpful and friendly the staff are, making the trip feel more personal. One traveler appreciated receiving a reminder message the day before, which added a layer of professionalism and peace of mind.

Snorkeling conditions can vary, so if you’re eager to explore marine life, try to pick a day with good weather. Also, bring essentials like a towel and sunscreen—the tour provides the rest, but valuables are best left behind.

What Reviews Reveal

“The crew was fantastic” and “helpful and contributed to a relaxed day” seem to be common themes.
Some travelers wish for more time on Ile aux Cerfs, suggesting 1.5 hours would be ideal rather than just one.
The food and drinks are often praised, with mention of “delicious” grilled dishes and tropical cocktails.
Weather can influence the experience—bad weather resulted in cold conditions and limited snorkeling, which disappointed some.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is a great fit for travelers seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food. It’s ideal if you want to avoid overly active or crowded excursions but still enjoy stunning scenery and cultural touches. Families, honeymooners, or groups of friends will find it offers both fun and comfort.

If you’re looking for a full-day getaway that combines sailing, history, and beach time, this trip delivers on all fronts. However, if you’re very particular about weather-dependent activities or want more time on the island, you may want to plan accordingly or consider options that allow more flexibility.

The Sum Up

This Mauritius catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs is a well-rounded experience that offers a peaceful sailing, scenic stops, and a hearty BBQ lunch. The friendly crew, scenic waters, and authentic touches make it a memorable day, especially for those who appreciate good value and a relaxed pace. While weather can influence certain parts of the trip, most guests leave with beautiful photos, full bellies, and a deeper appreciation for Mauritius’s natural beauty.

It’s best suited for travelers craving a family-friendly, laid-back adventure that combines marine activities with cultural sights and some time to unwind on a stunning island. If you’re after a gentle, guided day on the water with plenty of local flavor, this cruise could very well be your highlight in Mauritius.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a catamaran cruise, a BBQ buffet lunch, and optional hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose that package. Beverages like soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails are also available all day.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience runs about 8 hours, with the cruise itself lasting around 7 to 8 hours depending on weather and group conditions.

Is snorkeling always possible?
Snorkeling is included as part of the itinerary, but the experience can depend on weather conditions. Good weather will give you clearer waters and a more enjoyable snorkel session.

Can I visit the waterfall?
Yes, you’ll visit the Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall, accessible via a small boat, and have the chance to see some historic ramparts from the 18th century.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sunscreen. Valuables are not recommended to be brought on board for safety reasons.

Is there a chance of bad weather?
Yes, some reviews mention being boarded in bad weather, which can make the trip colder and less enjoyable. It’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.

This cruise offers a nice taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a romantic getaway or just want to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, it’s worth considering for your Mauritius itinerary.