Mauritius: Catamaran Day Cruise to lle aux Cerfs with Lunch

This review covers a popular catamaran trip in Mauritius that promises a relaxing day filled with stunning scenery, water activities, and a delicious barbecue. While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect from this well-loved tour.

What we love about this experience are the beautiful vistas, the friendly and attentive crew, and the delicious on-board barbecue. The tour offers a balanced mix of leisurely sailing, engaging water adventures, and time to unwind on pristine beaches. A possible consideration is that this activity isn’t ideal for pregnant travelers or those with mobility challenges, given the boat-based nature and some walking involved at stops.

This trip suits travelers seeking a laid-back day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring. If you’re after a mix of relaxation and adventure in a stunning setting, this cruise offers a lot of bang for your buck.

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Key Points

Stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters are central to this cruise experience.
Great for relaxation, with ample space to sunbathe and enjoy the open deck.
Excellent crew known for hospitality, attentiveness, and making sure guests have a good time.
Delicious BBQ lunch on-board, with fresh fish and popular local flavors.
Snorkeling gear included for exploring underwater life at quiet, beautiful spots.
Family-friendly and well-organized, with a flexible cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water

This day trip kicks off early from Trou d’Eau Douce, giving you plenty of daylight to soak up the Mauritian sun. You board a broad, well-appointed catamaran—not cramped or crowded—and prepare for a day filled with scenic views and leisure.

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Departure and Sailing

Once aboard, you’ll set sail toward the GRSE waterfalls, which serve as a key highlight. The journey itself offers mesmerizing views of the coastline and the turquoise waters Mauritians are famous for. As you glide across the water, many guests mention how spacious and comfortable the boat feels—ample room to stretch out, socialize, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

Waterfall Stop & Snorkeling

One of the main attractions is the photo-worthy waterfall, which you’ll get to view from the boat. According to travelers like Daniel, the water is warm enough even in winter, making snorkeling a comfortable activity. You might even spot monkeys during your cruise, adding a bit of wildlife to the experience, as some reviewers have noted.

The snorkeling spot is described as a hidden, peaceful location—perfect for observing tropical fish without crowds. You’ll be supplied with snorkeling gear, and the calm, clear waters make for easy underwater exploration.

Relaxation & Water Activities

Guests often mention how much they enjoyed lounging on the deck, soaking up the sun, and sipping refreshing drinks. The large space onboard provides plenty of room to relax without feeling overcrowded. Several reviews highlighted the friendly crew, like guide Aldo, who was praised for being attentive and ensuring everyone was comfortable.

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Ile aux Cerfs & Beach Time

After the water-based activities, the boat heads to Ile aux Cerfs, one of the most iconic islands in Mauritius. This island boasts a pristine beach and lush surroundings. Visitors are free to explore, take photos, or just chill on the sand. Many reviews describe this as a paradise-like setting, with soft white sand and gentle waves.

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Return Journey & On-Board Lunch

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to the boat for a barbecue lunch. Guests rave about the good quality fish, plentiful food, and the lively atmosphere. The lunch and drinks are included in the ticket price, making it great value considering the quality and variety provided.

What’s Included & Practical Considerations

The cruise offers snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks—all designed to give you a full, hassle-free experience. The tour is conducted in English and French, catering to most travelers’ language needs.

The activity lasts around a full day, departing in the morning and returning by late afternoon, which allows for plenty of sightseeing and relaxation.

It’s important to note that the price is $82 per person, which, based on reviews, seems reasonable for the number of activities and the quality of service. Many travelers felt they received excellent value, especially considering the included BBQ, drinks, and the scenic stops.

The Authentic Touch: Insights from Reviews

Reviews reveal that the crew and guides really make a difference. For instance, Savarna praised guide Aldo for his attentiveness and helpfulness, making sure everyone was comfortable and having a good time. Similarly, Alexandra appreciated the friendly and organized staff, and Daniel noted the balance between relaxing sailing and active water activities.

Food quality is also a standout, with several reviewers mentioning the fish BBQ as a highlight. Onboard music and a lively atmosphere add to the party vibe, making it suitable for those looking for both relaxation and fun.

The Downside?

While mostly positive, some reviews hint that extra cash might be needed for souvenirs or additional activities on the island. Also, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues, due to the boat-based nature and walking at stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends wanting a scenic, stress-free day on the water. It’s ideal if you enjoy outdoor water activities, relaxing on deck, and sampling fresh local food. If you’re seeking a beautiful, well-organized day trip with friendly staff and memorable scenery, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you’re looking for a more active or adventure-focused experience, you might want to consider other options. Likewise, travelers with mobility limitations or pregnant women should probably look for alternative excursions.

The Sum Up

This Mauritius catamaran day cruise offers a fantastic value for money and a well-rounded experience. It combines scenic sailing, wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and beach time into one enjoyable package. The friendly crew, delicious BBQ, and stunning views make it a popular choice amongst visitors.

For those who want a relaxing yet engaging day, this trip delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for travelers who love sailing, water activities, and tropical scenery, with the comfort of an organized, friendly tour.

If you’re after a memorable day in Mauritius that’s easy to plan and delivers plenty of photo-worthy moments, this cruise is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you need to make your own way to Trou d’Eau Douce, where the boat departs from the jetty next to the Mauritian flag.

What language is used during the tour?
The tour is conducted in both English and French, making it accessible for most travelers.

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

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews mention families having a good time, but it’s best for children comfortable with boat trips, snorkeling, and walking on beaches.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, flip-flops, and some cash if you want to buy souvenirs or extra drinks on the island.

How long is the entire experience?
The day lasts roughly from the morning departure to late afternoon return, giving plenty of time to relax and explore.

Are there any dietary options?
The BBQ lunch is standard, with no specific mention of dietary restrictions. Contact the provider if you have special needs.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the boat-based nature and physical activity involved.

This cruise promises a satisfying blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and good food—a true highlight for anyone visiting Mauritius wanting to combine relaxation with a touch of adventure.