Mauritius: Ile aux Cerf Catamaran w/Waterfall Visit & Lunch

Thinking about a day spent sailing across Mauritius’s sparkling waters, exploring waterfalls, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, and relaxing on picture-perfect beaches? This Ile aux Cerfs catamaran tour offers all that — plus plenty of food and drinks to keep your energy up. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 130 reviews, it’s a popular choice for those craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the combination of scenic sailing and active stops, the generous all-you-can-eat BBQ lunch and drinks, and the chance to snorkel in some of the clearest waters you’ll find. Plus, you get to see one of Mauritius’s iconic waterfalls with a quick speedboat ride.

That said, it’s a fairly full day — from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. — which might be a bit long for those with tight schedules or young kids. This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, fun-filled day with excellent value, especially if they’re keen on water activities and scenic views.

Key Points

• Stunning sailing route on a spacious catamaran with plenty of space to relax
• Visit to Grand River South East waterfalls with a quick speedboat ride
• Unlimited food and drinks including BBQ lunch, beers, wine, and local rum
• Snorkeling opportunities at multiple reef spots with colorful marine life
• Time on Ile aux Cerfs for beach lounging, water sports, or sightseeing
• Family-friendly and suitable for all ages with attentive crew and well-organized itinerary

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins at Trou D’eau Douce, a laid-back fishing village on Mauritius’s east coast. At 8:30 a.m., you’ll meet your crew, who are known for their friendliness and local knowledge. The group size tends to be manageable, making it easy to ask questions and feel part of a small, intimate experience.

Boarding and Departure

By 9:00 a.m., the catamaran departs on its scenic journey. The boat itself is large, comfortable, and equipped with plenty of shaded areas for lounging. The crew kicks off the day with some Mauritian music, a lively way to set the mood. Expect a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the gentle sway of the boat.

Waterfall Visit with a Speedboat Ride

One of the highlights is the stop at Grand River South East, famous for its waterfall and the possibility of seeing wild monkeys along the riverbanks — a favorite among wildlife lovers. The crew’s local guides will take you by speedboat about 500 meters upstream to the waterfall, making this a quick but exciting adventure. Reviewers like Arlind appreciated the chance to see dolphins and fish during the trip, and the crew’s helpfulness was often praised.

Snorkeling and Water Play

After the waterfall excursion, the boat sails slowly across the crystal-clear lagoon, stopping at prime snorkeling spots. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to float above vibrant coral reefs and watch schools of tropical fish darting around. The water is described as incredibly transparent — the perfect setting for a swim or snorkel.

Recent guests like Mikko and Shannon highlighted the stunning underwater scenery and the “constant supply of snacks and drinks,” which made every moment on the water enjoyable. The crew’s attentiveness during snorkeling breaks was noted as a plus, often with staff personally helping guests gear up or guiding less confident swimmers.

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Lunch and Drinks

Come lunchtime, the boat settles either on the boat or on the beach for a delicious BBQ feast. The menu features fresh grilled fish, chicken, hotdogs, salads, and saffron rice — plenty of hearty options to satisfy different tastes. Reviewers like Kristin and Valerie raved about the quality of the food, praising its freshness and generous portions.

Throughout the day, unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks are served — including beer, wine, local rum, juices, and water. Guests like Shashank and Vikas appreciated the constant flow of drinks and the friendly service that kept everyone jovial and energized.

Ile aux Cerfs Beach Time

After the meal, the boat heads to Ile aux Cerfs, a postcard-perfect island with white sandy beaches and swaying palms. Here, you can relax, take a swim, or indulge in optional activities like parasailing or jet-skiing (activities available through local providers once on the island).

Guests such as Jade and Tanya enjoyed simply strolling along the beaches, soaking in the sun, or watching the waves crash against the shore. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil vibe make it an ideal setting for a few hours of laid-back leisure.

Return Journey

The sail back to Trou D’eau Douce is calm and scenic, providing another opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience wraps up around 4:00 p.m., leaving guests with plenty of memories and photos.

Practical Details and What to Expect

What’s Included

• The catamaran trip runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., giving plenty of time for each activity
• Visit to Ile aux Cerfs and the Waterfall at Grand River South East
• Snacks available throughout the day
• Unlimited drinks, including soft drinks, beer, wine, and local rum
• A BBQ lunch featuring grilled fish, chicken, hotdogs, salads, and saffron rice
• All necessary safety gear, including life jackets and bottled water

What’s Not Included

• Optional transfers from your hotel or Airbnb are not provided; guests need to meet at the specified dock, which is easily found via Google Maps (“Debarcader Trou d’eau Douce”).
• Additional water activities or excursions on Ile aux Cerfs, such as parasailing or jet-skiing, are offered on-site but are not included in the price.

Timing and Group Size

The tour’s schedule is structured to maximize your time on the water and island, with a fairly even split between sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing. The group size tends to be manageable, facilitating friendly interactions and attentive service.

Duration and Pricing

At $70 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the length of the trip, quality of food, and variety of activities. With the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can keep their plans flexible.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Guests repeatedly praised the friendly and knowledgeable crew, who made everyone feel comfortable and entertained. One reviewer, Tanya, highlighted a guide she particularly loved, recommending him highly with a smile in her review.

Many reviewers appreciated the beautiful scenery — from the turquoise waters and mountain views to the colorful coral reefs. The snorkeling was a standout, with many noting the vivid marine life and crystal water as unforgettable.

Several mentioned that the food exceeded expectations for a day tour, with freshly grilled options and attentive service. The unlimited drinks kept spirits high, especially during the relaxing moments on deck or beachside.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This excursion is perfect if you’re looking for a full day of fun, with a good mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s great for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memorable day in Mauritius’s waters. It also suits water sports enthusiasts wanting to snorkel, swim, or enjoy optional activities on Ile aux Cerfs.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the well-organized schedule and friendly crew make it manageable and enjoyable. If you’re after authentic scenery, lively yet relaxing atmosphere, and value for money, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive?
You should arrive by 8:30 a.m. at the Trou D’eau Douce dock to check in and board the catamaran.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for photos, sunscreen to protect against the sun, and maybe a hat or sunglasses for extra shade.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the itinerary is family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks, including soft drinks, beer, wine, and local rum.

Can I book transfers from my hotel?
Not directly; transfers are not included. You should arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What activities can I do on Ile aux Cerfs?
You can relax on the beaches, swim, or participate in water sports like parasailing or jet-skiing (these are paid locally).

How long is the trip?
The entire tour runs approximately 8 hours, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What is the price?
The cost is $70 per person, offering a good balance of activities, scenery, and food for the price.

Final Thoughts

This Ile aux Cerfs catamaran tour delivers a well-rounded experience packed with scenic sailing, wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and a delicious BBQ feast. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and beautiful locations make it a standout day out in Mauritius.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy water activities but also want some downtime on the beach. The unlimited food and drinks add a layer of indulgence, making it a fantastic value — a day that balances adventure, relaxation, and local flavor.

For those seeking a fun, hassle-free way to see some of Mauritius’s top sights, this tour checks all the boxes. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a memorable island day, it’s likely to leave you with plenty of stories to tell and photos to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: