A day on the water in Mauritius feels effortless. This Île aux Cerfs catamaran gives you a smooth cruise, a proper BBQ lunch, and a swim plus snorkeling stop, all wrapped in friendly hosting and plenty of drinks.

I also like that the crew actually manages the day for you, with music on board and a focus on keeping things moving. One possible drawback: snorkeling and dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, and the timing around Île aux Cerfs can get strict due to water conditions.

Key things to know before you go

• Drop-down ladder arrival lets you step straight onto the sandbank at Île aux Cerfs
• Snorkeling gear is included, so you can pack lighter and get in the water faster
• Unlimited beer, wine, rum, and soft drinks keep the vibe easy all day
• Crew names you might recognize from real visits include Rudi, Rowan, Scott, and Miguel
• Island time is limited, so come with your beach plans ready (parasailing is available)
• Maximum group size is 31, which helps keep the day feeling relaxed

From Pointe Jérôme to Île aux Cerfs: how the day flows

You start at the Pointe Jérôme boarding area (free parking if you’re driving yourself), with the cruise running from 9:00 am for about 7 hours total. There’s no hotel pickup, so plan to get yourself there early and avoid stress.

Once you’re on the island hopper style catamaran, the day settles into a familiar rhythm: sail, gear up, eat, swim, relax. The best part is that it feels built for people who want a laid-back sea day without having to coordinate everything.

Arrival at Île aux Cerfs: the drop-down ladder moment

Île aux Cerfs is the headline, and the landing setup is a big part of why this trip feels fun. You get a drop-down ladder straight off the front of the catamaran, so you step onto the sandbank area fast, instead of wasting time getting transferred by small boats.

You’ll get around 2 hours on Île aux Cerfs, which is enough to do the basics well: stretch out on the beach, take a slow walk, or just wade with the water at about knee-depth. If you want to add something extra, parasailing is available on the island, but it’s not part of the cruise price.

A practical note: the island can feel crowded depending on the day, and you’ll want to pick your spot smart. If you’re sensitive to noise or foot traffic, treat the visit as a busy beach day, not a secluded escape.

The snorkeling stop and dolphin odds

Before you even reach the island, you’ll stop for snorkeling. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you’re not hunting for gear at the last minute.

Here’s the honest tradeoff: marine life can vary with conditions, and snorkeling results are not identical every day. Still, the stop is worthwhile if your goal is a quick swim in Mauritius’ warm water and a chance to see fish close up.

Then there’s the dolphin factor. The cruise is designed so you have opportunities to look for dolphins in the ocean, and some days are better than others. I like that the crew keeps an eye out and adjusts the sailing when they can, which turns the dolphin search into an actual activity, not just a line on a brochure.

BBQ buffet lunch, pineapple dessert, and drink refills

If you care about food on a boat day, this is the part that usually wins people over. You get a BBQ buffet lunch along with coffee and/or tea, and you’ll also have snacks and pineapple for dessert.

What makes this valuable is the pacing. You’re not stuck in line or rushed through a meal; you’re eating while the boat is doing what boats do, moving through the sea with music and good vibes.

The other big selling point is the open bar setup. You can have local beer, wine, Mauritian rum, and soft drinks through the day, and the crew is known for keeping drinks topped up. That helps the whole thing feel more like an all-day hangout than a check-the-box excursion.

If you’re vegetarian, you’re likely in good shape too. One review specifically called out a vegetarian BBQ option, and it’s a good sign that the kitchen plans for more than one type of eater.

Sailing past the nature reserve and the onboard music vibe

Between the snorkeling stop and Île aux Cerfs time, you’ll also sail past a nature reserve. You’re in open water long enough to enjoy the scenery, and it gives the day a “sail first, play later” feel.

On board, the mood is set with music. Reviews mention a DJ-style soundtrack, and the return ride includes Mauritian sega music, which is a nice cultural touch without turning the day into a formal performance.

If you’re wondering whether this will feel like a party, it’s usually more of a relaxed, social cruise. You’ll find couples and families, and the vibe tends to be easygoing as long as you’re comfortable with a group day.

Island time planning: what to do with your 2 hours

Two hours sounds short, but for many people it’s just right. You can do a quick swim, hang out on the beach, and still have time for an activity like parasailing if you want it.

One thing I’d plan for: where your group will cluster. The boat arrival puts you on the sandbank area, and that’s convenient, but it also means everyone’s starting from the same general zone. Go in with the mindset that you’re sharing the beach.

Also, don’t treat this like a “wander forever” destination. Your boat timing matters, and you’ll want to return promptly when the crew calls for it.

Value at about $81.10 per person: who gets the best deal

At $81.10 per person, this cruise can be solid value because several key things are bundled: lunch, snacks, coffee/tea, snorkeling equipment, and a full day of drinks. For a lot of visitors, those add up fast if you try to piece them together yourself.

The reviews back that up with repeated praise for food quality and the way the crew keeps the drink flow going. One person also described it as excellent value, and that matters, because a boat day without decent inclusions can feel expensive quickly.

That said, one review suggested they wouldn’t pay more than about 70€ and felt the trip wasn’t worth the premium. My take: if you want a simple, all-in-one day with snorkeling, beach time, and drinks, it’s likely worth the money. If you only care about the island beach and don’t plan to snorkel or drink, it might feel pricier than you expect.

Group size, ticket, and the practical side of boarding

This is capped at 31 travelers, which helps keep it from feeling chaotic. You’ll also use a mobile ticket, so make sure your phone battery is charged before you head out.

The tour is marked as suitable for most travelers, with children required to be accompanied by an adult. It’s not described as limited mobility friendly, so if you have mobility challenges, think through the step-off and water access, especially since the landing is done via ladder.

You’ll start and end at the same boarding point. That’s convenient because you’re not juggling multiple transfers, but it does mean you’re responsible for getting there on time in the first place.

Small issues to watch for: tides, timing, and crowded beaches

The most important “consider this” point is timing on and off Île aux Cerfs. In one account, a family was delayed and the boat left due to tide conditions, not because the crew didn’t care. If you’re even slightly unsure, build in buffer time, keep an eye on the captain’s instructions, and don’t assume the boat will wait.

Another consideration is crowding and the feel of the island side you’re using. Some visitors say Île aux Cerfs can feel basic or busy near the drop-off zone, even though the island itself is beautiful.

Finally, staff interactions can make or break the day. One low-rating review raised a serious complaint about a crew member named Pascal. Most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but it’s still fair to say you should speak up immediately if something feels unsafe or disrespectful.

Should you book this Île aux Cerfs catamaran cruise?

Book it if you want a chill full-day in Mauritius with snorkeling gear handled for you, a proper BBQ lunch, and a crew that focuses on keeping the day fun. It’s especially good for couples and families who want one organized outing that covers sea time, dolphin spotting chances, and beach relaxation.

Hold off or look for an alternative if your priorities are ultra-fancy snorkeling or a quiet private beach. The snorkeling is a good stop, but it’s not guaranteed to be colorful every day. And the island time is shared with other cruise arrivals, so plan for crowds.

If you do book, here’s my practical advice: arrive early, stay close to your group at the island, and follow the captain’s timing instructions. And if you’re the sort who likes a small treat, consider showing up with enough time to enjoy that pre-departure moment, like one review described with coffee and sweet bread before sailing.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?

The cruise starts at 9:00 am.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

You meet at HPGF+496 Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point, Pointe d’Esny, Mauritius. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

How long is the catamaran cruise?

It runs for about 7 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What food and drinks are included?

You get a BBQ buffet lunch, snacks, coffee and/or tea, and pineapple for dessert. Drinks include local beer, wine, Mauritian rum, and soft drinks, with unlimited availability during the cruise.

Is snorkeling included, and do I get equipment?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is a snorkeling stop on the way to Île aux Cerfs.

Can I do parasailing at Île aux Cerfs?

Parasailing is available on Île aux Cerfs, but it is not described as included in the cruise package.

What about dolphins and wildlife sightings?

You’ll have chances to look for dolphins in the ocean, and the cruise also sails past a nature reserve where you can watch for wildlife.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund if you do it up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded. The experience also depends on good weather, and if it’s canceled for weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.