North Mauritius from the water feels easy. On this full-day catamaran cruise, you hop between Coin de Mire and Île Plate for calm-lagoon swims, snorkel breaks, and a BBQ lunch with drinks.

I love the mix of sailing and downtime, especially the deck time as the boat glides past Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and Grand Bay. I also like the all-inclusive meal and drinks, with fish and chicken BBQ at Île Plate and options like local rum, beer, wine, coke, and water.

One thing to plan for: snorkeling gear is not included, so bring a mask if you can. Also, the day runs on good weather, and if seas get rough the trip will feel more physical than relaxing.

Key things to know before you go

• Two island stops for swimming and snorkeling, with time anchored in clear, calm water
• Île Plate BBQ lunch, fish and chicken with bread, salad, and dessert
• Drinks included, alcoholic and nonalcoholic (local rum, beer, wine, coke, water)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included, transfer timing depends on where you stay
• Adults-only (minimum age 18), and a stated cap of up to 20 travelers
• Snorkeling equipment is not provided, so pack what you’ll need

Why Coin de Mire and Île Plate work so well together

This trip pairs two classic north-coast stops into one tidy day. You get water time for swimming and snorkeling, then a real break on an island with lunch and beach time.

Coin de Mire is where you can expect a straightforward snorkel-and-swim style stop. You’ll anchor in a clear, calm lagoon on the north side, which is exactly what you want for an easy swim session without fighting big waves.

Île Plate adds the land-and-lunch part of the day. After lunch, you can explore a bit or just hang out on the beach, which is a nice contrast to the earlier boat time.

Grand Bay pickup, the 9:00 am start, and real timing on Mauritius time

The day starts at 9:00 am, but the bigger clock is your hotel pickup. Your pickup time is usually 1 to 2 hours before the activity start, depending on where you’re staying.

Plan for a lobby meeting with time to spare, since you’re not just reporting to a terminal, you’re joining a transfer vehicle heading toward Grand Bay. In practice, that means you should treat the morning like you’re trying to catch a flight, not like you’re rolling out for a late brunch.

Once everyone’s aboard in Grand Bay, the catamaran heads up the northwest coast. If you’re sensitive to motion or sun, this early buffer matters because you’ll still have time to get settled on deck.

Sail past Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and Grand Bay from the best angle

One of the simplest joys here is the cruise itself. You’ll sail up the northwest coast while the coastline rolls by outside your window, or from a comfortable spot on deck.

Photo ops you’ll likely catch include Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and the Grand Bay area as you get going. Even if you’re not chasing Instagram shots, this is where the day feels like it’s actually moving, not just waiting around for the next stop.

Bring a camera, but also bring a plan for shade. Mauritius sun can be steady and strong, and the best viewing spots are often the ones that get most sun.

The calm-lagoon snorkel stop: what to expect and what to pack

Your schedule includes at least one anchored swim and snorkel period in clear, calm water. This is the kind of stop where you can keep it simple: splash around, snorkel for a bit, then take a breather on the boat.

Here’s the key snag: snorkeling equipment isn’t included. That means you’ll want to bring your own mask, snorkel, and ideally fins if you know you’ll use them.

If the idea of snorkeling gear feels like a hassle, you still can enjoy this stop by swimming without equipment. But if you’re planning to snorkel, show up prepared, because you don’t want to spend the best water time fiddling with borrowed gear or skipping it.

Also remember the day depends on weather. If seas are choppy, expect a more bobbing ride between stops, even though the schedule is the same.

Île Plate BBQ lunch: fish and chicken, plus the drinks that make it feel like a vacation

Midday is your Île Plate stop, and this is where the trip earns its keep. Lunch is a barbecue-style meal served onboard while you’re there, with fish and chicken plus bread, salad, and dessert.

What I like about this setup is that it removes decision fatigue. You’re not hunting for a restaurant, and you’re not budgeting during your day out. You just eat, drink, and enjoy the island break.

And yes, drinks are included. You’ll have alcoholic and nonalcoholic options such as local rum, beer, and wine, plus water and coke.

Vegetarians get a practical note: a vegetarian option is available if you advise the operator at booking. If you’re traveling with dietary needs, sending that message early is worth it, because this trip’s value depends on lunch being easy.

After lunch on Île Plate: beach time and a slower pace

Once lunch is done, you’ll have time to enjoy the island. That means exploring a bit if you want, or lounging on the beach if you’d rather just reset.

This part is more relaxed than the earlier snorkel moments. It’s also where you can stretch, take photos, and let your body cool off after the morning on deck.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves simple routines, this is your moment. Swim, eat, rest, repeat, without rushing from one landmark to another.

Sailing back to Grand Bay, then transfer home

After the island time, you’ll sail back toward Grand Bay. When you arrive, you’ll get transferred back to your accommodation for drop-off.

The important part is that this is a true full-day loop, not a half-day “just get you there” situation. You’re investing most of the day on the water, then letting the return ride handle the rest.

If you’re planning dinner reservations afterward, keep them flexible. You’ll likely come back tired in a good way, sun-tired, water-tired, and ready for shower and a quiet meal.

Crew, music, and what a small boat day feels like

This is set up as a small-group experience, with a stated maximum of 20 travelers. In the best case, that means you get a more personal vibe than you’d see on big mega-boat tours.

The crew can also make a difference. Names that come up with this operator include Kevin, Rudi, Bruno, and Olivier, and the atmosphere can turn lively, with music and even some dancing mentioned by passengers.

Even if your mood is more chill than party, you’ll probably still appreciate the energy. A day like this is easier to enjoy when the staff keeps things smooth and cheerful, especially when the boat is in motion.

Price and value: is $111.54 a fair deal for 7 hours?

At $111.54 per person, this cruise prices itself as an all-in-one day. The value is strongest if you’d otherwise spend on a boat ride plus lunch plus drinks.

What you’re getting that usually costs extra elsewhere:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• BBQ lunch on Île Plate
• Drinks included, including alcoholic options
• A full 7-hour day at sea with planned swim and snorkeling stops

The one cost item you should think about is snorkeling gear, since it’s not included. If you already own a mask, this becomes an easy win. If you don’t, budget for bringing or borrowing gear on your own, because skipping it means losing a chunk of what makes the day special.

Vegetarian travelers also get a small advantage here. A vegetarian option is available if you request it at booking, so you’re not forced into a plain backup meal.

Who this tour suits best, and who should think twice

This cruise fits best if you want a day on the water with easy pacing. You’ll get sailing, snorkeling time in calm water, and a beach-and-lunch stop without the stress of planning transportation or timing.

It’s also good if you appreciate included basics. Food is handled, drinks are handled, and transfers are handled.

But it might be less ideal if you’re very equipment-dependent. Since snorkeling gear is not included, plan to bring your own kit. It’s also not for kids, since the minimum age is 18 years.

Finally, because the experience requires good weather, you should be comfortable with the fact that the sea controls the vibe. When weather is good, it’s a smooth day. When weather turns, expect a tougher ride.

What to pack for a smooth day on the water

Since snorkeling gear isn’t included, start with the water essentials. I’d bring a mask and snorkel at minimum, plus fins if you use them comfortably.

Other practical items:

• Sunscreen and a hat for deck time
• Sunglasses with a strap or a secure pouch
• A light cover-up for when you’re not in the sun
• A small waterproof bag for your phone and valuables
• Swimsuit you’re happy to wear for several hours

One more small tip: with the drinks included, it’s easy to forget hydration. Keep drinking water too, and pace yourself if you’re planning to snorkel more than once.

Should you book this Northern catamaran day trip?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward Mauritius day with snorkeling time, an island BBQ lunch, drinks included, and transfers handled. The biggest value driver is the combo of sailing plus included meal and beverages, and the best part is that it stays relaxed and simple.

I’d think twice if you don’t have snorkeling gear and you hate improvising. It’s also smart to book only if you’re okay with weather being the boss. If good conditions are in your forecast, this is the kind of day that feels like a proper holiday, not just transportation between sights.

FAQ

What islands are included on this cruise?

You’ll stop at Coin de Mire and Île Plate, with swim and snorkeling time at both.

How long is the full-day cruise?

It runs about 7 hours (approx.).

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and pickup time is typically 1 to 2 hours before the activity start depending on your location.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included.

What food is provided during the day?

Lunch is a BBQ served at Île Plate, with fish and chicken, bread, salad, and dessert.

What drinks are included?

Drinks are included, including beer, wine, local rum, water, and coke. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic options are both available.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes. A vegetarian option is available if you advise at booking.

What information do you need when booking?

You’ll need passport name, number, expiry date, and country for all participants.

What is the cancellation policy if weather is bad?

There is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.