Turquoise water and island time in one day. This Mauritius catamaran cruise from Trou d’Eau Douce mixes Ile aux Cerfs beach time, a GRSE waterfall stop, and snorkeling, all wrapped in a BBQ lunch at sea.

I really like the spacious deck feel. You can actually sunbathe and sit without feeling packed in, and the vibe stays relaxed even though music is part of the day. I also love the onboard BBQ lunch, with fish and chicken skewers plus salads, pasta, rice, garlic bread, and fresh pineapple.

One consideration: the snorkeling stop can be affected by conditions like current, so it is not always the calm, easy water you imagine.

Key things to know before you go

• Ile aux Cerfs time, plus a sail-by, so you get views and then beach time
• GRSE waterfall photo stop with a chance of seeing monkeys nearby
• Snorkeling gear included and built into a 40-minute swim window
• BBQ lunch and drinks onboard, with options for vegetarian and gluten free on request
• Attentive licensed crew, with standout service noted for guides like Aldo
• Music and party energy, which some people love and quiet seekers should plan for

Why this catamaran day cruise fits Mauritius so well

Mauritius is famous for sea color, and this trip is built around it. You spend hours cruising East coast lagoon water, then you reach Ile aux Cerfs, one of the island’s most popular beach-and-lagoon scenes.

What makes this worthwhile is that it is not only about one single stop. You get a mix: scenic sailing, a quick look at the Grand River South East area, a snorkeling window, and then real time on the sand. For a 6-hour day, that blend is smart.

I also think the boat format helps you experience the coast the way it is meant to be seen. Instead of bouncing between viewpoints, you are floating on it. Even if you are not a big “boat person,” you still benefit from the slow rhythm, the deck time, and that easy, vacation pace.

Getting to Trou d’Eau Douce and boarding Blue Alizé

Your day starts at the Blue Alizé Catamaran jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, next to the Mauritius flag. There is no hotel pickup, so plan to get yourself there in time. If you are coming by taxi, leave a cushion because you want to settle before departure.

Once onboard, the cruise is designed for comfort and ease. You do not have to manage a bus, switch taxis, or lug gear between locations. Bring the basics that keep the day smooth: swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. That sunscreen part matters, because you will likely be in the sun for long stretches.

The crew is a big deal here. You have a professional, licensed team, and the service style is consistently praised as attentive and helpful. If you end up with a guide like Aldo, you can expect someone who stays on top of how everyone is doing.

Cruising past Ile aux Cerfs and the GRSE waterfall photo stop

You will pass Ile aux Cerfs early in the day, with about an hour of sailing that doubles as scenic time. That first look is useful because it lets you “read” the island from the water. You get a feel for what kind of beach day you are about to have, and you arrive with better instincts for where you might want to spend your later time.

Next comes the Grand River South East area. You stop for a photo stop that lasts about 20 minutes. It is not positioned as a long hike or a prolonged viewing session, so go with the expectation that you are grabbing the views, not doing an all-day nature tour.

There is also the small thrill element: if you are lucky, you might spot monkeys around the way over to the waterfall area. That is never guaranteed, but it is the kind of surprise you want on a day that is otherwise built for relaxation.

Be ready for the reality of popularity. A waterfall photo stop tends to be short and shared, so if you are hoping for solitude, you might not get it. Still, this stop matters because it adds a local texture beyond beaches.

Snorkeling in the East coast lagoon, with gear provided

Snorkeling is on the clock here, with about 40 minutes allocated for swimming and snorkeling. Good news: snorkeling equipment is included, so you do not need to hunt for rentals before you leave.

Also, this is a lagoon-style day, not a deep-ocean expedition. That means the plan is simpler: swim, look around, and enjoy the tropical fish. You are not going to be constantly moving from one spot to another, which keeps the day feeling manageable.

One thing to watch is conditions. Some people find the snorkeling spot can be affected by current, which can make it feel less sheltered than you hoped. If you are an experienced swimmer, you will likely roll with it. If you are a more cautious swimmer, keep your expectations flexible and focus on short, comfortable swims near where the crew guides the group.

Tip I like: once the water time starts, put on sunscreen before you go in. Then bring that towel out right after, because you will want to dry off and keep enjoying the rest of the day.

BBQ lunch onboard: the value part of the day

Food is a core part of why this cruise feels like a real vacation day instead of just “transport to the beach.” Lunch is served onboard as a BBQ and includes fish, chicken skewers, salads, garlic bread, pasta, rice, and fresh pineapple. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available if you request them in advance.

I like how the meal is timed so you can eat without losing the day’s momentum. Lunch runs about one hour, which is long enough to take your time, but short enough that you still get to enjoy the later Ile aux Cerfs beach stretch.

What also matters is that drinks are included. That is not just a nice-to-have. On a sea day, it changes the whole comfort level. You are more likely to relax on the deck between stops, and you are less likely to feel rushed while waiting for the next activity.

One extra detail I appreciate: the menu is not trying to be fancy dining. It is practical beach food done well, and multiple people highlight it as plentiful, including the fish BBQ.

Ile aux Cerfs beach time: plan for the 2-hour window

You get about two hours on Ile aux Cerfs for free time and sightseeing. That is enough time to claim a patch of sand, swim, and wander a bit, but it is not a full half-day. If you love sunbathing and want lots of “no plan” time, this is still fun, but you will want to move quickly once you arrive.

Think of the two hours in three chunks: settle, swim or snorkel if you still want it, then take a walk to pick a nicer vantage point or a quieter corner. The island has multiple beach areas, so if you only sit in the first spot you see, you might miss the more comfortable sand.

There are also add-on water activities that can be available on the island. Some people mention doing things like parasailing while they are there. If that interests you, you can treat it as an optional splurge, not a requirement of the cruise.

For me, the best use of your time is simple: get into the water early, then dry off and find a spot for the rest. This day has enough sailing and sun that you will feel it later, even if you do not think you will.

Crew, music, and drinks: the comfort level you should expect

This cruise sits in a middle zone between chill catamaran day and party boat energy. Drinks are served during the day, and music is part of the atmosphere.

Here is the honest read: if you love a lively mood, this can feel like the perfect match. Several people describe the staff as extremely accommodating, and the energy onboard is often praised as friendly and well organized. You also get that helpful, hands-on feel from guides like Aldo, who is described as attentive and supportive.

If you are looking for quiet conversation and mostly silent sailing, you might want to prepare yourself. One common note is that the music can feel loud and alcohol starts early. You can still enjoy the scenery, but you should expect a social atmosphere rather than a hushed retreat.

Practical move: if sound bothers you, spend some time toward the quieter edges of the boat when the group mood ramps up. Also bring a pair of small ear plugs if you are sensitive to noise. It is a small thing that can make the whole day more comfortable.

Price and value for $65, plus who this fits

At $65 per person for a 6-hour catamaran day, you are paying for a full package: catamaran time, drinks, snorkeling equipment, BBQ lunch, and visits tied to Ile aux Cerfs and the GRSE waterfall area. For many people, that is the value sweet spot. You are not trying to assemble everything separately.

It is also a good deal because the day is structured. You get multiple “wow moments” without needing to think much. Even the timing supports it: sailing past Ile aux Cerfs, a short photo stop at Grand River South East, a defined snorkeling block, lunch onboard, then beach time.

Who I think should book:

• You want a classic Mauritius sea day with beach time built in
• You like a guided day where the food, drinks, and gear are handled
• You are comfortable with a short snorkeling window and a timed stop at attractions

Who should think twice:

• You want a super quiet day on the water
• You are someone who needs calm snorkeling conditions all the time
• You have mobility needs, because it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments
• You are pregnant, since it is listed as not suitable for pregnant women

Should you book this catamaran day cruise to Ile aux Cerfs?

If your goal is simple, sun-filled Mauritius value, I think it is an easy yes. You get Ile aux Cerfs time, a chance at wildlife near the GRSE area, snorkeling with gear included, and a real onboard BBQ lunch with drinks. That combination is hard to beat for a single day.

I would book it especially if you like social energy and you do not mind music. If you are sensitive to noise or you want very sheltered, calm snorkeling, I would adjust your expectations before you go.

Best “go prepared” advice: bring your own towel and sunscreen, and decide early how you want to spend your two hours on Ile aux Cerfs. If you manage that window well, you will feel like you got your money’s worth and your beach time too.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs?

The experience runs for 6 hours.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

Meet at the Blue Alizé Catamaran Ile aux cerfs jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, next to the flag of Mauritius.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup is not included.

What is included in the price?

The cruise includes the full day catamaran in the East coast lagoon, drinks, snorkeling equipment, BBQ lunch, and visits to Ile aux Cerfs and GRSE waterfalls.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Can I get vegetarian or gluten free lunch?

Yes. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available on request.

What language is the live guide?

The live tour guide is available in English and French.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.