Catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs from Pointe Jerome

Overview of the Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs from Pointe Jerome

Our review of this Mauritius catamaran cruise offers a practical look at what travelers can expect from a full-day adventure to one of the island’s most celebrated destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing through turquoise waters, lounging on pristine beaches, or snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life, this tour promises a mix of scenic beauty and relaxing fun.

Two features we particularly like are the inclusive BBQ lunch—which is often praised as one of the best meals on such tours—and the opportunity to visit both Ile aux Cerfs and the Grand River South East Waterfall. A potential drawback to note is the mixed reviews about reliability, with some reports of cancellations or no-shows, so it’s wise to confirm your booking and be prepared for possible weather changes.

This cruise suits travelers seeking a leisurely day at sea, keen on scenic sailing, snorkeling, and beach time, all at a reasonable price. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience that combines natural beauty with a laid-back island vibe.

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Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Sail through crystal-clear waters with panoramic views of Mauritius’s east coast.
• Versatile stops: Visit Ile aux Cerfs for beaches and water sports, plus the Grand River South East Waterfall for a touch of nature.
• Snorkeling fun: Explore vibrant marine life in the lagoon, perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
• All-inclusive value: Enjoy a BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks, making it a convenient and tasty day out.
• Comfortable boat: The 42 ft catamaran offers shaded areas, showers, toilets, and spacious trampolines for sunbathing.
• Potential reliability issues: Be aware of mixed reviews about organizer punctuality and cancellations, so confirm details beforehand.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

A day on this Mauritius catamaran begins early, with departure scheduled around 09:00 from Pointe Jerome. The boat itself is designed for comfort and socializing, with a 42-foot size providing plenty of space. It features shaded seating, trampolines for lounging, and onboard facilities like showers and toilets—important comforts for a full-day trip.

The Sailing and Scenic Views

Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the crystal-clear waters and gorgeous coastline. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly over the waves, giving a real sense of freedom and adventure. As you sail along the east coast, the scenery is mesmerizing—layered with lush greenery, rocky coves, and distant islands. The open bar is available throughout the cruise, offering soft drinks, cocktails, beer, and rum—perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Stop at Ile aux Cerfs

The highlight for many is the stop at Ile aux Cerfs, a small island famous for its white sandy beaches and vibrant lagoon. The boat anchors here around midday, giving you about 1.5 hours to soak in the sun, swim, or explore. The island’s calm waters are ideal for a swim or snorkel, with the chance to see brightly colored tropical fish and coral. One reviewer enjoyed the “quick little trip” to the waterfall, though noted there’s “not much to see other than that,” so keep your expectations realistic about scenery on the river cruise.

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Snorkeling and Marine Life

The trip includes a stop around 11:00 for snorkeling in the lagoon—one of the tour’s most appreciated features. The snorkeling gear is provided, and the waters are warm, inviting, and teeming with marine life. We loved the description of swimming amongst superb corals and brightly colored fish—a definite bonus for underwater enthusiasts.

Visiting the Grand River South East Waterfall

Later in the day, the boat takes you along the Grand River South East, where you can see the waterfall from a distance and spot wildlife like monkeys and bats. The river trip offers a glimpse of the island’s lush interior and the chance to spot animals in their natural habitat. This part of the tour is appreciated for its relaxed pace and natural beauty.

The BBQ Lunch and Drinks

After the river adventure, it’s time for the delicious BBQ lunch onboard. The crew prepares a meal that many guests describe as “one of the best lunches” they’ve had on a cruise. The menu includes grilled meats, sides, and fresh salads, served with an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The open bar continues throughout the day, making it easy to unwind and enjoy your time.

Return Journey and Relaxing Finish

Post-lunch, the boat cruises into the canal between Ile aux Cerfs and the Anahita sanctuary. The crew keeps spirits high with local Mauritian sega music, jokes, and stories—adding an authentic touch. After some time on Ile aux Cerfs, you’ll head back to Pointe Jerome, with tea, coffee, and cake served during the return journey. The cruise concludes around 16:30, depending on weather and tides.

What the Reviews Tell Us

While many travelers rave about the stunning scenery, good crew, and value for money, there are some warnings to heed. A few reviews mention trips that didn’t happen due to organizers not showing up or being unresponsive, so verifying your booking and choosing reputable providers is worth the effort. On the positive side, guests like Valentine praised the “great experience,” and others appreciated the “superb” crew and atmosphere.

Pros

• Beautiful sailing with scenic views
• Friendly crew and lively atmosphere
• Excellent snorkeling opportunities
• Delicious BBQ lunch included
• Comfortable boat with facilities

Cons

• Reliability concerns from some travelers
• Limited time on Ile aux Cerfs (about 1.5 hours)
• Possible weather-dependent cancellations

Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs around $60 per person, which we find reasonable given the inclusions—sailing, snorkeling gear, a hearty BBQ, and unlimited drinks. The boat departs early, so arriving prepared with change of clothes, sunscreen, and a hat makes your day smoother. If you’re vegetarian, it’s advisable to notify the operator beforehand.

The meeting point at Pointe Jerome is straightforward—look for the representative in a blue teal shirt—and the trip ends back there, making transportation planning easier. Optional extras like water sports or lobster lunches are available but not included, so budget accordingly if interested.

Weather can influence the trip—if conditions are too rough, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled, with a full refund offered if no alternative date suits you.

The Sum Up

This catamaran cruise offers a compelling way to see the best of Mauritius’s east coast, combining sailing, snorkeling, wildlife, and beach time into one accessible package. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic days with good food and drinks in a laid-back environment.

For those who value authentic coastal scenery, friendly crew, and a well-rounded day at sea, this tour delivers. Keep in mind the mixed reliability reviews—so double-check your booking and be flexible with plans. Overall, it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to combine adventure, relaxation, and a taste of island life on a budget.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from the meeting point included?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Pointe Jerome, but the meeting point is straightforward to find.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, a camera, and comfortable shoes. These items will help you stay comfortable and capture memories.

Can vegetarians participate in the BBQ lunch?
If you’re vegetarian, it’s best to advise the operator beforehand so they can request a special meal for you.

How long is the trip?
The full-day cruise departs at 09:00 and typically returns around 16:30, depending on weather and tides.

What water activities are included?
Snorkeling is included, with equipment provided. Other water sports like parasailing or undersea walks are optional and not part of the standard package.

Is there a limit to how many people go on the cruise?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the boat is a 42 ft catamaran designed for comfort, hosting groups that enjoy socializing but still maintaining space.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are adverse (not just rain, but rough seas), the trip may be rescheduled or canceled. A full refund will be issued if no alternative date is available.

How reliable are the tour organizers?
Reviews are mixed; some travelers report no-shows or cancellations. Confirm your booking and communicate directly with the provider to minimize issues.

In brief, this cruise offers a lovely day out on the water with plenty of scenic highlights, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. Just keep an eye on booking details, and you’re sure to enjoy a memorable Mauritius experience.

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