Grand Bay: Catamaran Cruise to Flat Island with BBQ Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water soaking up Mauritius’s natural beauty, a catamaran cruise to Flat Island might just be your perfect escape. Based on traveler reviews and detailed experiences, this trip offers a combination of scenic sailing, snorkeling, and a laid-back island lunch — all in a setting that’s both peaceful and picturesque.

What we really love about this tour is its spectacular sailing experience aboard a traditional catamaran and the opportunity to explore an untouched island with ample free time. Plus, the lunch—a hearty BBQ with drinks—is a highlight that transforms a day cruise into a true culinary treat. On the flip side, some might find the rough seas and strong waves a bit challenging, especially for those prone to seasickness.

This experience fits best for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings with a touch of adventure—ideal for families with older children, couples seeking tranquility, or anyone eager to see Mauritius from a different perspective. If you’re looking for an active, full-day exploration, this cruise offers a good balance of activity and leisure.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing aboard a traditional catamaran offers stunning coastal views.
• Freedom to snorkel at your own pace in calm lagoons.
• Relaxed island exploration with ample free time on Flat Island.
• Delicious BBQ lunch with drinks, perfect for a laid-back meal.
• Limited duration on the island—about an hour, making it more of a cruise with a stop rather than an extensive island tour.
• Weather dependent — the trip can be affected by sea conditions, sometimes leading to boat changes or postponed activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This catamaran trip kicks off from the beach of Grand Bay, a lively hub in Mauritius known for its vibrant atmosphere. You’ll hop onto a small boat that shuttles you to the larger, more stable catamaran, where your adventure begins. From there, it’s a scenic sail along the northwest coast, offering excellent photo opportunities of Cap Malheureux, Pereybere, and Grand Bay itself. The sailing experience is very sensational — the kind of gentle, rhythmic movement that makes you feel like you’re part of nature rather than just observing it.

The Journey to Flat Island

The journey to Île Plate (Flat Island) is about 11 kilometers north of Cap Malheureux, and it’s a true highlight of the trip. The boat glides past Round Island, giving you a chance to take in the views and snap pictures of the coastline from the water. Many reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful the scenery is, especially as the boat smoothly moves along the coast, with the wind in your hair and the sea breeze in your face.

The Island Stop

Once on Flat Island, you’ll have approximately an hour of free time to explore. The island itself is quite tranquil, with beach and lagoon areas perfect for lounging, swimming, or strolling along the trails. You’ll love the uncrowded, untouched vibe — it’s a genuine escape from the hustle. As one reviewer put it, “The beach was beautiful, and we loved just relaxing and soaking up the sun.” The island is also home to the endemic Paille en Queue, a magnificent bird often seen soaring overhead.

Lunch and Refreshments

After some exploration, it’s time for the BBQ lunch. Expect fish and chicken served with bread, fresh salad, and a sweet dessert. The drinks menu includes beer, wine, local rum, water, soft drinks, and juice — an appealing mix for most tastes. The reviews commend the delicious meal and the relaxed atmosphere it creates. One reviewer noted, “The lunch was marvellous and very nice,” highlighting how well the food complements the day’s laid-back vibe.

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Snorkeling and Swimming

Post-lunch, if the weather permits, you’ll have the option to snorkel or swim in the lagoons. The calm waters are ideal for exploring marine life at your own pace. Some guests mention that the crew is flexible here, allowing for personal choice in how much time you spend in the water.

The Return Journey

As you sail back, the scenery continues to impress. Weather conditions can influence the trip — some reviews mention strong waves making the boat ride a bit bumpy, and in some cases, this led to a change of boat for safety reasons. For example, a reviewer noted, “On the way back, it was windy and rainy, but the captain navigated safely, and everyone’s safety was a priority.” If conditions are good, there’s sometimes a chance to do more snorkeling near Coin de Mire, although the boat doesn’t stop there.

The Practicalities

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $70 per person, the tour includes catamaran transportation, dinghy shuttles, the lunch, and drinks. This is quite reasonable considering the full day of scenic sailing, island exploration, and the hearty meal. Not included are hotel transfers, so you’ll need to meet at the Grand Bay beach itself — a simple but important detail to note.

Timing and Group Size

The trip typically lasts around 6 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape. The group size can vary, but reviews suggest a comfortable, manageable experience with a friendly crew. Since weather can impact the schedule, flexibility is advised.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The sun can be strong, and you’ll want protection when lounging on the beach or in the water.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Several reviews add color to the experience. One guest praised the knowledgeable crew and the beautiful views, noting, “The staff was very helpful and the scenery was breathtaking.” Others pointed out that strong waves could make the ride a bit rough; a traveler wrote, “For those prone to seasickness, travel tablets are recommended.” The quality of the lunch received mixed reviews — some loved the BBQ, while others found it less satisfying, so keep that in mind if you’re a foodie expecting a gourmet meal.

A notable review described the trip as “a special day,” emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere on the island and the friendly crew who prioritized safety and comfort, especially during windy or rainy conditions. This highlights the tour’s focus on a relaxed, authentic experience over a high-energy adventure.

The Value of the Experience

At $70, this tour offers a solid value for anyone wanting both scenic beauty and some active options like snorkeling. The inclusion of lunch and drinks simplifies planning and makes it an easy choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day. The scenery, tranquil island time, and the chance to see Mauritian marine life all contribute to a memorable outing.

While it’s not a full-day exploration, the balance of sailing, relaxing, and eating makes this a rewarding experience for most visitors. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of island life without the long, intense excursions — offering genuine moments of peace and natural beauty.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers seeking relaxation and scenic views, especially if you appreciate sailing and beachside tranquility. Families with older children will find the free time on the island suitable, while couples will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. It’s also a good option for those who want to snorkel at their own pace and enjoy a hearty, casual meal outdoors.

If you’re worried about seasickness or prefer more extensive island tours, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly. The weather can influence the day, but overall, this cruise offers a gentle, scenic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to unwind.

Final thoughts

This catamaran trip to Flat Island combines spectacular coastal views, authentic island atmosphere, and a delicious BBQ lunch into a memorable day. Its relaxed pace and scenic sailing make it perfect for travelers who want to unwind, observe nature, and enjoy Mauritian hospitality. The experience is especially strong when the weather cooperates, providing crystal-clear lagoons and calm waters.

While some reviews mention strong waves and limited island time, the crew’s focus on safety and comfort balances these concerns. The inclusion of snorkeling, optional swimming, and free time on the island offers good value for the price, especially with the food and drinks included.

This tour is best suited for those who want a scenic, laid-back day with a mix of sailing, light adventure, and island leisure. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a full-day exploration or if weather conditions are uncertain. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to experience the natural beauty of Mauritius from the water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the activity starts at the beach of Grand Bay, so you will need to make your way there on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to have some cash for extras or optional activities.

How long does the tour last?
The trip typically takes around 6 hours, including sailing, island time, and the return.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling is available if weather conditions permit, and you can snorkel at your own pace.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks like beer, wine, local rum, water, and soft drinks are included with lunch. Juice is also available.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Older children can enjoy the trip, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or very young children due to seasickness risks and safety considerations.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip might be rescheduled or changed for safety. In some cases, a different boat might be used.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

In all, this Grand Bay catamaran cruise to Flat Island offers a relaxed, scenic, and tasty slice of Mauritius. It’s a lovely way to see the coast, enjoy a peaceful island, and sample some local flavors—all in one easy, enjoyable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby