Imagining a day at sea around Mauritius’s northern islands might seem like a perfect escape, but understanding what a tour offers—and what it doesn’t—is key to truly enjoying it. The Grand Baie: Catamaran 3 Islands Cruise & Lunch is a popular choice for those wanting to combine scenic sailing, island landings, and good food—all at a reasonable price.
This roughly $80-per-person experience promises a full day of sun, sea, and fun, with enough highlights to justify its reputation.
We’re drawn to two aspects of this tour: the chance to see Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate up close and the inclusive BBQ lunch with drinks. These add genuine value and create memorable moments. Still, it’s worth noting that the trip isn’t perfect for those seeking total tranquility or private island experiences. If you’re after a lively, sociable, and scenic day at sea, this tour fits the bill nicely.
Who will love this? It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of island hopping combined with snorkeling, good food, and a cheerful crew. It’s especially suited for those on a budget who still want a full, lively day out, but perhaps less so for travelers seeking quiet beaches or exclusive experiences.
This experience made our article of Which Grand Baie Tours & Things To Do To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best.
- Key Points
- An Authentic Look at the Experience
- The Islands: What You’ll Experience
- The Atmosphere at Sea
- Practical Details & Value
- Weather and Safety Considerations
- Authentic Perspectives from Travelers
- The Final Word
- FAQ
- The Best Of Grand Baie!
- More Lunch Experiences in Grand Baie
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Grand Baie
- More Tour Reviews in Grand Baie
Key Points
- Full-day adventure: Explore three islands around Mauritius with options to land on two of them.
- Inclusive activities: Snorkeling, island visits, a BBQ lunch, and drinks are all included in the price.
- Lively atmosphere: Expect cheerful crew, music, dancing, and a party vibe especially on the return journey.
- Variable weather dependency: The captain reserves the right to cancel or modify the trip due to sea conditions, particularly in winter months.
- Good value for money: Combining transportation, activities, and food, many see this as a worthwhile experience.
- Some limitations: Snorkeling equipment costs extra, and the trip can be crowded, with some reviews mentioning large groups.
👉 See our pick of the Which Grand Baie Tours & Things To Do To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best
An Authentic Look at the Experience
The full-day catamaran cruise begins with a shared dinghy ride from the beach at Grand Baie to the vessel—an efficient and straightforward start. The catamaran itself is described as “smooth and fast” by some users, and while not the newest model, it offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the journey.
As you set out, you’ll quickly notice the vibrant colors of the ocean, shifting from deep blue to turquoise as you glide past Mauritian coastlines. The boat is usually crowded—some reviews mention more than 40 people onboard—and this can impact the intimacy of the experience. Still, a larger group often creates a lively atmosphere, especially as crew members keep spirits high with music, dancing, and friendly chatter.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Grand Baie
The Islands: What You’ll Experience
Ilot Gabriel is the first stop, where the boat anchors close to the shoreline, allowing about 45-60 minutes of land-based activities. You’ll take a dinghy to the island, which is often praised for its natural beauty and pristine environment. Many guests enjoy snorkeling here, although some note the coral and fish life are somewhat impacted by tourism volume. The reviews mention that the snorkeling is “self-guided,” so bringing your own fins or gear could enhance your experience.
Once on the island, the highlight is the BBQ lunch served in a scenic setting. The food is described as delicious, with “tasty” fish, chicken, and wieners, complemented by salads—an honest, filling meal appreciated by most. Drinks are unlimited, including juice, beer, and rum, which fuels the cheerful party mood on the beach. The setting allows you to relax, take in the views, and perhaps enjoy a siesta before the next stop.
Next, the boat moves on to Ile Plate, where you get more time to snorkel, relax, and enjoy the green environment. Many reviewers highlight how the lunch is served right on the island, adding to the special feel of the experience. The beach here is described as “clear and not very rocky,” making it a comfortable spot for swimming and lounging.
The third stop is Coin de Mire, a striking island known for its dramatic cliffs and birdlife. However, you won’t land here—the boat passes close enough to admire it from the water, which many find still worthwhile. Some reviews mention that the currents can be strong and snorkeling more challenging here, so fins might be advisable.
The Atmosphere at Sea
The cruise isn’t just about islands; it’s about the vibe. Many guests comment on the crew’s cheerful attitude, describing them as “vibrant and helpful,” and some mention the “big party” on the return trip. The music, dancing, and drinks contribute to a fun, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect if you enjoy social trips.
Authentic moments like a guest sharing her 90th birthday or spontaneous dancing onboard add charm and authenticity. Several reviews highlight the crew’s effort to make passengers feel special, whether through safety briefings or celebrating milestones.
Practical Details & Value
The tour includes all transfers to and from the islands, a dinghy trip, and the ship’s amenities. However, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so you might want to bring your own fins and mask. The meeting point is usually on the beach at Grand Baie, but travelers are advised to confirm the exact location 18-24 hours beforehand.
Pricing at $80 per person covers a full day of activities, making it a good value considering the transportation, meals, and drinks included. The food and drinks are praised as “very tasty” and plentiful, which is key for a day at sea. Still, some reviews mention that the lunch options could be more varied or better coordinated, but overall it’s consistent with the price point.
Weather and Safety Considerations
The captain reserves the right to cancel or reschedule if weather conditions are unfavorable, especially in the winter months (June-September). Some reviews note that sea conditions can be rough, affecting snorkeling or the duration of stays on islands. It’s worth being flexible and understanding that safety comes first, even if it means missing out on certain stops.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Grand Baie
Authentic Perspectives from Travelers
Real reviews paint a picture of a lively, well-organized trip. For example, one traveler described the crew as “amazing, joyful, and funny,” with many quoting the good vibes and fun atmosphere onboard. The food and drinks, particularly the BBQ, consistently receive praise, with multiple guests calling it a highlight.
A recurring theme is that the trip is busy and social—some find it crowded, but most appreciate the energetic environment. Snorkeling is a mixed bag: some loved the experience, while others found it limited or challenging due to currents or coral damage from tourism.
While some mention that the boat’s age or the organization of boarding could be improved, these minor inconveniences don’t overshadow the overall positive impressions. Many say it’s “one of the best attractions” of their Mauritius holiday, especially for those looking for fun, good food, and island views.
The Final Word
This catamaran tour offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to explore Mauritius’s northern islands. It combines spectacular sea views, landing on two beautiful islands, snorkeling, and a delicious BBQ—all wrapped in a friendly, party-ready atmosphere. The inclusive drinks and food, along with the cheerful crew, make for a fun social experience that many find worth the price.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a full-day, lively adventure with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and socializing. If you’re after peace and quiet or an exclusive getaway, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you enjoy bustling boats, scenic islands, good food, and lively company, this trip will be a highlight of your Mauritius stay.
Grand Baie: Catamaran 3 Islands Cruise & Lunch on the Island
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers are asked to coordinate with the provider to confirm the meeting point, usually on the beach at Grand Baie.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Remember, no shoes are allowed on the boat to protect it.
How long do we stay on each island?
Typically, you’ll spend about 45-60 minutes at Ilot Gabriel, plus additional time at Ile Plate. The exact durations depend on sea conditions and the captain’s discretion.
Can I snorkel here?
Yes, snorkeling is available after the island stops. The experience is self-guided, so bringing your fins and mask can improve your time in the water.
What if the weather is bad?
The captain reserves the right to cancel or reschedule if weather conditions threaten safety. This is more common in winter months. Flexibility is advised.
Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited drinks such as juice, beer, and rum are part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
In essence, this tour is a mix of scenic sailing, island relaxation, lively atmosphere, and good food. It offers excellent value for a full day out, especially if you enjoy socializing and scenic views. Just be prepared for a lively group, some crowds, and variable weather conditions—then sit back and enjoy the ride.
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