Ile aux Cerfs: The very best day by catamaran.

If you’re dreaming of a day on Mauritius’s shimmering waters, a trip to Ile aux Cerfs aboard a catamaran might just be your perfect escape. This tour combines sailing, snorkeling, waterfalls, and beach time into one well-rounded adventure. While no experience is perfect, it offers a lively mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and good food — all for a reasonable price.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is its combination of relaxation and activity. The chance to sail comfortably across turquoise waters and then snorkel in coral-filled lagoons appeals to those seeking both leisure and adventure. Plus, the visit to the Grand River South East Waterfall adds a splash of nature’s drama that many other tours don’t include.

On the downside, some reviews suggest the snorkeling could be a bit rushed, and the time on the island might feel a little short to truly unwind.

Still, this tour is best suited for those who love being on the water, enjoy lively group outings, and want a taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty all in one day.

If you’re after a fun, scenic day that balances sightseeing with laid-back beach time, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a hassle-free way to experience some of the island’s highlights without the need to plan individual excursions.

This experience made our article of Grand River South East’s 16 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of sailing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation
• Includes a delicious barbecue lunch paired with wine
• Visits the iconic Grand River South East Waterfall
• Good value for the price, with all-day drinks included
• Reviews highlight friendly staff and well-organized trip
• Some travelers feel the snorkeling time can be a bit limited

This tour kicks off with a pickup and a short walk to the departure point where a friendly crew awaits near the catamaran. Once aboard, you’ll glide out into the calm, turquoise lagoon, feeling the warm sea breeze and soaking in the stunning views of the coast. The boat itself is described as comfortable, making the journey enjoyable whether you’re lounging or taking photos.

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The Sailing and Snorkeling Experience

The highlight for many travelers is the snorkeling in the pristine lagoon. Here, vibrant coral reefs teem with tropical fish, and the crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility — perfect for those wanting to see marine life up close. According to reviews, the snorkeling spot is beautiful, though some mention the allotted time is relatively short — around 20 minutes. If snorkeling is your main goal, you might want to plan to be quick or bring your own gear to maximize your time.

We loved the way the crew makes everyone feel comfortable, with many guests praising the attentiveness and friendliness of the guides. Dolphins occasionally join the boat, making the experience even more special. The water is shallow enough that you can just dive in with your mask and snorkel, or stay on board and enjoy the scenery.

Visiting the Grand River South East Waterfall

One of the surprises of this tour is the stop at the Grand River South East Waterfall. It’s not just a quick photo op — you’ll see Mauritius’ rich biodiversity, with a chance to spot cheeky monkeys, exotic birds, and fruit bats in their natural habitat. The waterfall itself is a lovely natural feature, providing a scenic backdrop that’s worth capturing. Reviewers agree that this stop adds a nice contrast to the beach and snorkeling, bringing a touch of adventure into the mix.

Lunch and Drinks on Board

A big plus for this tour is the delicious barbecue lunch. Served on the boat, it features grilled meats and sides, paired with white and red wine — a treat for those who enjoy good food and drink in a relaxed environment. Soft drinks, beer, and rum cocktails are all available free of charge throughout the day. This inclusive approach makes the experience feel more like a party at sea, with many guests raving about the quality of the food and drinks.

Time on Ile aux Cerfs

After the water activities and waterfall visit, you’ll get free time on Ile aux Cerfs, a picture-perfect island with soft sands and inviting waters. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or explore some of the small shops and cafes. The island’s stunning views and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for unwinding. However, some travelers, like Cristèl, feel that the amount of time on the island might be a little limited, especially if you want to fully enjoy the beach or explore more extensively.

Return Journey and Overall Atmosphere

As the day winds down, your crew will provide a smooth return trip back to the starting point. Many reviews describe the atmosphere as friendly and well-organized, with guides attentive to guest needs and safety. The overall vibe is lively and relaxed, perfect for travelers looking to soak up some sun, sea, and fun.

At $69 per person, this tour offers a solid value for a day packed with diverse activities. The all-day drinks, lunch, and multiple stops make it feel like a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank. That said, some might find the snorkeling a bit short — if you’re particularly keen on time in the water, it’s worth planning accordingly.

The reviews reinforce the positive impression: many guests praise the professional staff, the delicious food, and the stunning scenery. MELCHIOR’s comment about the “good vibes” and “attentive team” highlights the tour’s emphasis on comfort and fun. Meanwhile, critics like Cristèl point out that the value might be slightly skewed if you’re expecting more snorkeling or extended island time.

The tour’s schedule is flexible enough for most travelers, with options to customize or opt for exclusive bookings if you want a more private experience. Booking with the possibility to pay later or cancel with a 24-hour notice adds peace of mind, especially for spontaneous planners.

This adventure suits travelers who want a well-rounded day on the water with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those who enjoy sailing, want some snorkeling, and look forward to beach relaxation. It’s also great for food lovers eager to enjoy a tasty barbecue and refreshing drinks in a tropical setting.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy social atmospheres, the lively crew and group vibe will suit you. However, if your priority is extended snorkeling or more time on the island, you might want to look for a different option or consider customizing this journey.

This catamaran trip to Ile aux Cerfs offers a fun, scenic, and tasty day that fits within a reasonable budget. It balances sailing, nature, and beach time, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and relax. The included lunch and drinks elevate the experience, making it feel like a full-fledged day out at sea.

Overall, it’s a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy Mauritius’s beautiful waters without complicated logistics. The friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and good food ensure a memorable outing. However, if snorkeling or island exploration is your main focus, you might want to plan your day carefully or consider other tours that offer longer water time.

For those looking for a lively, well-organized, and scenic escape, this tour hits the sweet spot — a perfect way to spend a day in paradise.

How long does the tour last?
The trip typically lasts a full day, with the main activities including sailing, snorkeling, visiting the waterfall, and free time on Ile aux Cerfs.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to snorkel in the lagoon, with about 20 minutes noted in some reviews. The coral reefs and tropical fish make it worthwhile.

What is the price?
The tour costs $69 per person, which includes the boat cruise, snorkeling, lunch, drinks, and the waterfall visit.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, some options, such as exclusive bookings, allow you to tailor the experience — ask your booking agent for details.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to ensure comfort and enjoyment during the day.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity may be canceled or postponed in case of bad weather, with guests being informed as early as possible.

In summary, if you’re after a beautiful, fun-filled day with plenty of swimming, scenic stops, good food, and a lively crew, this Ile aux Cerfs catamaran tour offers a fantastic way to experience Mauritius’s coast. It’s well worth considering if your travel style matches the vibe — relaxed, social, and scenic.

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