Luxury Catamaran Cruise: The Northern Islands

If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius and are dreaming of a day spent on the water with sunshine, scenic islands, and a touch of luxury, this full-day catamaran cruise from Grand Baie might just be what you’re looking for. Based on numerous traveler reviews and tour details, it offers a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and fun—at a reasonable price considering the inclusions.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with authentic island vibes and good value for money. The delicious barbecue lunch and the professional crew stand out as real highlights. That said, a potential drawback is that the tour can be crowded, and weather conditions might affect some planned activities like snorkeling.

This tour suits those who want a taste of the islands with a friendly, lively atmosphere, and don’t mind sharing the boat with up to 17 other travelers.

This experience made our article of Which Grand Baie Tours & Things To Do To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling gear and a hearty barbecue lunch
• Stops at Ilot Gabriel and Flat Island with free time to explore
• Operates in good weather, with a possibility of rescheduling if weather disrupts plans
• Group size is small enough for a personalized experience but busy enough for a lively vibe
• Ideal for travelers looking for a day of scenic island-hopping and water activities
• Price offers good value considering all included amenities and the scenic route

An Overview of the Experience

This full-day luxury catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Mauritius’s northern islands, focusing on comfort and fun. Starting early at 9:30am from Bain Boeuf Public Beach, you’ll be whisked away on a sleek, well-maintained vessel with a maximum of 17 travelers—perfect for avoiding the feeling of being lost in a crowd, yet lively enough to make new friends. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to confirm your spot, and most travelers book about 15 days in advance, so plan ahead.

The price of $113.99 per person might seem like a splurge, but it covers a lot: BBQ lunch, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages. When you consider the scenic stops and inclusions, many find it well worth the cost, especially given the positive feedback about the food and crew. Critics mention that booking this tour through local operators or directly might be more economical, but the package’s convenience and included amenities are often appreciated.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Ilot Gabriel Beach (30 minutes, free entry)

Your first stop is Ilot Gabriel, a lightly populated island with pristine beaches and clear waters. Travelers love the flexibility here—it’s an excellent chance to stretch your legs, enjoy the scenery, and take some photos of the rocks and lush surroundings. Several reviews praise the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quick swim or a leisurely walk.

We loved the way the crew takes care of guests, giving enough time without feeling rushed. “We had a fantastic day on the paradise cove,” said one reviewer, highlighting the crew’s humor and friendliness. It’s a chance to get your first taste of the Indian Ocean’s calm.

Stop 2: Ile Plate Beach (another 30 minutes, free entry)

Next, the boat heads to Ile Plate, known for its relaxed vibe and scenic shoreline. Here, you can have a swim, walk along the beach, or just chill on the sand. The quiet environment makes it a good spot for unwinding, with reviews noting that the smaller group size makes for a more intimate experience.

Some travelers mention that the seas can be a bit rough outside the lagoon, which is especially true if you visit in spring. One review pointed out that the sea was rough outside the lagoon, but the ride was still worthwhile because of the beautiful places visited. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s good to keep this in mind.

Snorkeling at Flat Island

The highlight for many is the snorkeling opportunity in the crystal-clear waters around Flat Island. Provided with snorkeling gear, you can expect to see a variety of fish and vibrant marine life. Several reviews rave about the crystal waters and the abundance of fish, making it a memorable highlight.

However, weather conditions can influence this part of the trip. Some travelers, like one who felt the waters were too choppy, expressed slight disappointment when snorkeling was curtailed or not as vibrant as expected. But even if snorkeling is limited, the boat’s crew often improvise, and you can still enjoy the stunning scenery from the deck.

Onboard Experience

The lunch is a major part of this trip’s appeal. A barbecue featuring chicken wings, fish, hotdogs, and vegetarian options (if requested) is served onboard, with many reviews describing it as delicious and well-prepared. The drinks flow freely during the day, with bottled water and a variety of alcoholic beverages included, creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

The crew is repeatedly praised for being friendly, attentive, and entertaining. Several reviews mention their funny antics, ability to get everyone singing and dancing, and their genuine effort to make guests feel at home. This lively, warm environment contributes a lot to the tour’s overall enjoyment.

Weather Considerations

Reviewers point out that the experience can vary depending on weather. Good weather means calm seas, clear waters, and perfect snorkeling conditions. Conversely, windy days can cause choppier waters, leading to limited activity options and some disappointment. One guest noted that the crew could have offered a partial refund when waters were too rough, but generally, the crew tries to adapt as best they can.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 17 travelers, the tour strikes a balance—small enough for intimacy but lively enough to foster a fun group dynamic. Several reviews highlight how the crew’s attention to guests’ wishes creates a positive, relaxed environment. One guest mentioned that the small boat capacity makes navigation comfortable and enjoyable without feeling crowded.

Reviewing the Price and Overall Value

Priced at $113.99, the tour offers a solid package. It includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, and beverages, which many travelers consider excellent value, especially given the scenic stops and the overall experience. The reviews show that most guests feel the money is well spent, particularly when comparing it to the cost of booking directly or adding separate excursions.

A reviewer pointed out that booking through Viator might be slightly more expensive than directly at the hotel, but the convenience and all-in-one package make it worthwhile for many.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The reviews paint a lively picture: many rave about the friendly crew, delicious BBQ, and beautiful scenery. For example, one said, “The crew was very nice and helpful,” while another noted, “We enjoyed our trip because of their vibes and dances.”

On the flip side, some mention that the islands themselves are quite popular, with a busy, lively atmosphere rather than feeling secluded. If you’re after a quiet, less touristy experience, this may not be your best bet.

Plus, some guests experienced weather-related issues, like choppy waters that limited water activities. But even under less-than-ideal conditions, many still appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the team.

This luxury catamaran cruise offers a good blend of scenic beauty, engaging crew, and delicious food, making it ideal for travelers seeking a fun, relaxed day on the water. It’s especially suitable for those who want a balanced experience of island-hopping, swimming, and socializing without the hassle of organizing everything independently. Families, couples, and groups of friends will likely enjoy the lively atmosphere, tasty food, and stunning views.

If you value authentic island scenery, friendly guides, and good value for money, this tour is worth considering. Just remember, it’s weather-dependent and can get a bit crowded, so if you prefer solitude or a more luxurious, private experience, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is transportation included to the starting point?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your way to Bain Boeuf Public Beach in Cap Malheureux.

What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 9:30am, so arrive a little earlier to settle in.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers lunch, use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available—just advise at the time of booking.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is snorkeling guaranteed?
Not necessarily—if waters are too choppy or conditions aren’t ideal, snorkeling might be limited or canceled, but alternative activities are often available.

Can children participate?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the experience is suitable for most travelers.

This full-day Mauritius northern islands cruise promises a lively, scenic, and tasty adventure on the water—perfect for those wanting to soak up the island’s beauty while enjoying good company and great food. Keep an eye on the weather, book in advance, and prepare for a memorable day that balances exploration with relaxation.