Mauritius Catamaran Cruise to Ile Aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Mauritius, a catamaran cruise to Ile Aux Cerfs offers just that — plus a few surprises. This tour, offered by Atlantis Tours Mauritius, promises a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, all wrapped in a relatively affordable package. While the experience has its highs and lows, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a mix of adventure and leisure.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines stunning scenery — from waterfalls to pristine beaches — with the laid-back charm of island life. The 3-course BBQ lunch and drinks onboard add real value, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore a lively craft market on Ile aux Cerfs makes for a genuinely authentic touch.

One thing to keep in mind: some reviews highlight crowding and organisational hiccups, especially with transport or boat capacity. So, this trip might be best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and are flexible with small inconveniences. If you’re after a stress-free, intimate experience, it might require some extra planning or a bit of patience.

This tour is well-suited for families, first-timers in Mauritius, or anyone wanting a cost-effective day of island discovery with plenty of photo opportunities and water fun.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary including waterfalls, snorkeling, and beach time
• Affordable price point around $59 per person offers good value
• Multiple stops with opportunities for photos, shopping, and relaxing
• Includes food and drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one experience
• Potential crowding and occasional organisational issues noted in reviews
• Good for energetic travelers who enjoy diverse activities and social settings

Overview of the Experience

This catamaran cruise packs a lot into roughly 6 to 7 hours — a full day that combines sightseeing, water fun, and leisure. Starting from Trou D’eau Douce, you’ll relax in a shared group, sailing up the Grand River South East to see the waterfall and monkeys, then heading to Ile aux Cerfs for snorkeling and beach time. The tour is a mix of scenic beauty and engaging activities, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or unwind.

Why It’s Worth Considering

The value here is hard to beat. For around $59, you’ll get a comprehensive experience that includes some of Mauritius’s most iconic sights and a delicious BBQ lunch paired with drinks. Plus, the hotel pickup option adds convenience — especially for those staying outside the immediate area — making the logistics one less thing to worry about.

The Itinerary in Detail

Grand River South East Waterfalls — “Cascade Diamamouve”

Our journey begins with a scenic sail upriver towards the waterfall. This spot is a photo favorite — the lush green riverbanks and the cascading water make a perfect backdrop. Keep an eye out for the monkeys curling through the trees, a charming detail that many reviews praise. We loved the way this stop combines nature and wildlife, giving you a glimpse of the island’s lush side.

Reviewers mention this is a great photo stop, with one noting, “a perfect photo stop and sightseeing tour with monkeys swaying on the trees.” It’s a brief stop, about an hour, but enough to take in the scenery and capture some memories.

Snorkeling and Swimming in the Lagoon

Next up is a break for snorkeling and swimming. The waters are typically described as crystal clear, with vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. This is a highlight for many, especially those who love aquatic adventures. One reviewer mentioned, “Great experience. Wish we had more time to swim,” highlighting how enjoyable the water-based activities are.

However, some reviews note that snorkeling can be canceled due to weather, so it’s wise to be flexible. Even if snorkeling is unavailable, the swimming in the warm lagoon remains a relaxing experience.

Lunch and Drinks Onboard

The BBQ lunch is served on the boat, featuring a 3-course meal with a good variety of drinks, including soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and local rum. This is a major value addition, especially considering the overall price. Multiple reviews mention the generous food and drink offerings, with one saying, “The food was good, lots of refreshments,” and another praising the friendly crew.

This onboard meal offers a chance to relax, refuel, and share stories with fellow travelers. The Halal food option is also available, accommodating diverse dietary needs.

Ile aux Cerfs — The Island Paradise

The final major stop is the stunning Ile aux Cerfs, famous for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have around three hours to unwind — sunbathe, swim, or explore the island’s small arts and crafts market. Many visitors enjoy this leg because it feels like a slice of paradise.

The reviews highlight that the island looks just like a postcard, with some noting the beautiful waterfalls and beaches. Watersports such as parasailing and tube riding are available at an extra cost, making this part of the trip flexible depending on your interests.

The Return Journey

As you sail back to Trou D’eau Douce, the crew often entertains with local Sega music, adding a lively cultural touch to the day. The overall mood, according to reviews, is friendly and lively, ideal for those who enjoy socializing and enjoying the local vibe.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Group Size and Transportation

The tour caps at 35 travelers, which means it’s not overly crowded but still lively. The group size strikes a balance between social fun and manageable organization. If you opt for hotel pickup, be prepared for about 1.5 hours of transportation time — this is a minor inconvenience but worth noting if you’re eager to start your day early.

Duration and Timing

The tour starts at 9:30 am, with most travelers returning around 4 or 5 pm. The timing is well-planned for those wanting a full day without feeling rushed, though some reviews mention that early parts can feel a bit hectic.

Cost and Value

At $59 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the includes: full-day cruise, waterfall visit, snorkeling, BBQ lunch, drinks, and island time. Additional watersports like parasailing are extra, but the core experience remains quite comprehensive for the price.

What’s Not Included

Some activities like parasailing and undersea walks are available at extra costs, ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. If these are your priority, budget accordingly. It’s also a good idea to clarify transport costs if booking pickups through your hotel to avoid surprises.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The reviews reveal a generally positive vibe, with several travelers citing great staff, good food, and beautiful scenery. One reviewer summed it up as: “The staff were great and very good hospitality… lots of different activities too!” Others appreciated the authentic local music and the opportunity to relax on beautiful beaches.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Complaints about late pickups, crowded boats, or poor organization do come up. One traveler remarked, “Our boat was already at capacity, which took away some comfort,” illustrating the importance of managing expectations about crowd levels.

Common Praise

• Knowledgeable and friendly crew
• Beautiful waterfalls and beaches
• Generous food and drink offerings
• Fun, lively atmosphere

Common Criticism

• Potential overcrowding
• Transport delays
• Limited time for snorkeling or swimming

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a lively, well-rounded day on the water, this cruise fits the bill. It’s especially good for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Mauritius’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. The inclusion of food, drinks, and multiple stops make it a convenient all-in-one option.

That said, if you prefer a more intimate or quiet experience, or have mobility concerns, the crowding and organizational hiccups might be worth considering. Also, travelers who enjoy watersports will find options on Ile aux Cerfs, although they come at additional costs.

FAQ Section

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you choose the option, making it easier to start your day hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The full-day cruise, visit to the waterfall, snorkeling and swimming break, BBQ lunch onboard, and a selection of drinks are all included.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a 3-course BBQ lunch with drinks such as soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and local rum is served onboard.

Can I do watersports?
Watersports like parasailing and undersea walks are available at extra costs — Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 approximately.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 35 travelers, helping ensure a lively but manageable experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially those interested in water activities and scenic beauty.

Is snorkeling always available?
Snorkeling is usually included, but weather conditions may cancel it. Still, swimming in the lagoon remains an option.

The Final Word

All in all, the Mauritius Catamaran Cruise to Ile Aux Cerfs offers a full day of scenic beauty, water fun, and local flavor, making it a popular choice for many visitors. If you’re after a cost-effective way to see some of Mauritius’s natural highlights while enjoying good food and drinks, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s ideal for those who enjoy social atmospheres and a mix of activities. The experience provides a balance of relaxation and adventure, with enough flexibility to enjoy the island’s best features — waterfalls, beaches, and marine life — all in one trip.

While it’s not perfect, the friendly crew, stunning scenery, and lively environment make this cruise a memorable part of any Mauritius holiday. Just keep in mind that crowding and weather can influence the experience, and if you have specific watersport priorities, plan for extra costs.

In summary, if you approach this cruise with reasonable expectations and a love for lively group experiences, you’re likely to come away with some beautiful memories and a genuine taste of Mauritius’s island life.