Mauritius : Full day All inclusive Ile aux cerfs Catamaran cruise

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the water exploring Mauritius’s stunning coastlines, this full-day catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest this tour delivers a memorable experience for those seeking a mix of snorkeling, island lounging, and great food.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines beautiful scenery with practical comforts. Travelers rave about the delicious meals, plentiful drinks, and attentive crew, creating a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. On the flip side, an important consideration is the timing of stops—some might find the allocated time on Ile aux Cerfs or snorkeling spots a little tight.

This tour suits anyone looking for a value-packed day under the Mauritian sun, especially those eager to explore the coast with a friendly group. If you love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling, and want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, this cruise could be just the ticket.

This experience made our article of Our 16 Favorite Trou dEau Douce Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear included.
• Beautiful Scenery: Experience Mauritius’s best lagoons and views from the water.
• Flexible Schedule: About 8 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Authentic Hospitality: Crew praised for attentiveness, friendliness, and lively atmosphere.
• Well-Organized: Starting from Trou d’Eau Douce, with a clear itinerary and timely transfers.
• Value for Money: Competitive price considering the food, drinks, and multiple stops.

An Overview of the Experience

This full-day tour generally kicks off early in the morning, with hotel pickups starting around 7:30 am. After a convenient transfer, you’ll arrive at the embarkation point in Trou d’Eau Douce around 9 am, ready to set sail. The 8-hour journey is designed to be a relaxing, yet adventurous day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, island exploring, and enjoying Mauritian hospitality.

The tour departs from Pointe Jerome in the southeast of Mauritius, sailing across the island’s most picturesque lagoon. Here, the water is calm and crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling in protected areas. The reviews highlight the crew’s ability to keep guests entertained despite unpredictable weather (some experienced rain, but the crew managed to keep spirits high). The boat’s route includes a visit to the Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall, a scenic stop that adds a touch of lushness and variety to the day.

The Snorkeling and Water Activities

One of the main highlights is the snorkeling in some of the finest spots Mauritius has to offer. The water is described as calm and ideal for exploring marine life, with equipment provided, so you don’t have to pack your own. Several reviews mention dolphin sightings and the crew’s efforts to make the experience engaging, such as the captain letting kids steer the boat or crew members actively involving guests in water activities.

Ile aux Cerfs Stop

After about an hour exploring Ile aux Cerfs, guests get to relax on the island’s beautiful beaches—often described as idyllic, with soft sands and clear waters. Some reviews mention that the time on the island can be tight, with only around an hour allocated, but it’s enough for a quick swim or a walk along the shore. The crew encourages leisure and provides a pleasant, friendly atmosphere, making it easier to switch into holiday mode.

Lunch and Drinks

Lunch on the boat is a definite highlight. The meals are described as plentiful, tasty, and served right on deck, with options for halal food and alcoholic beverages available. Guests frequently mention the generous portions and the quality of the food, along with the constant flow of drinks—beer, wine, or tropical cocktails, kept topped up by attentive staff.

Return Journey

The boat begins its return around 3 pm, heading back from Ile aux Cerfs to Pointe Jerome. The cruise back offers more chances to relax, soak in the scenery, or possibly even dance to the music that the crew kindly provides—adding a lively touch to what is often a peaceful cruise. Expect to arrive back around 4:30 pm, after which your driver will take you back to your hotel, completing a well-organized day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Proven Quality and Consistent Reviews

With a 4.6/5 rating based on 77 reviews, most travelers agree this cruise provides excellent value and memorable moments. Many reviews praise the friendly and attentive crew, highlighting how they go above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable, entertained, and well-fed. One reviewer summed it up: “The crew was super friendly,” emphasizing the genuine hospitality that makes this trip special.

Beautiful Marine Environment

Snorkeling in Mauritius often means encountering vibrant fish and clear waters. Reviewers mention the calm lagoons and the opportunity to see dolphins, which adds an element of wildlife magic to the day. The boat’s route is planned to showcase Mauritius’s best lagoon, providing great photo opportunities and a relaxing experience.

Delicious Food and Drinks

You won’t go hungry or thirsty on this tour. Guests consistently mention the plenty of tasty food, barbecue on board, and the seamless service of drinks, often topped with a tropical cocktail or local rum. The fact that halal options are available is an added bonus for Muslim travelers.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Multiple reviews mention traveling with children, with crew members involving kids in steering or other activities. This cruise feels welcoming and inclusive—ideal for families seeking an enjoyable, safe day on the water.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews praise the experience, a few mention that the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs is somewhat limited, leaving little time to explore or relax fully. If you’re looking for a full day’s leisure on the island itself, you might find the hour on land a bit brief.

The vintage appearance of the boat was noted by some, describing it as “a bit dated,” though it’s clean and well-maintained. Also, the initial meeting point could be clearer for some travelers, as a few reviewers pointed out a slight miscommunication with the taxi driver about where to meet.

Weather can also be unpredictable in Mauritius—some experienced rain, but the crew did a good job of keeping everyone engaged despite it. It’s worth noting that the tour is weather dependent, and if canceled, you’re offered a different date or a refund.

Logistics and Practicalities

This tour is priced at around $139.11 per person, which covers the entire day’s activities, meals, and drinks, making it an excellent value. Booking is recommended—most travelers book about 3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 30 guests ensuring a relatively intimate experience. Pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics, and the tour operates daily, year-round, from early morning until late evening.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water without the hassle of planning each detail. If you love snorkeling, enjoy good food and drinks, and are looking for a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families with children will appreciate the attentive crew and safe environment, while couples or groups seeking a scenic, enjoyable day out will also be pleased.

Despite some minor limitations with timing on the island and the boat’s age, the overall consensus is that this tour offers exceptional value and authentic Mauritian hospitality. It’s well-suited for those who want a taste of the island’s natural beauty combined with friendly service.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without worrying about transportation.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 7:30 am with hotel pickup and returning around 4:30 pm.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy both breakfast and lunch, with a focus on plentiful, tasty options. Alcoholic beverages are also available throughout the day.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
No—snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can simply show up ready to enjoy the water.

How many people typically join this tour?
This tour has a cap of 30 guests, ensuring a relatively intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund available if canceled early enough.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention traveling with young children, who enjoyed the crew’s attention and the engaging activities. It’s a family-friendly experience overall.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive Mauritius catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs offers a wonderfully balanced day of adventure, relaxation, and culture. The combination of snorkeling in protected lagoons, exploring a beautiful island, and indulging in delicious food makes it a compelling choice for many travelers. The crew’s friendly attitude and the scenic setting often turn this trip into a treasured memory, especially for those seeking an authentic Mauritian water experience without the hassle of planning.

While some may find the time on Ile aux Cerfs a bit limited or the boat a touch dated, the overall value and the genuine warmth of the service stand out. It’s an excellent way to sample Mauritius’s beauty—particularly if you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled day with good company and great vistas.

If an adventurous, well-organized, and friendly day on the water sounds appealing, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them.