Catamaran cruise to Ile aux cerfs with bbq lunch

Introduction

If you’re planning a day trip to Mauritius and want a taste of the island’s stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters, the catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs might catch your eye. This tour promises a relaxed day of sailing, snorkeling, and enjoying a tasty BBQ on a beautiful island—ideal for travelers craving both adventure and downtime.

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular views—including a cruise past waterfalls and lush scenery—with the fun of snorkeling in lively waters. Plus, the inclusive BBQ lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear make it feel like a well-rounded day out.

One consideration is the timing and group size—it’s a popular tour booked well in advance, and some travelers have noted minor delays or shorter stays on the island. Still, this tour is best suited for those who want a fun, all-in-one day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on Mauritius’ coast.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and scenic stops make this cruise a visual delight.
• All-inclusive with lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear enhances value.
• Flexible time on Ile aux Cerfs allows you to swim, sunbathe, or explore.
• Friendly, professional crew receive high praise from travelers.
• Good balance of activities and relaxation suits diverse interests.
• Booking well in advance helps secure your spot on this popular tour.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

The day begins at 9:30 AM from Trou D’eau Douce, where you’ll meet the Tino Boats team at their marina. From there, the journey kicks off with a scenic sail towards the nearby GRSE waterfalls. This part of the cruise offers a chance to enjoy lush green landscapes, with some lucky travelers even spotting monkeys greeting you from the shoreline. It’s a charming start that sets a relaxed tone for the day.

As the boat glides through the turquoise waters, you’ll get a good look at the coastline—an angle many land-based visitors miss. The waterway itself is a highlight, especially if you love seeing the island from the sea.

The next stop is a snorkeling spot chosen for its wildlife richness. Here, you’ll have the chance to don snorkeling gear (provided) and float among colorful fish and perhaps some marine surprises. The reviews consistently praise the crew for their efficiency and friendliness, with many describing the snorkeling as “stunning” and “a great way to see the water’s lively life.”

Following this, a delicious BBQ lunch is served. The vibe is lively with music, and many reviews mention the quality of the food—some call it “tasty” and “delicious,” with the singer or guitarist providing a lively backdrop. Drinks—beers, sodas, bottled water—are all included, keeping everyone refreshed.

After lunch, your boat anchors at Ile aux Cerfs, the crown jewel of the tour. Here, you’re free to wander the white sandy beaches, swim, or just soak up the sun. Some travelers appreciate the “just right” amount of time spent here, while others note that the stay can be on the shorter side, around two hours. It’s enough time to enjoy the scenery and maybe snap some photos, but not quite long enough to explore every inch.

The return trip departs around 4 PM, bringing you back to Trou D’eau Douce with plenty of memories for a lifetime.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $63.35 per person, this tour offers a remarkable combination of aspects that many travelers value highly. The price includes lunch, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the boat ride itself. Many reviews highlight how this represents good value for money, especially considering the inclusions and the quality of the experience.

The small group size—capped at 30 travelers—means a more personalized experience, with attentive crew who many reviewers describe as “professional” and “friendly.” This helps ensure everyone feels taken care of and has a chance to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

You’ll also love the timing: departing at 9:30 AM and returning around 4 PM makes for a full, yet relaxed day. The tour is booked on average 16 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, so planning ahead is wise.

The Experience: Authentic and Enjoyable

From the reviews, the friendly crew stands out. Many travelers praise their professionalism and cheerful attitude, which helps create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of live music during lunch, such as a singer or guitarist, adds a lively touch that many find enjoyable—almost like a beachside concert.

The actual scenery is another highlight. Whether it’s cruising past waterfalls, snorkeling among colorful fish, or lounging on Ile aux Cerfs’ pristine beaches, the visuals are undeniably beautiful. The water’s clarity, especially during snorkeling, makes for memorable moments, and the lush green landscapes provide a stunning backdrop.

The food gets good marks. The BBQ lunch is described as “delicious,” with some reviewers praising the tasty meats and the atmosphere created by the live music. The drinks flow freely, which many travelers appreciate after a morning of activity.

The flexibility on the island is another plus. You can choose to swim, snorkel, explore, or simply relax and soak in the scenery. Some travelers mention that the time spent on Ile aux Cerfs feels just right, although a few note it’s a bit short for exploring every nook.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point & Booking: The tour departs from Tino Boats at 5 Island Tour & Catamaran, located at Route Royale, Le Maho, Trou d’Eau Douce. You’ll purchase your tickets in advance, and it’s recommended to book about two weeks ahead to secure your spot.

What’s Included: The price covers lunch, snorkeling equipment, alcoholic drinks, soda, and bottled water, making it a hassle-free experience. No hidden costs here.

What’s Not Included: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, as hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. Planning your transfer is straightforward, given the proximity to public transportation.

Duration & Group Size: The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, with the group typically limited to 30 people—ideal for those who prefer intimacy but still want the lively atmosphere of a shared tour.

Weather & Cancellations: Since this is weather-dependent, poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so there’s flexibility if your plans change.

Reviews Highlights: Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers rave about the friendly and professional crew, with comments like “all the crew were very friendly” and “very efficient crew.” The scenery and water consistently receive praise, with descriptions such as “stunning views” and “crystal-clear waters.”

Food and drinks also get high marks—reviewers describe the BBQ lunch as “excellent” and the drinks “flowing.” The music during lunch adds a lively, joyful atmosphere, making the whole experience feel more special.

While most reviews are enthusiastic, some mention slight downsides: a few noted the timing issues—such as a delayed departure or shorter stays on the island—which can affect how much you get to explore. Still, these seem minor compared to the overall positive feedback.

The Sum Up

This catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs offers a well-rounded, value-packed day on Mauritius’ coast. It’s perfect for travelers who want a blend of scenic sailing, snorkeling in lively waters, and relaxing on a postcard-perfect island. The inclusive lunch, drinks, and friendly crew make it feel like a true escape from everyday life.

If you’re looking for an easy, enjoyable day trip that combines adventure, beautiful scenery, and good food—without the hassle of complicated arrangements—this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and a lively, friendly atmosphere.

While a few might find the time on the island a bit brief or prefer more personalized transportation options, overall, this tour offers great value and memorable moments—making it a worthwhile addition to your Mauritius itinerary.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Since it’s booked, on average, 16 days in advance, it’s best to reserve at least a couple of weeks ahead during peak seasons to secure your spot.

Does the price include transportation?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your own arrangements to reach the meeting point at Tino Boats.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour price covers lunch, snorkeling gear, alcoholic drinks, soda, and bottled water. Everything you need to enjoy the day is provided.

Can I swim and snorkel at the stop?
Yes. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and many reviews mention the waters being clear and full of marine life—perfect for floating among fish.

How long is the time at Ile aux Cerfs?
Most travelers say about two hours on the island, which is enough to relax, swim, or explore a bit but may feel short for a thorough exploration.

What if the weather is bad?
Since this is weather-dependent, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour popular?
High praise for the friendly crew, spectacular scenery, good value, and delicious BBQ lunch keeps this trip in demand.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While not explicitly stated, the snorkeling and beach activities generally suit all ages. Just ensure children are comfortable in water, and always supervise them during water activities.

This detailed review highlights why this tour remains a favorite for many visitors to Mauritius. It’s a great way to experience the island’s coastal beauty with a friendly crew, good food, and plenty of opportunities to relax or adventure—whichever suits your style.