Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Île aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day cruising the warm waters of Mauritius, this full-day catamaran trip to Île aux Cerfs promises an enjoyable blend of scenic sailing, water activities, and island relaxation.

While I haven’t personally taken this cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight a trip packed with authentic fun and genuine Mauritian hospitality. It’s a perfect escape for couples, families, or anyone eager for a day in the sun with a bit of adventure thrown in.

What I love about this experience? First, the stunning views of the coastline and the chance to spot dolphins in the wild. Second, the delicious BBQ lunch served onboard, which adds a hearty, local flavor to a day already filled with sunshine and sea. A potential hitch? The island stop can feel a little basic, and some travelers have noted the natural snorkeling isn’t always colorful, depending on conditions.

This tour suits those looking for a relaxed, friendly, and well-organized day on the water—ideal for families, groups, and anyone wanting a taste of Mauritius’ marine beauty without the fuss of complicated logistics.

This experience made our article of The 16 Most Popular Tours & Things To Do In Chamarel.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Unlimited drinks, snacks, and a tasty BBQ buffet make this cruise a good deal.
• Variety of activities: Snorkeling, swimming, dolphin spotting, and optional parasailing.
• Authentic Mauritian vibe: Friendly crew, lively music, and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Natural beauty: Scenic sailing past nature reserves, with opportunities to see wildlife.
• Practical logistics: Convenient departure point with free parking, mobile ticket, and around 7 hours of fun.
• Natural conditions matter: Snorkeling may vary in colorfulness; some reviews mention less vibrant marine life.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Catamaran Experience

Booking, Price, and Value

At around $81.10 per person, this cruise offers a solid balance of cost and activities. Many travelers book about 18 days in advance, indicating its popularity. What does this price include? A roughly 7-hour voyage, with a BBQ buffet lunch, unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks like pineapple for dessert. You also get use of snorkeling gear and the chance to enjoy Mauritius’ waters in a relaxed setting.

Compare this to the hassle of organizing your own boat, transportation, and meals — here, everything is bundled, making it an easy, stress-free outing. Several reviewers highlight the good value for money, mentioning that the experience is well-rounded and the crew’s friendliness adds a lot to the trip.

Departure and Meeting Point

The cruise departs from Pointe Jérôme, with free parking available — a practical perk for self-drivers. The start time is 9:00am, so arriving early ensures smooth boarding. The mobile ticket system helps streamline the process, and since it’s a small group experience (max 31 travelers), it feels more personal than a large tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day is largely centered around the main highlight: Ile aux Cerfs. The boat drops you directly onto the famous sandbank via a ladder at the front of the catamaran — a unique way to step onto a postcard-perfect beach. Expect about two hours here, enough time to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy activities like parasailing, which is available but optional.

The cruise also passes past a nature reserve, offering scenic views of Mauritius’ protected ecosystems. While some reviews mention the island’s simplicity or the less vibrant snorkeling, the overall experience of cruising past lush landscapes and spotting wildlife remains a highlight.

Onboard Experience

The crew receives rave reviews for their friendly attitude and lively atmosphere. One guest quipped that the crew kept refilling drinks and played great music, making the whole trip feel like a floating party. The unlimited beer, wine, and soda keep everyone refreshed, and the BBQ lunch is consistently praised as delicious, with some reviews mentioning vegetarian options available.

The onboard snorkeling offers a chance to explore the lagoon’s shallow waters and see marine life — but some visitors note that the marine diversity isn’t always colorful or abundant, depending on natural conditions that day.

Wildlife and Water Activities

A major perk of this cruise is the chance to spot dolphins, a truly memorable experience for many. Several reviews mention dolphin sightings, which add a special touch to the voyage. For those seeking more adventure, parasailing is available on the island, offering spectacular aerial views of Île aux Cerfs and the surrounding ocean.

The Island Stop

On Île aux Cerfs, you can relax on the pristine beaches, paddle knee-deep waters, or soak up the sun. The island feels laid-back and welcoming, though some travelers have found it “basic” — it’s more about the beach than a bustling resort. The optional water sports, including parasailing, add a fun extra, but you’ll need to pay separately if you want to try them.

Return Journey and Final Impressions

After several hours of fun, the cruise returns to Pointe Jérôme around early afternoon. The last leg of the journey is accompanied by Mauritian sega music, a lively tradition that keeps the atmosphere cheerful. The smooth sailing, friendly crew, and scenic views leave most with a smile, and many mention they’d do it again.

Authentic Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Arrive early to enjoy the sunrise views and settle in comfortably.
• Consider bringing polarized sunglasses to cut glare while sailing and snorkeling.
• If interested in parasailing, book early or ask the crew on board for options.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes if you plan to explore the island more actively.
• Remember that snorkeling conditions depend on natural factors — don’t expect a vibrant reef every day.
• Keep an eye out for dolphins — sightings are common, but not guaranteed.
• The barbecue lunch is hearty and filling, so plan your breakfast accordingly.
• Book in advance, especially if traveling during peak season, to secure your spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals broadly, especially to families and couples who want a relaxed, all-in-one day of fun. If you love being on the water, enjoying scenic views, and snorkeling in calm lagoons, you’ll find plenty to love here. The friendly crew and lively atmosphere make it suitable for those looking for a social, laid-back experience.

However, if you’re after luxurious amenities or extensive snorkeling with vibrant coral and abundant fish, other tours might better suit you. The island stop is a bit simple, so those expecting a bustling resort or a more elaborate excursion may find the experience more understated.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, this cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers meet at the Pointe Jérôme embarkation point, which has free parking.

What’s the best time to start the cruise?
The tour departs at 9:00am, which allows you to enjoy the full day and return in the early afternoon, with plenty of daylight for all activities.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are unlimited beers, wines, and sodas available onboard, along with local Mauritian rum. Tea and coffee are also provided.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and you can swim and snorkel at the lagoon stop, though the marine life diversity can vary based on natural conditions.

Is parasailing available?
Yes, parasailing is offered as an optional activity on Île aux Cerfs, and you can book it directly on the island.

What is the meal like?
A BBQ buffet lunch is served onboard, with options for vegetarians. Guests consistently praise the lunch for being tasty and satisfying.

How long is the overall experience?
The cruise lasts about 7 hours from departure to return, making it a full but comfortable day trip.

What should I pack?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and waterproof footwear if you plan to explore the island more actively. An underwater camera or phone in a waterproof case can help capture memories.

In Closing

This full-day catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs stands out as a lively, authentic way to experience Mauritius’ waters and beaches. From dolphin sightings to a delicious barbecue, the trip offers a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. The friendly crew, scenic sailing, and good value make it appealing to a wide range of travelers.

It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy spending time on the water, appreciate casual, social atmospheres, and want to see the island from a different perspective. While the snorkeling might be hit or miss depending on conditions, the overall experience — with its stunning views, good food, and laid-back vibe — is likely to leave you with fond memories of Mauritius’ warm, welcoming spirit.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, fun day that captures the essence of island life, this cruise deserves a spot on your Mauritius itinerary.