Mauritius: Ile Aux Cerfs Catamaran Tour with Lunch and Drinks

Introduction

This Mauritius: Ile Aux Cerfs Catamaran Tour with Lunch and Drinks offers a full-day escape into some of the island’s most scenic spots, all from the comfort of a well-equipped catamaran. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough traveler insights and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really catches the eye are the stunning views of Mauritius’s coastline and the generous all-day food and drink offerings. Plus, there’s the chance to snorkel over incredible coral reefs and relax on the world-famous beaches of Ile Aux Cerfs. One thing to keep in mind: this tour runs smoothly for those who enjoy organized, group activities and don’t mind sharing the boat with others — it’s capped at 20 people for a more intimate experience.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and value-packed day out that mixes adventure with relaxation, this trip has a lot to offer. It’s especially suited for travelers who love being on the water, snorkeling, and enjoying authentic Mauritian vibes. However, if you’re seeking a more secluded, private experience, you might find this tour a bit busy.

Key Points

• All-day adventure that combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach
• Excellent value with inclusive lunch, unlimited drinks, and optional activities
• Small group size ensures a friendly atmosphere and attentive service
• Diverse itinerary including waterfalls, coral reefs, and Ile Aux Cerfs’s pristine beaches
• Cultural touches like Mauritian music, jokes, and local stories enhance the vibe
• Flexible options for activities such as parasailing and undersea walking

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point at Trou d’eau Douce

The journey kicks off early at 8:30 a.m. from Trou d’eau Douce, a charming fishing village on Mauritius’s east coast. The boat departs at 9:00 a.m., and from that moment, it’s about to be a fun day filled with scenic views and lively company. The crew here is known for being welcoming, eager to share local tales, jokes, and play traditional Mauritian music, setting a cheerful tone for the day.

Waterfalls and Monkey Feeds at Grand River South East

The first stop is the Grand River South East Waterfalls, just 30 minutes upstream, where you’ll see monkeys leaping through the trees and even have the chance to feed them. This part of the trip is a nice quick nature break, giving you a taste of Mauritius’s lush landscape and wildlife. The waterfalls are a small but picturesque spot, ideal for a quick photo or some wildlife spotting. Reviewers mention the experience as “superbes” and highlight the chance to see Mauritian fruit bats resting high in the trees.

Snorkeling Over Coral Reefs

Next, the boat heads towards the clear waters of the lagoon surrounding Ile Aux Cerfs. Here, several snorkeling stops are scheduled, offering a chance to see colorful coral reefs, bright tropical fish, and perhaps even sea turtles. Many travelers rave about the quality of the marine life, describing it as “breathtaking” and noting the coral reefs are some of the most impressive they’ve seen.

This is definitely a highlight for underwater enthusiasts. The calm, warm waters make it easy to float above vibrant fish and coral, especially with snorkel gear provided or brought along. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one guest noting, “divers will have plenty to discover,” which rings true for those with a love for marine life.

Beach Time and Optional Activities on Ile Aux Cerfs

After snorkeling, the catamaran anchors at Ile Aux Cerfs, a picture-perfect island with white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees. Here, you’ll have around two hours to relax, sunbathe, swim, or explore. The island’s natural beauty makes it a favorite among travelers — one review describes it as “the perfect setting for a relaxing day of sun worship.”

For those interested in adventure, optional activities such as parasailing, undersea walking, or tube riding are available. Parasailing offers stunning aerial views, and many find it a thrilling way to see Mauritius from a different perspective. The activities are included depending on your package, so it’s worth checking what’s available when booking.

Beach and Relaxation on Ile Aux Cerfs

The last few hours are dedicated to simply enjoying the white beaches and turquoise waters. Many mention the chance to sit back, soak in the sun, and enjoy a swim or snorkel in the calm sea. This time truly exemplifies the relaxing side of the tour, perfect for recharging before heading back.

Return Journey

Around 4 p.m., the boat departs from Ile Aux Cerfs for the sail back to Trou d’eau Douce, concluding a full, well-paced day. The return trip offers one last chance to enjoy the views and the company of your fellow travelers. Throughout the day, the open bar provides unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, which many reviewers describe as a highlight, “flowing happily” all day long.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the big appeals of this tour is its balance of activities and relaxation. The itinerary is thoughtfully organized, with enough time allocated to each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited drinks offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the food — many mention the barbecue as being delicious, perfect for fueling an active day.

The small group size (max 20 travelers) is often praised, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere where everyone gets personalized attention. The crew’s enthusiasm and local stories add a charming touch, making it more than just a boat ride.

The marine snorkeling is often described as spectacular, with “breathtaking coral reefs” and “bright fish,” making it clear that the underwater world is a major highlight. For those looking to combine adventure with relaxation, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Price and Value

At $70 per person, this tour offers good value. It’s not just about the boat ride — it’s the full experience: wildlife, beaches, excellent food, drinks, and optional adventures. The reviews back this up, with travelers saying it “beat all my expectations” and “was worth every penny.” The all-inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about extra costs, which adds peace of mind.

Considerations

While many praise the tour’s overall quality, some mention that the weather can influence the experience — like any outdoor activity, good weather makes all the difference. Also, the tour is quite full, so if you prefer solitude, it might feel a bit crowded, although most reviews suggest the atmosphere remains friendly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, water sports, and socializing. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting to see some of Mauritius’s highlights in a single day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. Photographers will appreciate the scenic stops, and snorkelers will find the marine life especially rewarding.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day with authentic Mauritian flavor, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable if you value good food, drinks, and friendly crew while exploring the island’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This Ile Aux Cerfs Catamaran Tour offers a well-crafted balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. The inclusive lunch, unlimited drinks, and small group size make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a fun, social, and scenic day out. The stops at waterfalls, coral reefs, and the stunning beaches of Ile Aux Cerfs showcase the best of what Mauritius has to offer and do so in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall value, friendly crew, and beautiful settings make this tour a memorable highlight of any Mauritius trip. Whether you’re an underwater enthusiast or simply want to unwind on a postcard-perfect beach, this trip provides a hearty dose of island charm and adventure.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:30 a.m. and returning around 4 p.m.

What is included in the price?
For $70, you get the boat ride, stops at waterfalls, snorkeling, Ile Aux Cerfs beach time, optional activities, and unlimited drinks including alcohol and non-alcoholic options. Lunch is also included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned — it’s best to check with the supplier directly.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps ensure a comfortable, friendly atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a towel or change of clothes for after swimming. Some guests also bring cameras or snorkeling gear.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling requires swimming ability, the calm waters and shallow coral reefs mean non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenery from the boat or on the beaches.

Can I participate in the optional activities?
Yes, depending on your package, activities like parasailing and undersea walking are available and included.

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