North: Cruise to the flat island & Gabriel island.bbq lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water, surrounded by stunning scenery, and indulging in a tasty BBQ lunch, then this cruise to Ile Plate and Gabriel Island might just be what you’re looking for. Promising a full, all-inclusive experience, it offers you a chance to see some of Mauritius’ most picturesque islands from the comfort of a well-equipped catamaran.

We’re not saying we’ve been on this exact trip ourselves, but from what travelers have shared and what’s on offer, it’s a well-rounded way to enjoy a day in paradise. Two things we really appreciate are the spectacular sea views and the quality of the food, which seem to elevate this cruise above just another boat ride.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a sailing-only experience—no land visits on the islands themselves, which might be a downside for those wanting to explore every corner.

This tour is perfect for those who love sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a no-fuss, all-in-one day out. It’s also suited for travelers seeking value for money with a comprehensive package that covers transportation, island visits, and a hearty lunch.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: The tour includes boat transfers, island visits, and a BBQ lunch, offering good value.
• Spectacular Scenery: Expect stunning views at sea, with close-up views of Coin de Mire and untouched islands.
• Relaxed Island Time: About an hour of free time on each island allows for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or simply strolling.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Clear waters provide excellent conditions for snorkeling, with chances to see colorful fish, turtles, and even an octopus.
• Comfortable Catamaran: The boat is described as fast, secure, and equipped for a fun atmosphere with music and friendly staff.
• No Landings on Islands: Keep in mind, there’s no opportunity to step foot on the islands of Ile Plate or Gabriel; viewing close-up is the main attraction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

The adventure begins in Grand Baie, where you’ll meet your crew on the beach, easily recognizable by a smiling guide and a list of participants. From there, a taxi boat whisks you out to the anchored catamaran, which is your floating base for the day.

The cruise out to Ilot Gabriel promises a scenic journey. As you sail, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean and surrounding islands—many guests describe this part of the trip as “fabulous,” with some noting the sense of flying over the sea. The boat moves swiftly yet feels stable, which adds to the sense of security and enjoyment, especially for those prone to seasickness.

Once at Ilot Gabriel, the crew drops anchor, and you’ll take a smaller dinghy to reach the island’s pristine shores. Here, you’ll have roughly an hour to relax, sunbathe on soft, powdery sands, snorkel in the clear waters, or stroll through the greenery. The waters surrounding the islands are renowned for their crystal-clear quality—one reviewer said, “I’ve never seen water this clear,” which makes snorkeling a highlight. Many guests also report seeing a variety of fishes, including the chance to spot turtles or even an octopus.

The BBQ lunch is served on Ile Plate, one of the key highlights of this trip. Expect a generous spread of grilled fish, chicken, sausages, pasta, rice, bread, and fresh green salad. Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, with one reviewer enthusiastically stating, “The BBQ is awesome!” Drinks are unlimited during lunch, including juice, water, and cocktails, which help keep everyone refreshed.

After about an hour of leisure, it’s time to return to the boat for the crossing near Coin de Mire, the striking rock formation that’s visible from a distance. While the boat doesn’t stop for landings here, the close-up views are spectacular and give a real sense of being in a tropical paradise.

The return sail to Grand Baie caps off a day filled with scenic beauty, marine life, and relaxation. The overall atmosphere on board is lively yet laid-back, with friendly staff and music creating a cheerful vibe.

What Does It All Cost and Is It Worth It?

At $76 per person, the price represents a competitive value for a full day’s adventure that includes transportation, island visits, snorkeling opportunities, and a hearty BBQ lunch. Given that all the details—from boat transfers to island hopping—are included, there’s little to worry about in terms of hidden costs.

It’s worth noting that guests are advised to bring their own bottled water for walking on the islands or while waiting to be picked up, which is a small but practical detail. The tour is all-inclusive, but it’s not a guided land tour—think of it more as a sailing day with free time on the islands.

The reviews emphasize that this tour offers great value for money, especially considering the quality of the scenery, food, and overall experience. One guest called it “a fabulous trip” with “fantastic water quality and snorkeling,” while another mentioned the “great waves and good food.”

It’s also flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds reassuring peace of mind when booking.

The Experience – What You’ll Really Take Home

This cruise provides a balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. The spectacular views of the sea and mountains are a constant backdrop, making every moment feel special. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters offers a chance to see marine life up close, and the islands’ powdery beaches are perfect for lounging or a gentle stroll.

The friendly crew and lively atmosphere are often highlighted in reviews, with guests mentioning the music, the good-natured staff, and the sense of camaraderie. The lunch on Ile Plate is often singled out as a highlight, with the delicious barbecue satisfying both the appetite and the tastebuds.

However, it’s important to remember that this is a cruise experience, not a land-based guided tour. You’ll have free time rather than structured excursions, which suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, flexible pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a memorable day on the water. It’s perfect if you want to see multiple islands without the hassle of land transfers and enjoy a comprehensive package that combines sightseeing, swimming, and dining.

Those who prioritize scenic views and marine life will find plenty to love, especially with its spectacular snorkeling opportunities. Also, the all-inclusive nature makes it suitable for travelers who like to relax and let someone else handle the logistics.

It’s less suited for those seeking guided, land-based explorations or long walks on the islands, as the focus is on the boat cruise and short island stops.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers boat transfer from the beach, the entire cruise, taxi boat rides to Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel, lunch on Ile Plate with drinks, and passes close to Coin de Mire. Drinks are available during the cruise and lunch.

Are there any landings on the islands?
No, the boat does not stop for clients to set foot on Ile Plate or Ilot Gabriel. You’ll enjoy close-up views and time to relax on the beaches, but no formal landings.

Is transportation to the meeting point arranged?
No, hotel transfers are not included. You meet at a designated spot on the beach in Grand Baie, where you’ll see a recognizable guide.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and bottled water if you want to stay hydrated while on the islands or waiting for pickup.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the trip may be rescheduled after consultation. If rescheduling isn’t possible, guests will receive a full refund.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, with about 90 minutes of sailing to reach the islands, time on the islands, and the return journey.

What languages are spoken?
The crew speaks English, French, Hindi, and Urdu, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering some flexibility for planning.

This cruise to Mauritius’ northern islands offers a fantastic way to enjoy a day in paradise—if you’re after stunning scenery, marine adventures, and a relaxed atmosphere. The combination of beautiful islands, snorkeling opportunities, and delicious BBQ makes it a memorable experience, especially at a reasonable price point.

It’s best suited for those who want to see the islands without a land-based tour, appreciate water-based activities, and enjoy a lively, friendly environment. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, this cruise will give you a taste of the tropical life that Mauritius is famous for.

In summary, if you’re looking for a beautiful, fun, and value-packed day out on the water—this tour delivers. Just remember, it’s about enjoying the scenery and the ocean, not exploring every inch of the islands. That said, the views, the snorkeling, and the food make it a trip you’ll likely remember fondly.

Enjoy your island adventure in Mauritius!

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby