Southeast of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise w/ BBQ Lunch

If you’re considering a day on the water during your time in Mauritius, this catamaran cruise along the southeast coast offers a blend of stunning scenery, cultural touches, and relaxation. While I haven’t personally set sail on this tour, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded way to explore this part of the island with comfort and authenticity.

What I love about this experience is how it combines spectacular coastal views with plenty of engaging stops, including snorkeling at Trou Moutou and a visit to the historic Ile au Phare. Plus, the inclusive BBQ lunch and drinks make it feel like a true island feast. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the reliance on weather conditions—rough seas may lead to changes in the itinerary, which is always something to keep in mind.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to enjoy Mauritius’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. It suits those who appreciate comfort, good food, and a mix of adventure and culture—ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a full day of memorable sights on the water.

• All-included experience: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear—everything’s covered, offering great value.
• Historical and natural highlights: Sail past Ile de La Passe and Ile au Phare, snorkel at Trou Moutou, visit Ile aux Cerfs.
• Relaxed pacing: Several stops allow for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring at your leisure.
• Beautiful scenery: Coastal views, waterfalls, and island beaches are front and center.
• Family-friendly: Kids menus available, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.
• Weather dependent: The captain may change course if sea conditions aren’t safe, so flexibility is key.

Start at Mahébourg at 9:15 am: Meeting at the Pointe des Régates jetty gets you ready for a day on the water. The group tends to be small and relaxed, which makes for an intimate experience. The boat, a comfortable catamaran called Silver Swordfish, offers a spacious deck and ample seating to enjoy the passing scenery.

Sailing to Trou Moutou for snorkeling: The highlight for many is the chance to swim in what’s described as ‘one of the region’s most picturesque snorkeling spots.’ The natural aquarium teems with marine life—curious fish often seem to join snorkelers, making it a memorable experience. The crew is helpful, and if you bring your own gear, you can jump right in. For those who prefer not to snorkel, relaxing on the deck and soaking up the views is equally appealing.

Passing Ile de La Passe and Ile au Phare: The tour offers a brief but insightful view of these historic islands from the water. The skippers share stories about their significance—these small islets have been key navigating markers and hold cultural value.

Lunch on board: Around noon, a delicious BBQ is served—think grilled fish, chicken, seafood delicacies, and vegetarian options—accompanied by salads, garlic bread, and seasonal fruit. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and the pleasure of eating with panoramic sea views. Drinks include local rum, wine, beer, fruit juice, and soft drinks, making it easy to toast the day.

Sailing to Ile aux Cerfs for leisure: Disembark for a few hours to enjoy free time on the island’s sandy beaches. Swimmers can explore the coral reefs, sunbathers can relax, and walkers can enjoy the natural beauty. The island’s charm lies in its balance of pristine nature and accessible amenities.

Additional stop at Grand River South East waterfall: The cruise glides up the estuary, giving you a chance to see a large bat colony and monkeys along the riverbank. The waterfall view offers a scenic backdrop, perfect for photos and a quick stretch.

Return around 4:30 pm: The boat heads back to Mahébourg, leaving travelers with a sense that they’ve experienced the best of Mauritius’s coast—covering nature, history, and leisure in one trip.

What makes this cruise stand out is how it balances relaxation with engaging sights. The snorkeling at Trou Moutou is often praised as a highlight—an opportunity to see vibrant marine life in a natural setting. The historic stops at Ile de La Passe and Ile au Phare deepen your understanding of the island’s maritime past, giving a sense of stepping back in time.

The BBQ lunch is more than just sustenance; it’s part of the experience, offering fresh, well-prepared food with a view. Many reviews mention how the quality of the meal exceeds expectations for a boat lunch, emphasizing the care that goes into preparing it.

The leisure time on Ile aux Cerfs adds a laid-back element, perfect for those who want to stretch their legs and enjoy the beach. The island’s reputation as an iconic paradise is justified, with sands that invite lounging and waters that promise fun.

A key advantage is the small group size and knowledgeable crew, who provide insights into the sights and ensure everyone’s safety. The crew’s friendliness and professionalism are often noted as a significant part of the trip’s appeal.

At $85 per person, the tour offers good value, considering it includes a full day of sailing, snorkeling gear, drinks, a hearty BBQ lunch, and multiple sightseeing stops. The fact that it’s all-inclusive reduces the hassle of planning meals or additional expenses, making it an attractive option for travelers wanting a seamless, memorable day.

Compared to other options that might charge separately for snorkeling or meals, this experience consolidates everything into one straightforward package. Guests seem to feel they receive a lot of value for the price, especially given the scenic and cultural richness packed into the day.

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want a perfect fit or plan to snorkel more than once.
• Wear comfortable beachwear and apply sunscreen ahead of time; the sun can be intense.
• Pack a waterproof bag for your valuables and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Arrive early at the jetty to avoid feeling rushed, as the departure is precise at 9:15 am.
• Keep in mind that sea conditions might lead to route changes for safety reasons; flexibility is essential.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

From the reviews, the friendly, knowledgeable guides stood out, enhancing the experience with stories and insights that added depth to the sightseeing. The spectacular views along the coast, combined with the chance to see marine life and historic sites, make this more than just a boat ride—it’s an immersive day out on the island’s waters.

The quality of the BBQ lunch and the variety of drinks really pleased many travelers, turning a simple meal into a highlight. Several guests praised the relaxed atmosphere and clean, well-maintained boat, which makes you feel comfortable and cared for throughout the trip.

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy marine activities and want an authentic taste of Mauritius’s coastal beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

If you’re interested in history and nature with a side of good food, the stops at Ile de La Passe, Ile au Phare, and Ile aux Cerfs will satisfy. However, keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent, so flexibility is essential if rain or rough seas are forecast.

This southeastern Mauritius catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see the island’s coast from the water. The combination of snorkeling, scenic stops, and a tasty BBQ makes it excellent value for those wanting a full, fun day outdoors. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of history.

While not suitable for everyone—those with mobility issues or seasickness concerns should consider other options—the majority of adventurous travelers, families, and beach lovers will find plenty to enjoy. It’s a flexible, memorable experience that delivers a true taste of Mauritius’s maritime charm.

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at the jetty of Pointe des Régates in Mahébourg, Mauritius.

What time does the tour depart?
Departure is at 9:15 am, with check-in starting earlier, and the trip returns around 4:30 pm.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch with seafood, chicken, salads, and fruit is served onboard as part of the package.

Are drinks included?
A variety of beverages are offered, including local rum, wine, Phoenix beer, fruit juice, soft drinks, and mineral water.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring your own if you prefer, although gear is usually available on the boat.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and there’s a kids menu with the same options as adults.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a waterproof bag, and comfortable clothes for the day.

What happens if the sea conditions are rough?
The captain may change the route or stops for safety reasons, so flexibility is necessary.

Is the tour available every day?
Yes, it runs daily, Monday through Sunday.

Is transportation to the jetty included?
No, you need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

This catamaran cruise along Mauritius’s southeast coast promises an engaging day filled with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and tropical relaxation. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal waters or lounging on a sandy beach, it’s a trip that captures the essence of island life—enjoy it to the fullest.