Full Day Catamaran Luxury Cruise to Northern Islands w Lunch

This full-day catamaran cruise is interesting because you get open-sea time plus island stops on Mauritius north, including Gunners Coin and the Northern Islands. I especially like that you start at Coin de Mire Attitude in Bain Boeuf, so the day has an organized, easy rhythm from the first hour. And seeing those steep rock faces from the water early sets the tone fast.

I also like that snorkelling gear is included, with planned water time around Flat Island and later at Coin de Mire’s natural aquarium area. The BBQ lunch, plus bottled water and alcoholic beverages served on board, turns it into a proper day out instead of a skim-the-coast outing. One important consideration: weather can change the feel of the day, because rain and rough conditions can limit what you see and may cancel snorkeling stops.

Key highlights you should know before you go

• Gunners Coin views from the water give you dramatic cliffs without needing any hiking.
• Snorkel time at Flat Island and Coin de Mire is built into the schedule, with equipment provided.
• BBQ lunch on board with drinks means you do not have to track food or make last-minute purchases.
• The Lagoon 380 catamaran keeps the day moving at sea level, with lots of time for relaxing.
• Six hours on the water is long enough to feel like an experience, yet short enough to stay flexible.

A Northern Islands Catamaran Day, Built Around Views and Snorkel Time

If you want Mauritius on a schedule that feels both relaxed and purposeful, this catamaran trip is a solid fit. You are out from morning into mid-afternoon, sailing along the north coast and hitting island stops that are known for clear water and easy snorkeling access.

I like that the day is not just about being on a boat. The route is designed around specific landmarks: you pass Gunners Coin, then you spend time at Flat Island for snorkeling, and you add Ilot Gabriel later after lunch. That sequence matters, because it keeps the best moments spread out instead of all crammed into the first two hours.

The Exact Route and What Happens Between 09:45 and 15:45

The experience starts at the reception of Coin de Mire Attitude at 09:30. From there, you sail at 09:45, and the day runs until about 15:45, with a return back to the same meeting point area.

Safety briefing, then you’re off

Before you get comfortable, there is a safety briefing as you set off. This is worth paying attention to, especially if you are someone who gets anxious at sea. Even if you feel fine, it helps you know where to stand and how the boat handles in open water.

Morning sail to Flat Island and the first snorkeling window

After leaving, the catamaran heads toward Ilot Gabriel and Flat Island. You then get time to snorkel in the lagoon around Flat Island. This is a great slot for your first water time, because you have energy early in the day and you are not rushing after lunch.

Practical note: you do not need to bring your own snorkeling equipment. Use of snorkelling equipment is included, so you can travel lighter.

BBQ lunch on board, plus drinks

Then comes lunch on board, served as a BBQ. Along with the meal, you also get bottled water and alcoholic beverages included. I like this setup because it makes the middle of the day feel like a pause, not a gap where you wonder what you will eat.

If you tend to get hungry on boats, the timing works well. You are not waiting until late afternoon when energy is fading.

Afternoon on Ilot Gabriel

After lunch, the catamaran shifts to Ilot Gabriel, where you discover the island. This is your chance to slow down again after the snorkel portion and enjoy a second change of scenery before the return sail.

This section is especially good if you enjoy simple island time, not just swimming. Even without a long schedule of activities, just having that island “moment” helps the day feel complete.

Return sail and the Coin de Mire natural aquarium stop

On the way back, the catamaran stops at Coin de Mire for an additional snorkeling break in the natural aquarium area. This second snorkeling stop is one reason the day feels like more than a standard half-day cruise.

Do be aware of the real-world element here. Conditions can affect whether snorkeling happens. On at least one day with poor weather, snorkeling at Coin de Mire was cancelled because forecasts pointed to dangerous conditions, and the group stayed mostly under shelter instead.

Snorkelling: Included Gear, Two Water Stops, and a Weather Reality Check

Snorkelling is a major reason people choose this cruise, and it is structured to give you two chances: one at Flat Island and another at Coin de Mire.

What you should bring

You are only told to bring essentials like a towel and beachwear. Since snorkeling equipment is included, you can keep packing simple and focus on comfort.

Why the schedule gives you better odds

Two snorkeling windows matter. Even if one stop is affected, you still have the possibility of getting water time at another point in the day. That said, you should not count on it being identical every time, because the sea can turn quickly.

If you’re sensitive to sea conditions

This activity is not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and it makes sense. You are on a catamaran all day, so if you have even mild motion sensitivity, plan accordingly.

If you are traveling with anyone who has mobility challenges, note the limits too. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or electric wheelchair users.

Lunch and Drinks: Good Value Because You Do Not Have to Think

The meal is handled for you: a BBQ lunch is served on board, and bottled water plus alcoholic beverages are included. For a six-hour outing, that is a meaningful value piece.

Here’s the practical way I think about it. On many island or boat days, food ends up being an extra cost and an extra decision you have to manage. Here, lunch is part of the plan, so you can focus on the islands and the water time instead of sorting out where you will eat.

Also, the BBQ timing fits the day well. You get an energy reset after the morning cruise, then you go into the afternoon stop with food already taken care of.

Gunners Coin: The Cliff Stop That Makes the Cruise Feel Dramatic

One of the most memorable elements is passing Gunners Coin, described as a magnificent rock formation with sheer cliffs. You are seeing it from the water, so you get that sense of scale without needing any hike or viewpoint scramble.

This early sight can change how you feel about the whole day. Even if you are mainly there for snorkeling, having the dramatic rock formation first gives you an immediate “wow” moment before the water time.

Price and Value: What $115 Gets You for a 6-Hour Day

At $115 per person for a full 6-hour experience, the value comes down to what is included versus what you would otherwise pay separately.

You get:

• Lunch (BBQ) on board
• Bottled water
• Alcoholic beverages
• Use of snorkelling equipment

What you do not get:

• Transfer, meaning hotel pick-up and drop-off

So the value story is strong if you are already staying near Bain Boeuf or you are comfortable arranging your own transport to Coin de Mire Attitude. If you have to pay extra for a taxi there and back, it can eat into the “all-in” feeling.

Still, compared to piecing together boat time, a meal, and snorkeling gear rental, this package format is usually a cleaner deal. You pay once, show up at the reception meeting point, and the day is planned around those core activities.

Who This Cruise Suits Best (And Who Might Feel Frustrated)

This is a good choice for you if:

• You want a full day on the water with two snorkeling opportunities
• You like the idea of a BBQ lunch and drinks being handled on board
• You enjoy north-coast sights, especially Gunners Coin

It may not be the right choice if:

• You get seasick easily, since people prone to seasickness are not suitable
• You need wheelchair access, since the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments
• You are bringing lots of gear, because oversize luggage and large bags are not allowed
• You are traveling with very young kids, since children under 2 are not suitable

Weather is the other real filter. If conditions are poor, the day can feel slower and more sheltered. That is not a deal-breaker for everyone, but it is important to understand that snorkeling plans can change when forecasts turn dangerous.

Should You Book This Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if your priority is a structured catamaran day on Mauritius north, with snorkeling and lunch already handled. The route has clear anchors: Flat Island for snorkeling, Ilot Gabriel in the afternoon, plus a return stop at Coin de Mire for the natural aquarium area.

I would think twice if you are very weather-sensitive, seasickness-prone, or traveling with accessibility needs that fall outside the stated limits. And if your budget is tight, build in the fact that transfer is not included, so your total cost depends on how you reach Coin de Mire Attitude.

If you want a day that feels like more than sitting on a beach, this is a strong option.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the cruise?

You meet at the reception of Coin de Mire Attitude at 09:30.

What time does the catamaran depart and return?

The cruise departs at 09:45 and returns at about 15:45.

How long is the experience?

The duration is 6 hours.

Which islands or areas are included in the day?

You pass Gunners Coin, snorkel around Flat Island, discover Ilot Gabriel, and there is a snorkeling stop at Coin de Mire.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, served as a BBQ on board.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Bottled water and alcoholic beverages are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Use of snorkeling equipment is included.

Is hotel transfer included?

No. Transfer, meaning hotel pick-up and drop-off, is not included.

What should I bring, and what is not allowed?

Bring a towel and beachwear. Oversize luggage, baby strollers, luggage or large bags, and fishing are not allowed.

Who is this not suitable for?

It is not suitable for children under 2 years, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, and people prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.