GBaie: 3 North Islands Cruise, Lunch & CoindeMire Snorkeling

What makes this cruise fun is the mix of catamaran sailing and real water time, especially around Coin de Mire. I like the idea of an open-sea day with beach breaks, then a BBQ lunch while you’re still out on the water. One drawback to plan for: the boat can feel crowded, and drinks and shade on the island stops may be limited.

I also like that you get the famous Coin de Mire experience without the hassle of stepping onto the island. You’ll sail close for photos, and if conditions allow you’ll snorkel very near it, but you still won’t “land” there. Weather can also tighten the plan, including times when snorkeling may not happen.

This is a solid value for friends and families who want an easy day at sea and don’t mind sharing space with other boats. I’d consider skipping if you need a quiet, spacious ride or wheelchair access, since this one is not set up for wheelchairs.

Key things to know before you go

• Coin de Mire snorkeling focus: you snorkel near it, but the catamaran does not set foot on the island
• Three-island style day: beach time at Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel, plus open-water sailing for views
• BBQ lunch on the water: BBQ, salad, and drinks are included, with rare cases where lunch may be served on the island
• Weather can change the snorkel plan: the captain may reschedule or adjust activities for sea conditions
• Bring your own snorkel setup for best results: especially for the Coin de Mire portion
• Expect crowds at peak times: some departures can have many catamarans around at once

North Islands by catamaran: what the 7 hours are really like

This is a classic Mauritius “all in one day” format, built around a catamaran loop through the North Islands zone. You start with time sailing out, then you get island breaks where you can swim, stretch out on beaches, and cool off in lagoons. The whole day runs about 7 hours, and the pacing is meant to balance sun, snorkeling, and meals without long transfers.

What I like about this kind of itinerary is how simple it feels once you’re on board. You don’t need to navigate. You don’t need to rent gear or line up guides one stop at a time. You just show up with your basics, then follow the crew’s plan while you enjoy sailing views out over changing shades of sea.

The catch is that it is a group day, and that matters. Some departures can feel busy, including when multiple catamarans are on the water around the same area. That can affect seating comfort and the overall vibe, so if you’re sensitive to crowding, keep expectations realistic.

Coin de Mire: stunning views, no landing, and the snorkeling rules

Coin de Mire is the headline, and it earns that role. It’s described as a mountain in the ocean, and you’ll sail close enough to really see its shape and scale. This part is about the scenery and the waterline experience, not a land visit.

Here’s the key detail that changes how you plan: the cruise does not stop to set foot on Coin de Mire. Instead, you sail as close as possible. If weather allows, you may get a snorkeling session very near to that third island.

That means two things for you:

1. Don’t expect a beach walk or an island snack stop on Coin de Mire.
2. Bring your own snorkeling equipment if you want to be ready to swim when the conditions allow it.

This is one of those “timing meets weather” moments. On a calm day, you’ll likely get more water time near Coin de Mire. When conditions are rough, the crew may adjust or skip the snorkeling segment for safety. The tour is upfront that safety comes first, so keep your mood flexible.

Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel: beach time with practical limits

Your day includes island time at Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel. These stops are all about beaches and swimming in clear water, with lagoon-style conditions that are made for casual snorkeling and relaxing.

At Ile Plate, you’re looking for the combination of shoreline time and swimming in a clear lagoon. Expect the island break to be a true break, but it’s still tied to a schedule, and it’s not designed as an all-day beach hang. In practice, island time can feel tight if you’re hoping for a long, uninterrupted stretch, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Ilot Gabriel comes with an added nature angle. It’s a natural reserve, and the description specifically mentions nests of the Paille en Queue among others. That matters because it gives the stop a purpose beyond just beach photos. You’re visiting a protected area, so treat it like one: stay mindful of the environment, don’t go where you’re not encouraged to go, and keep trash to yourself.

A practical note: shade can be limited on island breaks. Some people have found that water and drinks were not always available throughout the island stop, and ice was not always available for drinks when they were provided. So bring a plan for hydration, especially if you’re the kind of person who tends to forget sunscreen reapplication.

The BBQ lunch on board: what you get and how to time it

Lunch is one of the big reasons this cruise works as a day plan. BBQ is included, along with salad and drinks. The idea is that while you’re on the islands, lunch is handled back on the catamaran so you’re not scrambling for food.

The timing works like this: you spend time relaxing on the island, then a dinghy comes to pick you up so you return to the catamaran when lunch is ready. In some rare cases, lunch may be served on the island instead, but don’t count on it. Assume you’ll eat back aboard.

Quality-wise, the BBQ is generally described as good. The bigger variable is how you experience the meal given the crowd level. If the catamaran is full and the day is busy, food can feel more “on schedule” than “lingering.” If you enjoy a slow lunch, keep that in mind and focus on the social part of eating together on the water.

Drinks are included, but they’re not guaranteed to be a free-flow setup at every moment of the island portion. If you want peace of mind, consider bringing your own extra water or drink for the island stretches, especially if you’re traveling with kids or if you’re heat-sensitive.

Group size and the “party level” reality check

This is not a private charter. The day can include a lot of catamarans in the same region, and that can create crowding and competition for seating comfort. If you’re the type who needs space to move around, pick your expectations accordingly.

The other thing to consider is the vibe. Some departures can feel lively, with friendly, entertaining crew members and a playful mood. On other days, the energy can swing the other way, like when onboard music is turned up around embarkation to attract people. If you want calm and conversation, pack something to tune it out, like a small pair of headphones, and be ready to share the experience.

Also, the captain and crew approach can vary. One caution from past experiences is that the boat can be late sometimes, and communication can be imperfect. If you’re strict about timing, add buffer to your day. If you’re there for the sea and the snorkeling, you’ll likely be happier with a flexible mindset.

Snorkeling strategy: how to get the most from Coin de Mire and the islands

This cruise is built for snorkeling, but it’s not about technical scuba-level stuff. It’s about clear water, easy access, and getting time in the shallows and near the islands.

Your best “snorkel payoff” is tied to Coin de Mire. Because the boat doesn’t land, the snorkel session depends on sea conditions. When it works, it’s described as a highlight, with some people enjoying the chance to swim in crystal-clear deeper water. When it doesn’t work, the crew may skip snorkeling due to weather conditions.

For you, the smartest approach is to be prepared for both outcomes:

• Bring your own snorkel equipment, especially for the Coin de Mire portion
• Use sunscreen before you feel hot, not after
• Start with short swims first so you can gauge water conditions

Also, note that snorkeling near the islands on your own is part of the included experience. That means you don’t just get one controlled swim. You’ll have island time where you can enter the water and explore nearby areas.

If you travel with kids, this is a good style of snorkeling day because it’s broken into sections, not one long continuous session. Still, you’ll want to keep close watch, because island time can move quickly and conditions can change.

What to bring, and what to do to avoid the common problems

You’ll have a short list to keep you ready: towel, sunscreen, and swimwear. I’d add a couple of practical extras that align with how the day works. If drinks are not always refreshed exactly when you want them on island stops, having your own water or a small extra drink helps. Also, if you’re serious about snorkeling near Coin de Mire, bring your own mask and snorkel.

Other helpful items, based on the reality of a sun-heavy day:

• A small dry bag for phone and keys
• A rash guard or extra sun layer if you burn easily
• Flip-flops for walking around beach areas
• A cap, especially if shade is limited

And do yourself a favor: reapply sunscreen when you return from water time. It’s easy to miss that on a vacation day when you’re busy taking photos and planning the next swim.

Price and value: is $70 worth it?

At about $70 per person for a roughly 7-hour cruise with catamaran transport, guide services, BBQ lunch, drinks, and snorkeling opportunities, the value is pretty strong if you want a one-stop “sea day.” You’re paying for convenience, local guiding, and the ability to visit multiple spots in a single outing without arranging separate transport.

Where value gets clearer is for the right kind of traveler. If you want a full day with food included and you care about snorkeling at the famous Coin de Mire area, this price can feel fair. If your priority is a quiet, uncrowded boat with constant drink service on every island step, it might feel less like a bargain and more like a compromise.

So I’d frame it like this: the cruise delivers the main pillars for many people, but your experience will depend on crowding and how your day matches weather. You can’t control weather, and you can’t control how many boats show up. What you can control is your preparation, especially hydration and snorkel readiness.

Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)

This tour works best for:

• Families with kids who want a fun, structured water day
• Friend groups who enjoy a boat day and don’t mind sharing space
• Snorkelers who are happy with snorkeling near islands and by boat position, rather than long, technical sessions
• People who like a simple day plan with lunch handled

It’s not a great match for:

• Wheelchair users, since it is not suitable for that
• Anyone who needs guaranteed drink availability all day while on islands
• Travelers who are very sensitive to crowding, because the catamaran can be packed and you may share the area with many boats

Weather changes the plan, so build in a calm attitude

This is Mauritius, and the sea has opinions. The tour can be rescheduled by the captain if bad weather conditions are known in advance. The schedule and starting times can also be amended if force majeure conditions warrant it, including weather. Sometimes this means snorkeling may not happen.

I like that the activity is safety-first. That said, your best travel move is psychological. Treat this as a day on the water that can shift slightly. If snorkeling near Coin de Mire becomes limited, you can still enjoy sailing views and island swimming time, and you still get the BBQ and drinks.

Should you book? My decision guide

Book it if you want a high-fun catamaran day that includes BBQ lunch and real snorkeling highlights, especially around the Coin de Mire area. Bring your own snorkel gear, pack sunscreen, and consider adding your own extra hydration for island time.

Skip it or rethink if you’re counting on a calm, uncrowded boat, constant drink service on islands, and a guaranteed snorkeling session near Coin de Mire regardless of sea conditions. In that case, a more controlled private-style trip or a less weather-dependent plan would fit you better.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The duration is 7 hours.

Where do I meet the tour?

You meet on the beach. You should contact your guide 24 hours prior to the activity.

Which islands are included in the day?

The cruise includes stops at Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel, plus sailing close to Coin de Mire.

Do you land on Coin de Mire?

No. The catamaran does not set foot on Coin de Mire. It sails as close as possible, and snorkeling near it may happen if weather allows.

Is snorkeling included, and what gear should I bring?

Snorkeling near the islands and snorkeling near Coin de Mire are included. For snorkeling very near Coin de Mire, bring your own equipment.

Is BBQ lunch included?

Yes. BBQ lunch is included, and lunch is generally served when you return to the catamaran. In rare cases, lunch might be served on the island.

Are drinks provided?

Drinks are included with lunch. The tour includes drinks overall, but actual availability on island time can be limited depending on conditions.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring a towel, sunscreen, and swimwear.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips will be rescheduled by the captain in case of bad weather when such conditions are known in advance. The itinerary, starting times, and the initial program may also be amended if force majeure conditions warrant it.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No, this activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.