Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

This catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs is one of those Mauritius days that feels like it was made for slowing down. You start with a calm sail around the island’s best water, then you get time for swimming and snorkeling, and you still finish with a proper on-board BBQ lunch.

What I like most is the combo of easy time on the water plus a crew that runs a smooth, friendly ship. You’ll also have all day access to soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails, which turns the trip from just a sightseeing stop into a full outing.

One thing to consider: the experience depends a lot on the weather. If the day turns windy and cloudy, it can feel cold out on the water and you may not enjoy snorkeling as much as you hoped.

Key highlights at a glance

• Safe sailing in the lagoon along Mauritius’s wild east coast, where conditions are calmer
• Snorkel and swim time before heading inshore, so you are not rushed
• Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall visit with 18th-century ramparts and a famous 1810 battle site
• BBQ buffet on board featuring smoked marlin mousse, grilled fish, chicken, sausages, salads, fruits, and coffee
• All-day drinks including soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails
• Crew energy and attention that makes the day feel personal, not like a cattle call

Sailing to Ile aux Cerfs from Pointe Jerome

Your day starts near Pointe Jerome (the embarkation point), close to Mahebourg and the protected Blue Bay Marine Park, which falls under the Ramsar Convention. That matters because it signals you are heading through a coastline that is protected, not a random shoreline where anything goes.

From the start, the vibe is simple: you get on the catamaran, settle in, and start moving toward Ile aux Cerfs without the stress of constant stops. The route is designed for a relaxed pace, and the big selling point is that you are sailing within the safety of the lagoon. In plain terms, it is the kind of day where you can actually enjoy the view instead of bracing yourself.

If you choose hotel transfers, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Mauritius. Collection time is confirmed the day before, based on where you are staying, so it is worth double-checking details early.

The lagoon ride, drinks, and what “all day” really means

This excursion runs about 7 to 8 hours, and that time is spent doing actual things, not just waiting around. The catamaran time is not an awkward in-between segment. It is part of the experience.

One of the best features is the all-day drink setup: soft drinks, beer, water, and rum cocktails. This is not about turning the boat into a party. For many people, it is more practical than that. You get something to sip while you watch the coastline slide by, and it makes the day feel generous, like the crew planned for comfort.

The crew is also a standout. Multiple accounts describe a friendly team that pays attention and tries to make small wishes happen quickly. When you are on the water, small things matter. Getting help with where to sit, when to move for the best shade, or how to time snorkeling can completely change how smooth the day feels.

Tip: if you like trying local flavors, ask what the rum cocktails are on offer that day. One review specifically recommended a rum punch called jungle juice, which tells you it is not just generic mixed drinks.

Snorkeling and swimming time that fits real humans

Before you reach the on-island moments, you get time to swim and snorkel in the water. This is one of those “perfect timing” choices because it gives you a chance to enjoy the lagoon’s calmer conditions before you head in for the land stops.

You should know that water-sports extras at Ile aux Cerfs are not included. So if you were hoping for parasailing or other add-on activities, plan on paying separately or look for a different day trip.

Practical advice:

• Bring a towel and sunscreen. You will use both.
• Wear swimwear you can tolerate for hours. You will be on and off the boat and in the sun.
• If you get cold easily, consider a light layer. A windy day can make the boat cooler than you expect, especially after you leave the shore.

Weather is the big swing factor here. On a good day, the water time can be a highlight. On a bad day, wind can limit how long you want to stay in or how comfortable snorkeling feels.

Also, keep your expectations friendly. You are not on a private charter. If you want calm, simple swimming with minimal fuss, try to get into the water early during the allotted time.

Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall and the fortifications story

After your water time, you visit Grande Riviere Sud Est waterfall and its surrounding area. This is not just a pretty stop. It also has serious context.

In the 18th century, ramparts in the area were still visible, tied to corsair activities and naval conflicts along the coast. And in 1810, the region is linked to the Battle of Vieux Grand Port between the French and the English. That gives your day trip a “there is a real place behind the postcard” feeling.

What does that mean for you, practically? You get to stretch your legs, move from boat to land, and see why this coastline was strategically important. It also adds contrast to the day. Up to this point, the experience is mostly water, sun, and swimming. The waterfall stop adds shade, movement, and a different kind of scenery.

One more small perk: wildlife sightings can happen. I would not count on it, but you might spot animals like monkeys while you are on land. One review mentioned seeing monkeys, which is a nice reminder that Ile aux Cerfs and the surrounding area can feel alive beyond the obvious beaches.

BBQ lunch on board: what’s actually on the plate

The BBQ lunch is a core reason this cruise feels like a full experience. There is nothing worse than spending a half-day sailing and then eating something that feels like a snack. Here, you get a real buffet served on board by the crew.

The meal includes:

• Smoked marlin mousse
• Grilled fish
• Chicken and sausages
• Rice and potato salads
• Crudités
• Freshly baked bread
• Fresh fruits
• Coffee

If you enjoy food on travel days, this is a solid spread. Smoked marlin mousse is an especially memorable touch because it signals local seafood flavors, not just generic “BBQ buffet” fare.

A practical note: plan your snorkel timing so you are hungry when lunch comes. Also, take your time with the fruit and bread. When the day is warm, bread plus fruit plus a cup of coffee can be a surprisingly satisfying combination.

If you are the type who likes coffee while you travel, you will likely appreciate the coffee included with lunch. One review called out the Mauritian coffee specifically, which suggests it is more than an afterthought.

Price and value: is $111 a fair deal for 7 to 8 hours?

At $111 per person, you should judge value by what you get beyond just “transport.” Here you are buying a few important things bundled together:

• A catamaran cruise that focuses on safe lagoon sailing
• Hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose the transfer option
• Lunch with a substantial buffet
• All day drinks, not just a single beverage or a short bar window
• Time for swimming and snorkeling
• A guided experience with a live guide in English and French

So the question becomes: would you pay similar money for a boat plus lunch plus guided stops elsewhere? For Mauritius, this is the kind of day trip that can feel expensive on paper, then very reasonable once you realize it covers food, drink, and multiple stops in one go.

You are also not paying for extra activities like parasailing, which is listed as not included. That is a good thing if you just want a relaxed day. If you want a packed adrenaline schedule, this might not be the best fit, but for most people seeking calm water time and a good meal, it hits the target.

When you should think twice

A few situations can make this cruise less satisfying.

First, it is not suitable for pregnant women, based on the activity details. If this applies to you, you will need an alternative that is easier and safer for your situation.

Second, weather can change everything. One account described being taken out in bad conditions with strong wind and clouds, which led to feeling cold and cutting down the enjoyment of snorkeling. That is a real risk anytime you are on open water for part of the day, even when the lagoon route helps.

Third, if your priority is lots of onshore time, this is not built as a long beach day. It is structured around cruising, one main on-land stop, and a lunch window. You will leave feeling like you had a full day, but not like you lived on the island for hours.

Weather matters more than you think on a catamaran

Even when you are sailing in a lagoon for safety, a catamaran can still feel cool when the wind picks up. The biggest difference between a great day and a frustrating one often comes down to how comfortable you feel while moving between sun, shade, water, and boat seating.

If the forecast looks unsettled, I would plan your comfort kit like this:

• Bring that towel so you can warm up quickly after being in the water.
• Consider a light layer you can put on if you feel chilled.
• Don’t rely on just the sun. Wind can make shade feel colder than you expect.

If you are the kind of person who hates getting cold, treat weather as a serious decision point. The itinerary is designed to be enjoyable, but it cannot fully erase wind.

That is also why I like the overall structure: if you do end up with less-than-ideal conditions, you can still focus on the best parts, like the on-board BBQ, the all-day drinks, and the waterfall stop, which does not depend on calm water.

Who this cruise fits best

This excursion is best for you if you want a relaxed catamaran day with real breaks built in. You like snorkeling and swimming, but you also want a solid lunch and a comfortable way to spend the hours.

You will probably enjoy it if you:

• Want a one-day trip that blends sea time and a land stop
• Like cruises with a friendly crew and a steady pace
• Prefer included food and drink instead of paying for everything separately
• Are okay with not having parasailing or other water sports included

It may be less ideal if you are looking for:

• A long beach day with lots of free time
• High-intensity adventure activities
• A plan that works perfectly every single weather scenario

For families, couples, and honeymooners, the format tends to make sense because it is easy to participate at your own comfort level. You can snorkel or just enjoy the boat, then enjoy lunch and the waterfall.

Should you book this Ile aux Cerfs catamaran cruise?

If you want a classic Mauritius day that mixes lagoon sailing, time in the water, and a hearty on-board BBQ, I think this one is worth considering. The value comes from the bundle: catamaran time, lunch, and all day drinks, plus a meaningful stop at Grande Riviere Sud Est with that 18th-century and 1810 history context.

Book it if you can handle the reality that weather can affect the comfort of snorkeling and how warm you feel. If you know you get cold easily, pack for wind and shade.

Skip it if you cannot do the activity for safety reasons (it is not suitable for pregnant women) or if you specifically want parasailing and other water sports included.

Overall, this is a well-shaped day trip. When the conditions are good, it turns into exactly what you want: a smooth sailing day that ends with good food, a waterfall stop, and the kind of crew attention that makes the hours pass fast.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

It departs from the Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point in Mauritius.

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Is lunch included?

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

What is included in the price?

The package includes the catamaran cruise, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose the transfer option.

Are hotel transfers automatic?

No. Pickup is optional. If you want transfers, you need to book the option and confirm your hotel name so the collection time can be confirmed the day before.

Are parasailing or other water sports included?

No. Water sports or parasailing at Ile aux Cerfs are not included.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel and sunscreen.

How can I change my plans before the tour?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.