Private Catamaran Charter to Ile aux Cerfs

A private day by catamaran in Mauritius sounds like a treat, but the real pull here is the combo of Ile aux Cerfs beach time and a relaxed sail through calm, clear water. You’re not rushing from stop to stop, you’re living on the water for the day, with the inner lagoon feel right off the route.

I especially like that snorkelling gear is included, so you can get into the water quickly without last-minute shopping or gear hunting. I also like the human factor, the crew energy, and the way the onboard BBQ lunch option can turn the whole trip into a proper meal day, not just snacks on a boat.

One thing to plan for: food and drinks are not included by default. If you want the BBQ lunch and beverages, you’ll be paying extra, so budget a bit beyond the base price.

Key reasons you might love this charter

• 45-foot Island Hopper catamaran means you get a proper private cruising feel without it being cramped.
• Snorkelling gear included, so you can head straight into the calm water and reef fish spotting.
• Inner lagoon sailing gives you chances to swim where conditions can feel easier.
• Dolphin watching is a real possibility, though it’s not something anyone can promise.
• BBQ lunch on board is optional, prepared by the friendly crew before you reach Ile aux Cerfs.
• Beach visit on Ile aux Cerfs, plus time to walk before the return sail.

Setting out from Pointe Jerome on a 45-foot private catamaran

The day starts at Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point, and the vibe is immediately “this is your boat for the day.” This is a private group charter, so you’re not sharing the experience with strangers who talk loudly about their airport lounge plans.

The catamaran is listed at 45 feet, and in practice that size tends to feel steadier and more comfortable than smaller boats when you’re out on open water. You’ll get a safety briefing early on, then you’re off, with the kind of easy pacing that makes a 7-hour excursion feel like a whole chapter, not a long errand.

Even if you’re not a “boat person,” you’ll probably enjoy the rhythm. There’s time to look around, take in the water colors, and settle into that slow cruise mindset that Mauritius does well. If you’re traveling with kids, this kind of schedule also helps, because you’re not forcing a strict sightseeing march.

Sailing toward the lagoon, with a calm Mauritius feel

After the initial briefing, the boat spends time sailing out from the starting area near Pointe Jerome toward the wider cruising zone. The day includes a sailing moment around Mahébourg, which helps set expectations. This is not a silent, museum-style trip. You’re moving, watching the coast line, and generally letting the ocean be the main attraction.

The highlight is the water itself. The experience is built around the turquoise look of the inner lagoon, where you can often find conditions that are more swim-friendly than rougher open ocean. That matters because snorkeling and floating are way more fun when the water is clear and not fighting you.

For timing, think of the morning as “get comfortable on the boat, build up your appetite,” and then you’ll transition into the water activities when you’re warmed up. Wear sunscreen before you even think about going out, because that’s when the sun can catch you off guard.

Snorkeling gear, calm swim stops, and reef-fish spotting

Snorkelling is one of the main reasons to book this kind of private charter to Ile aux Cerfs. The best part is that snorkelling gear is included, which removes the most annoying part of snorkeling days, the gear scramble.

In the experience flow, you drop anchor to swim and snorkel in calm waters. You’ll see colorful reef fish, and you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy it. Even if you only get a short window underwater, it’s still often enough to make snorkeling feel like a highlight instead of a checkbox.

Quick practical tips that make a difference:

• Bring sunscreen that you’re comfortable reapplying.
• Use a sun hat and sunglasses early, not later.
• Keep your towel dry enough to use at the island stop, where you’ll likely want it right away.

Also, plan your comfort. You’re in the water, then back on a moving boat. Comfortable footwear helps too, especially because you’ll want to step around safely when the deck gets slick or you change locations.

Dolphin watching along the way, chance-based but worth it

Dolphins are included as a featured possibility on this charter. You’ll look for them during the cruise, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat is part of the emotional payoff of the day.

The honest truth is that dolphin sightings are never fully guaranteed. Still, the format helps. Since you’re spending time out on the water, not racing between ports, there’s room for the crew to watch and for you to actually enjoy the search rather than losing the moment after 5 minutes.

What helps most is simple behavior:

• Keep your eyes up while you’re on deck.
• Ask the crew where they’re spotting, because they’re used to reading the water and the cues.

The experience reviews highlight a friendly, engaged crew, and that kind of attention can make your dolphin watching feel more guided and less like guesswork.

Lunch at sea in Grand River South East, optional BBQ on board

Once you’re further along, the day includes Grand River South East with a lunch stop. This is where the optional onboard catering can really change your whole experience.

If you opt for the BBQ, you’ll get a delicious BBQ lunch prepared by the crew before reaching Ile aux Cerfs. Food is described as enjoyable and plentiful, and the tone from the experience feedback is that the crew takes pride in making the meal feel like part of the day, not an afterthought.

Because food and drinks are not included by default, I like to frame this option as value math:

• If you’re paying for a private boat, the cost of onboard lunch can actually be a smart trade for convenience.
• You avoid the stress of finding food right before island time.
• It also keeps the day smoother, because you eat while you’re still in “boat mode,” then step into island mode.

If you do not choose the BBQ, plan to handle meals off the boat somehow, but the day is built around the idea that the crew can set you up for lunch at sea. Either way, come with a snack strategy so your energy stays steady through snorkeling and beach time.

Ile aux Cerfs beach visit, walk time, and how to enjoy it

The most anticipated moment for many people is the arrival at Ile aux Cerfs. This portion is about beach time and a chance to stretch your legs.

You’ll go for a walk on the beach, and the experience is designed so you’re not there for a rushed photo stop. That matters. Ile aux Cerfs works best when you can actually enjoy the pace, find a spot, and let the island feel like a break from the boat.

A couple of practical choices can make the island portion better:

• Take your towel out early, then settle in.
• Keep your sunscreen handy for the island portion, since sun exposure usually ramps up during the beach walk.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to walk more than a few minutes.

Also, think of the island time as your “slow down” moment. After water and movement, island strolling feels good. Then you transition back to sailing and cool down with the return ride.

The return sail back to Pointe Jerome, with the easy finish you want

The day ends back at Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point. The structure is simple: island time, then you head back on the water. The experience description notes chilled drinks during the return sail, and even if drinks are an optional purchase depending on what you selected, the overall feeling is that the ride back is meant to be relaxed.

This matters because some day trips end with a long, stressful commute. Here, the boat return keeps the ending smooth, and you can close out the day without immediately jumping into a new plan.

If you can, aim to keep your evening flexible after the charter. You’ll likely be sun-warmed and pleasantly tired in that very specific vacation way.

What you are really paying for, price value for a group up to 31

The price is listed as $1,354 per group up to 31, and that’s where value depends on your math.

For a small group, paying for a private boat can feel pricey compared with shared tours. But you’re not just buying transportation. You’re buying:

• privacy and control of the pacing,
• a full catamaran day (not a short sprint),
• snorkelling gear included,
• and a day built around dolphins, swimming, and island time.

If you’re splitting the cost among family or friends, the per-person impact can become much more attractive. And because the experience is structured as a full 7-hour day, you’re squeezing more out of the charter than you would from shorter half-day trips.

The other cost to consider is the extras. Food and drinks are not included, and the BBQ lunch is an option. That doesn’t make the trip bad, it just means you should treat the base price as the boat day, and then budget separately for the meal plan you want.

Who this private Ile aux Cerfs charter suits best

This charter fits best when you want a day that feels personal and ocean-first.

It’s a strong fit for:

• Families with kids who need a calmer schedule and a chance to see dolphins.
• Friend groups who want a private boat day without negotiating snorkeling time with strangers.
• Couples and small parties who value the quieter, more relaxed boat experience.
• Anyone who likes the idea of a beach walk at Ile aux Cerfs without turning it into a crowded tour day.

The experience is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The boat and sea-to-island transitions can be difficult, so if accessibility is a must, look for another option.

Also, pets are not allowed, and oversize luggage is not permitted. Plan to pack light and keep what you bring easy to handle on deck.

Choosing the right add-ons so you do not regret it later

Here’s the decision point that most affects your enjoyment: the meal and drink plan.

• If you want the easiest, most “whole day covered” setup, choose the BBQ lunch on board option. The experience description makes it clear the crew prepares it before you reach Ile aux Cerfs, and the tone from the feedback emphasizes that the food is a real plus.
• If you prefer to keep it simple, you can still enjoy the snorkeling and island time, but you should expect to pay extra for food and drinks during the day.

One more practical choice is whether to arrange a private transfer. An optional private transfer can be arranged at an additional cost per vehicle, with a maximum of 4 passengers. If your group is larger than 4, you may need more than one vehicle, but the transfer option itself is available.

Should you book this Private Catamaran Charter to Ile aux Cerfs?

I’d book it if you want a private catamaran day that prioritizes water time and island time, with snorkelling gear already taken care of. The snorkeling stop in calm waters plus the chance at dolphins makes it feel like more than a standard beach excursion.

I would think twice if:

• You’re trying to keep the whole day at the lowest possible budget, because food and drinks are extra unless you add the BBQ option.
• Accessibility matters for your group, since the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or mobility impairments.

If your ideal Mauritius day sounds like sun, swimming, a relaxed beach walk at Ile aux Cerfs, and a crew that keeps the mood moving, this charter is an easy yes.

FAQ

Where does the private catamaran charter start?

It starts at Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point.

How long is the experience?

The duration is 7 hours.

How many people is the price based on?

The price is $1,354 per group up to 31.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkelling gear is included.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, but they are available at a supplementary rate. A BBQ lunch is available if you opt for it.

Can you see dolphins during the trip?

You have the chance to spot dolphins along the way, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is a transfer available from your hotel?

An optional private transfer can be arranged for an additional cost per vehicle, with a maximum of 4 passengers per vehicle.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is this experience suitable for wheelchair users or mobility impairments?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.