Mauritius: Catamaran Day Cruise to lle aux Cerfs with Lunch

Trade roads for turquoise water. This six-hour catamaran trip from Trou d’Eau Douce combines the island’s most popular east-coast sights with a generous BBQ lunch, swimming, snorkeling, music, and time on Ile aux Cerfs. I like the friendly crew and relaxed onboard atmosphere, and I also like that the $65 price includes food, drinks, equipment, and both major stops.

The main catch is the balance between party boat and peaceful sailing. Music can be loud, alcohol is served from the morning, and the snorkeling stop may be affected by current. If you want a quiet sail or serious reef time, this may not be your best fit. If you want a social day with plenty of sun, food, and scenery, it offers very good value.

Key points at a glance

• A full six hours for $65: Lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, crew, Ile aux Cerfs, and GRSE waterfalls are included.
• The crew is a major strength: Guides such as Aldo have been praised for being attentive, helpful, and good at keeping everyone comfortable.
• Ile aux Cerfs gets about two hours: That is enough for a beach break, though some people will want longer to explore its smaller coves.
• The BBQ is plentiful: Expect fish, chicken skewers, salads, garlic bread, pasta, rice, and fresh pineapple, with vegetarian and gluten-free meals available by request.
• Snorkeling depends on conditions: The water can be full of sea life, but a strong current may make the stop less enjoyable.
• The mood leans social: Music, drinks, and a cheerful crowd are part of the appeal, not an accidental extra.

Setting off from Trou d’Eau Douce

The meeting point is Blue Alizé Catamaran Ile aux Cerfs at the jetty in Trou d’Eau Douce, on Mauritius’s east coast. Look for the jetty next to the Mauritius flag. Hotel pickup is not included, so you need to arrange your own way there.

That meeting point matters because Trou d’Eau Douce is the natural launch spot for this side of the island. You avoid a long transfer by road once the boat leaves, and the water route gives you a better sense of the coast than a quick taxi ride ever could.

The schedule is roughly six hours, with a morning departure and a return to the same jetty. Starting times can vary, so check the current departure when you book and allow extra time to reach the village.

Once aboard, you can choose between sun and shade. The catamaran is described as broad and spacious, and several people particularly enjoyed having enough room to sit, eat, and stretch out without feeling packed in. That is important on a long boat day, especially when lunch is served onboard.

The ride toward Ile aux Cerfs

The first stretch is about the journey rather than a single attraction. The boat sails past Ile aux Cerfs while you settle into the day, take photos, and enjoy the wide views across the lagoon.

I like this part because it gives you time to slow down before the scheduled stops begin. You can sunbathe on deck, sip a drink, listen to music, and watch the water change color around the boat.

Do not expect a silent sailing lesson. The atmosphere often includes upbeat music and a steady social buzz. Some people describe the mood as a good balance between a party boat and a relaxing cruise, while others found the music too loud for a quiet day at sea.

That makes the boat a better choice for couples, friends, and families who enjoy a cheerful group setting than for anyone seeking a calm, private charter. There is no stated group size, so the exact feel depends on the day’s crowd.

Grand River South East waterfall stop

The boat then heads toward the Grand River South East waterfalls, often shortened to GRSE. The journey takes you toward the river mouth, where the waterfall spills into the sea and creates one of the east coast’s best-known boat excursions.

The stop is mainly for photos and a look at the falls from the water. You may also spot monkeys near the route, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Keep your expectations measured. The waterfall visit can be brief, and busy conditions may mean several boats gather in the same area. Some people found this part disappointing because of the short stop and the number of boats around the falls.

Still, it is a worthwhile sight when the conditions are good. The waterfall gives the day some variety, breaking up the open-water sailing with a distinct natural feature. If you hope to spend a long time at the falls, this cruise will not provide that. Think of it as a scenic photo stop rather than a full river excursion.

The order can change with the tide. The operator may visit the waterfall first or adjust the route to suit the water conditions, so do not worry if the sequence differs slightly from the advertised plan.

Snorkeling in the lagoon

After the waterfall, the boat stops at a snorkeling site for about 40 minutes. Snorkeling equipment is included, so you do not need to bring your own mask and fins.

The water around Mauritius can be wonderfully clear, and you might see tropical fish and other sea life close to the boat. Several people enjoyed this stop, but it is not a guaranteed world-class reef encounter.

Current is the main variable. A strong flow can make swimming tiring and can reduce the time you spend comfortably looking underwater. One useful point from the feedback is that the crew may choose a site that is not fully sheltered, so conditions can affect the experience more than the equipment does.

I would treat this as a pleasant chance to see marine life, not the main reason to book the cruise. If snorkeling is your top priority, a specialist reef trip may suit you better. If you simply want to cool off and have a look beneath the surface, this stop adds a welcome active break.

Bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. You should also be comfortable getting into the water from the boat, since the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and is not recommended for pregnant women.

BBQ lunch with drinks onboard

Lunch is one of the strongest parts of the package. The BBQ includes fish, chicken skewers, salads, garlic bread, pasta, rice, and fresh pineapple. Vegetarian and gluten-free food is available if requested ahead of time.

The meal is served on the catamaran while you continue across the lagoon or pause on the water. That saves valuable beach time and keeps the day moving without sending everyone ashore for a restaurant meal.

The food is not presented as fine dining, and it should not be judged by that standard. It is a generous, practical boat lunch that gives you plenty to eat after swimming and time in the sun. Fish receives particular praise, and some people also enjoyed the salads and a fresh afternoon samosa.

Drinks are included. The information for the trip lists drinks, while the onboard offering has been described as water, soft drinks, beer, and wine. Alcohol is available from the morning, so keep that in mind when choosing the trip for children or for anyone who prefers a dry, quiet cruise.

The crew’s hospitality is a big part of lunch. People have singled out the staff for being accommodating and attentive, with Aldo named as a guide who took care to keep everyone comfortable. That personal service helps the boat feel more welcoming than a simple transport ride.

Two hours on Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs is the main beach stop, with about two hours to relax, walk, swim, and take in the tropical setting. This is the point where you can leave the boat behind and enjoy the island at your own pace.

The beach is the reason many people choose this trip. The sand, shallow water, and bright lagoon create the classic Mauritius postcard scene, but the island is not only a place to sit in one spot.

If you walk about 20 minutes farther along the beach, you may find smaller coves and quieter stretches. That tip can make a real difference, especially if the first beach area feels busy.

Two hours sounds generous, but it passes quickly. You need time to walk from the landing area, find a place to sit, swim, take photos, and return to the boat. Some people wished they had an extra hour, while others felt the visit was enough for a half-day cruise.

The island also offers paid water activities, including parasailing. These extras are not part of the $65 price. Bring extra cash if you might want to try them, and ask about the cost before committing. One person found parasailing at the boat’s chosen location more expensive and shorter than expected compared with another option on Ile aux Cerfs.

That does not spoil the island stop, but it is a useful warning: the included cruise is good value, while add-on activities need their own price check.

Sailing back with music and room to relax

After Ile aux Cerfs, the boat returns toward Trou d’Eau Douce, with about an hour on the water. This is often when the pace becomes easiest: food is finished, swimming is done, and you can settle into a deck chair with a drink.

On some trips, the crew raises the sails for the return journey. Music continues, and the mood can become more lively as people chat, take photos, and enjoy the last stretch of lagoon.

This final hour is where the cruise succeeds as a complete day rather than a string of stops. The sights are pleasant, but the time between them is part of the value. You are not being rushed from one attraction to another.

Still, the atmosphere is important. If you want to read, nap, or hear only the wind, the music may get in the way. If you like meeting people and having a drink while the boat heads home, it is a fitting finish.

What the $65 price really includes

At $65 per person, the trip gives you a lot for a six-hour outing. The price includes:

• Catamaran sailing on the east coast lagoon
• A professional licensed crew
• Drinks
• Snorkeling equipment
• BBQ lunch
• Ile aux Cerfs
• GRSE waterfalls

You also avoid paying for a separate lunch on the island, which helps control costs. The inclusion of drinks adds further value, particularly if you plan to spend the day in the sun.

The price does not include hotel pickup or optional activities such as parasailing. Those are the two costs to plan around. You need to reach Trou d’Eau Douce independently, and you should not assume that every water sport at Ile aux Cerfs is covered.

For a visitor who wants several east coast highlights in one outing, I consider the price strong. You get scenery, meals, drinks, swimming, snorkeling, and beach time without booking separate transport or a second activity.

Who will enjoy this cruise most

I would recommend this trip if you want a social day on the water with a good amount of included food and drink. It suits couples, groups of friends, and families who like music and do not mind sharing the boat with other people.

It also works well if you want a broad taste of the east coast in one booking. You see GRSE, spend time in the lagoon, stop to snorkel, and get a substantial visit to Ile aux Cerfs.

You may want another type of outing if you prefer:

• Quiet sailing with little or no music
• A private boat
• Long, serious snorkeling sessions
• A full day on Ile aux Cerfs
• Guaranteed calm water
• An excursion built around the waterfall rather than the catamaran

The trip is also not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Ask for a vegetarian or gluten-free meal when booking, rather than waiting until lunch.

Practical tips for a smoother day

Arrive at the Trou d’Eau Douce jetty with your swimwear already under your clothes. The boat day includes swimming, so changing space may not be as convenient as at a hotel.

Pack a towel and strong sunscreen, and keep your valuables protected from spray. A waterproof phone pouch is useful for photos around the waterfall and snorkeling stop, though it is not listed as an included item.

If you want shade, claim a comfortable place early. The catamaran has plenty of room according to the available details, but the most popular seating areas can still fill quickly.

Request dietary needs ahead of time. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, but advance notice is the sensible approach.

Finally, decide what kind of day you want before booking. The crew is praised for hospitality, the food is plentiful, and the scenery is excellent, but the music and alcohol create a social atmosphere. That is a feature for some people and a drawback for others.

Should you book the Ile aux Cerfs catamaran cruise?

Book it if you want a cheerful, good-value day that combines sailing, beach time, a BBQ, snorkeling, drinks, and two famous east coast sights. The attentive crew, generous lunch, and roomy catamaran make this more than a basic boat transfer.

Skip it if you want a silent sail, a private experience, or a dedicated reef tour. The waterfall stop is short, snorkeling conditions can be changeable, and Ile aux Cerfs may leave you wishing for more time.

For most visitors who enjoy a lively boat day, the $65 price is easy to justify. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a little extra cash for optional activities, then let the crew handle the food, route, and rhythm of the day.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran cruise start?

The meeting point is Blue Alizé Catamaran Ile aux Cerfs at the jetty next to the Mauritius flag in Trou d’Eau Douce, Mauritius.

How long does the cruise last?

The activity lasts about six hours, including sailing, the waterfall visit, snorkeling, lunch, and time on Ile aux Cerfs.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup is not included, so you must arrange your own transport to Trou d’Eau Douce.

What food is served for lunch?

The BBQ includes fish, chicken skewers, salads, garlic bread, pasta, rice, and fresh pineapple.

Are vegetarian and gluten-free meals available?

Yes. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on request.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Drinks are included in the activity price. The onboard offering has been described as water, soft drinks, beer, and wine.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

How long do you spend on Ile aux Cerfs?

The planned visit is about two hours, including free time, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Is parasailing included?

No. Parasailing and other optional water activities are not included in the cruise price.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Extra cash is useful if you want to pay for optional activities on Ile aux Cerfs.

What languages are available?

The live tour guide service is available in English and French.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve-now-and-pay-later option is also available.