One day on a private catamaran changes the pace. You get crystal-clear cruising, a swim stop with snorkeling gear, and the postcard sands of Ile aux Cerfs—all in one smooth 7-hour block. I like that the day is built around water time first, then beach time, then an onboard BBQ lunch that’s clearly a crew priority.

Two more things I’d call out: the snorkeling break happens around 11:00 in the island’s largest lagoon, and you also get a river-area stop where you can spot a giant bat colony and monkeys along the bank. One catch to consider: based on guest feedback, onboard comforts can feel a bit basic (no coffee/tea noted, and one review flagged cleanliness inside the boat), so bring your expectations down to a practical, sun-and-sea day.

Key highlights you’ll feel right away

• Lagoon snorkeling around 11:00 with equipment included, aimed at coral and colorful tropical fish
• Ile aux Cerfs white sand bank time after lunch, with a canal passage near Anahita
• Grande Riviere Sud Est wildlife views: giant bats and monkeys, plus a waterfall seen from afar
• Onboard BBQ lunch and drinks (beer, rum, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options) served during the day
• 42ft private catamaran setup with comfy trampolines for sunbathing and relaxing

A 42ft private charter from Pointe Jérôme that keeps your day simple

This is a private day charter on a 42ft catamaran, designed for relaxed cruising rather than nonstop switching plans. You’re leaving from Pointe Jérôme Embarkation Jetty in the south-east of Mauritius at 09:00, and you’ll be back around 16:15—though the exact return time depends on tide and winds. That matters because you’re out on open water, and the schedule breathes with weather.

For me, the biggest value of doing it private is control of your rhythm. With a group of up to 10, you can spread out on deck, take photos without waiting your turn, and actually spend time in the places that matter: lagoon, beach, and the river scenery between.

If you’re used to busy tours that feel like a checklist, this one is less about rushing. It’s more about “enough time to enjoy” each segment of the day—especially the beach time at Ile aux Cerfs.

The morning ride: breakfast, open bar, and the coast views

Your day starts with a light breakfast before you really settle into boat mode. Then you board and the open bar service is part of the atmosphere early on. On a hot Mauritius morning, it’s a good setup: you’re not waiting until late afternoon for refreshments.

From the first stretch on the water, the goal is simple: sail through clear water while you watch the coastline roll by. This portion is less about specific landmarks and more about the “being at sea” feeling—bright light, warm air, and that low-effort vacation calm.

Practical tip: if you’re the type who gets seasick, the itinerary doesn’t mention a special mitigation plan. So pack your usual motion-sickness prevention just in case, and keep an eye on how the boat feels once you’re out a bit from shore.

Snorkeling stop in the lagoon (around 11:00): coral time without the hassle

Around 11:00, you make a snorkeling break inside the island’s largest lagoon. Snorkeling gear is included, and the idea is to give you a proper swim in calmer water—exactly the kind of stop that turns a boat day into a “wow, I remember that” day.

What’s included is the equipment and the stop itself; what you do with that time is up to you. If you’re comfortable snorkeling, you’ll likely spend more minutes in the water. If you’re not, you can still enjoy floating, watching from the surface, and getting your bearings first.

Based on what’s promised, this stop is aimed at superb corals and bright tropical fish. I’d treat that as a strong reason to go for a swim even if you don’t call yourself an expert. You don’t need to chase deep water here; the value is in seeing marine life in a natural lagoon setting.

Grande Riviere Sud Est: bats, monkeys, and a waterfall viewed from the river mouth

After snorkeling, the catamaran heads along the east coast and takes you up to the river’s mouth at Grande Riviere Sud Est. This is one of the more “Mauritius-specific” parts of the day, because it’s not just beaches and scenery—it’s wildlife and water geography.

You’re looking out for a giant bat colony and monkeys living on the river bank. You won’t be walking up to observe them closely; the day is still a boat charter. The promise is more about seeing them from the water and taking in the river corridor view.

There’s also a waterfall stop, but described as “from afar.” So manage expectations: you’re not hiking to a viewing platform. You’re catching it as part of the wider landscape—pretty for photos and atmosphere, not a full sightseeing visit.

If you love animals and don’t mind that the boat keeps things at a respectful distance, this segment is a nice contrast to the lagoon snorkeling and the white sand beach later.

The BBQ lunch and drinks onboard: good value, but not a full café

Lunch is served onboard after the river-area portion, and it’s a BBQ lunch that the crew prepares. This is the part I’d prioritize if you’re deciding whether the day feels “worth it” in real terms.

The reason: the BBQ lunch is described as one of the best you can get on Mauritian catamaran cruises. That’s not just about food filling you up. It’s about the whole setup—served during a relaxing day rather than waiting for a restaurant, and cooked on the boat with the rest of the group.

Drinks are included with the lunch: beer, rum, cocktails, plus non-alcoholic options. That makes the meal feel like a true “day charter” rather than just a snack stop.

Two small considerations from guest feedback that you should factor in:

• One reviewer noted no coffee or tea, and another wished there was a simple dessert like fruit or ice cream.
• If you care about those extras, plan for the fact that your included meal package may be more straightforward than a resort buffet.

Dietary note: a vegetarian option is available, but you must advise at booking, and if you have allergies or health needs, you should share that information so the chef can cater.

Ile aux Cerfs white sand bank: the postcard beach moment you can actually savor

After lunch, the catamaran cruises into the canal between Ile aux Cerfs and the sanctuary area of Anahita, then drops you on the famous white sand bank of Ile aux Cerfs.

This is the main event for many people, and for good reason. Ile aux Cerfs is the kind of beach where the water looks clean enough to eat your phone photos—bright, calm, and very “Mauritius.” The day is timed so you reach the beach after snorkeling and lunch, so you get that reward after the water activity.

Once you’re down, you’ll have time to relax on the sands. Bring your own towel (the info specifically notes that), and plan for at least a couple of comfortable hours of beach breathing: shoes off, sunscreen on, camera ready, and a slower tempo than your usual travel day.

If you’re sensitive to sun, don’t underestimate the strength. The day includes lots of water exposure and deck time. A hat and extra sunscreen reap rewards, even if they aren’t explicitly listed.

Boat comfort, crew energy, and what you should bring

This cruise includes comfortable trampolines for sunbathing and relaxing, which is a big deal on a catamaran day. They’re where you end up lying back between snorkeling and beach time. If you know your back and shoulders get cranky on boats, bring a thin layer you can sit on comfortably (you can’t assume the boat provides extra padding beyond what’s described).

The crew also plays an important role. The day includes local touches: crew stories, jokes, and Mauritian sega music. One review described the staff as welcoming but not fully motivated to make the day extra special—so I’d put your expectations at “friendly and functional with local flavor,” not “all-day entertainment director.”

What to bring is clearly spelled out, and I’d stick to it:

• sunglasses
• change of clothes
• towel
• camera
• sunscreen
• plus: bring another spare set of clothes for after the water time

One more practical thought: since there’s no mention of towels being provided, treat the towel as mandatory, not optional.

Price and value for a private group up to 10 people

The price is listed as $1,001 per group up to 10 for a 7-hour day. That’s not a budget per person rate in the way public tours are. But private pricing works differently: you’re paying for boat exclusivity, included snorkeling gear, and a full lunch at sea with drinks.

So ask yourself what you’d pay if you were to piece it together:

• a boat charter for the day
• a snorkeling stop with equipment
• a BBQ lunch and beverages
• and transport from Pointe Jérôme with the timing arranged for Ile aux Cerfs

If you’re traveling as a small group—friends, a family cluster, or couples traveling together—the value tends to make more sense. If you’re solo, it can feel like you’re paying for space you might not use.

Also, note that pick-up and drop-off are extra, and watersports like parasailing and tube riding cost extra. Lobster lunch is also an additional charge. That means the base package is the essentials plus comfort and fun, not a full buffet of add-ons.

Best fit:

• groups who want a private boat day
• people who care about snorkeling and a real beach landing at Ile aux Cerfs
• travelers who like seeing wildlife from a distance and want the river scenery included without extra planning

Should you book this private catamaran to Ile aux Cerfs?

Book it if you want a straightforward, private sea day that hits three anchors: snorkeling, a wildlife river stop, and serious beach time at Ile aux Cerfs—then wraps it up with an included BBQ lunch and drinks onboard.

Don’t book (or at least rethink expectations) if you’re the type who needs “extra comfort” details like coffee/tea, dessert, or a high level of onboard cleanliness. One guest flagged that the interior wasn’t very clean, and another wished for small lunch add-ons. You can still have a great day here, but if those details are deal-breakers for you, plan accordingly.

If you go in knowing what it is—sun, water, and a good meal at sea—you’re likely to have the kind of Mauritius day that feels calm in the best way.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran depart?

The cruise departs at 09:00 from the Pointe Jerome Embarkation Jetty at Pointe Jerome in the south-east of Mauritius.

What time will we be back?

Expected arrival back to the hotel is 16:15, depending on tide and winds.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. There is a snorkeling break with snorkeling equipment included around 11:00.

Do we visit Ile aux Cerfs?

Yes. The boat drops you off on the famous white sand bank of Ile aux Cerfs after lunch.

Is lunch included, and what kind?

Yes. Lunch onboard includes a BBQ and a selection of beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).

Are beverages included?

Yes. The included selection includes beer, rum, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Is the Grand River South East waterfall included?

Yes, there is a visit to the Grand River South East area, with the waterfall viewed from afar.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes. A vegetarian option is available—advise the operator at booking.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen.

FAQ

What’s the maximum group size?

This is a private group experience for up to 10 people.

Is pick-up and drop-off included?

No. Pick up and drop off are listed as additional charges.

Are watersports included?

No. Parasailing and tube riding are additional charges.

If you tell me your travel dates and how many people are in your group, I can help you judge whether the private format is the best value for your situation.