Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Île aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

One day on a catamaran can feel like Mauritius in fast-forward. This cruise takes you from Pointe Jérôme out across the Indian Ocean to Île aux Cerfs for beach time, a snorkeling stop, and the kind of onboard vibe that stays relaxed all day.

I love how smoothly the day is run: the crew keeps things moving, music is part of the rhythm, and drinks seem to stay topped up. I also like the practical mix of activities, with snorkeling gear included and a BBQ buffet lunch that actually hits the spot without feeling like a rushed cafeteria.

One thing to consider: the island stop and snorkeling can feel different depending on conditions and crowd levels, and the exact feel of the snorkeling can vary. Also, you’ll want to follow the return timing closely, since tides can affect when the boat departs from Île aux Cerfs.

Key things I’d bookmark before you go

• Free parking at Pointe Jérôme if you’re driving yourself to the meeting point
• Snorkeling equipment included, plus a dedicated stop before you reach the island
• Unlimited beer, wine, Mauritian rum, and sodas throughout the sail
• Île aux Cerfs drop-off by ladder right onto the sandbank, not a long awkward walk
• Small-ish boat day with a maximum of 31 travelers
• Options on the island, including parasailing available there (optional)

The big idea: a chill day built around water time

This is the kind of trip that works when you want Mauritius water views without a long, complicated itinerary. You’re on a catamaran for a full day, with the pacing set by natural moments: sailing, a lagoon-style snorkeling stop, then beach time at Île aux Cerfs, and finally the ride back with music on board.

The value here is less about ticking off landmarks and more about buying a long stretch of sun, sea time, and food-and-drink comfort. At $81.10 per person, you’re paying for transportation by boat, a guided day on the water, snorkeling gear, and a real BBQ lunch with drinks included.

If you’re traveling as a couple or with family, the format is easy to understand: relax when you’re on the island, slip into the water when the timing’s right, and let the crew handle the rhythm.

From Pointe Jérôme to the sea: what your morning looks like

Departures happen from Pointe Jérôme (nearby is Pointe d’Esny), with a start time of 9:00 am. If you’re driving yourself, there’s free parking at the embarkation point, which makes the morning a lot less stressful. If you’re using public transport, the meeting point is listed as near public transportation.

One practical tip: don’t wait until the last minute to arrive. A couple of minutes can matter when you’re finding the right spot at the dock, and you want time to get oriented before boarding.

Bring your swimwear ready, too. The day is built around getting wet, and you’ll waste less time if you start the cruise already set up for snorkeling and beach time.

The catamaran experience: why the boat matters

A catamaran is a big deal here because it changes how you feel on the water. You’re not wrestling a speedboat ride for every transfer. Instead, you’re spending hours sailing, so the day feels like a floating beach day with sea views, not just transportation.

The boat experience also comes with a social soundtrack. Many comments mention friendly hosts, music playing on board, and the crew keeping drinks flowing. If you like a laid-back atmosphere—some music, good vibes, and calm water breaks—this style fits.

Group size stays capped at 31 travelers, which helps. It still feels like a tour group, but it’s not the massive crowd crush that can drain energy on a small island.

Stop 1: Île aux Cerfs drop-off and beach time

Île aux Cerfs is the headline stop. The key detail I like is how you get onto the island: there’s a drop-down ladder from the front of the catamaran that puts you straight onto the sandbank. That means less hassle, faster entry, and more time doing the thing you came for.

On the island, you’ll get time to relax on the beach or wade in knee-deep water. This is the moment most people use to slow down—no scrambling, no agenda, just sun and ocean.

Parasailing is available on Île aux Cerfs as an optional add-on. It’s not listed as part of the tour price, so think of it as an on-island activity you can choose if you want a more dramatic viewpoint.

One consideration: Île aux Cerfs can feel busy depending on the day. If you’re someone who needs space and quiet, plan to spend your time where the water is calmer and your group won’t be in the main foot traffic.

The snorkeling stop before the island

Between sailing moments, you’ll reach a snorkeling spot. Snorkeling equipment is included, so you’re not scrambling to rent gear once you’re already on the water.

What you should realistically expect: snorkeling is the chance to see underwater life and get that lagoon-water clarity moment. But water conditions and visibility can vary, and not every snorkeling stop produces the same kind of colorful reef show.

The value is that you get the gear and the timing organized for you. Even when visibility isn’t perfect, swimming with a mask on a Mauritian lagoon/sea stop tends to feel refreshing after the boat ride.

If you want the best odds of enjoying it, go in early in the snorkeling window, keep your breathing calm, and spend more time watching what’s close to the surface than chasing deep-water surprises.

Sailing the nature reserve and spotting wildlife

After the island moment, the cruise sails past a nature reserve. This matters because it keeps the day from feeling like two separate parts: boat there, boat back. You’re still moving through scenic stretches while the scenery and wildlife chances continue.

Dolphins are a big part of the pitch here, and they’re also one of the most mentioned highlights. Still, nature doesn’t follow schedules. Think of dolphin spotting as a hopeful bonus, not a guarantee.

The upside is that the cruise is set up for patience. You aren’t standing around waiting for one single event. You’re enjoying the ocean ride, music, and drink service while the crew watches for wildlife cues.

The onboard food and drinks: the real comfort factor

This is one of the tour’s strongest selling points, and for good reason. Your included meal is a BBQ buffet lunch, plus coffee and/or tea, snacks, and pineapple listed as dessert. That’s not just a token lunch; it’s a proper midday setup while you’re out on the water.

On drinks, the inclusions are generous: local beer, wine, Mauritian rum, and soft drinks (with unlimited availability during the cruise). That means you can focus on enjoying the day rather than budgeting every small purchase.

If you’re a vegetarian, there are indications that vegetarian options are available in practice. It’s still smart to mention dietary needs when you book, because BBQ setups can vary by day and supplier.

One more small detail that makes a difference: multiple experiences mention the crew constantly refilling drinks. That’s what turns the day from you “having to ask” into you just relaxing and taking in the sun.

How the return works (and why timing matters)

The tour ends back at the same meeting point where you started. In other words, this is a round-trip boat day, not a one-way transfer.

Here’s the caution I’d actually take seriously: on Île aux Cerfs, the catamaran may have to leave based on tide conditions. That’s not uncommon on islands with shallow sandbanks, and it’s exactly why the crew’s return instructions matter.

So, when the crew gives you the return time, treat it like a hard deadline. If you’re parasailing or trying one last swim, set an internal alarm and make sure you’re back at the drop-off point before you feel rushed.

If you’re traveling with someone who tends to wander—bring a quick plan for meeting up, even if it’s just agreeing on a time and the most obvious meeting spot on the beach.

Weather, refunds, and why you should check forecasts

This experience requires good weather. If conditions are poor and the cruise is canceled for weather reasons, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Because the itinerary includes time on the water and swimming/snorkeling, it’s not the kind of trip you want to gamble on if you hate changing plans. Still, the weather-dependent structure is normal for marine days in Mauritius.

If you’re booking close to your travel dates, I’d personally build flexibility into your schedule. That way, if a weather change happens, you’re not trying to cram another activity into the same day.

Who this tour is best for

This fits best if you want a “water-first” day with minimal decision-making. You get:

• sailing time with music
• snorkeling equipment included
• a full island beach stop
• a BBQ lunch plus unlimited drinks

You’ll probably enjoy it most if you’re traveling with a mix of ages—kids can enjoy the boat vibe and beach time, while adults get snorkeling and wildlife chances without needing to be experts.

It’s also a good pick if you like value. You’re not paying for each drink, and you’re not paying separately for snorkeling gear. That can add up fast on island excursions.

A balanced note: where disappointment can creep in

Even strong tours have a few weak points. Here are the realistic ones based on what’s available here.

First, Île aux Cerfs can feel basic and/or crowded on some days. If you expect a totally untouched shoreline, you might be surprised. The water and the setting still deliver, but the vibe can be more social than remote.

Second, snorkeling is weather- and conditions-dependent. Sometimes you get a great underwater show; sometimes you get a quieter experience with less colorful fish.

Finally, safety and guest conduct should always be taken seriously. There is one serious complaint in the record involving a staff member named Pascal, and the company states it is investigating. Most experiences describe a friendly crew, but it’s a reminder that if anything feels off, speak up early so the situation can be handled properly.

Tips to make your day smoother (and more fun)

• Pack a light dry bag for your phone and valuables. Even small splashes happen around docks and ladder entries.
• Bring reef-safe sun protection and water shoes. If the sandbank or entry area is a little rough, you’ll be happier with grip.
• Arrive a little early at Pointe Jérôme so you can check in calmly and not cut it close.
• When the crew gives the return time to the boat, follow it like it’s your departure flight.
• If parasailing calls your name, do it early so you’re not rushing at the last minute.

Should you book this catamaran to Île aux Cerfs?

I’d book it if you want a full-day Mauritius experience centered on the sea, with BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks included, plus a snorkeling stop and real time on Île aux Cerfs.

I’d hesitate if your top priority is a quiet, uncrowded island feel, or if you’re expecting one of those guaranteed, showy snorkeling days with constant colorful fish. This is still a great day out, but it’s built around a shared schedule and nature conditions.

If you’re flexible, you enjoy a relaxed boat day, and you want an efficient way to reach Île aux Cerfs with food and drinks handled, this one is a strong bet.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Pointe Jérôme Embarkation Point in Pointe d’Esny, and it finishes back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What’s included with the BBQ lunch and drinks?

You get a delicious BBQ buffet lunch, coffee and/or tea, snacks, and pineapple (dessert). Drinks include local beer, wine, Mauritian rum, and soft drinks.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you’ll have a snorkeling stop during the cruise.

Do I need good weather for this tour?

Yes, good weather is required. If the cruise is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.