Full-Day Northern Catamaran Cruise: Coin de Mire and Ile Plate Island

Catamaran days in Mauritius feel like clockwork. This full-day Northern cruise runs from Grand Bay to the islands of Coin de Mire and Île Plate, with swimming and snorkeling breaks, plus a BBQ lunch and drinks while you sail up the northwest coast. I like that it mixes time in the water with time to slow down on deck, and you get a real change of scenery without planning a thing.

One catch to plan around: snorkeling gear isn’t included. If you want fins and your own mask, bring them (or figure out what’s available locally) so your swim time is easy and comfortable.

Key things to know before you go

• Grand Bay pickup is early: expect hotel pickup about 1–2 hours before the 9:00 am departure.
• Two island stops: you’ll spend time at Coin de Mire and Île Plate for swimming and snorkeling.
• BBQ lunch + drinks are included: fish and chicken, plus salad, bread, and dessert, with beer, wine, local rum, coke, and water.
• Snorkeling equipment isn’t provided: pack your own gear if that matters to you.
• Group size is capped on paper: the operator lists a maximum of 20 travelers, but comfort can still depend on conditions and the specific departure.

Grand Bay departure: pickup timing and getting settled on deck

The day starts with a transfer. If you’re staying in Mauritius, you’ll usually be collected about 1–2 hours before the 9:00 am catamaran start, and then you’ll board in Grand Bay.

Once you’re on board, your first job is simple: pick a comfortable spot on deck and get your camera ready. As the boat glides up the northwest coast, you’ll pass viewpoints linked to areas like Cap Malheureux, Péreybère, and Grand Bay—the kind of scenery that looks better from sea level than from land. The pace is relaxed, so even if you’re not the type who loves hours of planning, this part works well.

Sail north to Coin de Mire: the first swim-and-snorkel window

The cruise is designed around calm, scenic sailing and planned water breaks. After you leave Grand Bay, you’ll head along the northwest route and then anchor in a clear, calm lagoon area on the north side of an island where swimming and snorkeling are the focus.

This is where your day can feel most “worth it,” because you’re not just watching the ocean—you’re in it. If the day is sunny and the sea stays settled, the water time is the highlight: you’ll have a chance to float, swim, and snorkel without feeling like you’re rushing between stops.

The practical piece: since snorkeling equipment isn’t included, you’ll want to be ready to use your own mask/snorkel setup. If you don’t have gear, you can still swim, but your snorkeling time may be limited or less comfortable than you hoped.

Coin de Mire snorkeling: what the calm lagoon time really means

Coin de Mire is famous for what you get in one word: clarity. On this trip, you’re not stuck on a crowded shore tour. Instead, the catamaran drops anchor so you can get in the water, then climb back aboard when you’re ready.

What I like about this style of stop is the balance. You get enough time to actually enjoy the sea (not just a quick dip), but you also don’t lose the whole morning to preparation and logistics on land. If your plan for Mauritius is to see islands and spend time in the water, this stop fits that goal neatly.

It also helps that the cruising route is scenic. Even when you’re not swimming, you’re still sailing with good sightlines toward the coast and nearby towns. If your camera roll is hungry, this is the part of the trip where you’ll use it most.

Île Plate island time: BBQ lunch, beach lounging, and more water breaks

Midday is for Île Plate, and this is where the trip stops feeling like a moving activity and starts feeling like a real island break. After your morning water time, you’ll sail to Île Plate for a BBQ lunch and island downtime.

Lunch is straightforward and satisfying: fish and chicken served with bread, salad, and dessert. Drinks are part of the package too—beer, wine, local rum, water, and coke—so you don’t have to do the math mid-day or hunt for cash machines.

After lunch, you’ll have time to do what you want on the island. That can mean exploring a bit, taking photos, or simply lounging on the beach. Since this is still a catamaran day, you’ll likely want to time your sunscreen and shade breaks carefully, especially if you’re out in the sun during the hottest part of the day.

The key thing to know: the tour is built for both islands, with snorkeling mentioned at Île Plate as well as Coin de Mire. So you’re getting a full “two-island” structure rather than a boat ride plus one short shore moment.

All-inclusive drinks and onboard vibe: pacing the 7-hour day

This is an all-inclusive style cruise for food and drinks. The BBQ lunch happens on board, and the drink list is broad enough to keep most people comfortable—beer, wine, local rum, plus nonalcoholic options like water and coke.

The best thing about all-inclusive here is how it changes your stress level. You can plan your day around swimming and scenery without worrying about meal stops or paying separately at each stage.

That said, pacing matters. With a full day on the water, sun exposure stacks fast, and you’ll likely be drinking at least a little if you’re tempted. I recommend treating the alcohol as part of the experience, not the entire plan: drink water between servings, especially right before another swim/snorkel window.

On the onboard vibe side, one strong positive note from past groups was that music and dancing added energy to the experience, with a crew that kept things friendly and upbeat. If you want a day that feels social without turning chaotic, this trip can hit that sweet spot.

Crew and comfort: what to expect with staffing and sea conditions

The crew quality can make a big difference on a catamaran day. I’ve seen praise for specific crew members—Kevin, Rudi, Bruno, and Olivier—with people calling out how fantastic they were and how smoothly the day ran when conditions were good.

At the same time, comfort can depend on weather and how the boat is loaded. The operator lists a maximum of 20 travelers, but some departures have reportedly felt crowded in practice. If you’re sensitive to space—especially if you like having room to stretch out on deck—this is worth keeping in mind when you book.

Sea conditions also matter. Even when the weather turns a bit rough, the trip relies on the captain and crew to manage the sailing safely and keep the schedule reasonable. One record highlighted that tough weather can happen but was handled well by the captain and staff, which is exactly what you want to hear for a water day like this.

One more practical note: the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but there have been instances where the return taxi pickup at the end of the cruise was delayed or missing for some people. You can’t control that, but you can reduce stress by staying patient, keeping your phone charged, and being ready to confirm details with the crew if something feels off.

Price and value: is $111.54 for this catamaran day fair?

At $111.54 per person, this trip can feel like good value if you factor in what’s included. You’re paying for a full ~7-hour sailing day with round-trip transportation from your accommodations, plus a BBQ lunch, and drinks including alcoholic options. You’re also getting structured water time at two islands.

Where the price doesn’t cover everything is also clear. Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you don’t already own your mask and snorkel, you may need to plan for gear separately. That extra cost can be small—or it can be the one thing that makes the overall day feel less like a deal.

But if you already travel with a mask, this becomes a strong “one-day plan” for Mauritius. Instead of piecing together taxis, meals, and island stops, you get a scheduled route with food handled and drinks already on the table.

Who it suits best:

• Couples who want a relaxed day with real water time
• People who want an all-inclusive feel without a long, multi-stop tour day
• Anyone visiting Mauritius with limited time and a priority for snorkeling-friendly stops

How to plan like a pro for Coin de Mire and Île Plate

To get the most out of the day, I’d plan around comfort and sun.

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you care about a clean, comfortable fit.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen if you can, and reapply after you’ve been in the water.
• Pack something light for shade on deck. Even when the sea is calm, you can feel the heat.
• Bring a phone or small camera strap. On a moving boat, it’s easy for small items to slip or get tossed around.
• If you’re booking later in the season, ask questions about what the boat will feel like in terms of crowding, since comfort can vary.

The trip is about fun, not fuss. If you show up ready for sun and water time, the day tends to go smoothly—especially when the crew is in a good rhythm.

Should you book this Northern Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if your ideal Mauritius day includes island time plus snorkeling, and you want your lunch and drinks handled on board. The structure is simple: sail, swim/snorkel, BBQ lunch at Île Plate, then back to Grand Bay, all with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Skip it or reconsider if:

• You don’t want to handle snorkeling gear separately (since equipment isn’t included)
• You’re very space-sensitive and would find a crowded boat stressful
• You hate uncertainty around return logistics—because while it’s included, return pickup issues have shown up for some groups

If you go in with realistic expectations—pack your gear, bring sunscreen, and assume the ocean will set the tone—you’ll likely enjoy a classic north-coast catamaran day that’s built for both photos and pool-level relaxation.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?

The cruise runs about 7 hours (approx.).

What time does the tour start?

The start time is listed as 9:00 am.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodations are included.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The catamaran boards in Grand Bay.

Which islands are included?

You’ll visit Coin de Mire and Île Plate, with swimming and snorkeling time at both.

What food and drinks are included?

A BBQ lunch is included, and drinks are included too. Alcoholic options include beer, wine, and local rum, plus nonalcoholic options like water and coke.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes. A vegetarian option is available if you request it at booking.

How does cancellation work?

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

What is the minimum age requirement?

The minimum age is 18 years.