GBaie: 3 North Islands Cruise, Lunch & CoindeMire Snorkeling

One day, three island vibes, one ocean view. This North Islands catamaran cruise hits the best mix of beach time, snorkeling near Coin de Mire, and an onboard BBQ lunch with drinks. I like the simple flow: sail out, swim and snorkel, then relax while the team feeds you. The main drawback to keep in mind is that the schedule and snorkeling can change with weather and sea conditions.

The highlight for me is how you get the views of Coin de Mire—that big mountain island—without needing to land there. I also like that the trip is built around clear, practical stops like Ile Plate and Ilot Gabriel, where you can actually enjoy the water rather than just look at it. If you’re sensitive to crowds or limited drinks during island drop-offs, plan for that, because day-to-day timing can feel rushed on busier outings.

Key moments that matter before you go

• Snorkeling near Coin de Mire can happen even if you do not step onto the island—if conditions allow.
• Ile Plate lagoon time gives you a real beach-and-swim break, not just a quick stop.
• Ilot Gabriel is about nature watching, including birds like the Paille en Queue.
• BBQ lunch onboard is included, with the exact serving style sometimes shifting based on conditions.
• Weather can change the plan, including whether you get the Coin de Mire snorkeling segment.

Why a North Islands catamaran day feels special in Mauritius

Mauritius waters in the north are built for a catamaran day: plenty of sunshine, lots of marine life, and that feeling that you’re on island time instead of tourist schedule time. This cruise is designed for families, friends, and groups who want a day at sea that still includes real swimming and a real meal.

I like that the day has a rhythm. You sail out, then you get beach and lagoon time, then you get to snorkel around the islands—followed by relaxing onboard with lunch. It’s also a straightforward experience with a live guide, and the guide works in multiple languages, which helps if your group is mixed.

The one thing to respect is the ocean. The operator is clear that weather affects what you can do, especially snorkeling. You won’t get a guarantee that every planned water moment will happen exactly as expected.

From Grand Bay water to Ile Plate: beaches and lagoon swimming

You start on the beach and head out on a catamaran for a North Islands route. Once you reach Ile Plate, you’re not just standing around. This is your main beach-and-water segment, with time to swim in the crystal-clear lagoon and enjoy the shoreline.

This stop matters because it breaks up the day. Instead of waiting for snorkeling, you get immediate water time and a chance to cool off. You’ll also be able to see how the color changes around the islands—one reason this trip is so popular for people who love visual payoff.

There’s a practical consideration here: some people find that island time can feel long, and drinks can be limited depending on how the day runs. If you dislike feeling stuck without shade or water, pack smart and come prepared so the beach portion stays fun, not uncomfortable.

Ilot Gabriel and the Paille en Queue birds: a nature-focused interlude

After the beach break, the cruise continues to Ilot Gabriel, described as a natural reserve. The big nature clue is the chance to see nests of birds like the Paille en Queue among other species.

This stop gives the day a different tone. Instead of only chasing the clearest water, you get a lighter moment: looking around at the island setting and the natural reserve feel. Even if you’re not a hardcore bird watcher, it helps you understand why this area is protected.

One more reason I like this part of the day: it balances the water-heavy segments. You’re still on the water route, but the experience is more about nature and atmosphere than only snorkeling gear and currents.

Coin de Mire snorkeling without stepping ashore

Coin de Mire is the star name for a reason. It’s described as a mountain in the ocean, and the route is built so you get a strong view of it on the sail back.

Here’s the important policy: you do not set foot on the island. The boat sails closest possible, so you get the spectacle from the water. If weather allows, you may snorkel very near to that third island, but the note is clear: bring your own equipment for that near-Coin-de-Mire snorkeling.

This is a key detail for planning your day. If you show up without your own snorkel gear, you might only get the view. If snorkeling is your top priority, treat that equipment note as a must-do, not a suggestion.

Also remember: snorkeling depends on conditions. The operator states that sometimes, due to weather at sea, you may not be able to do the snorkeling part. In plain terms: if the sea looks rough, expect the safety call to take priority.

BBQ lunch onboard: good food, timing quirks, and drinks to watch

The included meal is an onboard BBQ lunch, with items like salad and drinks. The timing is designed so you relax between water activities, and the trip is long enough that having an included meal is genuinely valuable versus paying for food separately.

The big catch isn’t the food itself—it’s the flow of the day. Some outings run island time with limited refreshments, and drinks may feel inconsistent during drop-off periods. Even when drinks are offered, you might find that ice is not always available, or that you only get cold drinks at certain times rather than all day.

If you’re the kind of person who always wants water on hand, I’d bring a little extra. It’s not because the meal isn’t included. It’s because the way island stops line up can affect how quickly you get back to the catamaran.

Still, the overall value is solid. A 7-hour boat day with lunch and guide support is hard to beat, especially when you’re also getting snorkeling time and multiple island environments.

Timing, crowds, and weather: the practical side of a 7-hour cruise

This is a 7-hour day, so you should plan it like a full half-day commitment. You also need to accept the reality of sea travel: the captain may reschedule due to bad weather, and the itinerary can shift under force majeure conditions.

Crowds are another practical factor. One of the critiques from past outings is that catamarans can be crowded and that multiple boats may be in the same area at the same time. Even with a good crew, that can affect seating comfort and the overall vibe—especially when everyone is tired and hot during the late part of the day.

The good news: the trip is also described as safe, including sailing close to Coin de Mire’s area. The thrill is there, but the operator is explicit that safety comes first.

My advice is simple: if you care most about calm, pick a day when you expect fewer boats. If you care most about water time and you’re flexible on timing, you’ll likely enjoy the experience more.

What to bring so the day stays stress-free

You don’t need to pack like you’re going to Everest. But you do want to be ready for sun, water, and snorkeling. At minimum, bring:

• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Swimwear

Because near-Coin-de-Mire snorkeling can require it, bring your own snorkel setup if you have it. The trip note is specific: bring your own equipment for snorkeling near Coin de Mire if conditions allow.

And I’d add one personal comfort item based on how the day can run: keep extra drinking water or drinks with you, especially if your group tends to get thirsty quickly. Some past days didn’t feel like there was enough on-the-island refreshment.

Finally, keep your schedule flexible in your mind. Weather can change what you do, and the captain may amend the programme.

Who should book this cruise (and who should skip it)

This is a strong fit for people who want varied water time: lagoon swimming at Ile Plate, nature reserve scenery at Ilot Gabriel, and the famous Coin de Mire views with possible snorkeling nearby. It also suits groups—friends, family, and people who like hanging out on a boat rather than switching between vehicles all day.

It’s also a good choice if lunch matters. The included BBQ lunch with drinks means you’re not scrambling for food mid-adventure.

Who should think twice? Wheelchair users should skip, since the tour is not suitable for that. Also, if you hate crowded catamarans or you need steady access to drinks and ice throughout the day, plan around the potential for limited refreshment during island drop-offs.

Should you book GBaie: 3 North Islands Cruise, Lunch & CoindeMire Snorkeling?

For $70 per person and a full 7-hour catamaran day, this can be good value if you’re here for the water: beach time, lagoon swimming, and the chance to snorkel near Coin de Mire. The included BBQ lunch is a real plus compared with the cost of piecing together boat snacks and separate meals.

I’d book if:

• Coin de Mire and North Islands scenery are your top goals
• You’re comfortable with weather-driven changes
• You can bring your own snorkeling equipment and swim-ready basics

I’d think twice or prepare harder if:

• You’re very sensitive to crowds or seating comfort
• You expect unlimited drinks during island drop-offs
• You’re hoping for guaranteed Coin de Mire snorkeling no matter the sea state

If you go with the right expectations—water first, food included, ocean safety in charge—this is the kind of Mauritius day you’ll remember long after you’re back on land.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The activity lasts 7 hours.

Where do I meet the tour?

You meet on the beach. You should contact your guide 24 hours prior to the activity.

Is snorkeling included, and do I need my own gear?

Snorkeling is included near the islands, and there is also snorkeling near Coin de Mire. If snorkeling happens very near Coin de Mire, the note says to bring your own equipment.

Will the boat land on Coin de Mire?

No. The cruise sails closest possible to Coin de Mire, but you do not set foot on the island.

What’s included for lunch and drinks?

BBQ lunch is included, along with drinks. In some rare cases, lunch might also be served on the island.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The captain may reschedule trips in case of bad weather. The duration and initial programme may also be amended for force majeure conditions, and sometimes snorkeling may not be possible.

What languages does the guide speak?

The live guide speaks English, French, Hindi, Urdu, Spanish, and Arabic.

Can I cancel for free, and is pay later offered?

Yes. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there is an option to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.