Grand Baie: Catamaran 3 Islands Cruise & Lunch on the Island

Mauritius looks different from the sea. A full-day catamaran outing from Grand Baie turns the north coast into a floating postcard. You get sea time, island time, and snorkeling time in one 7-hour loop around Ilot Gabriel, Ile Plate, and a Coin de Mire pass-by.

I love that you actually step onto two islands (Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate), not just float near them. And I really like the deal-breaker combo: BBQ lunch with drinks included while you’re on the island.

One drawback to plan for: Coin de Mire is close-up viewing only, and choppy weather can affect how the day runs.

Key Things That Make This Cruise Worth Your Time

• Two real island landings: Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate, with a BBQ lunch on Ile Plate
• A full day at sea from Grand Baie with lots of turquoise-water views from the catamaran
• Dinghy transfers instead of a bus-and-wait setup, so you feel the day move
• Snorkeling is self-directed (no guided check-in in the water), so bring the right mindset
• Coin de Mire is pass-by only: nobody sets foot there
• Weather can change the plan, especially in rougher winter months

Why This Grand Baie 3-Island Day Feels Like a Real Getaway

This is the kind of tour you book when you want your day to run on island time, not schedule time. You start in Grand Baie, you spend the middle hours on land doing water-and-beach stuff, and you end back on the catamaran with the coastline shrinking behind you.

What makes it work is simple: you’re not stuck doing just one thing. You get the boat cruise for views and motion, then you switch gears to island walking, swimming, and snorkeling. Even if you don’t feel like a hardcore snorkeler, you still get plenty of chances to look, relax, and cool off.

If you like trips where the “best moments” happen without you planning them, this one fits. You might catch dolphins on the way in, turtles in shallow water, or whales on a lucky return. No guarantees, but the area is known for wildlife energy, and the day’s set up so you notice it.

Meeting in Grand Baie: Find Them Fast and Start With the Right Gear

The meeting point is on the beach in Grand Baie, halfway down the shore. Look opposite the red express bus for Port Louis and opposite the shop called HIGHLIGHTS. When you book, you’re asked to leave a valid WhatsApp number so they can send a written description, a video, and the Google location.

That WhatsApp part matters more than you’d think. On a busy beach, it’s easy to waste time circling, and this tour starts with transfers. Once you find the group, you’ll sort out the rest quickly.

Bring the basics they list, because the day is sun-and-salt heavy:

• swimwear, towel, sunscreen
• comfortable clothes and shoes
• snorkeling gear (not included)
• comfortable shoes for land portions

One extra practical tip from real-world experience: if you can, pack water shoes. Some boats don’t allow regular shoes on board to protect the deck, and water shoes make island walking and entry into the shallows way easier.

The Catamaran Cruise Out: Where You Get the Best Views for the Least Effort

Once you’re aboard, the catamaran part is more than transport. It’s the show. The crew drops anchor near the islands when they can, and you spend a good chunk of the day watching the sea change color—greenish shallows near land, deeper blue as you move out.

Timing-wise, you’ll see islands before you land on them. That’s a sneaky highlight. From the boat, you get the full geography: how the coves sit, where the water turns clear, and which stretch looks best for snorkeling later.

A note on seating: if you choose to sit at the front, you may get soaked when waves hit. It’s fun in a don’t-care-about-your-clothes way, but it’s not ideal if you want a dry bag-free experience. If you’re bringing valuables, store them on board as instructed.

And yes—there’s often a lively vibe on the return. People mention music and a party-like atmosphere. That’s not the same as a nightclub, but it does mean the trip can end on a high note instead of a tired one.

Ilot Gabriel by Dinghy: The Fast Transfer to Island-Blue Water

This is where the day starts to feel like an actual outing rather than a ride. The catamaran drops anchor, then you’re taken in a dinghy to Ilot Gabriel.

Plan on roughly 45 to 60 minutes on this leg to get you from the catamaran down to the island time. The exact rhythm can shift based on sea conditions and how the captain handles safety.

What you’ll do there is mostly up to you. You can:

• walk the beach area
• swim in the shallows
• snorkel at your pace once you’re in the water

Snorkeling is self-guided, not a strict “follow the guide” route. That’s great if you like freedom. It also means you should know your comfort level in the water before you commit. If you’re new to snorkeling, stay close to where the water is easy and clear, and don’t fight currents.

Some days you may also see turtles in shallow areas. Again, not promised, but the setup makes it plausible: calm inshore water, time to look around, and long-enough pauses to notice wildlife.

Ile Plate Lunch on the Island: BBQ, Drinks, and the Best Kind of Break

Next comes the part many people remember first: lunch on land, right where you’re swimming.

You’re picked up again and brought from Ilot Gabriel to Ile Plate, where the crew takes care of you. Food is served on the island, not back on the boat. That small difference makes lunch feel like part of the day’s scenery instead of a pit stop.

The meal is a BBQ lunch with drinks included, including juice and beer (and other options in that same category). Portions tend to satisfy, and you can usually go back for more if you’re hungry after swimming.

What makes Ile Plate work is the rhythm. You land, eat almost as soon as you arrive, then you get time to reset. The tour description calls for a “siesta” vibe before you head back—basically: eat, cool down, and let the island slow you down for a bit.

If you’re sensitive to sun, this is also the moment to catch shade. Mauritius heat plus salt air is no joke, and you’ll feel it more once you’re done swimming and sitting still.

Coin de Mire Pass-By: Close Views, But No Landing

Coin de Mire is the third stop, and it’s handled differently. The catamaran passes nearby as close as possible, but nobody sets foot on the island.

So what you’re buying here is viewing time, not island exploration. If your dream is walking around and snorkeling off a sandy beach, this isn’t that stop.

But it still has value. Seeing an island shape from sea level gives you a sense of the coastline that you simply don’t get from the shore. It’s like a “final look at the scenery” moment before you turn back toward Grand Baie.

If you’re the type who hates being rushed from place to place, pass-by stops can actually be relaxing. You get a snapshot, you take photos, you keep your energy for swimming later.

Snorkeling Reality Check: Gear, Currents, and How to Stay Comfortable

Snorkeling is a big part of this trip, but it’s not sold as an instructor-led underwater adventure. That’s key. You’ll snorkel based on your wish and ability, and the day’s pace gives you breathing room—but you’re responsible for your own comfort.

Snorkeling gear isn’t included. If you have your own mask/snorkel setup, bring it. If not, you might find it limiting if you expected a full equipment bundle.

Also: some beaches and coves can have rocky footing and stronger currents in spots. That means:

• enter slowly
• keep your snorkel time where it feels easy
• wear water shoes if the bottom is rough

If you get seasick easily, pay extra attention to how the water feels during the cruise. One clear warning from the day’s practical experience: the boat ride can get choppy. If your stomach is fragile, sit where motion feels least intense and consider taking precautions before you board.

Food and Drinks: What’s Included, What to Watch, and What to Expect

This tour includes BBQ lunch and drinks, with juice and beer called out. That’s a huge value driver because it removes the usual spending headache of buying meals at beach spots that can be expensive.

A few practical notes:

• Drinks may be served in reusable glasses. Plan on the usual beach-day style service rather than fancy glassware.
• Some people note the drinks run warm, which is understandable in an open-air day. Bring sunscreen and hydrate so you don’t feel it more than you should.
• If you’re picky about timing, eat earlier when food is served. Island eating can be slower than a quick restaurant line because you’re mixing dining with a holiday vibe.

Diet-wise, the official details don’t promise specific meal types beyond the BBQ setup. Still, you might find options for different preferences depending on what’s prepared that day—so if you need something specific, ask.

The Return Ride: Music, Dancing, and End-of-Day Momentum

On the way back, the mood tends to shift into celebration mode. People mention dancing, rum punch, and crew music on board. That matters because a lot of island tours end with exhaustion and silence. Here, there’s usually a “close the day with energy” feeling.

Also, if you were lucky enough to see wildlife earlier, the return is when you’ll feel the story of the day click into place. Dolphins or whales sightings on the way back are the kind of extra that can turn a good day into a great one—even if the main package is already strong.

Price and Value: Is $70 for 7 Hours a Good Deal?

At about $70 per person for a 7-hour day, you’re paying for more than a boat ticket. You’re buying:

• catamaran cruise time with sea views
• dinghy transfers to islands
• access to two islands plus a Coin de Mire pass-by
• BBQ lunch on the island
• drinks included
• a live guide (English and French)

That’s strong value if you compare it to doing the same loop independently. Most people would still end up paying for boat transport, lunch, and island transfers separately.

Where value can soften is if you expected fully guided snorkeling with equipment. Snorkeling gear isn’t included, and snorkeling is self-directed. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off. That means you need to factor in getting to Grand Baie on your own.

For the right traveler, though, it’s a straightforward deal: one price, one day, and the logistics handled.

Weather, Safety, and When the Plan Might Change

This is an ocean trip. The captain can cancel or reschedule if weather conditions warrant it. Safety is the deciding factor, and they make that clear.

There’s also a practical seasonal note: in rougher winter months (around June to September), sea conditions can make it impossible to do all three islands as described. In that case, you might not get the full “three stops” experience.

If you travel during that period, it’s smart to go in with flexibility. The tour is set up for enjoyment, but it also has to work as a safety-first operation. If conditions aren’t ideal, the captain’s priority is keeping everyone safe—even if it means changing the route.

Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Might Want to Skip It)

This tour fits well if you:

• want an all-in-one boat + islands + lunch day
• like open-water views and don’t mind being on the sea most of the time
• enjoy snorkeling at your own pace
• want a lively group day without constant decision-making

You might want to consider a different option if you:

• are pregnant or have mobility impairments (it’s listed as not suitable)
• hate boats or get seasick easily
• need hotel pickup or very detailed in-water guidance
• expect snorkeling gear to be provided

Should You Book the Grand Baie Catamaran 3-Islands Cruise?

Yes, I’d book it if your goal is a fun, scenic day with real island time and a BBQ lunch on the beach—without having to plan transfers or meal stops. The two island landings are the big win, and the included lunch/drinks make it feel like you get your money’s worth.

I’d hesitate if you’re traveling during rougher winter sea conditions and you really need every single stop to happen exactly as advertised. Also think twice if you’re not comfortable with self-guided snorkeling or if you don’t have your own snorkeling setup.

If you’re flexible, sun-ready, and excited by turquoise water from a moving boat, this is a solid Mauritius day.

FAQ

How long is the Grand Baie catamaran 3-islands cruise?

The duration is listed as 7 hours.

What islands are included in the tour?

The tour covers Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate with island time, and it includes a Coin de Mire stop by passing nearby. Landing on Coin de Mire is not done.

Is BBQ lunch included?

Yes. There is a BBQ lunch served on the island, and drinks are included.

Are snorkeling fins and masks included?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included.

How do you get from the catamaran to the islands?

You use a dinghy for island transfers. The catamaran anchors, and then you’re taken in a dinghy to the island area.

Is hotel pickup included?

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

Where is the meeting point in Grand Baie?

Meet on the beach in Grand Baie, halfway down the shore. It’s opposite the red express bus for Port Louis and opposite the shop called HIGHLIGHTS.

What language is the live guide?

The live tour guide is available in English and French.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and shoes, and snorkeling gear.

What happens if weather is bad?

The captain can cancel or reschedule for safety. In rough sea conditions (often in winter between June and September), it may not be possible to do all three islands as described.

If you tell me your travel month (and whether you get seasick), I can help you decide if this is a must-do for your dates.