Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise to Ile Aux Cerfs with BBQ Lunch

A waterfall, a white-sand island, and a free-flowing BBQ. I like how this trip strings together Île aux Cerfs beach time plus a BBQ lunch onboard, all without you doing much work. The one catch: the snorkeling spot can be a bit hit-or-miss, depending on conditions.

This is a simple, practical day: drive from Trou d’Eau Douce, cruise to the east coast, swim, eat, then relax on the island before heading back with local music. It’s also great value if you want a full half-day on the water with transfers and food included.

One more consideration: the schedule is tight in the places you’ll most want photos (especially near the waterfall), so go in ready to move fast when it’s your turn.

Key Things I’d Bookmark Before You Go

• Cascade Diamamouve photo stop with a real chance to spot monkeys along the riverbanks
• Snorkel and swim break off the coast, with clear water but variable underwater life
• 3-course BBQ lunch onboard plus a wide drinks selection (beer, wine, local rum, and more)
• Île aux Cerfs lagoon and white sand time plus optional add-ons if you want extra fun
• Mauritian Sega music onboard for the return cruise feel
• Meet opposite Green Island Restaurant in Trou d’Eau Douce for the smoothest start

From Trou d’Eau Douce to Cascade Diamamouve: the route and the vibe

Your day starts in Trou d’Eau Douce, on the east side of Mauritius, meeting opposite Green Island Restaurant on the beach. If you selected pickup, you’ll be collected from your hotel reception. Either way, plan to be on time, because the day moves like a well-run train: shuttle in, boat loading, then you’re off.

The ride to the next big moment—Grand River South East Waterfall, also known locally as Cascade Diamamouve—sets the tone. You’re not just “going somewhere,” you’re getting a feel for Mauritius beyond resorts. The route takes you upriver, where the scenery turns greener and more river-like as you get closer to the falls area.

Once you’re on the catamaran, the mood tends to shift from “day-trip logistics” to pure relaxation. It’s not a silent, museum-style outing. The crew runs it with energy, and you’ll usually feel looked after from the first drink order to the final stretch back toward Trou d’Eau Douce. If you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a fun group vibe, this kind of itinerary works.

Waterfall Photo Stop at Cascade Diamamouve (and how to catch the monkeys)

The waterfall stop is short—think about 30 minutes—and that’s important to understand before you arrive. You’ll be guided to the best viewpoints, get time for photos, and learn what you’re looking at. Then it’s back on the catamaran and onward.

Cascade Diamamouve is known enough that you’ll likely see other boats and people around at the same time. That means two things:

1) you’ll want to bring your camera ready and be quick once your moment comes, and

2) you shouldn’t expect a slow, postcard-perfect wandering session.

Here’s the fun part: you may see monkeys on the riverbanks. The tour includes encouragement to watch trees and edges near the river as you take photos. If you want a better chance, keep your eyes low near the waterline and scan the banks rather than staring straight at the falls.

One more reality check: the waterfall can depend on conditions. If currents or weather make it harder to get close, you might end up seeing the area from farther out. The day doesn’t stop, but this is the place where you’ll feel it most if visibility is limited.

Snorkel and Swim Break on the East Coast: what you’ll actually see

After the waterfall, you head toward a coastal snorkeling and swimming break. This is the part where the trip turns into “water day,” with a clear-water coastline and the chance to cool off.

You should know what the included experience is—and isn’t. You’ll have a snorkeling break, but time on the water is limited. That can be great if you want a taste of snorkeling. It can feel short if you were hoping for a long swim session.

Also, snorkeling results can vary. Some stops are better for fish variety than others. Even when the water looks gorgeous, you might see only a handful of fish or fewer species than you expected. I’d still plan to snorkel, because visibility and water conditions can make it worthwhile—but I wouldn’t build your day around expecting a guaranteed “wow” reef every time.

Practical tip: bring the basics that make snorkeling easier. The tour asks you to pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and camera. If you have your own snorkel gear, bring it too. You’ll save time and avoid “trying to fit the equipment while everyone is watching the schedule.”

If dolphins are around, you might spot them—one passenger reported sightings—so keep your head up when the boat slows down near the swim zone.

BBQ on a Catamaran with Local Rum and Mauritian Sega

Lunch is one of the best reasons to book a day like this. You get a 3-course BBQ lunch onboard, served with drinks. The drinks selection includes soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and local rum.

The practical value is obvious: you’re not hunting for lunch on your own, and you don’t have to leave the water day to find a restaurant. Eating on a catamaran also changes your pace. You’re not “between activities.” You’re still in motion, still in the sea breeze, with less downtime and fewer decisions.

Food quality tends to be a highlight for people who want real sustenance—not just a token snack. It’s typically filling, and there are options for different diets: vegetarian options are available, and the meal is halal. If you have dietary needs, this is a big win because it’s handled by the tour.

Want to make the lunch even more of a treat? Sometimes crews offer extras on the day. One example that came up is an additional lobster portion for a set fee. If that’s your thing, ask what’s available when you board so you’re not surprised by pricing later.

Then there’s the soundtrack: on the way back, the catamaran includes entertainment with Mauritian Sega music. It’s not a concert. It’s more like the local flavor that makes the return trip feel like a celebration instead of just transportation.

Île aux Cerfs: lagoon time, beach comfort, and the craft market

Île aux Cerfs is where the scenery payoff comes in. The island is famous for its white sandy beaches framed by turquoise lagoon water, and the tour builds in real time to enjoy that—about 1.5 hours connected to the lunch-and-swim stretch, plus about 2.5 hours for island exploring.

This is the “slow down” portion. You can swim in the lagoon and enjoy the beach without feeling like you’re on a strict checklist. If you like snorkeling, this island stop can be a good second chance. If you don’t, beach time still delivers.

Two ways to use your time well:

• Do the water first, while you’re energized and before the afternoon sun fully ramps up.
• Then handle the market, when you’re ready to cool off, browse, and grab a souvenir.

There’s also a local craft market visit on Île aux Cerfs. It’s a straightforward chance to pick up small items—spend a little, support local makers, and don’t overthink it.

Optional island activities exist, but they’re not included in the base price. If you’re the type who wants more action—parasailing, tubing, and other water activities—plan to pay extra where available and operating.

Group size, crowding, and getting on/off without stress

Most of your day happens in two high-touch places: getting from the meeting area to the catamaran and moving between the boat, swim areas, and the island.

Some days can feel crowded. Catamarans are comfortable, but they can get tight, and you’ll share space with a lot of people—especially under rain or when everyone wants to get inside at the same time. Also, facilities like toilets are limited, so expect a queue if many groups are on board.

Getting to the boat can also be chaotic at times. People queue on the beach near multiple boats, so you’ll want to watch for the exact catamaran your group is assigned to. Arrive early if you can, and don’t show up right at departure time.

If you’re driving yourself to Trou d’Eau Douce: parking can be tricky. One practical approach is to use a cab for the day and avoid the stress entirely.

If you’re worried about mobility: the tour is wheelchair accessible, but there’s a catch. Wheelchair users need to stand briefly to get on and off the shuttle boat, and crew assist. If you want a smooth day, talk to the crew early so they can plan the transfer steps.

Price and value at about $64 for 6 hours

At around $64 per person for about 6 hours, this trip can feel like a bargain—if you’re comparing it to the real cost of doing the pieces separately. Here’s what you’re getting in one package:

• Catamaran cruise
• Waterfall visit
• Snorkeling & swimming break
• BBQ lunch onboard (3 courses) plus drinks
• Time at Île aux Cerfs with an included market stop
• Optional hotel pickup/drop-off

Even if you don’t price every single line item, the big value is the food + drinks + transport rhythm. You pay once, then you’re fed while you’re moving from one highlight to the next. That’s what keeps the cost down compared with piecemeal plans.

Who feels this value most? People who want a true half-day on the water without the hassle of arranging boats, guides, and meals separately. If you’re the type who hates wasting time on logistics, this is built for you.

Who This Catamaran Trip Fits Best

This isn’t a quiet nature study or a hardcore snorkeling tour. It’s a fun, scenery-driven day with strong “beach + boat” vibes.

You’ll likely enjoy it if you:

• want an easy way to visit both the waterfall area and Île aux Cerfs
• like having food and drinks handled
• want to snorkel a bit, swim a bit, then relax on white sand
• prefer a guided day with English and French support

It may not be ideal if you:

• expect the longest snorkeling session of your life
• need unhurried time for waterfall photos
• are extremely sensitive to crowding on shared boats

If you’re traveling with kids, the shallow swim options (depending on the stop) can work well. Just keep expectations realistic: you’re still on a shared excursion schedule.

Should You Book This Catamaran to Île aux Cerfs?

I’d book it if your goal is a classic Mauritius “east coast highlights” day: catamaran cruising, a waterfall viewpoint, real beach time on Île aux Cerfs, and lunch plus drinks taken care of onboard.

I’d think twice if you’re planning this mainly for snorkeling variety or for a long, slow waterfall experience. The timing is set, and conditions can affect how close the boat gets to the falls. Go with the mindset that it’s a good day out on the water, not a guarantee of an Instagram-perfect reef.

If you do book, do two things that pay off fast: pack your snorkel gear if you have it, and show up early so the start of the day isn’t stressful.

FAQ

How long is the cruise to Île aux Cerfs?

The duration is 6 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet opposite Green Island Restaurant on the beach in Trou d’eau Douce.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select the pickup option. Otherwise, you meet at the beach meeting point.

What’s included with lunch and drinks?

You get a BBQ lunch onboard (3-course BBQ lunch) plus a selection of drinks including soft drinks, juice, water, beer, wine, and local rum.

Do I get snorkeling and swimming time?

Yes. The tour includes a snorkeling & swimming break.

How much time is there on Île aux Cerfs?

You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on the island for swimming and scenic views, plus about 2.5 hours for exploring, including a craft market visit.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and snorkeling gear if you have it.

Is there halal or vegetarian food?

Yes. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, and all food is halal.