Private Charter Full Day Cruise: Île aux Cerfs

A full day on a private catamaran feels like a reset. You’ll sail on the 45-foot Island Hopper out of Pointe Jerome, with time on Île aux Cerfs plus a stop for the GRSE Waterfall area and wildlife along the riverside. The day is built for relaxed sightseeing, not clock-watching.

Two things I especially like: the chance to use free snorkel equipment during the cruise, and the on-water feel of a private charter for up to 15 people. Your group stays together, and the cruise plan gives you short, workable chunks of time at each highlight. One consideration: the main land stops are not long, so if you want an extended swim or a long hike, you may feel the schedule is tight.

Key highlights at a glance

• Private charter for up to 15: You book the boat for your group, not a mixed crowd.
• 45-foot Island Hopper day sailing: Big enough for comfort, designed for a full day on the water.
• Free snorkel gear: Provided for the snorkeling stop.
• Île aux Cerfs time on your terms: Beach relaxation, a swim, or optional parasailing.
• Wildlife chances from the water and along the river: Dolphins, monkeys, and giant bats are part of the experience.
• GRSE Waterfall stop: A focused visit along the Grand River.

Private charter catamaran on the 45-foot Island Hopper

This is the kind of Mauritius day that changes the pace. Instead of moving from one place to another on land, you spend most of the day on the water, gliding between the highlights. The boat is a 45-foot (14-meter) yacht called Island Hopper, designed specifically for day sailing, which usually means it’s set up for sightseeing rather than long, overnight cruising.

Because it’s private, you’re not negotiating with strangers for space at the best angles for photos or for the best stretch of shade. You get a calmer rhythm. Your group size can be up to 15, which makes it a solid option for families, friends, or a mixed group of couples that wants together-time without the pressure of being stuck in a large tour bus schedule.

The crew experience is also a big deal here. Based on what people consistently mention, the team tends to be friendly, gives a solid safety briefing, and knows what you’re likely to see while you’re sailing. That matters more than it sounds. If you’re going to be out on the water for hours, you want to feel confident quickly and then enjoy the day.

Pointe Jerome to a simple 7-hour loop (no hotel pickup required)

The whole day is built around one clear start point: HPGF+496 Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point, Pointe d’Esny, Mauritius. Tours start at 9:00 am and end back at the same meeting point, so you’re not dealing with complicated end-of-day logistics or wondering how to get back if you doze off on the ride.

Hotel drop-off and pickup are not included, so plan your own transport to Pointe Jerome. The good news: it’s listed as near public transportation, which helps if you’re not using a private driver.

The timing is also straightforward. You’re looking at about 7 hours total, with a main island stop, a short waterfall/river stop, and sailing segments in between. The land time is limited on purpose, which keeps the day moving and gives you variety without turning it into a marathon.

Also note: you get a mobile ticket, and you should receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, depending on availability. That’s useful if your plans are firm but you still want a little breathing room before you fully commit.

Sailing comfort and the small decisions that make a big difference

On a full-day charter, you’ll feel the difference between a “good” boat day and a “great” boat day in the details you control. Here’s how to think about it.

First, shade and sun management. Even if the day starts comfortable, Mauritius sun can build fast once you’re out on open water. Dress like you’ll be both in sun and breeze. Plan for sun protection, because you’ll spend serious time on deck.

Second, think about when you want to be in the water. The snorkeling gear is included, but you’re not snorkeling constantly. You’re doing a snorkeling spot as part of the cruise, so your timing matters. If you want the best effort for the water time, keep your swim energy for the planned window instead of burning it on quick dips that steal time from the main swim.

Finally, private doesn’t mean unmanaged. You still want to listen carefully to the safety briefing. On a day with snorkeling and wildlife chances, that briefing isn’t just formalities. It’s how you stay relaxed once you’re out there.

Île aux Cerfs: beach time, swimming, and optional parasailing

Île aux Cerfs is the day’s big land moment, and the schedule gives you about 1 hour there. That sounds short until you realize what the island is best at: it’s a place to reset. You can keep it simple—sun, sand, and a swim in crystal-clear water—or you can turn that hour into an activity moment.

Here’s what you can do during that hour:

• Relax on the beach and enjoy the water views
• Swim if conditions are right
• Participate in optional activities such as parasailing on the island

With only one hour, I recommend you decide quickly when you get off the catamaran. If parasailing is your priority, head there early so you don’t end up spending the best part of your time waiting. If your priority is just beach time, aim for a spot that keeps you close to the water but still gives you shade access.

Also, consider how you move back to the boat at the end of the hour. This is the one moment where a group can accidentally get scattered if everyone drifts at different speeds. A quick “meet back at the dock” plan before you separate makes the whole day feel smoother.

Wildlife on the move: dolphins, monkeys, and giant bats

One of the most fun parts of this cruise plan is that it’s not only about the destination. You’re also out there hoping to see animals in their real habitat. The itinerary highlights chances to spot:

• Dolphins while sailing
• Monkeys along the shore
• Giant bats in natural habitats (visible in the riverside trees)

Now, you can’t guarantee wildlife on any day. But you can control how you watch. I like tours like this because you’re not stuck facing one view the entire day. You’re moving through coastline and river areas where sightings are possible, and that variety keeps attention up.

For best odds:

• Keep your eyes up during sailing segments, not just when you’re told to look.
• Stay patient when the boat slows. Wildlife often shows when there’s a quieter moment.
• If you’re going snorkeling, don’t burn your focus on the water before the wildlife segment begins. You’ll want both.

The giant bats mention is a great example of why this cruise feels different from the standard “swim and snack” day. It’s not a theme-park promise. It’s about noticing what’s already there when the boat passes through the right natural areas.

Snorkeling spot with free gear: good value, easy logistics

The cruise includes a snorkeling spot with free use of provided snorkel equipment. That’s a real money-saver and, more importantly, it removes friction. You don’t have to rent gear at the last minute or worry about whether it fits right.

A few practical tips to make that included snorkeling time work:

• If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, plan what you’ll use in the water before you arrive.
• Bring a simple towel for drying off. You’ll want to avoid damp-shivering later when the sea breeze picks up.
• If you’re a beginner, focus on slow breathing and short swims. There’s no trophy for staying down the longest.

Also, because snorkeling isn’t the entire day, you don’t want to “save” everything for later. Treat snorkeling as your one planned water window, then switch back to sightseeing mode.

GRSE Waterfall and the Grand River: a short stop with serious views

After Île aux Cerfs, the cruise includes a river segment and a stop for GRSE Waterfall. The land time is about 20 minutes, which means this isn’t a long hiking moment. It’s a look, a short stretch for photos, and then you’re back on board.

What makes it worth the time is the setting. The cruise up the Grand River is part of the experience, and you have chances to spot wildlife such as monkeys and giant bats in the trees along the riverbanks.

In practical terms, a 20-minute stop works best if you go with a flexible mindset:

• Expect the best photo opportunities to happen fast
• Don’t plan long detours from the main viewing area
• Use that time to stretch, grab a few angles, and soak in the river scenery

One more thought: because this stop is short, it helps to have your camera and phone ready before you arrive. People often miss the best shots because they’re still switching apps or charging batteries. Keep it simple, and you’ll get more out of the short window.

Food and drinks: BBQ lunch add-ons (including a lobster option)

Food and drinks are not included in the charter price. But you do have add-on options if you want lunch on the day.

The tour offers:

• A Standard BBQ Lunch Menu and drinks for a supplement of Euro 35/person
• A VIP BBQ Lunch Menu with lobster and drinks for a supplement of Euro 74/person
• Tea and coffee are included

Here’s how I think about value in these add-ons. On a private charter, you’re already paying for the boat and the day plan. Lunch becomes optional, so you can choose based on your style. If you prefer to keep the day light and bring snacks, the base cruise can still feel complete. If you want the whole experience to be low-effort from start to finish, the BBQ option is your easiest path.

Since the menu details and timing aren’t spelled out here, treat lunch like this: plan your appetite so you don’t get hangry during a day that’s mostly out on the water. If you choose the more premium lobster menu, I’d plan it as a treat moment, not a last-minute decision.

Price and value for a group up to 15

The price is $1,335.67 per group (up to 15 people). That’s private-boat pricing, and the key to judging value is the group size ceiling.

If you max out at 15 people, the effective cost is about $89 per person for the charter day. Even if you’re not full, you’re still sharing the boat cost across your group, which can make this feel like a smart choice compared with paying per person for smaller-group tours or multiple excursions.

Why it’s good value: the charter includes real time on two standout areas (Île aux Cerfs and the GRSE Waterfall area) plus free snorkel gear. Add the private element—no mixed group, your own pacing—and this can feel less like an expensive boat ride and more like a complete day built around your group.

Booking timing can also matter. It’s typically booked about 58 days in advance on average, so if you’re traveling during a busy season or on a date you really want, earlier planning can help you avoid “only later availability” stress.

Who should book this Isle aux Cerfs private cruise

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A private day on the water with your group
• A mix of beach time and sightseeing without too much movement on land
• Included snorkeling gear to simplify the day
• Chances to see wildlife (dolphins, monkeys, giant bats) in the places where sightings are possible

It’s also a nice pick for multi-generational groups, as long as everyone is comfortable with a day mostly afloat and with short land stops. And the experience is listed as suitable for most travelers, so it’s not limited to niche adventurers.

Who might want to skip it? If you’re the type who wants long beach time, extended hikes, or a slow, lingering schedule, the time windows are short by design. The day is meant to be varied and efficient.

Practical tips to make your day smoother

Here are the small choices that tend to make this kind of charter day go from fine to great:

• Use the full 1 hour on Île aux Cerfs wisely. Decide early: swim, relax, or parasailing.
• Bring sun protection. You’ll be outdoors for hours and you’ll feel it.
• Have a plan for phones and wallets. You’ll go from dock to island to boat again.
• Stay flexible with wildlife. If you don’t see dolphins one segment, keep watching. This day is built around chances, not guarantees.
• Know lunch is optional. Budget for the Euro 35 BBQ or Euro 74 lobster option if you want it.

Should you book the Île aux Cerfs private charter?

Book it if you want a private catamaran day that balances beach time, snorkeling gear, and sightseeing with wildlife chances, all without the hassle of hotel pickup and complex transfers. The pricing can make sense for groups up to 15, and the included snorkel setup is a simple win.

I’d think twice if you’re looking for a long, slow beach day or a big hike. This is a “hit the highlights” day. If you match that style, you’ll likely find it memorable for exactly that reason: you’re on the water, you’re seeing more than one kind of scenery, and your group gets to do it together.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the Private Charter Full Day Cruise to Île aux Cerfs?

The cruise lasts about 7 hours.

How many people can be included in the charter?

The price is per group for up to 15 people.

What time does the tour start, and where does it leave from?

It starts at 9:00 am from the Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point in Pointe d’Esny, and it ends back at the same meeting point.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkel equipment is provided for free for the snorkeling stop.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included. You can add lunch options (including BBQ) and drinks for a supplement, and tea & coffee are available.

Where does the itinerary stop during the day?

It includes a stop at Île aux Cerfs (about 1 hour) and a stop connected to the GRSE Waterfall area (about 20 minutes), plus sailing time between.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.