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

The best part of this Grand Baie catamaran cruise is that you do more than look at Mauritius from the water. You land on both Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate, then eat a BBQ lunch right on the island. I like that the day combines open-water sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and a proper island stop instead of rushing from one photo point to another. I also like the friendly crew, regular drinks, and lively music on the way home.

The main catch is the sea itself. The crossing can be rough, especially from June through September, and the seven-hour day puts you in strong sun and wind for a long stretch. Snorkeling is self-guided, not a closely managed lesson, and some sections have currents or stony footing. If you get seasick or need easy access, this is worth thinking through before booking.

Key points to know before you book

• Two island landings: You set foot on Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate, while the catamaran passes close to Coin de Mire without landing.
• Lunch on Ile Plate: The BBQ is served on the island, with food and drinks included.
• A lively return cruise: Music, dancing, and rum drinks often turn the final sail into a small party.
• Bring water shoes: Shoes are removed before boarding the catamaran, and water shoes help on beaches and rocky shallows.
• Expect rough water at times: The boat ride can be wet and choppy, especially on the outward crossing.
• Good value at $70: Seven hours, island transfers, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling time make this a strong full-day option.

The northern islands from Grand Baie

Mauritius has plenty of beautiful beaches, but the view changes once you leave Grand Baie behind. From the catamaran, you see the coast from a low angle, with open water between you and the northern islands. The ocean shifts through several shades of blue, and the islands appear before you ever step ashore.

The boat leaves from the beach at Grand Baie. A small dinghy carries you from the beach to the catamaran, since the larger boat cannot always come right up to the sand. The meeting point is halfway along the beach, opposite the red Express bus for Port Louis and near the shop called Highlights. The operator sends a written description, video, and Google location through WhatsApp, so provide a working number when you book.

The start can feel less tidy than the rest of the day. Some people have had trouble identifying where to wait or when the dinghy is boarding. Once everyone is aboard, though, the trip settles into a clear rhythm.

The catamaran is a decent-sized boat, though the number of people can vary. Some departures feel comfortable, while others have more than 40 people aboard. That affects how quickly you get off the boat, find a place on the beach, or move through the lunch line. If you prefer a quiet, private outing, this is not the right product. If you enjoy meeting people and do not mind a social boat, the group setting adds to the fun.

Sailing through changing shades of blue

The cruise is not just transportation between stops. It is one of the main attractions. Sit on the deck if you want the best views, but protect your phone and spare clothes. The front of the catamaran can get wet, especially when the sea is choppy. Some people find the breeze and movement helpful if they feel queasy, while others will want to sit farther back.

You stay in the sun and wind for much of the day, so sunscreen is not an optional extra. Bring more than you think you need, along with a towel, swimwear, light clothing, and a secure bag. Shoes are generally removed before boarding to protect the boat. Water shoes are useful once you reach the islands, especially around stony shallows and coral.

The crew gives safety instructions and helps with the transfers between the dinghy, catamaran, and shore. English and French are used, though the clarity of English can vary depending on the crew member. Pay attention to the meeting times and listen carefully during the safety briefing, particularly if the sea is rough.

Wildlife sightings are possible but never guaranteed. The boat has sometimes encountered dolphins and humpback whales, and there have also been sightings of stingrays and turtles around the islands. Treat those moments as luck rather than part of the fixed schedule.

Ilot Gabriel, a short first taste of island life

The route described for this experience first takes you toward Ilot Gabriel. The catamaran anchors as close to the islands as water depth allows, and a dinghy takes you to shore. The transfer is part of the adventure, but it also means getting in and out of a small boat, sometimes with waves moving underneath you.

You generally have around 45 to 60 minutes on Ilot Gabriel. That is enough for a walk, a swim, and photos, but not enough for a long exploration. The island is valued for its pale beach, clear water, and simple feeling of being away from the main island. You are here for a short visit, so keep an eye on the time and do not wander too far from the agreed meeting area.

The shallow water can be good for spotting fish, but conditions change. Some areas have coral, stones, or a stronger current than expected. Fins can help, although snorkeling equipment is not included, so bring your own gear if you have it. The operator specifically recommends bringing snorkeling equipment, and this is one of those times when your own mask and fins can make the water time more comfortable.

Do not expect a guided snorkeling lesson. The snorkeling is generally self-guided, and you choose how long to stay in the water based on your ability. That freedom suits confident swimmers. It is less ideal if you want a guide to lead you around a marked reef or keep close watch over the group.

Ile Plate and lunch beside the beach

The catamaran or dinghy then takes you to Ile Plate, also known as Flat Island. This is the heart of the day because lunch is served on the island rather than on the boat. You get to sit in a natural beach setting, eat a hot meal, and take a real break from the rolling water.

The BBQ usually includes enough food for a full lunch, and second helpings have been available. The menu is described as fresh and satisfying, with vegan options reported on some departures. Drinks include juice, beer, and other beverages. One practical note: drinks may not always be cold, and bottled water is not clearly listed as a standard inclusion. Bring your own water if you can, or confirm what is supplied before you leave Grand Baie.

The meal is one of the strongest reasons to choose this tour over a basic boat transfer. Many island cruises serve lunch on deck, where you are still dealing with sun, wind, and limited space. Here, the island setting gives the meal a slower pace. It also lets you take a break before more swimming and snorkeling.

The beach can be busy, especially when several boats arrive at the same time. The northern islands are popular, and the shared shore setting is not a private escape. Still, the area can feel well managed even when many boats are nearby. Keep your belongings together, follow the crew’s timing, and do not assume you have unlimited time after eating.

Swimming and snorkeling after lunch

After lunch, you have time to swim, snorkel, or rest on the sand. This is a flexible part of the tour, not a tightly scheduled activity with a guide leading every person into the water. You can stay in the shallows and see fish, or swim farther if conditions and your confidence allow it.

The water can look wonderfully clear, but do not expect a perfect coral garden. Some areas have suffered from heavy use, and snorkeling quality can be mixed. You might see fish, coral, turtles, or a stingray, but you might also find limited coral and uneven footing. The sea can also have a current, so stay within your ability and do not swim farther than you can comfortably return.

A few simple items make a major difference:

• A mask that fits properly
• Fins for current and distance
• Water shoes for rocky areas
• A towel and dry clothes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• A waterproof pouch for small valuables

The operator asks you to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and snorkeling gear. This is good advice, not filler. You spend much of the day outside, and the combination of water, wind, and sun can leave you tired before the return cruise begins.

Coin de Mire, seen from the water

Coin de Mire is the third island on the route, but you do not go ashore. The catamaran passes as close as water depth and conditions allow, giving you views of its rocky profile from the sea.

This is important when setting expectations. The tour is often described as a three-island cruise, but only Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate are landing stops. Coin de Mire is a scenic pass-by. That is still worthwhile because the island looks different from the sandy beaches, but anyone expecting three beach visits will be disappointed.

The captain may adjust the route if weather, waves, or safety make the full plan impossible. Winter conditions from June through September can be particularly unsettled. The captain’s decision is final, and the boat may skip one or more island stops if the sea is unsafe. This is a real operating condition, not a minor disclaimer. Check the forecast, but understand that conditions can change after departure.

The return cruise turns social

The trip home is often the most playful part of the day. The crew puts on music, serves drinks, and encourages a relaxed party atmosphere. Dancing has become a regular feature on some sailings, and birthdays or other celebrations may become a shared moment for the whole boat.

You can join in or simply sit back and watch the coastline slide past. The atmosphere depends on the group, but the crew generally brings plenty of energy. This is not a silent nature cruise. Music, conversation, and rum drinks are part of the appeal.

The return can also feel smoother than the outward crossing. If the first part of the trip is rough, do not assume the whole day will be uncomfortable. Conditions can change across the route. Still, anyone prone to seasickness should plan ahead and consider eating lightly before departure. One useful tip is to sit on deck if movement makes you nauseated, but keep your belongings protected from spray.

What the $70 price really covers

At $70 per person, this is a good-value full-day outing if you use the included parts. You get about seven hours on the water, a catamaran cruise, dinghy transfers, access to two islands, a pass by Coin de Mire, BBQ lunch, and drinks. A separate excursion with lunch and island transfers can easily cost more, especially when transport between the boat and beach is added.

The price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you must arrange your own way to Grand Baie. It also does not include snorkeling equipment. That is easy to overlook when comparing prices. Add the cost of renting or buying a mask and fins if you do not already have them.

The value is strongest for people who want several experiences in one day: sailing, island beaches, swimming, snorkeling, lunch, and music. It is weaker for anyone seeking a small-group charter, quiet water time, or serious reef snorkeling. The boat can feel crowded, and island time is limited rather than leisurely.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms help if your weather plans are uncertain, but they do not change the captain’s ability to cancel or reschedule for safety.

Who should choose this cruise

I would choose this tour if you want an active, social day and enjoy being on the water. It suits couples, solo visitors, families with older children, and groups who like a bit of music and conversation after a day outdoors. Solo travelers can find it easy to meet people because the boat has a shared atmosphere rather than private seating.

It is also a good choice if lunch on the island matters to you. That detail gives the day more character than a boat ride with a buffet served on board.

I would think twice if you are pregnant, have limited mobility, or dislike transferring through a dinghy. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Rough seas, wet boarding areas, and rocky shallows can make the day demanding.

You should also reconsider if snorkeling is your main goal. You may see fish, turtles, coral, and other marine life, but the snorkeling is not a fully guided reef tour. The quality depends on water conditions, crowd levels, and your own comfort in the sea.

Final verdict: book it for the whole day, not one single stop

This is a well-priced way to see Mauritius’s northern islands in one outing. The best features are the island lunch, friendly crew, strong scenery, and lively return cruise. The day feels full without requiring you to organize separate boat transfers, meals, and beach stops.

Book it if you can handle sun, wind, boat movement, and a shared group setting. Bring water shoes, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, a towel, and extra protection for your phone. If the sea is calm, this can be one of the most enjoyable full-day activities from Grand Baie. If conditions are rough, the crossing may test you, but the crew’s safety rules and the flexible route help keep the experience sensible.

FAQ

How long does the catamaran cruise last?

The activity lasts about seven hours, including the catamaran journey, dinghy transfers, island visits, lunch, swimming, snorkeling, and the return cruise.

Which islands can I visit on foot?

You can land on Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate. You do not land on Coin de Mire. The catamaran passes near Coin de Mire as closely as water depth and conditions allow.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A BBQ lunch is included and served on Ile Plate. Drinks such as juice and beer are also included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included, so bring your own mask, fins, and related gear if you want to snorkel.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You meet the group on the beach at Grand Baie, near the red Express bus for Port Louis and the shop called Highlights.

What languages are spoken?

The tour is offered in English and French.

Can the tour be changed because of weather?

Yes. The captain can cancel, reschedule, or change the route if sea conditions are unsafe. From June through September, rough conditions may sometimes prevent the boat from visiting all three islands.