Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran · Updated July 2026

Best Catamaran Cruises in Mauritius

A coast-by-coast guide to the best sailing days in Mauritius: where to go, what you get, and how much it costs.

Mauritius is surrounded by one of the largest fringing coral reef systems in the world, and the lagoon inside it is made for catamarans. Whether you want the famous beaches of Ile aux Cerfs, the remote snorkeling of Gabriel Island, or the dolphin-filled waters of Bénitiers Island, there is a catamaran cruise for you. This guide ranks the best options by coast, experience, and value.

Best overall value: Ile aux Cerfs east coast catamaran

The east-coast catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs is the best all-rounder in Mauritius. It combines sailing, snorkeling, the GRSE waterfall, a full BBQ lunch, an open bar, and at least two hours on one of the most photographed beaches in the Indian Ocean. It also tends to be the best value, with shared cruises starting at around EUR 50 per adult and often including hotel transfers.

Key highlights:

Departs from Trou d'Eau Douce on the east coast
GRSE waterfall river excursion
Coral reef snorkeling with tropical fish
Fresh BBQ lunch cooked on board
Open bar with rum, beer, wine, and soft drinks
Free time on Ile aux Cerfs beach
Hotel transfers included on many direct bookings

Our pick for best value: the Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran Cruise at EUR 50 per adult.

Best for snorkeling: Northern Isles catamaran cruise

The north coast around Grand Baie is the best choice for snorkelers and island-hopping lovers. Catamarans here visit Gabriel Island (Îlot Gabriel), Flat Island (Île Plate), and pass Gunner's Quoin (Coin de Mire). The water is clear, the beaches are quiet, and the coral gardens are some of the healthiest in Mauritius.

Prices are slightly higher than the east coast, usually EUR 55–90 per adult, and hotel transfers are often an extra charge. If you are staying in Grand Baie, Pereybere, or the north, this is the most convenient option.

Best for dolphins: Bénitiers Island west coast catamaran

The west coast is famous for dolphin watching. Catamarans depart from Black River or Le Morne, stop in Tamarin Bay to look for wild dolphins, then continue to Crystal Rock for snorkeling before lunch on Bénitiers Island. The Le Morne mountain backdrop makes this the most photogenic catamaran cruise in Mauritius.

This coast is best for guests staying in Flic en Flac, Tamarin, or Le Morne. Prices range from EUR 60–100 per adult, and dolphin sightings are frequent but never guaranteed.

Mauritius catamaran cruise price comparison 2026

Cruise	Coast	Best for	Price range
Ile aux Cerfs	East	Beaches, waterfall, families	EUR 50–70
Northern Isles	North	Snorkeling, island hopping	EUR 55–90
Bénitiers Island	West	Dolphins, Le Morne views	EUR 60–100

How to choose the best cruise for you

Your hotel location is the easiest starting point. If you are on the east coast, the Ile aux Cerfs catamaran is the obvious choice. If you are in Grand Baie or the north, the Northern Isles cruise saves travel time. If you are in Flic en Flac or Le Morne, the west coast dolphin cruise is most convenient.

Beyond location, think about what you want from the day:

Best beach and relaxation: Ile aux Cerfs east coast
Best snorkeling and remote islands: Northern Isles north coast
Best wildlife and scenery: Bénitiers Island west coast
Best value and inclusions: Ile aux Cerfs catamaran, usually EUR 50 with transfers and open bar

Book direct for the best price

GetYourGuide and Viator are useful for comparing options, but they add commission and put a platform between you and the crew. Booking direct with a local Mauritian operator gives you the lowest price, WhatsApp support, free rescheduling, and a weather refund guarantee. For the east coast, you can compare all options on our catamaran Mauritius guide and book our Ile aux Cerfs catamaran directly.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best catamaran cruises in Mauritius?

The best catamaran cruises in Mauritius are the Ile aux Cerfs cruise on the east coast, the Northern Isles cruise to Gabriel and Flat Island on the north coast, and the Bénitiers Island cruise on the west coast. Each offers a different experience: beaches and waterfalls in the east, snorkeling and island hopping in the north, and dolphins and mountain views in the west.

Which is better, Ile aux Cerfs or Gabriel Island?

Ile aux Cerfs is better for beach lovers and families who want white sand, calm water, and the GRSE waterfall. Gabriel Island is better for snorkelers and guests staying in Grand Baie who want a quieter, more remote island day. Both are beautiful, but Ile aux Cerfs is more famous and easier to combine with other east-coast sights.

How much should I pay for a catamaran cruise in Mauritius?

Expect to pay EUR 50–70 per adult for a quality shared full-day catamaran cruise in Mauritius. Children aged 2–9 usually cost EUR 30–40, and infants under 2 are often free. Private charters cost EUR 800–1,500. Booking direct with a local operator is usually 15–30% cheaper than GetYourGuide or Viator.

Is it worth booking a catamaran cruise direct in Mauritius?

Yes. Booking direct gives you the best price, instant local support on WhatsApp, free rescheduling, and direct contact with the crew. Third-party platforms charge commission and make last-minute changes harder.

What should I bring on a Mauritius catamaran cruise?

Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, a waterproof phone case, and a small amount of cash for optional extras. Snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks are usually provided by the operator.

Ready to book the best-value cruise?

Our Ile aux Cerfs catamaran cruise runs daily and includes everything you need for an unforgettable day.

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