Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran · Updated July 2026
Catamaran Mauritius: A Guide to the Best Cruises
Compare east, north, and west coast catamaran tours. Find the right route, price, and inclusions for your perfect day on the water.
A catamaran cruise is one of the best ways to see Mauritius. The island is surrounded by a fringing coral reef that creates calm, turquoise lagoons perfect for sailing, snorkeling, and beach hopping. But Mauritius has more than one coastline, and each offers a different catamaran experience. This guide compares the most popular routes so you can choose the right one, then book direct with a local operator for the best price.
The three main catamaran cruise coasts in Mauritius
Most catamaran tours in Mauritius fall into three regions: the east coast around Ile aux Cerfs, the north coast around Grand Baie and the Northern Isles, and the west coast around Black River and Bénitiers Island. The right choice depends on your hotel location, your sense of adventure, and whether you prefer beaches, snorkeling, or dolphin watching.
| Coast | Main stops | Highlight | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|---|
| East coast | Ile aux Cerfs, GRSE waterfall | White beaches & waterfall | EUR 50–70 |
| North coast | Gabriel Island, Flat Island, Gunner's Quoin | Snorkeling & island hopping | EUR 55–90 |
| West coast | Bénitiers Island, Crystal Rock, Tamarin Bay | Dolphins & Le Morne views | EUR 60–100 |
East coast: Ile aux Cerfs catamaran cruise
The east coast is the most famous catamaran destination in Mauritius. Cruises depart from the fishing village of Trou d'Eau Douce and sail across a protected lagoon to Ile aux Cerfs, a privately owned island known for powdery white sand and turquoise water. The route also visits the GRSE (Grande Rivière Sud-Est) waterfall, where the boat drifts up a river lined with wild monkeys and fruit bats.
A typical full-day east-coast catamaran cruise includes:
- Departure from Trou d'Eau Douce
- GRSE waterfall river excursion
- Coral reef snorkeling with tropical fish
- Fresh BBQ lunch cooked on board
- Open bar with local rum, beer, wine, and soft drinks
- Free time on Ile aux Cerfs beach
- Optional hotel transfers from anywhere in Mauritius
Best for: families, couples, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants a relaxed day with a mix of sailing, snorkeling, beach time, and a waterfall. See our Ile aux Cerfs Catamaran Cruise for EUR 50 per adult.
North coast: Gabriel Island and the Northern Isles
North coast catamaran cruises depart from Grand Baie and visit small islands in the northern lagoon. The most popular stops are Flat Island (Île Plate), Gabriel Island (Îlot Gabriel), and Gunner's Quoin (Coin de Mire). These tours are known for excellent snorkeling, clear water, and a more remote, Robinson Crusoe feel.
A typical north-coast catamaran cruise includes:
- Departure from Grand Baie
- Sailing to Flat Island and Gabriel Island
- Snorkeling over coral gardens
- BBQ lunch on board or on the beach
- Open bar with local drinks
- Views of Gunner's Quoin
- Optional hotel transfers
Best for: snorkelers, guests staying in Grand Baie or the north, and travelers who want island hopping over beach relaxing. If you are unsure whether to choose the north or east coast, read our comparison of Gabriel Island vs Ile aux Cerfs.
West coast: Bénitiers Island and dolphin watching
West coast catamaran cruises depart from Black River or Le Morne and head toward Bénitiers Island. The highlight is often a morning dolphin-watching stop in Tamarin Bay, followed by snorkeling at Crystal Rock and lunch on Bénitiers. The backdrop of Le Morne mountain makes this one of the most photogenic coasts.
A typical west-coast catamaran cruise includes:
- Early departure from Black River / Le Morne
- Wild dolphin watching in Tamarin Bay
- Snorkeling at Crystal Rock
- Beach time and lunch on Bénitiers Island
- Drinks and snacks on board
- Le Morne mountain views
Best for: wildlife lovers, guests staying in Flic en Flac, Tamarin, or Le Morne, and anyone who wants dolphin watching with their sailing day.
Catamaran Mauritius price comparison
Prices vary by coast, season, and whether transfers are included. Here is a realistic 2026 guide for shared full-day catamaran cruises:
- East coast Ile aux Cerfs: EUR 50–70 per adult, children EUR 30–40. Transfers often included.
- North coast Northern Isles: EUR 55–90 per adult. Transfers usually an add-on.
- West coast Bénitiers: EUR 60–100 per adult. Transfers vary by hotel location.
- Private catamaran charter: EUR 800–1,500 for the whole boat, depending on size, duration, and catering.
Booking direct usually saves 15–30% compared to GetYourGuide or Viator because there is no platform commission. You also get faster support and more flexible cancellation terms.
How to choose the right catamaran cruise for you
Use these simple rules to decide:
- Staying on the east coast or want the famous beach? Choose the Ile aux Cerfs catamaran.
- Staying in Grand Baie and love snorkeling? Choose the north coast Gabriel Island cruise.
- Staying in Flic en Flac or Le Morne and want dolphins? Choose the west coast Bénitiers cruise.
- Want the best value and most inclusions? The east-coast Ile aux Cerfs cruise typically includes transfers, lunch, drinks, snorkeling, and the waterfall for one of the lowest prices.
Why book your catamaran Mauritius cruise direct
Online travel agencies are convenient, but they are not free. When you book a Mauritius catamaran cruise through GetYourGuide or Viator, the platform takes a commission and acts as a middleman. That means higher prices, slower support, and rigid cancellation rules.
Booking direct with a local operator gives you:
- The lowest available price with no hidden fees
- Instant WhatsApp confirmation and support
- Free rescheduling up to 48 hours before departure
- Full refund if weather cancels your trip
- Direct contact with the skipper and crew on the day
- Custom requests for dietary needs, celebrations, or mobility
Frequently asked questions
Ready to sail?
Our Ile aux Cerfs catamaran cruise is the best-value full-day sailing experience in Mauritius. EUR 50 per adult, all-inclusive, with hotel transfers available.
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