What to Pack for a Mauritius Boat Tour

A boat tour to Ile aux Cerfs is one of the best days you will spend in Mauritius, but only if you pack smart. The sun is stronger on the water than on land, storage space is limited, and you will be moving between the boat, the reef, and the beach. This checklist covers everything you actually need, plus a few items experienced travellers wish they had brought.

Clothing and swimwear

Start with swimwear as your base layer. You will be in and out of the water all day, so wearing it underneath saves time and awkward changing on a moving boat.

• Swimwear: one-piece or secure trunks that will not float off in waves
• Rash guard or UV shirt: protects shoulders and back during long snorkeling sessions
• Light shorts or sarong: easy to pull on over wet swimwear for lunch
• Change of dry clothes: for the drive back to your hotel
• Water shoes: protect feet from coral fragments and hot sand at Ile aux Cerfs
• Light jacket or hoodie: the wind on the return sail can feel cool after sunset

Sun protection essentials

The Mauritian sun is intense year-round, and the water reflects up to 80 percent of UV rays directly onto your skin. Sunburn happens faster than most visitors expect.

• Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30+: apply 20 minutes before boarding and reapply after every swim. Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs.
• Wide-brim hat with chin strap: the breeze on a catamaran will blow off a regular cap. A strap keeps it secure.
• UV-protection sunglasses: polarized lenses cut glare off the water and help you spot fish while snorkeling. Bring a strap so they do not fall overboard.
• Lip balm with SPF: lips burn fast and cracked lips ruin the rest of your trip
• Aloe vera gel: for after-sun soothing if you missed a spot

Snorkeling gear and water accessories

Our tours include basic snorkeling masks, but bringing a few personal items makes the experience more comfortable.

• Prescription snorkel mask: if you wear glasses, a prescription mask is worth the investment. Blurry snorkeling is frustrating.
• Waterproof phone case: for underwater photos and protection from spray on the speedboat
• Dry bag: a 5-litre roll-top bag keeps your phone, wallet, and keys safe from splashes
• GoPro or action camera: the east coast reefs are colourful and shallow, perfect for underwater video
• Microfibre towel: dries fast and packs small. Leave the bulky hotel towel behind.

Documents, cash, and valuables

Keep it minimal. The less you bring, the less you worry about.

• Photo ID or hotel card: useful if you separate from your group on Ile aux Cerfs
• Small amount of cash: EUR 50 to 100 for optional lobster, photography, or tips. Most boats do not accept cards.
• Travel insurance details: saved on your phone in case of emergency
• Medication: seasickness tablets if you are sensitive, plus any personal prescriptions

What to leave at the hotel

Do not weigh yourself down. These items are better left in your room safe:

• Large handbags or backpacks that do not fit in dry storage
• Expensive jewellery, watches, and designer sunglasses
• Drones: they are not permitted near the GRSE waterfall wildlife sanctuary
• Single-use plastic bottles: we provide water on board. Help keep the lagoon clean.
• Heavy books or tablets: you will not read them. The view is better.

Packing for kids and families

Travelling with children requires a few extra items. The catamaran has shade and space, but kids burn energy fast in the sun.

• Kids' full-body rash suit: better than repeated sunscreen application on a wriggling toddler
• Snacks: the BBQ lunch is generous, but kids get hungry between snorkel and beach time
• Float vest: if your child is not confident in open water, bring a compact inflatable vest
• Wet wipes: for sandy hands before lunch
• Extra set of dry clothes: kids get wet faster and complain louder

Quick-reference packing checklist

Print or screenshot this before you go: