Île aux Cerfs Catamaran Cruise: BBQ Lunch & Snorkeling Day

Summary

Catamaran day trip to Île aux Cerfs with BBQ lunch and snorkeling

You’ll drift across blue lagoons by catamaran to Île aux Cerfs, with plenty of time for swimming or just soaking up sun on the sandbank. Enjoy a Mauritian BBQ lunch onboard (don’t skip the grilled pineapple), drinks included. Local guides keep things relaxed and friendly all day—it’s more like joining friends than taking a tour.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d be laughing before 10am, but there we were—standing barefoot on the deck at Pointe Jerome, trying to remember if I’d packed enough sunscreen. The catamaran crew joked in French and English (and a bit of Creole I couldn’t catch), and honestly, it felt like everyone was just as excited as us. There’s something about that first salty breeze off the lagoon that wakes you up better than coffee. You could smell the sea even before we left the dock.

The sail out to Île aux Cerfs was slower than I expected, but in a good way—like nobody was in a rush. Our guide pointed out birds along the nature reserve and told us how sometimes dolphins show up (no luck for us this time). I tried snorkeling for maybe ten minutes before giving up and just floating around—water so clear you can see your own toes. Lunch was a proper Mauritian BBQ right on board: chicken, fish, salads, and this grilled pineapple for dessert that I’m still thinking about. The local beer tasted colder out there somehow.

Getting dropped off straight onto the sandbank felt weirdly fun—like stepping into warm milk (if milk was turquoise). Some folks went off parasailing but most of us just wandered knee-deep in water or lay back under the sun. There’s not much shade unless you find a tree, so bring a hat unless you want to look like me later (red nose club). On the way back, someone played Sega music on their phone and even the crew started humming along. It wasn’t fancy or perfect; it just felt like summer should feel—easygoing and sun-drenched.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs

• Depart from Pointe Jerome embarkation
• Sail past the nature reserve
• Arrive at Île aux Cerfs
• Disembark via front ladder to sand bank
• Relax on beach or in shallow water
• Enjoy optional parasailing activity
• Have BBQ lunch and drinks
• Snorkel in surrounding waters
• Spot dolphins if lucky
• Return to Pointe Jerome by 4pm

Top questions

What time does the Île aux Cerfs catamaran cruise start?

The cruise departs at 9 am from Pointe Jerome embarkation point.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, a BBQ buffet lunch is served onboard with pineapple dessert.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Yes, local beer, wine, Mauritian rum, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The departure point is Pointe Jerome; free parking is available there.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your day trip.

Can children join this catamaran tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What activities are available at Île aux Cerfs?

You can relax on the beach or try parasailing for an extra cost.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transport options are available near Pointe Jerome embarkation point.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Pointe Jerome with free parking if you drive yourself; all drinks (beer, wine, rum, soft drinks); use of snorkeling gear; a full BBQ buffet lunch onboard with pineapple for dessert; plus coffee or tea before heading back in the afternoon.