Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise West Coast with BBQ & Snorkeling

Summary

Sail Mauritius’ west coast coves, snorkel reefs, island barbecue lunch

You’ll sail along Mauritius’ west coast by catamaran, watch for dolphins, snorkel in clear lagoons, and relax over a seafood barbecue lunch on Benitier Island. Expect laughter with your local crew, plenty of drinks (beer or tea—it’s your call), and those small moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t realize how much I needed that salty wind until we left the harbor. The Madiana catamaran felt almost too smooth, gliding past Le Morne’s outline in the haze. Our guide, Jean-Paul, was already joking with us about Mauritian rum before 10am (I stuck to coffee for now). There was this low hum of voices and laughter—some French, some English—and every so often someone would point out a dolphin fin. I kept missing them at first. Maybe I was just distracted by the color of the water—sort of turquoise but also something else I can’t name.

We stopped near a cove where you could smell the seaweed even before jumping in. The snorkeling gear was all set up; I fumbled with my mask and probably looked ridiculous but nobody cared. Underwater it was quiet except for my own breathing—tiny fish darting around, sunlight flickering down like coins. When I came up for air, Jean-Paul handed me a chunk of pineapple and grinned like he’d done this a thousand times. He probably has.

Lunch happened on Benitier Island—a barbecue that smelled so good it made my stomach growl before I even sat down. Seafood mostly, though they had veggie stuff too (someone at our table asked for it). There was cold beer and sticky fingers and sand everywhere, and honestly I didn’t mind any of it. At one point Li from our group tried to teach us how to say “thank you” in Creole; we all butchered it but laughed anyway. I still think about that view back toward Le Morne while we ate—kind of hazy with heat but peaceful in a way that stuck with me after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail west coast and enjoy BBQ

• Board luxury catamaran Madiana
• Explore coves and lagoons
• Spot dolphins in clear waters
• Snorkel in crystal clear water
• Enjoy seafood BBQ on board
• Visit Crystal Rock
• View Le Morne mountain

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Mauritius catamaran cruise?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during the tour.

Are drinks included on the Madiana catamaran cruise?

Unlimited beer, wine, water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included.

Does the day trip include lunch?

Yes, a buffet lunch is served onboard or on Benitier Island during the cruise.

Is this cruise suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the catamaran wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can vegetarians be accommodated on this cruise?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

What happens if my cruise ship arrives late?

No refunds will be issued if you miss the tour due to late or non-arrival of your cruise ship.

How do I notify specific dietary requirements?

Please advise any specific dietary requirements when booking your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes snacks throughout the cruise, use of snorkeling equipment to explore crystal-clear lagoons near Le Morne mountain, unlimited beer and wine plus soft drinks and hot beverages whenever you want them, and a buffet lunch—usually fresh seafood barbecue—served either onboard or on Benitier Island itself before heading back along Mauritius’ west coast.