Mauritius: Ile Aux Cerfs Catamaran, Waterfall & BBQ Lunch Trip

Summary

Catamaran ride to Ile Aux Cerfs with waterfall and island BBQ

You’ll cruise by catamaran from Trou d’Eau Douce to Ile Aux Cerfs with a local guide, see the Grand River South East waterfall up close, and share a Mauritian BBQ lunch under palm trees. Snorkel in clear lagoons or just relax on white sand before heading back — this trip lingers in your memory longer than you’d expect.

What’s the experience like?

The morning started with our driver waiting outside the hotel — he greeted us by name, which felt oddly reassuring before I’d even had coffee. The drive to Trou d’Eau Douce was quiet except for the radio playing sega music; I kept catching flashes of turquoise through sugarcane fields. At the jetty, our guide Jean-Paul waved us over. He wore mirrored sunglasses and grinned like he knew something about the day that we didn’t yet.

Stepping onto the catamaran, I could smell sunscreen and grilled onions from somewhere below deck. We set off slow at first — there was a salty breeze and everyone sort of loosened up once we left the shore behind. Jean-Paul pointed out fishing boats and told us how locals call the Grand River South East waterfall “la cascade.” When we finally drifted near it, you could actually feel a mist on your face if you leaned over far enough (I did, got splashed — worth it). The sound of water crashing drowned out everything for a minute. Kind of hypnotic.

Ile Aux Cerfs looked almost fake when we arrived — sand so white it hurts your eyes if you forget sunglasses. Lunch was already sizzling on charcoal grills under palm trees; I tried my first bite of spicy Mauritian sausage and nearly coughed (Jean-Paul laughed, said “too much piment for you?”). People wandered off to swim or nap in patches of shade. I mostly just watched sunlight flicker on the lagoon while sipping something cold — rum maybe, can’t remember exactly but it tasted sweet and sharp at once.

Snorkeling after lunch, I lost track of time counting parrotfish near the reef. My mask kept fogging up but honestly I didn’t mind; floating there with bits of seaweed brushing past my ankles was weirdly peaceful. By late afternoon, everyone had that sun-dazed look. Heading back to shore felt slower somehow — or maybe I just didn’t want it to end yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran trip and island activities

• Pickup from provided location
• Drive to Trou D’eau Douce
• Embark on catamaran
• Enjoy catamaran cruise
• Visit Grand River South East waterfall
• Have Mauritian BBQ lunch on island
• Snorkel in blue lagoon
• Sunbathe at Ile Aux Cerfs islet

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Ile Aux Cerfs catamaran tour?

Yes, pickup from your provided location is included with a private air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the catamaran day trip last?

This is a full-day experience including sailing, waterfall visit, lunch on Ile Aux Cerfs, snorkeling, and return transfer.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, unlimited beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included throughout the day.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour package.

What’s served for lunch on Ile Aux Cerfs?

You’ll have a traditional Mauritian BBQ lunch prepared fresh on the island.

Can infants join this catamaran trip?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during transfers and boat rides.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, bookings must be made at least two days before your preferred date.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle, all sailing on a full-day catamaran trip from Trou d’Eau Douce to Ile Aux Cerfs with stops at Grand River South East waterfall, unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), snacks onboard, use of snorkeling gear, plus a fresh-cooked Mauritian BBQ lunch right on the island before returning in the afternoon.