Catamaran Mauritius: South East 5 Islands Catamaran Cruises

Five islands, one lively day at sea. This 7-hour powered catamaran cruise links the southeast coast of Mauritius with snorkeling, island stops, a BBQ lunch, drinks, and a chance to spot dolphins. I like the mix of active water time and easy deck relaxation, and I also like that the crew speaks English and French. The main consideration is the open-water setting: rough conditions, motion sickness, or limited mobility could make the day less comfortable.

At $82 per person, the trip offers good value if you plan to use the lunch, drinks, snorkeling stop, and island visits. It is less suited to anyone wanting a quiet, slow sailing trip, since the newer power catamaran can move quickly between stops. You will meet Jonathan at Pointe Jerome wearing a Catamaran Cruises T-shirt, so finding the departure point should be straightforward.

Quick take: what makes this cruise worth considering

• A full southeast coast route: You see Île aux Fouquet, Île au Phare, Île aux Cerfs, and Île aux Aigrettes, with the five-island theme shaping the whole day.
• Snorkeling at Eau Bleue: The clear water gives you a chance to see coral and marine life rather than simply admire the lagoon from the boat.
• A proper lunch on board: BBQ food, beer, wine, cocktails, and other drinks are included, so you do not need to arrange a separate midday meal.
• A fast, newer boat: The powered catamaran covers ground efficiently, but it may feel more active than a traditional sailing catamaran.
• Wildlife is possible, not guaranteed: Dolphins and sea turtles may appear, but sightings depend on luck and conditions.
• A friendly bilingual crew: The guides operate in English and French, and the crew has been praised for being professional, helpful, and good at offering advice.

Setting out from Pointe Jerome at 9:30

The day begins at Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point, with departure scheduled for 9:30 and return around 16:00. That gives you a useful seven-hour window on the southeast coast, long enough to combine sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, food, and time on the deck without cramming in a second major attraction.

You will meet Jonathan at the meeting point. Look for someone wearing a Catamaran Cruises T-shirt. Since transfers are not included, you need to arrange your own way to Pointe Jerome. This matters more than it might seem, since a boat trip has a firm departure time and cannot wait for a late arrival.

The cruise is designed for a small group, although an exact passenger limit is not provided. That usually makes it easier to hear the guide and move around the boat than on a large excursion vessel. Still, you should expect a shared experience rather than a private charter.

The catamaran is powered, not a quiet sailboat. One Danish passenger specifically appreciated the newer boat and its speed, describing it as comfortable and fast even when the weather on the water was not perfect. That is useful information for setting expectations. You are booking a practical sea-going boat with plenty of coverage, not a silent sail across the lagoon.

Mahébourg and the first coastal views

The route includes time around Mahébourg and the Grand Port District, with scenic views, local snacks, and a safety briefing during the early part of the trip. The briefing is a small but important detail. You will be swimming and snorkeling from the boat, so listen carefully to instructions about entering the water and returning to the catamaran.

Mahébourg gives the cruise a local coastal setting rather than making the day only about resort beaches. The area is tied closely to the southeast harbor and lagoon, and the route lets you see the coast from the water. You might find this part more interesting if you enjoy seeing how the islands and mainland fit together, rather than rushing straight to the most famous beach.

Drinks are available on board, including beer, wine, cocktails, and other beverages. Local snacks are also listed during the Mahébourg portion. I would treat these as a pleasant extra rather than a replacement for breakfast. The main meal comes later, during the BBQ stop.

Eau Bleue snorkeling in clear lagoon water

The snorkeling stop in the Grand Port District lasts about 20 minutes in the listed schedule. That is enough time for a focused look beneath the surface, but it is not a long snorkeling expedition. If you want an hour in the water, this cruise may feel brief. If you want a simple, well-placed swim on a sightseeing day, the timing works better.

The water at Eau Bleue is described as clear, with colorful coral reefs and an underwater world worth exploring. Bring beachwear, and pack a change of clothes for the ride home. A camera is also recommended, though you should protect it carefully around salt water.

Swimming and snorkeling are included in the price, but the experience is still affected by weather and sea conditions. The boat can operate at speed, and the sea may feel lively even when the coast looks calm. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring your preferred prevention before leaving shore. This is one of the most practical tips for enjoying the day.

The cruise also includes a waterfall visit, although the available schedule does not give a separate stop length or exact waterfall location. It is best to see this as part of the wider southeast route, not as the main attraction. The islands and snorkeling account for most of the day.

Île aux Cerfs: the main beach stop

Île aux Cerfs is the best-known island on this route and receives special attention. The catamaran stops here for lunch, drinks, and time around the island. The schedule gives roughly 30 minutes for this portion, though the overall timing can depend on conditions and the skipper’s judgment.

You will find the stop useful if you want a change from the boat. After the morning ride and snorkeling, Île aux Cerfs offers a chance to stretch your legs, swim, or simply take in the famous island setting. The island is one of Mauritius’ most recognizable day-trip locations, so this cruise gives you a taste of it without requiring a separate full-day visit.

The short timing is the trade-off. You should not expect an unhurried island afternoon with hours to wander. This is a multi-stop route, and the goal is to show you several parts of the southeast coast. I would bring modest expectations and treat Île aux Cerfs as one chapter in the day, not the whole book.

BBQ lunch, drinks, and time on deck

Lunch is served as a BBQ, with drinks included on board. That makes the $82 price easier to justify, especially since the cruise lasts most of the day. You are paying for transport by boat, guiding, several scenic stops, water activities, food, and beverages in one package.

I like this format because it keeps the day simple. You do not need to leave the water to find lunch, and you can eat while taking in views of the lagoon. The relaxed atmosphere is part of the appeal. After snorkeling, you can sit on deck with a drink instead of rushing into another activity.

Food preferences and exact BBQ dishes are not specified, so contact the operator if you have a serious dietary requirement. The same applies to drink choices. Beer, wine, cocktails, and drinks are included, but the available selection is not described in detail.

The alcohol element also means you should pace yourself. A sunny boat, warm weather, swimming, and drinks can catch up with you quickly. Water, sun protection, and sensible breaks will help you enjoy the later island stops.

Île au Phare and the southeast’s maritime character

The cruise visits Lighthouse Island, also called Île au Phare. The lighthouse gives the route a stronger sense of place than a simple beach-and-snorkel outing. You get a historic maritime landmark along with the natural scenery, which helps explain why this part of Mauritius mattered to ships and coastal traffic.

The visit is described as a stop, but no exact duration is provided. You may have time to look around and take photographs, though the boat schedule remains shared across several islands. Do not plan on a long historical tour or a detailed interior visit unless the crew confirms it on the day.

The route also passes Île aux Aigrettes. You should understand the difference between a pass-by and a landing. This island is included as part of the views, but the available information does not promise that you will go ashore.

Île au Fouquet is also included among the islands seen on the cruise. Together, these islands make the trip feel broader than a single beach transfer. The value is in the changing views and the sense of moving through the southeast lagoon, even when some islands are viewed from the boat.

Dolphins, turtles, and the limits of wildlife promises

Dolphin watching is part of the route, and you may also see sea turtles. The wording matters: you have the chance to see them, but sightings are not guaranteed. Dolphins are wild animals, not a scheduled performance, so you should book this for the overall sea day rather than for a guaranteed encounter.

The same practical rule applies to turtles. Keep your eyes open during the cruise, but do not let a missed sighting spoil the snorkeling, islands, food, and scenery. The crew can help point out wildlife when conditions allow, but no operator can control what appears in open water.

This is one of the better parts of the trip for families and couples who enjoy a little anticipation. It gives the cruise an extra spark between the planned stops. It also means the day has a natural rhythm: watch the water, enjoy the views, swim when the boat stops, and return to the deck when there is nothing to see.

Boat comfort, pace, and the crew

The power catamaran is a good fit for a route that covers several islands in one day. You spend less time waiting between locations and more time seeing the southeast coast. One verified booking described the boat as newer and very enjoyable, while also praising the guides in both French and English.

The crew has also received strong praise for being professional, helpful, and willing to offer advice. Joachim’s booking gave the highest possible rating and described the team as meeting expectations, dependable, and ready to help. Those comments support the cruise’s strongest practical feature: you are not left to work out the day by yourself.

Still, speed is not the same as softness. If you want a gentle sailing experience with long quiet stretches, the power catamaran may not be your ideal choice. The vessel is made to move between stops. Bring motion sickness prevention if you need it, and keep your belongings secure while the boat is underway.

High heels, large bags, oversize luggage, non-folding strollers, baby carriages, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed. The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. You should also avoid bringing anything that needs a lot of storage space.

Who will get the most from this $82 day

I would recommend this cruise to you if you want a single organized day that combines several popular southeast sights. It suits couples, friends, and active families who like to alternate between swimming, sightseeing, food, and time on a boat.

It is especially useful if you are trying to see more than Île aux Cerfs alone. The route includes lighthouse views, pass-by islands, a snorkeling stop, a waterfall visit, and possible wildlife sightings. You get variety without arranging separate boats and meals.

The trip is less suitable if you have limited mobility, dislike open-water motion, or need a long, quiet beach stay. The Île aux Cerfs stop is only one part of a larger schedule, and snorkeling time is relatively short. You should also reconsider if you need guaranteed dolphin sightings or a specific menu.

At $82, the package is fairly priced because it covers the cruise, lunch, drinks, snorkeling, swimming, and multiple scenic stops. You will need to add your own transport to Pointe Jerome, but there are no extra charges listed for the main activities on the boat.

What to bring for a smoother day

Pack lightly, since large bags and oversize luggage are not allowed. I would bring:

• Beachwear and a change of clothes
• A camera suited to water and sun
• Motion sickness prevention if you need it
• Sun protection and a reusable water bottle
• A small soft bag rather than a hard suitcase

Wear practical shoes. High heels are not permitted, and the boat is a place for comfort and stability rather than dress clothes. Keep your camera and phone protected during snorkeling and while the catamaran is moving.

The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and allows you to reserve now and pay later. That flexibility is useful when your wider Mauritius plans are still changing, but you still need to check the available departure time before booking.

Should you book the South East 5 Islands cruise?

Book it if you want a busy but relaxed full-day boat trip with food, drinks, snorkeling, island scenery, and a chance to see dolphins. The bilingual crew, professional service, newer power catamaran, and all-inclusive format strengthen the value.

Skip it if your priority is a private boat, long snorkeling sessions, guaranteed wildlife, or a slow sailing mood. The route covers a lot, so some stops are brief and some islands are viewed only from the water.

For most visitors who want an efficient introduction to southeast Mauritius, this is a sensible choice. Arrive ready for sun, motion, swimming, and a full day outside, and you will get the most from the $82 price.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The cruise lasts 7 hours, departing around 9:30 and returning around 16:00.

Where does the cruise depart?

The meeting point is Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point. You should look for Jonathan wearing a Catamaran Cruises T-shirt.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?

No. Transfers are not included, so you must arrange your own transportation to Pointe Jerome.

What is included in the price?

The price includes the cruise to five islands, drinks on board, a BBQ lunch, swimming, snorkeling, views of Île aux Fouquet, Île au Phare, Île aux Cerfs, and Île aux Aigrettes, plus a waterfall visit, tortoise and dolphin watching, and professional skippers.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. Swimming and snorkeling in clear waters are included, with a snorkeling stop at Eau Bleue.

Can I see dolphins and sea turtles?

You may see dolphins and sea turtles, but sightings depend on luck and are not guaranteed.

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?

No. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. Electric wheelchairs, baby strollers, large bags, and oversize luggage are also not allowed.