English| EUR
Suggested for you
More currencies
Choose a language
Most catamaran cruises to Ile aux Cerfs depart from Trou d'Eau Douce between 09:00 and 10:00, crossing the turquoise lagoon in roughly 20 to 30 minutes. The island itself is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 with free entry, though transport costs apply for all boat transfers. This guide covers departure logistics, what happens onboard, and how to choose between full-day and half-day sailings.
Quick answer
A mauritius catamaran cruise to ile aux cerfs typically departs from Trou d'Eau Douce between 09:00 and 10:00, sailing across the southeast lagoon in 20 to 30 minutes. Most operators offer full-day excursions (09:00–16:00) that include snorkeling stops, onboard lunch, and several hours of beach time on the island. The island itself charges no entrance fee, but all visitors must arrive by boat, and catamaran charters bundle transport with guided activities and meals.
The southeast coast of Mauritius holds one of the island nation's calmest lagoons, a shallow turquoise basin where catamarans glide over coral gardens and sandbars on their way to Ile aux Cerfs. Unlike the northern bays that face open ocean swells, this protected water rarely exceeds two meters in depth until well past the reef, making the crossing smooth even for first-time sailors. Most operators launch from the public jetty at Trou d'Eau Douce, where twin-hulled vessels moor alongside traditional pirogues and speedboats serving the same route. A mauritius catamaran cruise to ile aux cerfs is structured as a guided day trip rather than a simple ferry crossing. The typical itinerary begins with a snorkeling stop at a shallow coral patch near Ilot Mangénie, where guides distribute masks and point out parrotfish and sergeant majors cruising the reef edge. After 30 to 40 minutes in the water, the catamaran continues to the island's western shore, dropping anchor in waist-deep water so passengers can wade directly onto the beach. Most full-day charters include three to four hours of unscheduled island time, during which the crew prepares a barbecue lunch onboard while guests swim, walk the shoreline, or rent kayaks and paddleboards from independent vendors on the sand. The appeal of the catamaran format lies in its deck space and stability. Unlike speedboats that seat passengers in forward-facing rows, catamarans offer open decks with netting strung between the hulls, cushioned lounging areas, and shaded seating under a fixed canopy. Operators vary in capacity, from 12-passenger boutique sailings to 40-guest party boats with onboard DJs and open bars, so it pays to confirm group size and onboard atmosphere before booking. Half-day departures that skip the snorkeling stop and shorten island time to 90 minutes also exist, though they rarely offer better value than the full itinerary. The island itself operates as a leisure zone managed by a private concessionaire, with beach restaurants, watersports kiosks, and shaded cabanas clustered along the western and northern coasts. Catamaran passengers are free to explore beyond the drop-off beach, though the interior trails and quieter southern coves require a 20-minute walk through coastal scrub. The last boats depart the island around 16:00, giving stragglers time to rinse off at the public showers near the main jetty before the return crossing to Trou d'Eau Douce.
“The southeast lagoon rarely exceeds two meters in depth until well past the reef, making the crossing smooth even for first-time sailors.”
Ile aux Cerfs is located off the east coast of Mauritius, with the primary departure point for catamaran cruises situated at the village of Trou d'Eau Douce. Reaching this coastal hub is the most direct way to begin your water-based transfer to the island.
Drive via B27 to Trou d'Eau Douce village
Direct transfer to Trou d'Eau Douce jetty
Catamaran cruise from Trou d'Eau Douce jetty
Local speedboat from Trou d'Eau Douce
Catamaran cruises typically depart from the main jetty in Trou d'Eau Douce, offering a more stable and leisurely pace compared to local speedboats. Speedboats operate as rapid shuttle services, whereas catamarans usually include onboard amenities and planned itineraries.
Ile aux Cerfs is open to visitors daily, maintaining consistent operating hours throughout the week.
Access to the island itself is free of charge for all visitors. The costs associated with a catamaran cruise consist exclusively of the transport service fees provided by operators.
Verdict: While island access is 0 MUR, passengers pay fees determined by the specific catamaran cruise operator and the services included in their transport package.
Pack light but cover the essentials for a full day on the water and the island.
Everything you need to know about mauritius catamaran cruise to ile aux cerfs
Most catamaran operators include snorkeling equipment, lunch, and beverages as part of the package for your sea voyage. While the cruise operator handles the logistics, you can book these experiences through our trusted partners on this site.
There is no entrance fee to the island itself as it is 0 MUR. You only need to pay for the transport costs related to your boat or catamaran transfer.
We recommend arriving between 09:00 and 10:30 to enjoy quieter beaches and avoid the midday crowds from other excursion boats. Planning your mauritius catamaran cruise to ile aux cerfs during this window ensures a more relaxed experience on the lagoon.
Yes, children are welcome on most catamarans, making it a family-friendly activity. Please verify specific age requirements or safety gear provisions directly with your chosen boat operator before confirming your booking.
You can book your preferred sailing experience by using the booking widgets located throughout this page. Simply select your desired date and review the available options provided by our verified tour partners.
It is advised to bring sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and swimwear for your tropical adventure. These essentials will ensure you are prepared for the sun and water activities commonly found around the white sandy beaches and turquoise lagoon.
The island is open daily from Monday to Sunday, making it convenient to plan a mid-week trip. You will find that the location remains accessible throughout the week for your boat transfer.
Yes, the island welcomes visitors every day of the week, including weekends, from 09:00 to 18:00. This daily schedule allows for flexible planning regardless of when you intend to travel.