English| EUR
Suggested for you
More currencies
Choose a language
A catamaran trip to Ile aux Cerfs removes the logistics of independent boat hire and packages the crossing with lunch, snorkeling stops, and round-trip hotel transfers into a single booking. Most operators sail from Trou d'Eau Douce, anchor offshore for swimming, and return mid-afternoon. This guide covers the standard itinerary, what's included, and how transfers work across the island's hotel zones.
Quick answer
The mauritius ile aux cerfs catamaran trip w lunch & transfer typically runs from 09:00 to 16:00, departing Trou d'Eau Douce for a sail across the lagoon with snorkeling stops, a barbecue lunch served onboard or at a beach landing, and hotel pickup from most coastal zones. The island itself has free entry; transport and meal costs are bundled into the tour price. Advance booking is standard, especially June through September when demand peaks.
Catamaran operators treat the crossing to Ile aux Cerfs as a multi-stop itinerary rather than a direct shuttle. Most sail south from Trou d'Eau Douce, pause at snorkeling sites near the coral shelf, then anchor in the shallow turquoise water off the island's western beaches. Passengers wade ashore or stay aboard; the island visit typically lasts two to three hours before the return sail begins. Lunch is either served onboard as a buffet barbecue or set up at a reserved beach spot, depending on the operator. Grilled fish, chicken skewers, rice, and salads are standard; drinks—soft and alcoholic—are included on most packages. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many boats carry safety vests and fins in multiple sizes. The crew briefs passengers on current conditions and marks safe swim zones with buoys. Hotel transfers cover the main coastal strips: Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Flic-en-Flac, and the southeast hotel belt near Blue Bay. Pickup times are staggered by zone, with northern hotels collected first to reach Trou d'Eau Douce by embarkation time. Operators confirm the exact window the day before departure. Central or inland properties are often excluded; guests staying outside the standard radius meet at a designated pickup point or arrange private transport to the marina. The mauritius ile aux cerfs catamaran trip w lunch & transfer appeals to travelers who want the lagoon experience without booking separate boats, meals, and rides. Weather can shift departure times or cancel sailings during cyclone season—December through March sees the highest cancellation rate. Operators typically offer a full refund or reschedule when sea conditions force a call-off. Sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof pouch for valuables are the practical essentials; the boat provides shade, but midday sun exposure is unavoidable. Weekday departures are quieter than weekend sailings, when Mauritian families and regional visitors fill the catamarans. Booking directly through a tour operator or hotel concierge locks in a slot; walk-up availability is rare during peak months. The island's white sand beaches, calm water, and visibility make the trip a reliable choice for non-divers and families with older children.
“The catamaran pauses at snorkeling sites near the coral shelf before anchoring in shallow turquoise water off the island's western beaches.”
The best arrival window is 09:00–10:30 to secure a prime beach spot before mid-day crowds arrive. Choosing this time ensures a calmer atmosphere for your catamaran departure and initial island exploration.
—
Mid-week trips offer a quieter experience compared to weekends.
Cooler, 22°C to 25°C
This period features lower humidity and consistent breezes for sailing.
Warm, 26°C to 30°C
Expect higher temperatures and increased visitor numbers during summer months.
—
Public holidays and weekends attract local residents and tourists alike.
Verdict: The best time to visit is on a weekday during the shoulder seasons of May or October, aiming for the 09:00–10:30 arrival window.
Ile aux Cerfs is located off the east coast of Mauritius near the village of Trou d'Eau Douce. For catamaran trips, organized hotel transfer services are the most direct method to reach the designated embarkation points.
B28 road to Trou d'Eau Douce
Direct transfer to Trou d'Eau Douce jetty
Catamaran departure from Trou d'Eau Douce
If your booking includes a transfer, confirm your hotel pickup time 24 hours in advance. For those driving independently, ample parking is available near the Trou d'Eau Douce coastal access points.
Most catamaran excursions depart from Trou d'Eau Douce between 9:00 and 10:00, returning by late afternoon, making this a full-day outing suited to groups and families seeking a relaxed island experience with minimal planning.
Board the catamaran at Trou d'Eau Douce and set sail along the east coast. The crew provides a safety briefing while you settle in for the 30–45 minute crossing.
Anchor at a shallow lagoon near the island for snorkeling and swimming. Equipment is typically provided; the water is warm and visibility is high.
Return to the catamaran for a barbecue lunch served on deck, usually grilled fish, chicken, salads, and local sides. Drinks are included on most packages.
Disembark and explore the island's beaches, walk the shoreline, or try optional water sports available for hire. This is your main window to relax or move around.
Board for the return crossing. The sail back is typically calmer, with most operators offering a final drink as the coast comes into view.
Ile aux Cerfs is open to visitors daily, maintaining consistent operating hours throughout the week. These hours provide a structured timeframe for catamaran trips, lunch services, and recreational island activities.
Entrance to Ile aux Cerfs is free of charge for all visitors. The costs associated with a catamaran trip are specifically for transport, on-board amenities, and meals.
Verdict: Visitors do not pay an entrance fee, though total trip costs vary based on the selected catamaran package and operator.
Pack smart and confirm your booking details to make the most of your catamaran day trip to Ile aux Cerfs.
Everything you need to know about mauritius ile aux cerfs catamaran trip w lunch & transfer
Most catamaran excursions include a full-day sailing experience, snorkeling in the turquoise lagoon, and a barbecue lunch served on board or on the beach. You can expect leisure time to explore the white sandy beaches and enjoy local hospitality during your visit.
While sailing durations vary by departure point, a standard day cruise typically spans several hours of water activities and island relaxation. You should plan for a full-day commitment to maximize your time on the water and at the destination.
Entrance to the island itself is 0 MUR, as the island is free to access for all visitors. However, you must pay for your organized boat transport or tour package to reach the shore.
You should aim for the best arrival window between 09:00–10:30. Arriving early helps you secure a prime beach spot before the mid-day crowds arrive.
Many operators bundle your hotel pick-up and drop-off with the boat voyage to simplify your logistics. Always verify if your specific booking includes land-based transport from your resort.
Children are generally welcome to join these sea excursions, provided they are supervised during swimming and snorkeling activities. Please check with your specific operator regarding age requirements and safety gear availability.
Pack essentials like high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and a change of clothes for your return. Do not forget a waterproof camera to capture the clear lagoon water and scenic coastline views.