A day on a catamaran makes the north coast feel like a movie. I like the Ilot Gabriel beach stop for its easy island vibe, and I really like the BBQ lunch onboard with plenty of drinks. The only watch-out is weather: when winds pick up, the ride can get choppy and snorkeling may not go exactly as planned.

This cruise runs with a lively captain-and-crew style, and the energy can turn even a windy day into something you remember (William, one crew member, even gets a shout-out in guest feedback). Just keep your expectations “friendly and fun” rather than super-posh, because the boat can feel busy on popular sailing days.

Key things to know before you go

• Small group size (up to 17 people): you’ll generally get a more personal feel than on big party boats.
• Two island beach breaks: Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate/Flat Island are short and sweet, so you’re not stuck on a schedule that drags.
• Snorkeling gear is included: you just bring your swimwear and sunscreen; the rest is handled for you.
• BBQ lunch plus drinks: the food and drink flow are a big part of why this feels like a complete day out.
• No hotel pickup: getting to the meeting point is on you, so plan that transport buffer.
• Sea conditions can change the day: rougher water can affect how comfortably you snorkel or how smooth the ride feels.

Setting off from Bain Boeuf: the start that keeps your day easy

Your day begins at Bain Boeuf Public Beach in Cap Malheureux, with a 9:30am start. It ends back at the same meeting spot, so you’re not dealing with complicated drop-offs around the north.

What I like about this setup is how straightforward it is: you show up, check in, and the boat takes over. The meeting point is also described as being near public transportation, which helps if you don’t want to rely on private rides for one excursion.

The practical catch: there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off. If you’re staying farther south, this can eat into your day. If you’re already based near Cap Malheureux or along the north coast, it’s much less of a hassle.

Ilot Gabriel beach time: your first island hit of the day

Ilot Gabriel is the first hop-off beach stop, with about 30 minutes on the ground. The key here is that you get just enough time to enjoy the setting without feeling like you’re missing the rest of the cruise.

This is a good stop for travelers who want a quick island reset: sandals on, a walk, a swim if conditions are right, and photos that look like they belong in a travel brochure. Because your time is limited, I’d treat it like a short break rather than a deep exploration. You’ll enjoy it more if you decide ahead of time what matters most—shade, a quick dip, or just soaking in the view.

Keep in mind that the day’s sea state matters. On calmer water, this first stop feels like a smooth transition from boat life to beach life. On windier days, expect the boat ride outside the lagoon to feel less gentle.

Ile Plate (Flat Island) beach: more sand, more water time

The second beach stop is at Ile Plate, also connected to the Flat Island name used for this route, again with about 30 minutes. This is where the cruise leans into the “hang out on islands” feeling: relax, get back in the sun, and squeeze in more water time.

If you’re the type who likes to stroll for a bit and then go straight into the water, this stop fits well. If you prefer shade and slow hanging out, bring your patience—because your time is short, you’ll want to use it efficiently.

One small reality check: if the ocean is choppy, getting into the water can feel more “adventurous” than relaxing. The snorkeling here is still the goal for many people, but comfort depends on conditions on the day.

Snorkeling in the Indian Ocean: included gear, plus real-world weather

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with bottled water and beverages, which makes this part of the experience feel like it’s been planned for you rather than tacked on. The crew also tends to be safety-conscious, and that matters on a day that includes open-water cruising.

In crystal-clear conditions, this is the best portion of the cruise: a lot of “wow” comes from seeing fish around rocky island areas. In rougher conditions, you may find snorkeling isn’t as easy—or it may not happen the way the day’s plan suggests. Winds can make the ride more uncomfortable, and that can also affect whether the sea is calm enough for everyone to enjoy the water time.

Here’s my practical advice: pack like you might get both outcomes—calm and choppy. Wear swimwear that dries quickly, bring a towel, and consider a light layer for after snorkeling. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take precautions before you head out, because the cruise goes beyond the lagoon into deeper water.

Onboard BBQ lunch and drinks: where the value really shows up

This cruise isn’t just about transportation and scenery. It includes a barbecue lunch onboard, plus bottled water and alcoholic beverages. For a day that runs about 6 hours, that inclusion does a lot for your budget and comfort.

The BBQ is part of the reason the crew gets praised so often. Guest feedback points to a mix that can include BBQed items and fish, with hot dogs and chicken wings also mentioned. Even if the exact menu varies, the consistent theme is that you’ll eat well without having to hunt for food during transit.

If you’re watching your diet, there’s also room to plan ahead. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you request them at booking, and you can advise dietary needs in advance. I like that this isn’t left to chance.

One more thing I pay attention to on cruises: the beverage rhythm. People often mention fresh drinks being kept available during the day, which matters because you’re out on the water and sun gets intense fast.

Crew energy and the “not too serious” vibe

This is a crew-led experience, and the personality of the captain and onboard team comes through. People mention the captain and two crew members running the vibe with jokes, music, and even singing and dancing. That kind of energy doesn’t sound essential on paper, but on a catamaran it changes how the day feels.

The boat stays small enough that you’re not just a face in a crowd. With a maximum of 17 travelers, the tone tends to be more social than chaotic. You’re more likely to get quick attention when you need something, and you’re less likely to feel like you’re stuck behind people at every photo stop.

If you want your day to feel relaxed but fun—more “island holiday” than “stiff tour”—this works. If you want a quiet, private luxury experience with no noise and no group momentum, you might find this style less your speed.

Price and logistics: what you’re paying for at $113.99 per person

At $113.99 per person, you’re paying for more than a seat on a boat. You’re also paying for the included snorkeling gear, the two island beach breaks, the lunch, and the drinks. For many people, that’s the big win: you’re not paying again for food once you’re out at sea.

That said, I’d still treat it like a practical trade-off. You’re getting value from inclusions, not from a truly private, ultra-luxury feel. Some feedback calls the experience less luxurious than expected, and a few people note the catamaran can feel popular or crowded depending on the day.

So here’s how I’d decide if it’s “worth it” for you:

• If you’d otherwise pay separately for boat transfer, snorkeling gear, lunch, and beverages, this looks like a straightforward package deal.
• If you’re chasing a quiet, high-end, low-people vibe, you may want to compare options and ask about crowd levels on your sailing day.

Also remember the logistics piece: no hotel pickup. For people not already near Cap Malheureux, the transportation time and cost can affect your overall value.

What your 6-hour day feels like, hour by hour

This cruise is about 6 hours total, and the pacing is built around motion plus two short island breaks. That makes it a good fit if you don’t want a long expedition—just a satisfying day with multiple highlights.

Expect to spend a meaningful chunk of the time cruising along the north coast, taking in views of the island scenery. Then you’ll get off at Ilot Gabriel for that first beach moment, and later at Ile Plate/Flat Island for another.

When it’s calm, the day flows easily: cruise, beach, cruise, snorkel, lunch, more water time, and then back to Cap Malheureux. When conditions are rough, the schedule can feel more uncomfortable, and snorkeling might be less certain. That’s not the fault of the crew; it’s just the reality of open-water days.

The good news is the onboard experience tends to stay upbeat. If you end up doing more hanging out and eating than snorkeling, you’ll still likely get your money’s worth from the meal, drinks, and scenery.

Who this cruise suits best (and who should skip it)

This catamaran fits best if you want:

• A small-group north-coast cruise with beach time at Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate/Flat Island
• Snorkeling with equipment provided
• An included BBQ lunch plus beverages, which helps make the day feel complete
• A fun crew vibe that keeps the mood light

It may not be your best choice if:

• You get motion sick easily and haven’t planned for it
• You’re expecting a quiet, ultra-luxury experience with lots of space
• You need a guaranteed, calm-water snorkeling session every time (weather can interfere)

For families, note the age rule: children must be accompanied by an adult. Most people can participate, but this isn’t the type of activity where you want to wing safety prep if you have concerns about sea conditions.

Should you book this Northern Islands catamaran?

I’d book this cruise if you want a classic Mauritius north-coast day that includes the basics you’d otherwise pay for: snorkeling gear, island beach time, BBQ lunch, and drinks, all in about 6 hours.

Before you book, decide if you’re okay with sea-day reality. If the forecast looks windy and you know you’ll struggle with choppy water, you might prefer a plan that’s more lagoon-based. If you’re flexible and just want to enjoy the scenery, eat well, and make a day of it, this hits the mark.

One more tip: if you can, request your dietary needs (including vegetarian or vegan) during booking so lunch works for you. And if you’re not near Cap Malheureux already, map your route to Bain Boeuf so you arrive on time and don’t spend your morning stressed.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The cruise runs for about 6 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Bain Boeuf Public Beach, Cap Malheureux, Mauritius and ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour begin?

The start time is 9:30am.

What’s included in the price?

Lunch, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and alcoholic beverages are included.

Do they offer hotel pickup?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Can you accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets?

Yes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you advise them at the time of booking.