Best Catamaran Cruise to Do in Mauritius
Local Guide to Île aux Cerfs, Îlot Bénitiers, Northern Islands, Sunset Cruises and Private Charters
A catamaran cruise is one of the best things to do in Mauritius. The island is beautiful from the beach, but it feels completely different from the water. From a catamaran, you see the lagoon colours change from pale turquoise to deep blue, the mountains rise behind the coastline, and the reef protect the island like a natural necklace.
As local guides at Mauritius Explored, we always recommend adding at least one catamaran cruise to your itinerary. It is one of the easiest ways to experience the lagoon, swim in clear water, enjoy island scenery, relax with food and drinks onboard, and see a side of Mauritius that you simply cannot experience from a hotel.
The best catamaran cruise in Mauritius depends on where you are staying and what kind of day you want. Île aux Cerfs is the classic east coast lagoon cruise. Îlot Bénitiers is best for west coast views, Le Morne scenery and a more relaxed island day. The Northern Islands are excellent for travellers staying near Grand Baie who want dramatic island landscapes. Ilot Bernache is quieter and more nature-focused. Sunset and dinner cruises are perfect for couples, while private charters are ideal for families, celebrations and groups.
What Is the Best Catamaran Cruise in Mauritius?
For most first-time visitors, the best overall catamaran cruise in Mauritius is the Île aux Cerfs cruise from the east or southeast coast. It gives you the classic Mauritius lagoon experience: turquoise water, island scenery, swimming, snorkelling, coastal views and the famous east coast atmosphere.
But there is no single “best” cruise for everyone. Here is the simple local breakdown:
Best classic Mauritius cruise: Île aux Cerfs
Best west coast cruise: Ile aux Bénitiers from Black River
Best for island scenery: Northern Islands from Grand Baie or Bain Boeuf
Best quieter nature cruise: Ilot Bernache from Grand Gaube
Best for couples: Private sunset cruise
Best for families: Private catamaran charter
Best premium experience: Liveaboard multi-day catamaran
Best if staying in the north: Ilot Gabriel/Ile Plate Islands cruise
Best if staying in the west: Île aux Bénitiers cruise
Best if staying in the east: Île aux Cerfs cruise
Best life exploration: St Brandon - Coming Soon
Why a Catamaran Cruise Is Worth It in Mauritius
Mauritius is surrounded by reef-protected lagoons, small islands and calm coastal waters. A catamaran cruise lets you experience all of this in one relaxed day. Most cruises include time onboard, swimming stops, snorkelling, lunch, drinks and island scenery.
Compared with a speedboat, a catamaran is slower and more relaxed. You have space to sit, move around, sunbathe, eat, drink and enjoy the sea breeze. It is less about rushing and more about enjoying the day.
A catamaran cruise is especially good for:
Couples and honeymooners & Families with children
Groups of friends & First-time visitors
Travellers who want a full-day activity & People who love swimming and snorkelling
Visitors who want beautiful photos & Guests who want a relaxed day without complicated planning
Mauritius is also small enough that you can choose a cruise based on your region. If you are staying in Grand Baie, choose the north. If you are in Black River or Flic en Flac, choose Bénitiers. If you are in Belle Mare or Trou d’Eau Douce, choose Île aux Cerfs.
1. Île aux Cerfs Catamaran Cruise: The Classic Mauritius Experience
Best for: first-time visitors, couples, families, east coast stays, turquoise lagoon views
Departure areas: Trou d’Eau Douce, Pointe Jérôme, southeast coast depending on operator
Region: East / South East Mauritius
Experience style: lagoon, island, swimming, snorkelling, relaxed tropical day
A catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs is one of the most famous boat experiences in Mauritius. If you have seen photos of bright turquoise water, white sand and tropical island scenery, there is a good chance they were taken around this part of the east coast.
This cruise is popular because it feels like the postcard version of Mauritius. The lagoon is colourful, the coastline is peaceful, and the island atmosphere is easy to enjoy. Many Île aux Cerfs cruises include sailing, swimming, snorkelling, lunch and time near the island.
Some east coast catamaran trips also include a visit to Grande Rivière Sud Est Waterfall, where the boat heads towards the river mouth and guests can enjoy a wilder, greener side of the lagoon. GetYourGuide describes many Île aux Cerfs catamaran tours as including the Grand River South East waterfall, snorkelling in clear water and lunch onboard.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose the Île aux Cerfs cruise if you want a classic Mauritius lagoon day. It is one of the easiest recommendations for first-time visitors because it includes many things travellers expect from Mauritius: blue water, island scenery, swimming and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.
Local tip
The east coast can sometimes be windier depending on the season. Morning departures are usually better for calmer water and softer light. If you want a more premium experience, book a private charter instead of a shared cruise.
Internal links:
Île aux Cerfs Travel Guide
Private Catamaran Charter to Île aux Cerfs
Full-Day Shared Catamaran Cruise to Île aux Cerfs
East Mauritius Travel Guide
2. Îlot Bénitiers Catamaran Cruise from Black River
Best for: west coast views, Le Morne scenery, relaxed island day, couples, families
Departure area: Black River
Region: West / Southwest Mauritius
Experience style: lagoon, island stop, swimming, snorkelling, mountain views
The Îlot Bénitiers catamaran cruise is one of the best choices if you are staying on the west coast. This cruise usually departs from Black River and explores the lagoon near Îlot Bénitiers, with views towards Le Morne and the southwest coastline.
This is a very scenic route. The west coast feels different from the east. It has more mountain views, deeper blue ocean colours and beautiful sunset energy. If your idea of Mauritius includes Le Morne in the background, turquoise water and a relaxed island atmosphere, this cruise is a strong choice.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius lists a full-day shared cruise to Îlot Bénitiers from Black River, with a 6-hour duration and a group size listed as 1 to 22. The route is described as discovering the southwest and west coast, with an opportunity to see dolphins and sailing from Black River towards Tamarin Bay.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose Îlot Bénitiers if you want west coast scenery and a more natural island feeling. It is ideal if you are staying in Flic en Flac, Tamarin, Black River, La Gaulette or Le Morne.
Local tip
The west coast is one of the best areas for golden-hour light. If you are booking a private option, ask whether a sunset-style return or late afternoon timing is possible.
3. Northern Islands Catamaran Cruise from Grand Baie
Best for: dramatic island scenery, north coast stays, snorkelling, full-day adventure
Departure area: Grand Baie
Region: North Mauritius
Experience style: open lagoon, island scenery, swimming, snorkelling, sailing
The Northern Islands cruise is one of the best catamaran options if you are staying in Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Pereybere, Cap Malheureux or Bain Boeuf.
This route usually explores the waters around the northern islets, with views of Coin de Mire, Flat Island, Gabriel Island and surrounding lagoon areas depending on the tour. The landscape feels more dramatic than some other routes because the islands rise sharply from the sea and create beautiful sailing scenery.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius lists a full-day shared Northern Islands cruise from Grand Baie with an 8-hour duration and group size listed as 1 to 35. It also lists private full-day Northern Islands cruises from Grand Baie and Bain Boeuf. Blue Safari also describes Grand Baie as a lively northern hub and lists catamaran voyages from Grand Baie to places such as Gabriel Island and Coin de Mire.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose the Northern Islands cruise if you are based in the north and want a full-day sailing experience without travelling across the island. It is also one of the best options for travellers who enjoy island views and a slightly more adventurous feel.
Local tip
The north coast can be busy, especially around Grand Baie. Book early in peak season, and choose a private charter if you want more space and flexibility.
4. Luxury Shared Cruise to the Northern Islands from Bain Boeuf
Best for: north coast travellers, premium shared cruise, island scenery, relaxed sailing
Departure area: Bain Boeuf
Region: North Mauritius
Experience style: luxury shared catamaran, northern islands, lagoon and island views
A luxury shared cruise from Bain Boeuf is a strong option for travellers staying near Cap Malheureux, Grand Baie, Pereybere or the north coast hotels. Bain Boeuf gives easy access to the northern lagoon and offshore islands.
This cruise is ideal if you want a premium shared experience without booking a private charter. You still enjoy the catamaran atmosphere, island scenery and full-day sailing, but with other guests onboard.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius lists a luxury full-day private cruise to the Northern Islands from Bain Boeuf, departing from the Coin de Mire Attitude hotel area, and sailing toward Ilot Gabriel and Flat Island. The site lists a 6-hour duration and group size of 1 to 17 for this style of experience.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose Bain Boeuf if you are staying in the far north and want easier access to the Northern Islands without starting from central Grand Baie.
5. Ilot Bernache Catamaran Cruise from Grand Gaube
Best for: quieter nature cruise, mangroves, northeast scenery, couples, families
Departure area: Grand Gaube
Region: Northeast Mauritius
Experience style: calm lagoon, nature, island beach, mangrove scenery
The Ilot Bernache cruise is one of the most underrated catamaran experiences in Mauritius. It is quieter than Île aux Cerfs and less famous than the Northern Islands, but that is exactly why many travellers love it.
This route explores the northeast side of Mauritius, with lagoon scenery, mangroves, calm water and a more natural island atmosphere. It is a good choice for travellers who prefer peaceful places and do not want the busiest catamaran routes.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius lists a full-day cruise to Ilot Bernache from Grand Gaube, with a 6-hour duration and group size listed as 1 to 18. The route is described as exploring Bernaches Island and Mauritius’ mangrove forests, with time to swim, relax and enjoy coastal views.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose Ilot Bernache if you want something calmer, more nature-focused and less commercial. It works especially well for couples, families and travellers who prefer a slow lagoon day.
6. South East Lagoon Power Catamaran Cruise
Best for: lagoon colours, private groups, Pointe d’Esny, southeast scenery
Departure area: Pointe d’Esny
Region: South East Mauritius
Experience style: power catamaran, lagoon discovery, private or shared basis
The South East Lagoon is one of the most beautiful lagoon areas in Mauritius. From Pointe d’Esny, the water can be intensely blue, and the coastline has a more peaceful and local feeling compared with the busy north.
A power catamaran cruise is slightly different from a classic sailing catamaran. It can feel more modern, efficient and flexible, especially for private groups who want to explore the lagoon in comfort.
This is a good option if you are staying near Blue Bay, Mahébourg, Pointe d’Esny or the southeast coast.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose the South East Lagoon cruise if you want clear lagoon water, a quieter atmosphere and a premium experience from Pointe d’Esny.
7. Private Sunset Cruises in Mauritius
Best for: couples, honeymooners, proposals, anniversaries, birthdays
Departure areas: Grand Baie, Black River, Pointe Jérôme, East Coast depending on tour
Experience style: golden hour, private boat, romantic atmosphere
A private sunset cruise is one of the most romantic boat experiences in Mauritius. It is shorter than a full-day cruise but often more emotional. You sail during golden hour, enjoy the sea breeze, watch the sky change colour and experience the island from a peaceful evening perspective.
Sunset cruises are ideal for:
Proposals & Honeymoons
Anniversaries & Birthdays
Small family celebrations & Romantic evenings
Private group moments
The best sunset region is usually the west coast, especially Black River, Tamarin and Flic en Flac, because the sun sets over the ocean. Grand Baie also offers beautiful evening lagoon views, while the east coast gives a softer coastal atmosphere.
Internal links:
Private Sunset Cruise from Grand Baie
Private Sunset Cruise from Black River
Lagoon Sunset Cruise
Private Sunset and Dinner Cruise from Pointe Jérôme
8. Private Sunset and Dinner Cruises
Best for: proposals, honeymoon dinners, special occasions, intimate celebrations
Departure areas: Grand Baie, Black River, Pointe Jérôme
Experience style: private evening cruise, dinner at sea, romantic setting
A private sunset and dinner cruise is one step above a normal sunset cruise. It combines golden-hour sailing with an intimate dinner experience onboard.
This is one of the best options for couples who want something memorable without needing a large wedding-style setup. It is elegant, relaxed and private.
Best for:
Honeymoon evenings & Proposals
Anniversaries & Romantic birthdays
Small family celebrations & Couples who want a premium experience
9. Liveaboard Catamaran Experience in Mauritius
Best for: premium travellers, ocean lovers, couples, families, groups, slow travel
Departure area: Black River / west coast depending on route
Experience style: multi-day sailing, sleeping onboard, exploring several locations
A liveaboard catamaran is the most immersive catamaran experience in Mauritius. Instead of doing a day cruise, you live onboard for several days and explore different parts of the island by sea.
This is ideal for travellers who want a true sailing holiday. You wake up in different bays, swim before breakfast, sail between regions, eat onboard and sleep under the stars.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius lists liveaboard and private cruise experiences, including multi-day routes and options such as the Nautitech 46 Fly and Nautitech 40 Open. Their liveaboard route is described as a journey around Mauritius with multiple nights onboard, meals, crew and water activities.
Why choose this cruise?
Choose a liveaboard if you want something truly different. It is not just a tour. It is a floating holiday.
Shared vs Private Catamaran Cruise: Which Is Better?
Choose a shared catamaran cruise if:
You want better value
You are travelling as a couple or solo traveller
You do not mind being with other guests
You want a social atmosphere
You are booking a classic route like Île aux Cerfs or Bénitiers
Choose a private catamaran cruise if:
You want privacy
You are travelling with family or friends
You want flexibility
You are celebrating something special
You want better timing for photos
You prefer a quieter experience
You want a premium honeymoon or proposal activity
For families and couples, private charters are often worth it if the budget allows. You control the atmosphere, the pace and the experience.
Best Catamaran Cruise by Region
If you are staying in the North
Choose:
Northern Islands from Grand Baie
Northern Islands from Bain Boeuf
Ilot Bernache from Grand Gaube
Private sunset cruise from Grand Baie
Internal link: North Mauritius Travel Guide
If you are staying in the East
Choose:
Île aux Cerfs catamaran cruise
South East Lagoon cruise
Private power catamaran from Pointe d’Esny
East coast private charter
Internal link: East Mauritius Travel Guide
If you are staying in the West
Choose:
Îlot Bénitiers from Black River
Private sunset cruise from Black River
Lagoon Sunset Cruise
Liveaboard catamaran from Black River
Internal link: West Mauritius Travel Guide
If you are staying in the South
Choose:
South East Lagoon cruise
Pointe Jérôme private cruise
Île aux Cerfs from the southeast
Private sunset and dinner cruise from Pointe Jérôme
Internal link: South Mauritius Travel Guide
Best Catamaran Cruise for Families
Families usually need comfort, shade, safety and flexibility. A private charter is often the best option if travelling with young children, but a good shared cruise can also work.
Best family choices:
Île aux Cerfs shared or private cruise
Îlot Bénitiers private cruise
Ilot Bernache cruise
South East Lagoon power catamaran
Shorter sunset cruise for older children
Best Catamaran Cruise for Couples and Honeymooners
Couples should choose based on mood. If you want a full-day tropical experience, choose Île aux Cerfs or Bénitiers. If you want romance, choose a private sunset or dinner cruise.
Best couple choices:
Private sunset cruise from Black River
Private sunset cruise from Grand Baie
Private sunset and dinner cruise
Private Île aux Cerfs charter
Private Îlot Bénitiers charter
Liveaboard catamaran for a luxury escape
Best Catamaran Cruise for Snorkelling
The best snorkelling depends on conditions, visibility and the exact stop chosen by the skipper.
Good options include:
Blue Bay and southeast lagoon tours
Coin de Mire and Northern Islands
Île aux Cerfs lagoon stops
Ilot Bernache and mangrove lagoon areas
Bénitiers and west coast reefs depending on conditions
Internal link: Best Snorkelling in Mauritius
Best Catamaran Cruise for Photos
For photography, choose based on light and scenery.
Best photo routes:
Le Morne / Bénitiers: mountains, lagoon and west coast light
Île aux Cerfs: bright lagoon and island scenery
Northern Islands: dramatic island landscapes
Sunset cruise: golden-hour portraits
Ilot Bernache: natural lagoon and quieter island atmosphere
Booking and Contact Section
A catamaran cruise is one of the most popular activities in Mauritius, so it is worth planning ahead. Choose the route based on your location, travel style and budget.
Popular catamaran experiences to book:
Final Local Tip
The best catamaran cruise in Mauritius is the one that fits your location and travel style. Do not choose only by the most famous name. Choose by coast, season, group size and what kind of day you want.
For a first-time visitor, Île aux Cerfs is the safest classic choice. For west coast beauty, choose Îlot Bénitiers. For dramatic island scenery, choose the Northern Islands. For something quieter, choose Ilot Bernache. For romance, choose a private sunset or dinner cruise. For the ultimate ocean experience, choose a liveaboard catamaran.
Mauritius is beautiful from land, but from a catamaran, the island opens differently — blue water, reef lines, mountain views, island stops, warm wind and the feeling that the whole day belongs to the sea.
