Three islands, one catamaran, lots of color. This day trip from Grand Baie gives you Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate landings, plus swimming and a proper BBQ lunch, all tied together by a scenic cruise.

I love the BBQ lunch on the island with drinks because it turns the shoreline stop into the main event, not just a quick photo break. I also like how the sea views change all day—moving water shows off shades you never notice from shore.

One thing to consider: you may hit rough seas, and that can mean bouncier sailing and wet moments, especially if you’re near the front.

Key things to know before you go

• Two real island landings: You step onto Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate (Coin de Mire is a pass-by only).
• Island BBQ and drinks included: Lunch happens on land, then you’re back in the water for more time to swim.
• Snorkeling is self-guided: You choose where and when you go in, based on your comfort.
• Crew energy is a big part of the day: Music, fun, and a party vibe on the return show up often.
• Weather can affect the exact stops: In rough conditions, the operator may not be able to do all three islands.
• You’ll want water shoes: They’re handy because walking and snorkeling conditions aren’t always barefoot-friendly.

Grand Baie departure: dinghies, catamaran motion, and that first hit of blue

The day starts in Grand Baie with a straightforward beach meet-up halfway down the shoreline. You’ll go to the right check-in area by the red express bus for Port Louis and the shop called HIGHLIGHTS. Once you find your group, the big rhythm kicks in: catamaran cruising, island time, then back to the boat.

The first thrill is the way the coastline and open ocean look once you’re already moving. People focus on the color—fair enough—but what surprised me from the day’s descriptions is how clear the water feels as you cruise. You start noticing how the sea changes shade near each stop, and that’s when it really stops feeling like a beach day and starts feeling like a “get out on the water” day.

Practical tip: the transition from beach to catamaran is done by dinghy. That’s usually quick, but plan to wear what you can manage easily. If you’re the kind of person who hates wet shoes, bring a small towel and keep your dry stuff in a bag.

Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate: lunch on sand, swimming time, and respect rules in the shallows

Ilot Gabriel is your first island landing. Your catamaran anchors as close as the water depth allows, then you transfer by dinghy for roughly 45–60 minutes. From the moment you arrive, the day shifts from cruising to doing: walking, swimming, and settling in before the food.

I like that lunch isn’t just served on a boat. You get BBQ lunch and drinks on the island, so you can eat with your feet in the sand and then choose whether you want to go straight back into the water or take a slower pace first. The time isn’t unlimited, but it’s long enough to feel like you actually visited, not just stopped by.

On Ile Plate, the pattern repeats with more time for your own snorkel and swim plans. Snorkeling is self-guided, and that matters: you’re not stuck in one controlled channel with a single assigned spot. You can float, swim shallow, and adjust based on currents and visibility.

One detail I really appreciate: the crew gives clear expectations about wildlife—especially turtles. If you’re lucky enough to spot them, the message is simple: don’t chase, don’t touch, and keep distance so they can go about their business.

Coin de Mire: the close pass that still counts, even without stepping ashore

Coin de Mire is the “see it from the boat” island. The cruise passes nearby as close as possible, but you shouldn’t expect to land or set foot there. It’s a trade-off, but a fair one: you get the viewpoint and the scenery without the logistics of another transfer.

This stop works best if you’re there for the visual payoff—wide ocean views, changing light, and that sense of open water hanging around your boat for a while. If you want more beach time and a second island landing, you’ll still get that earlier in the day at Ilot Gabriel and Ile Plate.

Also, because this is a cruise-style pass-by, you’ll usually feel less pressure to “make the island time count.” You can just enjoy the sailing, take photos from the catamaran, and keep your energy for snorkeling windows when you’re already on land.

Snorkeling reality check: self-guided water time, currents, and gear that makes it easier

Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so you need to decide if you’re going to bring your own mask/snorkel (and whether you want fins). The snorkeling itself is described as limited by some—there’s fish and coral in places, but conditions like current and underwater footing can affect comfort.

A few practical notes that will help you avoid frustration:

• Bring water shoes. They help with rocky spots and make it easier when you’re transitioning between sand and shallow water.
• If you can, consider fins. They’re especially useful when you’re dealing with currents or you want less effort while staying in position.
• Plan for “in-and-out” snorkeling rather than a long swim marathon. The tour model gives you choices, not a single long guided session.

If you get seasick easily, remember this is a catamaran day with real sea movement between stops. There are stories of people feeling better when they skip breakfast, but the more reliable move is to bring what works for you (and keep your eyes on the horizon when the boat is bouncing).

On-board vibe and island BBQ: what’s good, what to watch, and how the day feels

The catamaran part is more than transport. There’s music, staff interaction, and a party mood on the return that shows up in multiple accounts—dancing, rum punch, and a general “let’s make it fun” tone.

Food-wise, the BBQ is widely described as good, fresh, and enough to go for seconds. The best part is timing: you eat soon after arriving at the island rather than waiting forever. That helps your energy for swimming and keeps the day from turning into a long “hang around” stretch.

Drinks are included too (juice, beer, and more). One small heads-up: some people found the drinks a bit warm. Also, on an island day like this, don’t treat included drinks as limitless water supply for the whole afternoon. If you sweat easily, consider your own water strategy so you’re not thirsty while you’re still in the sun and wind.

If you care about dietary needs, there’s at least one mention of vegan options, which is a good sign. Still, if you have strict requirements, it’s smart to ask in advance so you’re not guessing on the day.

Price and value: is $70 for 7 hours actually fair?

At about $70 per person for a 7-hour outing, the value comes from what’s bundled together. You’re not paying just for a boat ride. You’re getting:

• transfers by dinghy (beach to catamaran),
• BBQ lunch and drinks,
• and access to the two landing islands plus the pass-by for Coin de Mire.

You should also note what’s not included: hotel pickup/drop-off and snorkeling equipment. If you’re staying close to Grand Baie, the lack of pickup hurts less. If you’re coming from farther away, your total day cost may rise because you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

The biggest value piece is time design. You’re out on the water for the views, then you get real island time for food and swimming, instead of doing one quick stop and heading back. That’s why people rate this trip highly even when conditions get bouncy.

Weather and sea conditions: when plans can change and how to stay comfortable

This tour is run with a safety-first rule: if conditions are too rough, the captain can cancel or reschedule. And in bad sea weather—often tied to winter months (roughly June to September)—it may not be possible to do all three islands exactly as described.

That’s not a deal-breaker; it’s reality in open water. What matters is that the operator communicates the situation and prioritizes safety. If sea conditions make it harder to reach certain stops, you’ll still get the experience of island cruising and the main beach-time structure where possible.

For comfort, plan for real sun exposure. The day is spent on a boat with wind and sun, plus time standing and snorkeling at the island. Bring sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable clothes you can get damp in.

If you’re choosing where to sit on the catamaran, remember that going more toward the front can mean more spray. One person mentioned they got really wet and said it made the journey fun—so treat that as a personality test. If you want dry comfort, choose a seat that won’t take the full splash.

Who should book this cruise, and who should skip it

This is a great match if you want:

• a classic North Mauritius island day with a catamaran feel,
• an island BBQ lunch as part of the plan,
• and snorkel time you can manage at your own pace.

It also works well for solo travelers because the day naturally mixes people while you’re on board and because the crew helps with transfers. The vibe tends to be social rather than silent.

Skip it if you:

• are pregnant (not suitable),
• have mobility impairments (not suitable),
• or you know you can’t handle choppy water at all.

And if you’re expecting a long snorkel expedition with guided instruction every minute, calibrate your expectations. Snorkeling here is more “go out, swim, return” than a tightly managed, classroom-style experience.

Should you book the Ilot Gabriel + Ile Plate catamaran day from Grand Baie?

I’d book this if you want the best kind of Mauritius mix: moving sea views, two island landings, and lunch that happens in a real beach setting. The combo of BBQ on the island, crew energy, and that color-changing ocean from the catamaran makes it feel like a full day worth paying for.

I wouldn’t book it if you require hotel pickup, want snorkeling gear provided, or can’t handle unpredictable sea conditions. Also, because island time is limited and snorkeling is self-guided, you’ll get more out of it if you’re flexible and ready to enjoy the day as it happens.

If you’re unsure, think like this: this tour is about being out on the water and enjoying island shore time, not about staying forever in one place.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The duration is 7 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour in Grand Baie?

You meet halfway on the beach of Grand Baie, opposite the red express bus for Port Louis and opposite the shop called HIGHLIGHTS.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

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

What islands are included in the route?

The cruise focuses on Ilot Gabriel, Ile Plate, and a pass-by near Coin de Mire.

Do we land on Coin de Mire?

No. The boat passes nearby as close as possible, but setting foot on Coin de Mire is not done.

What’s included for lunch and drinks?

A BBQ lunch and drinks are included, including juice and beer. Details beyond that aren’t specified, but drinks are part of the package.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. Snorkeling equipment is not included.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. If you have snorkeling gear, bring it too.

What happens if weather is rough?

The captain may cancel or reschedule if weather conditions warrant it. The itinerary may also change if sea conditions make all three islands impossible.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

You Might Also Enjoy

Curieuse Guided Tour, St Pierre, BBQ & 2 Snorkel StopsAgafay Desert: Dinner + Show with Quad Bike & Sunset Camel RideCape Town: Robben Island Ferry Tour with 1-Way Hotel PickupMarrakech: Atlas Mountains, Berber Villages, Agafay & Camel Ride