A Catamaran Day to Île aux Cerfs

The east coast of Mauritius operates at a different pace from the resort strips of the north and west.

The lagoon here is wide and calm, the water runs through shades of green and blue that shift with the depth, and Île aux Cerfs sits a short sail offshore, a private island of white sand and casuarina trees that earns its reputation without much effort. A catamaran day out here is one of the more quietly satisfying things the island offers.

Departure is from Trou d’Eau Douce, typically mid-morning, aboard a 45-foot catamaran that balances comfort with enough deck space to spread out properly. The first stop is the Grand River South East waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in the world accessible only by boat, where the river meets the lagoon in a cascade framed by dense tropical forest. It is an unusual and genuinely striking detour before the main event.

Snorkeling stops along the eastern reef sit between the waterfall visit and the island itself. The coral here supports a busy ecosystem, and the water visibility in the lagoon is consistently good. There is no pressure to participate in anything. The catamaran’s nets and deck seating are well suited to those who would rather watch the coastline pass with a glass of local rum in hand. Unlimited drinks, alcoholic and otherwise, run throughout the day.

The island has the kind of beach that justifies the journey without requiring any explanation. White sand, clear water, and the reef keeping the lagoon sheltered and swimmable in most conditions. Lunch is a three-course BBQ served on board or on the beach, built around fresh fish, grilled chicken, and the kind of unfussy Mauritian cooking that suits the setting. The afternoon is unscheduled. For those who want more activity, parasailing, tube riding, and underwater walks can be arranged as optional additions.

The east coast lagoon is well protected and the catamaran day runs comfortably year-round, though the clearest water and calmest conditions tend to fall between May and November. Hotel transfers from anywhere on the island can be arranged, making it accessible regardless of where you are based. The day runs roughly from 9:30am to 4pm, which leaves the evening free without requiring an early start.

Île aux Cerfs appears on most Mauritius itineraries for good reason, and we make sure it happens on the right terms. We arrange the catamaran, transfers from your hotel, and any optional extras you want included, and we build it into the wider shape of your time on the island so it sits alongside the right combination of other days. For clients who prefer something more private, a chartered boat with a bespoke route is a straightforward alternative.

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