THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a sun-filled day aboard a catamaran from Grand Baie to Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate. Snorkel coral reefs, enjoy a BBQ lunch and drinks, and return by late afternoon after a full day on the water.
Spend a sun-filled day aboard a catamaran from Grand Baie to Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate. Snorkel coral reefs, enjoy a BBQ lunch and drinks, and return by late afternoon after a full day on the water.
The catamaran slips away from Grand Baie at 08:00, the hull humming as coconut palms shrink behind you and a ribbon of turquoise lagoon opens ahead. Northward lie Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate — low, limestone-and-coral outcrops ringed by shallow reefs where snorkelers cut through warm water and the wind tries to tug your hat away.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Catamaran Cruises Mauritius · Grand Baie, Rivière du Rempart District
The catamaran slips away from Grand Baie at 08:00, the hull humming as coconut palms shrink behind you and a ribbon of turquoise lagoon opens ahead. Northward lie Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate — low, limestone-and-coral outcrops ringed by shallow reefs where snorkelers cut through warm water and the wind tries to tug your hat away.
These northern islets are the visible edge of Mauritius’s volcanic backbone topped by coral growth; reefs and sandbars shape the swimming lagoons and the sheltered bays where crews roast a barbecue mid-day. Coin de Mire, visible on the horizon, is a protected reserve known for tropicbirds and sea-life that tie the islands to maritime history: colonial shipping lanes, small-scale fishing, and the sugar-era economy that reshaped the main island.
Expect a practical, sun-forward day: guided snorkel stops over fringing reef, a buffet-style BBQ lunch with local flavors, and open-deck lounging between swim sessions. The ocean here can be glassy or choppy; currents nudge the catamaran toward shallow flats best explored in mask and fins.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light wind jacket for the return, and a secure dry bag for phones. If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication the night before or an hour prior to departure — the return crossing after 16:00 can be windier. Arrive at Grand Baie 30–45 minutes early for check-in and boarding. By the time the boat slips back into the bay at 16:00, you’ll have logged easy snorkel miles, tasted a Mauritian BBQ, and seen seabirds and turtles that make the north coast worth the crossing.
easy.
8 hours.
Low fitness required; participants should be able to board a boat, climb a short ladder for snorkeling, and stand for periods during the cruise.
Departure is at 08:00 from Grand Baie public beach and the scheduled return to Grand Baie is about 16:00 the same day.
Snorkeling is included on most itineraries; however bringing your own mask/snorkel often gives a better fit and clearer view.
Yes — a buffet BBQ lunch, snacks, coffee/tea and beer, wine and soft drinks are typically provided on the cruise.
The activity is family-friendly but not recommended for children under 3; people with limited mobility should check boarding assistance options with the operator beforehand.
The northern islets sit off a coastline shaped by ancient volcanism and coral accretion; the region links to Mauritius’s colonial-era maritime routes and small fishing communities.
Many of the north islets are important breeding and resting sites; avoid touching coral, take reef-safe products, and follow operator guidance to limit disturbance.
Catamaran Cruises Mauritius operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The catamaran slips away from Grand Baie at 08:00, the hull humming as coconut palms shrink behind you and a ribbon of turquoise lagoon opens ahead. Northward lie Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate — low, limestone-and-coral outcrops ringed by shallow reefs where snorkelers cut through warm water and the wind tries to tug your hat away.
The catamaran slips away from Grand Baie at 08:00, the hull humming as coconut palms shrink behind you and a ribbon of turquoise lagoon opens ahead. Northward lie Ilot Gabriel and Île Plate — low, limestone-and-coral outcrops ringed by shallow reefs where snorkelers cut through warm water and the wind tries to tug your hat away.
These northern islets are the visible edge of Mauritius’s volcanic backbone topped by coral growth; reefs and sandbars shape the swimming lagoons and the sheltered bays where crews roast a barbecue mid-day. Coin de Mire, visible on the horizon, is a protected reserve known for tropicbirds and sea-life that tie the islands to maritime history: colonial shipping lanes, small-scale fishing, and the sugar-era economy that reshaped the main island.
Expect a practical, sun-forward day: guided snorkel stops over fringing reef, a buffet-style BBQ lunch with local flavors, and open-deck lounging between swim sessions. The ocean here can be glassy or choppy; currents nudge the catamaran toward shallow flats best explored in mask and fins.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light wind jacket for the return, and a secure dry bag for phones. If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication the night before or an hour prior to departure — the return crossing after 16:00 can be windier. Arrive at Grand Baie 30–45 minutes early for check-in and boarding. By the time the boat slips back into the bay at 16:00, you’ll have logged easy snorkel miles, tasted a Mauritian BBQ, and seen seabirds and turtles that make the north coast worth the crossing.