Full Day Catamaran Luxury Cruise to Northern Islands w Lunch

Mauritius shows its best side from the water, and this northern-island catamaran cruise gives you a full six hours among cliffs, reef water, and small offshore islands. The route takes you past Gunners Coin, then on to Flat Island and Gabriel Island, with a final snorkeling stop at Coin de Mire.

I like the simple all-in-one setup: snorkeling gear and lunch are included, along with bottled water and alcoholic drinks. I also like the pace, with time in the water before lunch and a second snorkeling chance on the way back. The main concern is weather. Rain and rough conditions can spoil the views, and the Coin de Mire stop may be canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Key points at a glance

• Gunners Coin sets the scene: Pass a dramatic rock formation with steep cliffs near the start of the cruise.
• Flat Island comes before lunch: You have time to snorkel in the lagoon before the barbecue is served.
• Gabriel Island follows the meal: The afternoon stop gives you time to see another northern island at a calmer pace.
• Coin de Mire is the final water stop: The catamaran pauses for snorkeling in a clear natural aquarium.
• The meeting point is fixed: Arrive at Coin de Mire Attitude in Bain Boeuf by 09:30 for the 09:45 departure.
• Weather matters: A rainy day can limit both sightseeing and swimming, so keep your plans flexible.

Setting Out From Bain Boeuf at 09:45

Your day begins at the reception of Coin de Mire Attitude hotel in Bain Boeuf, on Mauritius’s north coast. Plan to arrive by 09:30, giving yourself time to check in, get settled, and hear the safety briefing before the Lagoon 380 catamaran leaves.

This is a cruise from a fixed meeting point, not a hotel transfer service. You need to arrange your own way to Coin de Mire Attitude, since pickup and drop-off are not included. That detail matters if you are staying elsewhere on Mauritius, especially if you are relying on public transport or a taxi.

The boat is scheduled to return at about 15:45. The activity is described as six hours, and the full day gives you more than a quick boat ride and a single swim. You get a proper sequence of stops, with the morning focused on Flat Island and the afternoon bringing Gabriel Island and Coin de Mire.

The crew provides the safety briefing in English or French. No guide names are supplied, so you should not book this expecting a named private guide or a history-focused tour. The main attraction is the sea, the islands, and the time spent outdoors.

Passing the Cliffs of Gunners Coin

One of the first memorable sights is Gunners Coin, a striking rock formation with sheer cliffs. You pass it from the catamaran rather than treating it as a long walking stop, so think of this part as a scenic introduction to the northern islands.

The cliffs give the route a bit of drama before the day settles into swimming and island time. Have your camera ready, but keep your belongings secure around the boat. The most useful view is from the deck, where you can watch the rock rise from the sea and see how quickly the coastline gives way to open water.

This is also a good moment to settle into the rhythm of the boat. You are not rushing between a long list of sights. The route is built around a few island stops and time in the lagoon, which suits you if you would rather spend part of the day in the water than move constantly from one viewpoint to another.

Snorkeling Near Flat Island Before Lunch

The first main stop is Flat Island, where you have time to snorkel in the lagoon. Snorkeling equipment is supplied, so you do not need to bring your own mask and fins unless you prefer using familiar gear.

The clear water is the main draw here. Visibility can change with weather and sea conditions, but the setting is intended for easy time in the lagoon rather than a demanding water activity. Bring your towel and beachwear, and expect to get wet before lunch.

I like this order. You swim first, while you are fresh, then eat afterward. It also leaves you free to enjoy the barbecue without worrying about squeezing in a last-minute snorkeling session. If you are not a strong swimmer, you should ask the crew about the conditions before entering the water and stay within the area they indicate.

Flat Island is not presented as a long cultural visit or a detailed walking tour. Its value is the combination of open sea, a small island setting, and time to snorkel. If you want ruins, museums, or a guided explanation of local history, this is not that kind of outing.

Barbecue Lunch and Drinks on the Catamaran

After the morning snorkeling stop, lunch is served on board. The meal is a barbecue, and the package includes drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

That inclusion improves the value of the $115 price. You are not paying only for transport between islands. The fare also covers the main meal, snorkeling equipment, and drinks, which means fewer extra costs during the six-hour outing.

Still, keep your expectations in the right place. The information does not give a menu, so you should not book this for a particular dish or dietary plan unless you confirm details before paying. The same applies to special food needs. The package says barbecue lunch, but it does not promise vegetarian, vegan, halal, or allergy-specific options.

Eating on the catamaran keeps the day moving without sending you back to shore. It also gives you a break from the water. Bring beachwear and a towel, but remember that large bags and oversize luggage are not allowed. Pack only what you need for the boat.

Alcohol is included, though it is wise to pace yourself in the sun and on moving water. The boat returns in the afternoon, so this is a day cruise rather than a sunset sail or evening meal.

Gabriel Island After the Meal

After lunch, the route continues to Ilot Gabriel, also called Gabriel Island. This stop adds a second island setting after the morning at Flat Island, giving the day some variety instead of repeating the same swim and boat sequence.

The supplied details do not promise a specific activity at Gabriel Island, so expect time to discover the island rather than a formal guided excursion. You might use the stop for views, a walk, or a slower break from the boat, depending on the conditions and the crew’s schedule.

This part of the trip may suit you if you like open-ended stops. It is less suitable if you need every minute planned with a named attraction or a detailed commentary. The day is about being outside and seeing the northern islands from close range, not ticking off a long list of monuments.

The Final Snorkel at Coin de Mire

On the return journey, the catamaran stops at Coin de Mire for snorkeling. The water here is described as a clear natural aquarium, making it the second major chance to get in the sea.

I see this final stop as a useful bonus. You have already had time at Flat Island, but sea conditions can affect any one snorkeling session. A second opportunity gives you another chance to enjoy the water, provided the weather remains safe.

This is also the part of the day most exposed to changes in conditions. A verified booking experienced poor weather, with rain limiting the views and forcing time under shelter on the first island. The Coin de Mire snorkeling stop was canceled because forecasts pointed to dangerous conditions. That is an important warning, not a minor footnote: the route depends on the sea cooperating.

The crew should put safety before the advertised plan. If conditions are poor, you may lose a stop or spend less time in the water. You should book this with some flexibility rather than treating every listed stop as guaranteed in every forecast.

What the $115 Price Really Covers

At $115 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see Mauritius’s north coast, but the package includes several costs that can add up separately. You get the catamaran outing, lunch, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks.

The value is strongest if you plan to eat and drink on board and want gear supplied. You also get a six-hour route with several island locations, rather than a short harbor cruise. If you already have a boat trip planned or do not drink alcohol, the price may feel less compelling.

Transport to the meeting point is not included. That means you should add the cost of reaching Coin de Mire Attitude to your budget. The fixed departure at 09:45 also gives you little room for a late arrival, so allow enough time to reach Bain Boeuf and be at reception by 09:30.

The reserve-now, pay-later option can help if your Mauritius plans are still changing. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. That flexibility is especially useful for a water-based activity, since the weather can make a real difference.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise Most

I would recommend this trip to you if you want a full day on the sea without organizing each detail yourself. It suits couples, friends, and active families with children aged two or older who are comfortable around water and can manage the boat setting.

It is a good fit if you value:

• Snorkeling in two different areas
• A catamaran rather than a large sightseeing vessel
• A barbecue lunch and drinks included in the price
• A route covering Gunners Coin, Flat Island, Gabriel Island, and Coin de Mire
• A relaxed outdoor day with English or French assistance

It is a poor fit if you are prone to seasickness, have limited mobility, or use a wheelchair. The activity is not suitable for children under two, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Fishing is not allowed, and electric wheelchairs, strollers, large bags, and oversize luggage cannot be brought along.

You should also think twice if rain would ruin your day. The supplied weather account shows how quickly the experience can change: poor conditions reduced sightseeing, kept people under shelter, and canceled the final snorkeling stop. The operator may make the safe call, but you may receive a shorter or less active day than expected.

What to Pack for a Comfortable Day

Keep your packing list short. You need a towel and beachwear, and you may want sunscreen and a change of clothes, though only the first two items are specifically required by the activity details.

Do not arrive with a suitcase, stroller, large beach bag, or other bulky luggage. Storage space on a catamaran is limited, and the restrictions are designed to keep the boat practical and safe.

You should also avoid bringing fishing gear or planning to fish. Fishing is not permitted. The included snorkeling equipment means you can leave your own gear behind unless you have a personal preference.

Since alcoholic beverages are included, carry water only if you want a personal backup. Bottled water is already provided. Most of all, bring patience for changing conditions. The views and swimming stops depend on the weather.

Should You Book the Northern Islands Cruise?

Book it if your ideal Mauritius day includes clear water, island views, a catamaran, snorkeling, and a barbecue lunch, all arranged in one package. The route offers a good mix of scenery and water time, and the included food, drinks, and equipment make the $115 price easier to justify.

I would not book it as a guaranteed beach day. Weather can reduce the views, cancel snorkeling, and leave you sheltering instead of swimming. Check the forecast, keep your plans flexible, and choose this cruise only if you are happy with the boat journey itself as part of the experience.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran cruise begin?

The meeting point is the reception of Coin de Mire Attitude Hotel in Bain Boeuf, in northern Mauritius.

What time should I arrive?

You should arrive at the meeting point by 09:30. The catamaran is scheduled to leave at 09:45.

What time does the cruise return?

The scheduled return time is about 15:45.

Which islands are included in the route?

The route includes Gunners Coin, Flat Island, Gabriel Island, and Coin de Mire.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A barbecue lunch is served on board.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Bottled water and alcoholic beverages are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. The use of snorkeling equipment is included.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Transfers from and back to your hotel are not included. You need to reach Coin de Mire Attitude yourself.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel and beachwear.

Who should not book this activity?

It is not suitable for children under two, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or people prone to seasickness.