Grand Baie: Three Islands Private Boat Trip and Beach BBQ

The best part of this private northern-island trip is the early arrival at Flat Island. You reach the beach before most other boats, when the sand is quiet, the water is clear, and the only soundtrack may be waves and seabirds. That timing changes the whole mood of the day.

I like the beach BBQ, which includes fish, chicken, sausages, rice, pasta salad, vegetables, and bread. I also like the mix of stops: Flat Island for beach time, Gabriel Island for views toward Coin de Mire, and Coin de Mire for snorkeling. The main consideration is price: at $883 for up to four people, this makes sense for a small private group, but it is a serious splurge for one or two guests.

Key points at a glance

• Early access to Flat Island: The boat arrives well before larger groups, giving you a quieter stretch of beach.
• Three different island stops: You get beach time at Flat Island, views around Gabriel Island, and snorkeling near Coin de Mire.
• Beach-cooked lunch: The crew serves fish, chicken, sausages, salads, vegetables, and bread on the sand.
• Private group format: The price covers up to four people, so the value improves when shared by a couple, family, or small group of friends.
• Guides praised by name: Samir and Sameer are specifically noted for friendly, attentive service and problem-solving.
• Check the drinks policy: The inclusions list beer, wine, rum, and soft drinks, but the information also says alcohol is not provided. Confirm this before booking.

Why the early start matters at Flat Island

Flat Island, also called Ile Plate, is the first major stop after roughly 30 minutes of cruising from Grand Baie Public Beach. The island is the day’s main beach setting, with white sand and clear turquoise water.

The timing is important. This is not simply a matter of getting there first for a photograph. Early arrival gives you a better chance to enjoy the beach without a crowd of boats nearby. One review describes being there about two hours before the other boats, with a quiet stretch of sand, the sound of waves, and birds overhead. Another calls being the first visitor one of the strongest parts of the day.

You can swim, snorkel, walk along the sand, and settle into a slower island rhythm before lunch. The crew serves morning drinks and refreshments, then prepares the BBQ on the beach around midday. That makes Flat Island more than a quick photo stop. You have time to stay put and enjoy it.

The drawback is that an early departure may require a morning start that feels harsh on holiday. One guest specifically noted that the early wake-up can be surprising, though worthwhile. If you prefer late breakfasts and a relaxed hotel morning, this is the tradeoff for a quieter beach.

Speedboat travel from Grand Baie

The meeting point is Grand Baie Public Beach, and transport to or from the beach is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to the departure point.

The boat ride to Flat Island takes about 30 minutes. After that, the day follows a full seven-hour schedule, with the detailed activity timing listed at about seven and a half hours. Treat this as a substantial day on the water, not a short coastal outing.

A speedboat makes it possible to cover all three northern islands in one trip. It also means the ride itself may feel lively, especially compared with a larger, slower boat. The private format gives you more room to enjoy the day with your own group, though the information does not specify the boat’s exact size or seating arrangement.

Bring a towel and plenty of sunscreen. You will spend much of the day outdoors, with swimming, snorkeling, beach time, and scenic views along the way. The provided information does not give sea conditions or a detailed boat-access description, so ask the operator about those points if you have mobility concerns or are sensitive to a fast ride.

Flat Island beach time and the BBQ

Flat Island is where the trip feels most like a classic tropical island day. The beach is the focus, and the schedule allows time for swimming, snorkeling, scenic views, and relaxing before lunch.

The BBQ menu is practical and generous rather than fancy. It includes:

• Fish
• Chicken
• Sausages
• Rice
• Pasta salad
• Vegetables
• Bread

A dessert is also listed in the activity details, and a banana flambée was singled out as a memorable part of one meal. The food is served on the beach, which adds a welcome sense of place. You are not rushing back to Grand Baie for lunch or eating from a packed snack box.

If you have a food allergy, dietary restriction, birthday request, or special celebration, contact the local partner before the trip. The operator says special requests can be discussed, but the provided details do not promise a particular menu change, so it is best to arrange this ahead of time.

The drink information needs extra attention. The inclusions list soft drinks, beer, wine, and rum, while the additional instructions say that alcohol is not provided. Red wine is also specifically not allowed, and alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle. Since these details conflict, I would clarify the current drinks policy with Le Transporteur before paying. Do not assume that beer, wine, or rum will be available.

Champagne and lobster are not included. They may be available to buy onsite, but they are optional extras, not part of the standard price.

Gabriel Island and the view toward Coin de Mire

Gabriel Island is the second island stop and offers a different feel from Flat Island. The appeal here is the view, especially toward Coin de Mire.

This stop helps break up the day. Flat Island is about beach time and lunch. Gabriel Island gives you a scenic pause, with open water, island views, and a chance to appreciate how the northern islands fit together.

The information does not give a precise length of stay at Gabriel Island or list a separate meal or activity there. Think of it as a scenic island visit within a wider route rather than a full second beach day. You will want to keep your expectations focused on views and a change of setting.

Snorkeling at Coin de Mire

The stop at Coin de Mire is the clearest choice for anyone who cares most about marine life. It is described as the best snorkeling spot on the route, with colorful fish, coral, and other marine flora and fauna in the surrounding Indian Ocean.

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you do not need to bring your own mask and fins. You should still bring a towel, sunscreen, and any personal swim gear you prefer.

The snorkeling can be especially enjoyable when the site is quiet. One of the strongest accounts of the trip describes having the water almost to the group alone and seeing coral and fish without a crowd around the boat. That is not a guarantee, since conditions and other boats can change, but the early schedule may help.

There are also clear rules for protecting the site. Do not touch marine life, feed animals, or handle wildlife. These rules are simple, but they matter. Coral and sea creatures are easily harmed by careless contact, and a good snorkeling stop is better when you observe rather than interfere.

The listing uses the word diving in the activity details, but the main description focuses on snorkeling. If you are looking for scuba diving, confirm exactly what is offered before booking.

A private day with attentive crew service

The private-group setup is one of the biggest differences between this outing and a standard shared boat trip. Your booking covers up to four people, and the day is designed around your group rather than a large passenger list.

The crew receives especially strong praise for being friendly and attentive. Guides named Samir and Sameer are associated with the experience in the feedback, and one account describes a guide working hard to solve a staffing problem when a colleague did not arrive. Another describes the team as attentive from the early departure through the beach BBQ and snorkeling.

That kind of service matters on a long day outdoors. You want help with the snorkeling gear, clear direction at each stop, and a crew that keeps the meal and timing organized. The environmental approach also earns credit, with one guest noting that the team placed real emphasis on respecting the local ecosystem.

Still, private does not mean luxury yacht service. The information gives no details about a cabin, shade, cushioned seating, or onboard restroom. If those features matter to you, ask before booking. The value here comes from privacy, route coverage, early access, food, and personal attention.

Is $883 good value for four people?

The listed price is $883 per group of up to four. Split four ways, that is about $221 per person before any transport to Grand Baie or optional purchases such as champagne and lobster.

For four people, the price is easier to justify. You are paying for a private boat, a full day, three island stops, snorkeling gear, a beach lunch, and drinks as described, subject to the drinks clarification. A family or small group of friends can also shape the day around its own pace instead of joining a larger party.

For two people, the calculation is tougher. The private setting may still be worth it for a special occasion, but the cost per person becomes much higher. For solo visitors, this is clearly a luxury choice rather than a budget island excursion.

The best value comes when you care about the early Flat Island arrival and the private format. If your priority is simply seeing the islands at the lowest possible price, you may prefer to compare shared boat outings. If you want a quieter start, a beach BBQ, and a full northern-island route with your own group, the price has a clearer purpose.

Who will enjoy this trip most?

I would recommend it for a small group that wants a full day outdoors and does not mind paying for privacy. It suits couples, families, and friends who want swimming, beach time, snorkeling, and a meal in one package.

It is also a good match for people who care about timing. The early arrival at Flat Island is one of the most valuable features, especially if you dislike crowded beaches and busy photo stops.

You should think twice if you want a slow start, a luxury vessel, or a long list of onboard comforts. The day is active and sun-heavy, and the operator lists it as unsuitable for people over 95. The trip is listed as wheelchair accessible, but the practical details of boarding the speedboat and moving around the islands are not provided. Ask the local partner for a clear plan if accessibility is important.

The activity is offered in English and French. It also allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and offers reserve now, pay later booking, which helps if your weather plans are still shifting.

What to bring and what to clarify

Pack lightly, but do not forget the basics:

• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Swimwear
• Any preferred snorkeling gear
• Personal medication
• A camera or phone protection suitable for boat travel

Pets are not allowed, apart from assistance dogs. Weapons and sharp objects, bikes, drugs, animal feeding, and touching animals or marine life are prohibited. Alcohol rules are particularly unclear, so confirm them before departure. Red wine is specifically prohibited.

I would also confirm the meeting time, the exact boat arrangement, the drinks included, and any food requirements. These questions are more useful than simply asking what the tour costs. The quality of the day depends heavily on an early start and clear expectations.

Should you book the three-island boat trip?

Book it if you want quiet early access to Flat Island, a beach BBQ, snorkeling near Coin de Mire, and a private day for up to four people. The strongest reasons to go are the route, the peaceful first hours on Flat Island, and the attentive service associated with Samir and Sameer.

Skip it if $883 feels uncomfortable, if you want a late morning, or if you expect a luxury yacht with extensive onboard facilities. For the right small group, this is a well-planned way to see three northern islands in one day. Just clarify the conflicting alcohol information before you commit.

FAQ

Where does the boat trip start and finish?

The trip starts and returns at Grand Baie Public Beach.

How long does the experience last?

The activity is advertised as seven hours. The detailed schedule lists about seven and a half hours.

Which islands are included?

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

Is the boat trip private?

Yes. It is offered as a private group experience for up to four people.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What food is included?

The BBQ includes fish, chicken, sausages, rice, pasta salad, vegetables, and bread. Dessert is also listed in the activity details.

Are drinks included?

The inclusions list soft drinks, beer, wine, and rum, but another instruction says that alcohol is not provided. Confirm the current drinks policy with the local partner before departure.

Can I cancel the booking?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now and pay later is also available.