Reviewed · CATAMARAN CRUISES

SouthEast Lagoon Discovery on shared basis on a Power Catamaran

★ 5.0 · 3 reviews From $82 Operated by Catamaran Cruises Mauritius · Bookable on Viator
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The best part of this Mauritius outing is the mix of open-water cruising and easy swim stops. From the deck of a Nautitech 40 Open Catamaran, you’ll look for dolphins, coral reefs, shipwrecks, and sea life without spending the day on a loud party boat. Lunch, soft drinks, water, and alcoholic drinks are included.

I like the relaxed mood and the small shared group, capped at 20 people. I also like the practical value: snorkeling gear is provided, and the meal includes rice, pasta, salad, barbecue chicken, grilled fish, and sausage. The main caution is the route description, which refers both to the southeast coast and to the west coast and Le Morne, so confirm the exact sailing plan before booking.

Key things to know before you sail

  • The day runs from 9:30 to 16:00, giving you about seven hours on the water.
  • Île aux Cerfs, a lighthouse, coral reefs, and shipwrecks are part of the southeast-coast plan.
  • Dolphins, humpback whales, sea turtles, and flying fish are possible sightings, but wildlife is never guaranteed.
  • Lunch, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, wine, beer, and rum are included.
  • The boat holds no more than 20 people, so this is shared but not a huge cruise.
  • Pointe Jerome at Pointe d’Esny is both the departure and return point. Hotel transport and towels are not included.

A full day on Mauritius’s southeast lagoon

SouthEast Lagoon Discovery on shared basis on a Power Catamaran - A full day on Mauritius’s southeast lagoon

This is a water day, not a sightseeing tour with a long list of land stops. You spend most of your time aboard a modern power catamaran, moving through the lagoon, pausing for swimming and snorkeling, and taking in the islands from the sea.

The advertised sailing time is 9:30 to 16:00. That is long enough to make the trip feel like a proper day out rather than a quick boat ride, but short enough to leave your evening free. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Pointe Jerome, at Pointe d’Esny, and return there after the cruise.

The boat is shared with other passengers, though the maximum group size is 20. That matters. You get the social feel of a group outing without being packed onto a large excursion vessel. The atmosphere is described as calm and relaxed, not a party cruise, which will suit you if you want sea views and swimming rather than loud music and constant activity.

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Leaving Pointe Jerome for the lagoon

SouthEast Lagoon Discovery on shared basis on a Power Catamaran - Leaving Pointe Jerome for the lagoon

The trip begins at HPGF+496 Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point in Pointe d’Esny. Since hotel transfer is not provided, allow time to reach the meeting point and arrive ready for a prompt morning departure.

Once aboard, the catamaran gives you several ways to spend the first part of the trip. You can sit in the sun, watch the coast pass by, or find a shaded place if the heat becomes too strong. The open design is useful for views, but remember that a full day on the water means steady exposure to sun and wind.

The boat itself is a Nautitech 40 Open Catamaran. That is a substantial sailing platform with room to move about, though the experience is still shared. If you prefer a quiet corner, board early and choose your place before everyone settles in.

Lighthouse views and Île aux Cerfs

SouthEast Lagoon Discovery on shared basis on a Power Catamaran - Lighthouse views and Île aux Cerfs

The southeast route includes views of a lighthouse and time around Île aux Cerfs. The island is one of the main visual treats of this part of Mauritius, with pale beaches, shallow lagoon water, and the kind of tropical setting that works best when seen from the water.

You should think of this as a scenic stop rather than a detailed island tour. The supplied plan does not promise a long guided walk or a set amount of free time ashore. The real appeal is the chance to see the island, reefs, and surrounding lagoon from the boat, then spend time swimming or snorkeling in the clear water.

The southeast coast is also known for reefs and small offshore islands. From deck level, you can watch the water change color over shallows and coral. Conditions affect visibility, so even a sunny day does not guarantee perfect snorkeling. Still, the combination of boat views and water time gives the day a good rhythm.

Snorkeling among coral and shipwrecks

Snorkeling equipment is included, which removes one common nuisance. You do not need to bring your own mask and snorkel unless you strongly prefer your personal gear. Towels are not supplied, so pack one.

The plan includes snorkeling over a colorful coral reef and seeing shipwrecks. These underwater features give the swim stop a clear purpose. You are not simply jumping into the lagoon to cool off. You have a chance to look for tropical fish and inspect the reef from the surface.

At Le Morne Brabant, the description also mentions a swim with tropical fish and the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site as a backdrop. However, other details place the outing on the southeast coast and around Île aux Cerfs. Those are different parts of Mauritius, so you should confirm which route operates on your date. This is the one point I would clarify before paying, especially if Le Morne is the main reason you are interested.

You do not need to be an expert snorkeler to enjoy this part, since most of the value comes from floating in clear water and watching the reef below. Still, you should be comfortable in open water. The information says most people can participate, but it does not promise a dedicated beginner lesson or flotation instruction.

Wildlife sightings: luck is part of the day

SouthEast Lagoon Discovery on shared basis on a Power Catamaran - Wildlife sightings: luck is part of the day

Wildlife adds excitement, but it should not be treated as a guarantee. Dolphins are among the main things to watch for. One outing also produced a sea turtle, while another included a humpback whale and flying fish.

That range gives you a good idea of what might appear, but the sea makes its own schedule. You could see dolphins close to the boat, catch a glimpse of flying fish, or spend the whole cruise enjoying the reef and scenery without a major animal sighting.

I like that the wildlife search is part of a broader day rather than the only reason to book. If no dolphin appears, you still have swimming, snorkeling, lunch, drinks, island views, and time on the catamaran. If a whale or turtle does show up, it becomes a memorable bonus.

Keep your phone or camera protected from spray. The information confirms a mobile ticket, but it does not mention onboard charging or dry storage, so bring only what you can keep safe.

Lunch, drinks, and the relaxed onboard mood

Food is one of the strongest points here. The meal has been described as a generous spread of rice, pasta, salad, barbecue chicken, grilled fish, and sausage. That is more substantial than the light sandwich often served on a short boat excursion.

Drinks include bottled water, soda, wine, beer, and rum. Alcohol is included, which adds value, but it also makes the calm mood especially important. This is not presented as a drinking party. You can enjoy a beer or rum while keeping the day centered on swimming, views, and the sea.

The meal also makes the $82.22 price easier to assess. You are paying for about seven hours aboard the catamaran, snorkeling equipment, lunch, soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks. You still need to cover your own transport to Pointe Jerome and bring a towel, but the main day costs are bundled together.

Food preferences and dietary requests are not specified, so do not assume special menus are available. If you have dietary needs, ask the operator before departure.

How the shared group affects the experience

A maximum of 20 people is a useful middle ground. You have other people around for safety and conversation, but the boat should feel more personal than a large sightseeing vessel.

The crew receives strong praise for attentive service. Skipper Pascal is specifically named as attentive to passenger well-being. That detail matters on a full-day trip, since a good crew can make the difference between feeling looked after and feeling left to manage everything alone.

The reported tone is relaxed. That makes this a better fit for couples, families, and small groups who want a gentle day on the water. It may be less suitable if you are looking for a high-energy party cruise, watersports equipment, or a tightly scheduled list of shore activities.

The excursion is listed as wheelchair and stroller accessible, and car seats are available. You should still confirm the practical boarding arrangements directly, since accessibility on a boat can depend on the pier, tide, and the exact vessel being used.

Why the price can be good value

At $82.22 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see Mauritius by boat, but the inclusions make it competitive. The day lasts about seven hours, and you receive lunch, a broad selection of drinks, snorkeling equipment, and time in the lagoon.

The price is strongest for you if you plan to make full use of the day. Swim, snorkel, eat onboard, and stay outside for the scenery. It is weaker value if you dislike boat time, do not plan to enter the water, or want a private charter.

The wording around private and shared travel needs care. The summary calls it a private day trip, while the detailed plan says you cruise with other passengers and sets a maximum of 20 people. Treat this as a shared excursion unless the operator confirms a private booking in writing.

The fact that it is commonly booked about 29 days ahead also suggests you should not leave it until the last minute if your dates are fixed. Confirmation is sent within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Weather, comfort, and what to pack

The trip requires good weather. If poor conditions cancel the outing, you receive a different date or a full refund. Since the itinerary depends on swimming and snorkeling, this weather rule is sensible.

Pack a towel, swimsuit, sun protection, and a secure bag for electronics. Towels are not included. A light cover-up can help during the ride back, especially after swimming.

You will also want to manage sun exposure. Seven hours on a catamaran is a long time outdoors, even if you spend part of the day in the water. Bring any personal medication and enough protection for the full day.

No hotel transfer is included, so transport planning is part of the booking decision. The trip returns to Pointe Jerome, making it easier to arrange a return journey from the same place.

Who will enjoy this catamaran trip most

I would choose this outing if you want a well-fed, easygoing day on the water with several activities included in one price. It suits couples, families, and small groups who like swimming, snorkeling, tropical scenery, and the chance of seeing marine life.

It is also a good fit if you prefer a quiet boat atmosphere. The crew’s attentive service and the 20-person limit help keep the day personal without making it a private charter.

You may want another option if your priority is a specific west-coast visit, Le Morne Brabant, or an exclusively private boat. The route wording needs clarification, and shared boarding means you will not control every stop or the pace of the day.

The excursion is listed as accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with car seats available. Since individual mobility needs vary, confirm how boarding works before booking.

Should you book the southeast lagoon cruise?

Book it if you want strong overall value from a full day in Mauritius. The mix of snorkeling, reef and shipwreck views, Île aux Cerfs, a lighthouse, a substantial lunch, and included drinks gives you plenty to do without constant extra charges.

Before booking, ask one direct question: is your departure following the southeast lagoon route around Île aux Cerfs, or the west-coast route with Le Morne Brabant? Once that is clear, this looks like a relaxed and well-priced choice for a sea day, with wildlife sightings as a welcome bonus rather than a promise.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran trip start?

The meeting point is HPGF+496 Pointe Jerome Embarkation Point in Pointe d’Esny, Mauritius.

Where does the activity end?

The cruise returns to the same meeting point at Pointe Jerome.

How long does the excursion last?

Plan for about seven hours. The scheduled time is from 9:30 to 16:00.

Is hotel transfer included?

No. Hotel transfer is not included, so you must arrange your own transport to and from Pointe Jerome.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, with food described as rice, pasta, salad, barbecue chicken, grilled fish, and sausage.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Bottled water, soda, wine, beer, and rum are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included in the excursion.

Are towels included?

No. You need to bring your own towel.

How many people can join the trip?

The activity has a maximum of 20 participants.

What happens if bad weather cancels the trip?

You will be offered a different date or a full refund if poor weather causes the cancellation. You can also cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time.

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