Parasailing and tubes in one full day. This Mauritius cruise from Trou d’Eau Douce is built for big water time, with parasailing and tube riding landing on the Ile aux Cerfs beach day.

I like the flow of the day: hotel pickup, a waterfall side trip, then lagoon time with snorkeling and swimming. I also like that you get food and drinks taken care of with an included 3-course lunch and unlimited beverages. The main drawback to keep in mind is that weather can change the order of activities, and parasailing is not always guaranteed if conditions turn rough.

Key highlights to look for

• Parasailing + tube riding are built into the day so you’re not just watching from the boat
• Unlimited drinks with lunch include wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and rhum
• Grand River South East waterfall visit includes a short speedboat transfer upstream
• Snorkeling stops on the lagoon give you a chance to see coral and tropical fish
• Bring towels and spare clothes because you will likely get wet
• Max 30 travelers keeps the day feeling group-y, not private, so pack patience for timing

Catamaran to Ile aux Cerfs: the big picture day plan

This is a full-day outing designed to mix transit, island scenery, and active water fun without you needing to organize anything on your own. You start in Trou d’Eau Douce, cruise toward Ile aux Cerfs, and spend your afternoon bouncing between beach time and water sports.

The best version of this day is very simple: clear water, good timing, and you get to do both parasailing and tube riding, then snack and recover with included lunch.

Trou d’Eau Douce pickup and the morning rhythm

Your day typically begins with hotel pickup anywhere in Mauritius, and the pickup window can vary by location. The catamaran portion doesn’t leave until later in the morning, so you’ll spend time on land first and then transition to the boat when everyone is ready.

There’s also a snorkeling stop listed around Trou d’Eau Douce Lagoon. That’s handy because it breaks up the long day and gives you something to do early, even if you’re not in the mood for more water right away.

Practical note: the day can run tight, and a few minutes lost during transfers can ripple through the schedule. If you’re the type who hates rushing, keep your expectations flexible and build in a calm mindset.

Grand River South East waterfall: scenery with some speedboat time

One of the more scenic moments comes before you settle fully into the island cruise. You visit Grand River South East Waterfall, and the plan includes moving by speedboat to reach the waterfall area about 500 meters upstream.

This stop is also where you might get surprises. The waterfall stretch is described as a place where monkeys and fruit bats can appear in the trees, assuming you’re lucky and you time it right. It’s not a guaranteed wildlife safari, but it adds local flavor beyond just photos.

If the day is rainy, you may want to mentally prepare for muddy conditions. That matters because mud can affect what you can see and how comfortable it is near the waterfall area.

Ile aux Cerfs cruise time: the boat vibe and the meal setup

Once you’re on the catamaran, you’ll cruise through the lagoon toward Ile aux Cerfs. The morning includes onboard crew engagement, and the boat atmosphere is often part of the fun, with music and a party-style feel.

Lunch is an important part of this outing. It’s described as a 3-course meal served either on the catamaran or on the beach setup once you reach the island area for the main break.

Here’s the value angle: you’re paying for a full-day package, and this lunch-and-drinks structure is one of the reasons it can feel like good value when everything is on time. If you end up missing time on key stops, the day can feel expensive fast, even if the food is decent.

Lagoon snorkeling and swimming: what you’re paying to see

The core scenery around Ile aux Cerfs is the lagoon itself, and the itinerary includes a snorkeling and swimming break when the catamaran stops inside the clearer water. This is where you’re told you can see coral and lots of colorful tropical fish.

That break is the type of activity that rewards the simple preparation. You don’t need to be a champion swimmer, but bringing a calm attitude helps because snorkeling time slots can be short and you’ll want to get comfortable quickly.

One more practical detail: some versions of this day place snorkeling emphasis on different stretches of water. If snorkeling matters most to you, check your voucher details before you go, and plan to be ready for a real swim moment rather than a quick look.

Parasailing over Mauritius water: the highlight when conditions cooperate

Parasailing is one of the biggest reasons to book this particular itinerary, and it’s included in the package. The appeal is obvious: you get a view from above the sea, so you’re not just seeing the island from the deck—you’re seeing the coastline and lagoon layout in a different way.

The catch is weather. Parasailing depends on conditions, so if the wind or rain is ugly, this activity can get delayed or swapped. The operator’s policy is safety-first, and that means you should treat parasailing as a must-do but also a weather-dependent activity.

If you’re going specifically for the parasailing, I’d recommend going on a day when your overall plan allows for change. If you’re the kind of person who hates missing your one big goal, have a backup island plan ready for the afternoon.

Tube riding with speedboat tow and banana gears

Tube riding is the other activity that gives this cruise its adrenaline edge. It’s described as high-speed fun pulled by a speedboat, with a ride over large gear-like shapes that look banana-shaped from the descriptions.

This is usually a good fit if you’re traveling with friends or you want something active after a calm cruise morning. The time block listed is about 40 minutes for tube riding, but your overall experience will still depend on how the day’s timing lands.

Because it’s water sports, expect you’ll end up wet and possibly splashed more than you want. Bring spare clothes, and if you get cold easily, plan for a warm layer after the ride.

Beaches and downtime on Ile aux Cerfs: when to slow down

After the main water activities, you’ll have time to relax on Ile aux Cerfs beaches. The day is designed for sun and swimming breaks, with the island presented as the perfect spot for a comfortable beach pause after the more physical parts.

This is where you’ll want to control your expectations. Some days feel like a smooth schedule; other days have more waiting between transitions. If you’re traveling with a group that needs constant movement to stay happy, tell them early that patience is part of the deal.

What helps: bring your own towel, stash sunscreen in an easy pocket, and keep a dry bag within reach so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to move.

Food and unlimited drinks: 3 courses, plus the cruise comforts

Lunch is built into the price, and it’s described as a 3-course menu with both vegetable and non-vegetable options. The included drinks list matters because it turns lunch into a true break rather than a quick meal.

Included beverages are listed as wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and rhum. That’s a lot of coverage, and it’s one reason people often feel like they got more for their money than they expected.

A note from the real-world angle: some passengers have complained about water availability during parts of the morning, so I’d still bring a small refillable bottle if you can. Even if drinks are included, having your own water reduces stress when timing gets weird.

Price and logistics: is $161.44 a smart buy?

At $161.44 per person, you’re paying for a full-day package that combines transport, catamaran cruising, snorkeling time, and two major water sports (parasailing plus tube riding), plus lunch and drinks. That can be excellent value if the day runs close to plan.

But the money question is really about risk. This outing is weather-sensitive, and if parasailing can’t run and the schedule compresses snorkeling or waterfall timing, the value drops. For solo travelers, there’s also a stated minimum requirement per booking, so if you’re traveling alone you should confirm you’ll actually be accepted as a single rider.

My rule: book it if your goal is a fun, active island day and you can handle an itinerary that adapts to the weather. If your main goal is a single fixed activity with zero flexibility, you’ll likely feel disappointed if conditions force changes.

Weather, cancellations, and when the plan changes

This is an adventure day that explicitly depends on good weather. If the experience is canceled due to poor conditions, you should expect an offer of a different date or a full refund, and in cases of cyclone or torrential rain alerts the operator states you’ll receive a full refund if you cancel.

Also keep in mind that even if you don’t lose the whole day, timing can shift. Some activities are easier to run than others in rain or wind, so don’t be surprised if the order changes.

If you hate uncertainty, schedule this early in your Mauritius stay so you have time to rebook if the day is affected.

Who should book this Ile aux Cerfs catamaran day

This tour fits best if you want an active beach day with a true pay-once, do-everything arrangement. It’s especially appealing for couples and friend groups who like mixing sightseeing with water sports.

It can also work for families, but here’s a big caution: water sport activities are stated as not included for children, and children are paying only for the catamaran seat. If you’re traveling with kids, confirm what they can do during the water sports portions before you go.

Solo travelers should also be careful. A minimum of 2 people per booking is required, and there have been situations where solo arrangements didn’t work as expected—so verify your booking status clearly before your pickup day.

Should you book this tour or skip it?

If you want a classic Mauritius day that blends lagoon cruising, beach time at Ile aux Cerfs, and two adrenaline activities with lunch and drinks included, this is a strong candidate. The price makes sense when the day hits its rhythm and you actually get your planned water sports time.

I’d skip or choose a different option if parasailing is your only reason to book and you can’t tolerate weather disruption, or if you’re traveling solo without a confirmed pairing. If you go in with flexibility, you’ll likely get a memorable day out of it—especially when you’re taking the views from above the water.

FAQ

What is the duration of the catamaran cruise to Ile aux Cerfs?

The duration is listed as about 7 to 8 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?

The catamaran cruise departs from Trou d’Eau Douce on the East Coast of Mauritius.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off from Mauritius hotels are provided.

What activities are included for adults?

Parasailing and tube riding are included, along with snorkeling time during the day.

Is lunch included, and what kind is it?

Yes. A full lunch is included and it is described as a 3-course meal, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Are unlimited drinks included?

Yes. The tour lists locally unlimited drinks including wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and rhum.

Can children participate in the water sports?

Water sport activities are not included for children in this package. Children pay only for the catamaran seat.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring your own towels and another spare set of clothes.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes. Vegetarian options are available if you advise at booking.

How many people are on the tour?

The maximum group size is listed as 30 travelers.

What happens if it’s cancelled due to weather?

The experience requires good weather. If cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. In cyclone or torrential rainfall alert situations, a full refund is stated if cancellation is made by the operator.

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